The Good
The 2012 Toyota Highlander boasts excellent reliability, a comfortable ride, and a spacious interior appealing to practical buyers. Emotionally, owners appreciate its reputation for longevity and peace of mind. Performance is adequate for daily driving, and its design is understated yet functional. It also offers a good value proposition considering its dependability.
The Bad
While generally reliable, the 2012 Toyota Highlander can suffer from potential water pump failures, leading to overheating. Some owners report issues with the power tailgate and occasional electronic glitches. Check for proper maintenance records, particularly regarding oil changes and cooling system services. Premature brake wear has also been noted.
2012 Toyota Highlander: Quick Overview
Here's a summary of the 2012 Toyota Highlander's key specs:
- 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: 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:
- 2.7L 4-cylinder: Approximately 9.7 seconds
- 3.5L V6: Approximately 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, cruise control, CD player with six speakers, keyless entry.
- SE: Upgraded cloth upholstery, sport-tuned suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, sunroof, power liftgate.
- Limited: Leather upholstery, heated front seats, automatic climate control, JBL audio system, backup camera, power-adjustable front seats.
2012 Toyota Highlander Specifications
Vehicle Information
Year | 2012 |
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 | 1935.02 kg |
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 2721.55 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 | 3.5-L V-6 |
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) | $35,450 USD |
Invoice Price | $32,366 USD |
Delivery Charges | $845 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 Toyota Highlander Have?
Recalls for the 2012 Highlander were issued for potential issues such as incorrectly torqued fuel delivery pipes, which could lead to fuel leaks. Owners should check the NHTSA website to verify if their specific vehicle was affected by any recalls and ensure that necessary repairs were completed. Long-term reliability concerns primarily revolve around the lifespan of components like the water pump, alternator, and air conditioning compressor. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial to maximizing the Highlander's lifespan. Premature brake wear has also been noted by some owners, warranting regular inspections.
How long will the 2012 Toyota Highlander last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Driver-assistance features were limited compared to modern vehicles, with standard cruise control being the primary offering. Safety features included anti-lock brakes (ABS), stability control, traction control, and a suite of airbags (front, side, and curtain). Optional features included a navigation system and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.
Crash test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) were generally positive. The 2012 Highlander received "Good" ratings in most categories. NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) also awarded the Highlander with good overall safety scores, contributing to its reputation as a safe family vehicle. While it lacks modern driver-assistance technologies like lane departure warning or blind-spot monitoring, its fundamental safety features and solid crash test performance are noteworthy.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2012 Toyota Highlander Prices and Market Value
2012 Toyota Highlander Cost of Ownership
2012 Toyota Highlander Fuel Efficiency
2012 Toyota Highlander Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2012 Toyota Highlander Recalls & Defects
AIR Bags:frontal:sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Seats
Equipment:other:labels
2012 Toyota Highlander Warranty
Basic
Corrosion
Drivetrain
Roadside Assistance
2012 Toyota Highlander Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 Toyota Highlander Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle?
The Pilot offers comparable interior space and a slightly more engaging driving experience, while the Traverse offers more cargo space but can feel less refined. Feature-wise, they're all relatively similar for their time, although specific trims will vary. Pricewise, the Highlander typically holds its value slightly better than the others. If reliability is your primary concern, the Highlander or Pilot are excellent choices. If you need maximum cargo space and are willing to potentially sacrifice some reliability, the Traverse could be considered. A comparable alternative is the Mazda CX-9; however, the 2012 model may lack some of the Highlander's interior space. Overall, the Highlander is a solid choice in its class, offering a balanced blend of reliability, features, and value. For those prioritizing a sportier driving experience, the Pilot might be a better alternative. For maximizing cargo capacity, the Traverse has an edge.
Ranks #106 SUV
1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
106 | 2012 Toyota Highlander | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 Toyota Highlander a Good Sport Utility Vehicle?
