Even the automaker with the most prized reputation for dependability isn’t immune to recalls. Toyota has announced a voluntary recall of 550,000 Highlanders, its popular three-row crossover, for an issue with its second-row seats; all are U.S. models. This isn’t the first time Toyota has had to recall one of its larger vehicles for second-row seating issues, as 55,000 examples of the Sienna minivan were recalled for such an issue last year. Far more Highlander SUVs are affected, though, so let’s dig into everything owners need to know.
Related: 2025 Toyota Sienna Recall Is Bad News For Those In The Back Seat
What Highlander Models Are Affected?
Toyota
The new Toyota Highlander recall affects both gas and hybrid derivatives between the 2021 and 2024 model years. Toyota sold 169,543 Highlanders in 2023 alone, so there are many thousands of these vehicles on the road.
According to Toyota’s statement, the recliner assemblies in the second-row seats of some models may not fully lock after the seat back is adjusted. If the seat back isn’t in a secure, locked position, it may not restrain occupants properly in the event of a crash. This increases the risk of an injury, especially in a high-speed crash.
The remedy for the seat is being prepared currently. Affected Highlander owners will need to take their vehicles to a Toyota dealer to replace the return springs in the recliner assemblies with new ones; this will be done at no cost.
Owners of vehicles involved in this recall will receive notification letters by early May 2026, so repairs are expected to get underway shortly thereafter.
What Owners Can Do Now
Toyota
Toyota did not mention any known injuries in the recall statement and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has yet to publish information pertaining to this recall. However, it may be wise for owners of the vehicle to seat occupants in the third row, if possible, as the rearmost seats are not affected by the same problem.
Owners can also use their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check if their Highlander is involved in the recall via Toyota.com/recall. The Toyota Brand Engagement Center can also be contacted on 1-800-331-4331 to answer further questions.
The gas-powered Highlander has been one of the best-selling three-row crossovers in the U.S. for many years, but it won’t be around for much longer. The newer and cheaper Grand Highlander comprehensively outsold it last year in the U.S. (136,801 to 56,208 units), and Toyota recently revealed an all-new Highlander with a fully electric powertrain. Once the 2027 Highlander EV goes on sale, the current gas/hybrid Highlander is expected to be discontinued.
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