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2011 Toyota Highlander Review: A Midsize SUV That Outlasts The Competition

Rating: 4.54
Based on 81 Owner Reviews β–Ά
Jovan | March 31, 2025
The 2011 Toyota Highlander is a mid-size SUV known for its reliability and family-friendly features. Part of the second generation (2008-2013), it offers a blend of comfort and practicality. Key trims include the Base, SE, and Limited. The original MSRP ranged from around $28,000 to $38,000. Its popularity stems from Toyota's reputation for dependability, a spacious interior with available third-row seating, and a smooth, comfortable ride, making it a compelling choice for families needing versatility.
The Good

The 2011 Toyota Highlander excels in reliability and comfort, appealing to practical buyers. Its smooth ride and spacious interior provide a comfortable experience. Performance is adequate for daily driving. The Toyota badge inspires confidence in long-term value and dependability. Its refined design and reputation for safety can emotionally attract buyers wanting a secure family vehicle.

The Bad

Some weaknesses of the 2011 Toyota Highlander include potentially high repair costs for certain components. The base engine can feel underpowered when fully loaded. The third-row seating is cramped and best suited for children. Watch out for potential oil consumption issues in higher mileage models. Rust can be a concern in regions with harsh winters.

2011 Toyota Highlander: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 2.7L 4-cylinder: Available on Base models.
    • 3.5L V6: Standard on SE and Limited models, optional on Base.
  • Horsepower:
    • 2.7L 4-cylinder: 187 hp
    • 3.5L V6: 270 hp
  • Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
    • 2.7L 4-cylinder (FWD): 20 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
    • 3.5L V6 (FWD): 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
    • 3.5L V6 (AWD): 17 mpg city / 22 mpg highway
  • 0-60 Times (estimated):
    • 2.7L 4-cylinder: Around 9.5 seconds
    • 3.5L V6: Around 7.5 seconds
  • Towing Capacity:
    • 2.7L 4-cylinder: 2,000 lbs
    • 3.5L V6: 5,000 lbs
  • Trim Level Features:
    • Base: Cloth upholstery, air conditioning, power windows and locks, keyless entry, CD player, six speakers, 17-inch alloy wheels.
    • SE: Sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior trim, leather-trimmed steering wheel, upgraded audio system, backup camera.
    • Limited: Leather upholstery, heated front seats, power-adjustable driver's seat, automatic climate control, sunroof, premium JBL audio system, 19-inch alloy wheels.

2011 Toyota Highlander Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2011
Make Toyota
Model Highlander
Trim -
Style 4-Door 4WD
Type Sport Utility Vehicle
Category Standard Sport Utility Vehicle
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City PRINCETON
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 1789.87 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 2494.76 kg
Overall Height 172.97 cm
Overall Length 478.54 cm
Overall Width 191.01 cm
Wheelbase Length 278.89 cm
Standard Seating 7
Engine & Performance
Engine Gas/Electric V-6 3.5-L
Engine Size 3.5L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission 5-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 5-Speed
Drivetrain Four-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel
Steering Type Power Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $32,695 USD
Invoice Price $29,851 USD
Delivery Charges $810 USD

Vehicle History Report

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Specifications
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Events
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Salvage/Rebuilt
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Accident
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Theft
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Open Lien
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Past Sale
Listings
Safety
Recalls
Odometer
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Market Price
Analysis

What Problems Does the 2011 Toyota Highlander Have?

Frequently reported problems for the 2011 Toyota Highlander include excessive oil consumption, particularly in the 3.5L V6 engine. Some owners have reported needing to add oil between changes. Another common issue is related to the water pump; it can fail prematurely, leading to overheating. Premature brake wear has also been noted.
Recalls for the 2011 Highlander primarily centered on issues affecting a wide range of Toyota vehicles, such as floor mat entrapment of the accelerator pedal and potential issues with the fuel pump relay. Always check the NHTSA website for the latest recall information.
Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the aforementioned oil consumption and water pump issues. Suspension components, particularly struts and shocks, may require replacement sooner than expected, especially in areas with poor road conditions. Also, some owners have noted issues with the navigation system and other electronic components after several years of use. Rust can become a concern in areas that use road salt during winter, affecting the undercarriage and body panels.

How long will the 2011 Toyota Highlander last?

