According to Au7o's analysis of 260+ owner reports, the 2016 Toyota Highlander has 1 documented known issues. No issues are rated critical, indicating generally reliable ownership. The most commonly reported issue is AC Blower Motor Failure and Resistor Burnout with 260 owner reports. Across all issues, repair costs range from $150 to $450. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.
On the 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander, the HVAC blower motor in 3rd-generation Highlanders commonly fails or operates intermittently. The blower motor resistor overheats and burns out, causing the fan to work only on the highest speed setting or stop completely. Moisture intrusion through the cabin air filter housing accelerates corrosion.
Common Symptoms
Blower only works on highest speed setting
No airflow from any vent
Burning smell from dashboard vents
Intermittent blower operation
Squealing noise from blower area
How to Fix
Replace the blower motor and blower motor resistor together. Clean any debris from the cabin air filter housing and ensure the drain is clear. An updated resistor design (Toyota part 87138-0E040) has improved thermal management.
What Owners Are Using
Parts and tips from 260+ owners who fixed this issue
High Confidence260 reportsLast reported by owners Mar 2026Reviewed Mar 2026
⚠️NHTSA Recalls2 recalls
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Fujian Wanda Automobile Glass Industry (Wanda) is recalling certain aftermarket Replacement Windshields sold for use in 2014-2018 Toyota Highlander vehicles. The windshields have an attached wire harness that water may leak into, possibly causing damage to the vehicle's Engine Control Module (ECM).
Campaign #18E10700027/11/2018
STEERING:ELECTRIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain model year 2015 Camry, Camry Hybrid, Highlander, and Highlander Hybrid, and 2014-2015 Rav4 vehicles. A component of the electric power steering (EPS) electronic control unit (ECU) may have been damaged during the manufacturing process. Over time, this damage may result in failure of the electric power steering system.
Campaign #15V14400013/03/2015
Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.
What are the most common Toyota Highlander problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 260+ owner reports, the 2016-2016 Toyota Highlander has 1 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: AC Blower Motor Failure and Resistor Burnout. None are rated critical, but regular maintenance is recommended.
Is the Toyota Highlander reliable?
The 2016-2016 Toyota Highlander has 1 known issues documented across 260+ owner reports. No issues are rated critical, suggesting generally good reliability. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common Toyota Highlander problems?
Repair costs for known Toyota Highlander issues range from $150 to $450, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander AC Blower Motor Failure and Resistor Burnout?
The HVAC blower motor in 3rd-generation Highlanders commonly fails or operates intermittently. The blower motor resistor overheats and burns out, causing the fan to work only on the highest speed setting or stop completely. Moisture intrusion through the cabin air filter housing… Repairs typically run $150-$450. Severity: medium.
Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.