LW on April 3, 2024
Solid reliable SUVBought the '12 used with 30k miles on it 9 years ago. It now has 187k and is running great. Regular oil changes and typical maintenance, brakes, tires, etc. The AC did go last year and was fixed. Car is plenty cargo spacious and has been used to move many items, furniture, building materials etc. The only thing I'd like better from it is brighter headlights. If a HIghlander has been maintained I'd not hesitate to pick up a higher mileage used one and expect many more miles.
Brad on February 3, 2024
Great vehicle. Good MPG with the v6I have had my 2012 Highlander 7 months ago with 142k and we have put 9k miles on it. Bought it from the 1st owner that had dealer service on it. They had delt with the oil leaks around 60k with the dealer working on it 4 times before they got it fixed by dropping the motor and doing head gaskets on it the last time. Still no leaks. I had to do a few interior repairs like the radio volume control jumping, jut pull the knob off and spray a electrical cleaner in and protect the dash from it. And 1 of the trunk floor flaps was broken off, also easy fix, clean the throttle body and mass air flow, new air filter, then reset the computer by disconnecting the battery for 30 seconds so it can re learn the throttle body from the cleaning. I then drive to Florida and I got 25mpg with my SE, V6, 4X4. I have a bad back and 3 surgeries and this is 1 of the most comfortable vehicle I have ever driven equal to my loaded Suburban, Tahoe, and Avalanches I have had. If I ever get rid of it it will be for another one.
Sabrina on December 13, 2023
Oil burning issueHas an engine problem with burning oil too quickly that they won’t address and recall . I have met and talked to many people who have the same car and have the same issue
Kansas city Traveler on May 13, 2022
High mileage clubWe bought our 2012 highlander in 2021 with 220,000 miles on it. After taking it on a couple of trips the alternator has failed but it was the original. This suv was great in the snow this past year and the ac on trips last year made a great people hauler for the family.
Dale Matthews on December 16, 2020
Exactly the car that we were searching for.Our minds were set on a Toyota Highlander due to the quality of the car and high mileage that we had on our Toyota Sienna (243,000). We did not need a mini-van yet still need room to haul. Honestly I expect to get 300,000 miles out of this jewel, and I will since I keep my cars serviced.
CO Native on August 31, 2020
Great family car and weekend adventure machineSeating for 7, comfortable, great in the snow, reliable, low/no maintenance cost, tons of cargo room. Factory cross bars are compatible with most rack systems. 2" hitch is a great accessory for bike rack.
Jwest on June 10, 2020
At over 100,000 miles now, it's just breaking in.We have a limited with the tow package. It has impressive acceleration and power. Our last family truckster was a 2009 4runner with the v8 option, and TRD lift kit/performance package. While this was awesome, our gas mileage suffered and we had ongoing suspension problems. It was not an every day driving car with 32x12 tires! It was my wife's vehicle- and when she test drove the highlander limited there was no going back- like a timex vs. A Rolex! It rides like a Camry (which it basically is frame-wise), but has AWD, and super luxurious. After doing a 2000 mile trip to myrtle beach in the 4runner and then in the highlander, there is no doubt the highlander wins hands down for comfort, performance, gas mileage and handling. It loves to run at about 78 mph at 2200 rpm for a solid 21 mph.
wahid on December 16, 2019
I own itlooks like there is problem in transmission. When I go up to 50 mph and engine speed is 1900-2000 rpm .. the can get rough sound . its goes away after acceleration.
AD on September 10, 2019
Very well maintainedExcellent car for a family with the third row seating. This vehicle was extremely well taken care of. Has every option available. Was serviced regularly
Highlander Fan on July 5, 2019
Very reliable and spacious with great mileageI own a 2012 highlander standard model since May2012 and till date it’s been very reliable vehicle. We have been to several vacations, longgg drives in it and not even once got any problem. I will definitely buy another highlander once I decided to sell it. Almost 100k miles on it and still everything works perfectly fine