With good maintenance habits, a 2011 Toyota Highlander can easily reach 200,000 miles or more, providing 10-15 years of service. Regular oil changes, timely fluid replacements, and preventative maintenance are crucial. Long-term durability is generally excellent, but weaknesses include potential oil consumption in the V6 engine and water pump failures. Suspension components may require attention after 100,000 miles. Rust can also become a factor in colder climates if preventative measures are not taken. Properly maintained, the Highlander demonstrates solid longevity.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2011 Toyota Highlander offers a reasonable suite of tech and safety features for its time. Standard features include a CD player, six speakers, and keyless entry. Higher trims add features like a touchscreen navigation system, a JBL premium audio system, and a backup camera.
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles, but included standard anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control, and traction control. Optional features included rear parking sensors.
Safety features encompass front and side airbags, as well as side curtain airbags for all three rows.
The 2011 Toyota Highlander received good crash-test ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS. The NHTSA awarded it an overall score of four out of five stars. The IIHS gave it "Good" ratings in most categories, earning it a "Top Safety Pick" designation. However, specific ratings may vary based on the exact testing methodology used that year.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Black Sand Pearl
Cypress Green Pearl
Shoreline Blue Pearl
Sandy Beach Metallic
Classic Silver Metallic
Magnetic Gray Metallic
Blizzard Pearl
Interior Colors
Almond
Ash
Black

2011 Toyota Highlander Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2011 Toyota Highlander ranged from approximately $28,000 to $38,000, depending on the trim level and options. Currently, used market prices typically range from $8,000 to $15,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location.
Depreciation has been moderate, reflecting Toyota's strong resale value. Factors affecting resale value include mileage, condition, maintenance history, and trim level. V6 models generally command higher prices than four-cylinder models. Clean, well-maintained examples with lower mileage fetch the highest prices. Color also influences resale value.

2011 Toyota Highlander Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for the 2011 Toyota Highlander are generally moderate. Fuel costs will vary depending on the engine, with the V6 being less economical. Maintenance costs are relatively low due to Toyota's reliability, but potential repairs like water pump or oil consumption issues can be costly. Overall, the Highlander is reasonably economical to own, provided major repairs are avoided through regular maintenance. Long term ownership depends heavily on how well the car has been kept up.

2011 Toyota Highlander Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 72.68 liters
City Mileage 7.23 km/l
Highway Mileage 9.35 km/l

2011 Toyota Highlander Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Roof Strength Test Results Good
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Good
Side Impact Test Results Good

