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VIN REPORT

5TDKDRAH9SS5525232025 TOYOTA HighlanderLE, XLE, Limited

Risk Score
25
MODERATE RISK
out of 100
3 Found
3 campaigns
5
Reported to NHTSA
Not Tested
See iihs.org/ratings
1 yrs
Made in UNITED STATES (USA)
C
Score: 75/100
Verdict & Risk Assessment
📄

Executive Summary

2025 TOYOTA Highlander was analyzed across NHTSA recalls, owner complaints, crash test data, and public auction records. There are 3 open recalls on record — verify these have been repaired before purchase. 5 owner complaints have been filed with NHTSA — review the complaint section for the most common failure patterns.

  • 3 open recalls — verify these have been repaired before purchase
  • Complaint rate is accelerating — issues appear to be getting worse, not better
  • Vehicle may qualify for lemon law protection based on recall and complaint pattern — consult an attorney
25/100
Moderate Risk
3 moderate risk signals detected. Negotiate accordingly and verify service history.
LOWMODERATEHIGHCRITICAL
Contributing Risk Factors — 3 detected
Vehicle may qualify as a lemon — repeat repair failures
+10
3 model-wide recalls on record
+9
Accelerating complaint trend — problems increasing over time
+6
Critical Alerts

No auction records available. Title brand status could not be verified — request title history from seller or state DMV.

Vehicle
Make
TOYOTA
Model
Highlander
Year
2025
Trim / Series
LE, XLE, Limited
Body Style
Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)
Vehicle Type
MULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)
Drive Type
4x2
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Engine
4-cyl 2.4L 265 hp
Transmission
Automatic
Doors
5
Manufacturer
TOYOTA MOTOR MANUFACTURING, INDIANA, INC.
Assembly
PRINCETON, INDIANA, UNITED STATES (USA)
GVWR
Class 1D: 5,001 - 6,000 lb (2,268 - 2,722 kg)
AQuality80/100
Good📍 PRINCETON, INDIANA

Produces Tundra, Sequoia, and Sienna. Strong manufacturing standards.

Safety
C
Score: 75/100
Crash Test Rating20/40
Recall Safety25/30
Complaint History30/30
15/100Low

✓ No high-risk recall components found

83/100
Comprehensive
15 of 20 safety features detected

The same components appear in both official NHTSA recalls and owner-filed complaints — a double-confirmed failure signal.

Safety Systems
1 recall1 complaint
Forward Collision WarningStandard
Automatic Emergency BrakingStandard
Pedestrian AEBStandard
Rear AEB?Unknown
Lane Departure WarningStandard
Lane Keep AssistStandard
Lane Centering Assist?Unknown
Blind Spot MonitoringStandard
Rear Cross Traffic AlertStandard
Adaptive Cruise ControlStandard
Adaptive Headlights?Unknown
Auto High BeamStandard
Parking Assist?Unknown
Backup CameraStandard
Electronic Stability ControlStandard
Tire Pressure Monitoring?Direct
Event Data RecorderStandard
Crash Notification?Unknown
Dynamic Brake SupportStandard
Keyless IgnitionStandard
Recalls
33 RECALLS

NHTSA VIN-specific recall lookup returned no data for this VIN. The 3 recalls below are model-wide and may or may not apply to this exact vehicle depending on production date. Verify at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Estimated Repair Completion (Statistical)

3 of 3 recalls have a low industry completion rate — statistically likely unrepaired.

24%
avg repaired

Statistical model based on recall age, component type, and manufacturer. Not a repair confirmation. Demand dealer service records.

TOYOTA Recall Completion Rate — Industry Context
95%Excellent

TOYOTA has an excellent recall completion rate (95%) — owners typically receive a remedy within 14 months.

Avg time to remedy open recall: ~14 months · Source: NHTSA Recall Completion Rate Reports

Avg Fix Time
14mo
#25V595000
Nov 2025

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL

SummaryToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Toyota Venza, 2023-2025 RAV4 Prime, RAV4, Highlander, GR Corolla, Crown, 2024-2025 Lexus TX, LS, Toyota Tacoma, Grand Highlander, and 2025 Lexus RX, Toyota Crown Signia, Camry, RAV 4 Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV), and 4 Runner vehicles. Due to an error in the instrument panel software at vehicle startup, the instrument panel may fail to display vehicle speed, brake system, and tire pressure warning lights.
Read full details...
ConsequenceAn instrument panel display that does not show critical information can increase the risk of a crash or injury.
Est. Repair Completion~35%

~65% of these vehicles are statistically unrepaired

High Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#25V744000
Invalid Date

BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION

SummaryToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru Solterra vehicles equipped with a Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system. Please see the recall report for a complete list of models. A software error may cause the rearview camera to freeze or display a blank screen when the vehicle is in reverse. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 111, "Rear Visibility."
Read full details...
ConsequenceA rearview camera that fails to display an image can reduce the driver's view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Est. Repair Completion~22%

~78% of these vehicles are statistically unrepaired

High Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

#25V872000
Invalid Date

SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:ANCHORAGE

SummaryToyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicles. The third row center seat belt roof anchor may have been installed at an incorrect angle, preventing the seat belt from properly restraining the occupant.
Read full details...
ConsequenceA seat belt that does not properly restrain an occupant increases the risk of injury during a crash.
Est. Repair Completion~16%

~84% of these vehicles are statistically unrepaired

High Risk

Source: NHTSA statistical model by recall age & component type

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
165d open
11/09/2025
3 total campaigns
ElectricalSafety SystemsExterior/Other
0
Part Replacements
3
Software/OTA Updates
0
Buyback/Refund
0
High-Effort Repairs
4mo
Lag from first complaint to recall
First complaint: 2025-07-26 · Recall issued: 2025-11-09

Recall was issued within 4 months of first complaints — relatively prompt response.