2011 Toyota Highlander Recalls & Defects

AIR Bags:frontal:sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Recall date 2013-01-16
Recall no. 13v014000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Models Interspersed Through Model Years 2009 Through 2013 AS Follows: Model Year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and Rav4; Model Year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; Model Year 2010-2013 Model Year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; Model Year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; Model Year 2012 Prius V; and Model Year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During Modification BY SET TO Include Accessories Such AS Leather Seat Covers, Seat Heaters or Headrest DVD Systems, These Vehicles MAY NOT Have HAD THE Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System Calibration Tested. Without Passing THE Calibration Test, THE Occupant Sensing System MAY NOT Operate AS Designed.
Consequence IF THE Front Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System IS OUT OF Calibration, THE Front Passenger Airbags MAY NOT Deploy or They MAY Deploy Inappropriately FOR THE Passenger's Size and Position. This Could Increase THE Risk OF Personal Injury During THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash Necessitating Airbag Deployment.
Remedy Southeast Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Test THE Sensitivity OF THE Occupant Detection Sensors, and Recalibrate Them AS Necessary. THE Recall Began ON March 21, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats
Recall date 2013-01-16
Recall no. 13v014000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Models Interspersed Through Model Years 2009 Through 2013 AS Follows: Model Year 2009-2012 Tacoma, 4runner, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Prius, and Rav4; Model Year 2009-2010 Avalon, FJ Cruiser, and Highlander Hybrid; Model Year 2010-2013 Model Year Corolla, Sienna and Tundra; Model Year 2009-2013 Highlander and Venza; Model Year 2012 Prius V; and Model Year 2010-2012 Sequoia. During Modification BY SET TO Include Accessories Such AS Leather Seat Covers, Seat Heaters or Headrest DVD Systems, These Vehicles MAY NOT Have HAD THE Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System Calibration Tested. Without Passing THE Calibration Test, THE Occupant Sensing System MAY NOT Operate AS Designed.
Consequence IF THE Front Passenger Seat Occupant Sensing System IS OUT OF Calibration, THE Front Passenger Airbags MAY NOT Deploy or They MAY Deploy Inappropriately FOR THE Passenger's Size and Position. This Could Increase THE Risk OF Personal Injury During THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash Necessitating Airbag Deployment.
Remedy Southeast Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Test THE Sensitivity OF THE Occupant Detection Sensors, and Recalibrate Them AS Necessary. THE Recall Began ON March 21, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date 2013-04-09
Recall no. 13v123000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2008 and 2010-2013 Toyota Tundra, 2010-2012 Rav4, 2012 Toyota Sequoia, 2010-2011 Toyota Corolla, 2010-2011 Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2010-2013 Toyota Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2010-2013 Toyota FJ Cruiser, 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser, 2010-2013 Toyota Venza, 2010-2011 Toyota 4runner, 2010-2013 Toyota Tacoma, 2011-2012 Toyota Sienna, 2012 Toyota Prius, 2013 Scion Fr-s, 2011 Scion XD, 2011 Scion XB, and 2012 Scion TC Vehicles. These Vehicles Were Sold With Labels That Were Outside THE Allowable ONE Percent OF Accuracy OF Actual Weight Added. Thus, These Vehicles Fail TO Comply With THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (Fmvss) Number 110, "tire Selection and Rims."
Consequence AN Inaccurate Label Could Lead TO Owners Overloading Their Vehicles and Tires. AN Overloaded Vehicle CAN Result IN A Tire Failure Which MAY Result IN A Vehicle Crash, Personal Injury, or Property Damage.
Remedy Southeast Toyota Will Notify Owners and Provide A Corrected Label With Instructions Concerning ITS Installation. A Small Group OF THE Affected Vehicles Will Need Additonal Remedies Which ARE Still Being Developed. THE Recall Began ON MAY 28, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Southeast Toyota AT 1-800-301-6859.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/Cooler
Recall date 2014-11-19
Recall no. 14v743000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2010-2011 Prius and Corolla, 2009-2011 Venza, 2006-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2005-2011 Sienna and Sequoia, 2006-2011 Tacoma 4X2 and 4x4, Camry, Highlander, Tundra 4X2 and 4x4, and 2007-2011 Rav4 and 4runner. THE Affected Vehicles MAY Experience Compression OF THE Seat Cushion Which MAY Damage THE Seat Heater Wiring.
Consequence Damage TO THE Seat Heater Wiring Could Cause THE Wires TO Short, Increasing THE Risk OF THE Seat Burning and Causing Personal Injury TO THE Occupant.
Remedy SET Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Disconnect THE Heaters With Copper Strand Heating Elements and Refund THE Purchase Price OF THE Seat Heater Accessory, Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Began IN January 2015. Owners MAY Contact SET Customer Service AT 1-866-405-4226.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Seats:front Assembly:seat Heater/Cooler
Recall date 2016-06-02
Recall no. 16v396000
Source NHTSA
Summary Southeast Toyota Distributors, LLC (Set) IS Recalling Certain 2005-2011 4runner, Highlander, Sequoia, and Sienna, 2005-2010 Avalon and Tundra, 2006-2008 Camry Solara, 2006-2010 Highlander Hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4 and Tacoma, 2007-2010 FJ Cruiser, 2007-2011 Camry Hybrid, 2009-2010 Venza, 2010-2012 Prius, 1988-1990 and 2005-2010 Camry, and 1989 and 2009-2010 Corolla Vehicles Equipped With Aftermarket Accessory Seat Heaters With A Copper Strand Heating Element. THE Electrical Wiring IN THE Seat Heaters MAY BE Damaged When THE Seat Cushion IS Compressed.
Consequence IF Damaged, THE Copper Strand Heating Element MAY Short Circuit, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy SET Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Disconnect THE Seat Heaters, Free OF Charge, and Refund THE Purchase Price OF THE Seat Heater Accessory. THE Recall Began ON July 14, 2016. Owners MAY Contact SET Customer Service AT 1-866-405-4226. SET Number FOR This Recall IS Set16b.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Visibility:power Window Devices and Controls
Recall date 2015-10-22
Recall no. 15v689000
Source NHTSA
Summary Toyota Motor Company (Toyota) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2009-2011 Tundra, Sequoia, Corolla, Corolla Matrix and Scion XB, 2008-2011 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid, 2007 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2009 Camry and Camry Hybrid, 2006-2011 Rav4, 2006-2010 Yaris, and 2009-2010 Scion XD and Pontiac Vibe Vehicles. During THE Manufacturing OF THE Power Window Master Switch (Pwms), Grease Lubricant MAY Have Been Inconsistently Applied TO THE Sliding Electrical Contacts.
Consequence IF THE Sliding Electrical Contacts ARE NOT Protected BY Lubricant, Debris and Moisture That GET Into THE Switch MAY Cause A Short Circuit and THE Switch Assembly MAY Overheat and Melt, Increasing THE Risk OF A Fire.
Remedy Toyota Will Notify Owners, and Dealers Will Inspect THE Switch, Applying A Lubricant IF NO Abnormality IS Found. IF Abnormality IS Found, THE Pwms Circuit Board Will BE Replaced, Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin December 20, 2015. Owners MAY Contact Toyota Customer Service AT 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's Number FOR This Recall IS C0m.
Notes Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.

2011 Toyota Highlander Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Corrosion
Original warranty 60 months / unlimited miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Drivetrain
Original warranty 60 months / 60,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2011 Toyota Highlander Insurance

Insurance for a 2011 Toyota Highlander is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sport Utility Vehicle with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2011 Toyota Highlander Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2011 Toyota Highlander competes with the Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet Traverse, and Ford Explorer. In terms of reliability, the Highlander generally surpasses the Traverse and Explorer, and is on par with the Pilot. The Pathfinder offers a more rugged appeal, but its reliability is not as strong.
In terms of features, the Highlander offers a good balance, but some rivals may have more advanced technology for the model year. The Pilot provides comparable interior space and practicality, while the Traverse offers more cargo capacity. Performance-wise, the V6 Highlander is competitive.
Price-wise, the Highlander tends to hold its value well. As for alternatives, the Honda Pilot is a similar and often comparable choice, offering a blend of reliability and practicality. If more cargo space is needed, the Chevrolet Traverse is worth considering, but be mindful of its reliability record. The Ford Explorer offers a more modern design, but its reliability might be a concern compared to the Toyota. Ultimately, the Highlander's reputation for reliability makes it a strong contender in its class.

Ranks #112 SUV

1 2023 Toyota 4Runner (5.0β˜…)
2 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid (5.0β˜…)
3 2023 Lexus GX (0.0β˜…)
4 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV (0.0β˜…)
5 2024 Subaru Crosstrek (5.0β˜…)
6 2024 BMW iX (0.0β˜…)
7 2023 Ford Bronco Sport (5.0β˜…)
8 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB (0.0β˜…)
9 2024 Chevrolet Trax (5.0β˜…)
10 2023 Audi A4 allroad (0.0β˜…)
11 2023 Hyundai Kona N (0.0β˜…)
12 2023 Nissan ARIYA (5.0β˜…)
112 2011 Toyota Highlander (5.0β˜…)

Final Verdict: Is the 2011 Toyota Highlander a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?

The 2011 Toyota Highlander is ideal for families seeking a reliable and comfortable mid-size SUV. It's worth buying, especially as a used vehicle, if you prioritize dependability and a smooth ride. A V6 model is recommended over the four-cylinder for better performance. Check for maintenance records and potential oil consumption issues before purchasing. A well-maintained Highlander, particularly a Limited trim, offers a good balance of features and value. Overall, it's a solid choice for those prioritizing practicality and Toyota's reputation for longevity.

2011 Toyota Highlander Owner Reviews

4.54
Consumer Rating, Based on 81 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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Noah on May 17, 2021

Offroading

I was bogging in my moms car and offroading mudholes and all it was going fine till it hydro planed into a tree either than that amazing I would look into that though

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Sylvia’s grandchildren transport on November 28, 2020

Best vehicle I’ve ever ownef

This vehicle has been so reliable and worth the money I paid for it 9 years ago. It’s more roomy than the newest models so there is absolutely no reason for me to make a change.

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John A Seahawk fan on June 30, 2020

Service on the scheduled intervals and it is great

This car is very reliable and has meet all my driving needs. The V-6 engine is very responsive and also gets good gas mileage. Would highly recommend this vehicle .

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MaddMax on January 19, 2020

This has been a great SUV

Purchased new, this has been an outstanding SUV. No major mechanical issues over the past 8 years. Maintained by local Toyota dealership, only oil changes, fluids, tires, wipers and battery have needed replacement. Excellent at highway speeds, averaging 23-24mpg. Love it!

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44621er on January 5, 2020

Great car from day 1

I truly like this car. Because of this car we have leased another Highlander and are looking to purchase a Highlander to replace the leased car

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Highlander$3 on December 21, 2019

Great car

The ride is like a Lexus and it handles almost like a sedan. It's just the right size, has very comfortable seats and is loaded with technology!

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Hockeyguy on December 1, 2019

Interior is top notch and drives well

Best car I’ve had. Drives very smooth and inside features like navigation blue tooth and hands free are a luxury. Makes driving a great experience.

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Shadow on October 1, 2019

Should be recalled and destroyed

The 2011 toyoda highlander is the worst driving, worst riding, most uncomfortable car I have EVER been in. Bought with 19k miles. Steering wheel and carpet had holes in them before 40k miles. Numb effortless steering. Very abrupt throttle tip-in. Driving position could not be worse. Cheep interior materials. Lexus it ain't...

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jay on August 22, 2019

Excellent customer service

it was clean title clean car fax car have good condition runs and drive clean leather new brakes thank you very much for Ridetime llc

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Dabuttdr on July 19, 2019

Great vehicle

Bought this vehicle with 117000 miles on it. The engine is already making noise, however I bought a great warranty, so whatever! I love it. Id buy it again in a second!

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Jovan

Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.