May Qualify

This vehicle shows 3 lemon law indicators. Eligibility depends on state law, number of repair attempts, and days out of service — consult a lemon law attorney.

Strong protection states: California, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts
Complaints
Other
2
Engine/Powertrain
1
Brakes
1
Safety Systems
1
2025
3
2026
2
Accelerating +100%
5
Last 24 months
0
Prior 24 months

⚠ Complaint rate is accelerating — issue may be getting worse

Engine stalling1
5
ODI #11712542ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2025 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, there was an abnormally strong odor entering the cabin of the vehicle through the vents. The windows were rolled down due to the obnoxious odor. The vehicle was taken to the dealer and the contact was informed that the vehicle was tested for leaks in the exhaust; however, no leaks were found. The contact was informed that the fumes were possibly from burning wires or a new vehicle odor because the vehicle was a brand-new vehicle. In addition, the contact was offered the option to trade the vehicle in for a new vehicle. The contact stated that the odor was extremely strong and foul, and the odor stuck to clothing and the contact’s skin. In addition, the contact described the odor as an old lawnmower or snow blowing odor. The contact was advised by the state Attorney General Office of Illinois to contact NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100. The VIN was not available.

ODI #11711474UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I am reporting a safety defect in the 2025 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Nightshade involving the multifunction turn signal switch. The interior trim adhesive on the steering column has experienced a chemical breakdown (adhesive migration), causing the turn signal stalk to become stiff and bind. This obstruction makes it difficult to engage the turn signal and occasionally prevents the signal from "auto-canceling" after a turn. The dealership has acknowledged the adhesive failure by authorizing the replacement of the steering column covers but refuses to replace the contaminated turn signal switch. Operating a vehicle with a binding turn signal switch is a direct safety hazard, as it compromises the driver's ability to communicate intent to other motorists. Additionally, the dashboard material is experiencing systemic delamination and producing a white crystalline powder (crystallized adhesive). I am requesting an investigation into the heat-resistance standards of the interior bonding agents used in the 2025 Nightshade trim, as these materials are failing and compromising safety-critical electronic controls. Thank XXX XXX

ODI #11707018SERVICE BRAKES

Black Toyota Highlander Hybrid AWD 2025 ~15000 miles What component or system failed or malfunctioned, and is it available for inspection upon request? Without any warning, the braking action is delayed. It is a momentary loss and happens occasionally at light braking application, nowhere near hard enough to lock the wheels up The vehicle is available for inspection upon request How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? If I were been closer to another vehicle/pedestrian/obstacle, an accident could happen Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer or independent service center? No, yet, I will book an appointment to allow the dealer to verify the issue Has the vehicle or component been inspected by the manufacturer, police, insurance representatives or others? NO Were there any warning lamps, messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure, and when did they first appear? NO General: I have been driving the Highlander for a little bit more than a year, and this issue has happened at least 5 times, twice (2) this week

ODI #11690033UNKNOWN OR OTHER

While waiting for a traffic light to change, I pressed the pedal to accelerate, and the car would not move. Like my pedal was dead. I have experienced this issue three times. I have also experienced bucking or jerking issues.

ODI #11676416SEAT BELTS

Passenger seat belt won't extend half of the time. We have tried with engine on or off, put it in park and in gear, door open or closed and every other trick. We have pulled the belt straight up and down and every other angle. We have adjusted the height for tall or short riders. We took to the auto dealership, and they said it would not work for them at first then it started to work. We have had riders in the passenger front seat ride with no seat belt on because they couldn't extend it and gave up. It should work every time there because it is a safety issue that should be fixed.

Annual complaints and reliability score for TOYOTA Highlander — recall years marked in red
023050100202520252026Complaints/yrReliability (0–100)
Annual complaints (left axis)
Reliability score 0–100 (right axis, higher = safer)
Crash-involved complaints that year
Recall issued
Chart Analysis

The blue line shows 5 NHTSA complaints on file for the TOYOTA Highlander — a relatively low volume that spans from 2025 to 2026.

The amber reliability line shows an improving trend — scores have risen from the earlier years toward 88/100 more recently, suggesting the most serious issues are older and may have been addressed through repairs or recalls.

The recall (red dashed line) were issued in the same year or before complaints peaked, suggesting the manufacturer identified and acted on the defect relatively quickly.

Details & Analysis
Financial
$32,844
~$547/mo over 5 yrs
$2.7/mi
cost per mile
Fuel
$10,000
Insurance (est.)
$7,500
Maintenance
$4,000
Repair Risk Buffer
$3,000
Depreciation
$8,344

Estimated 5-year cost of ownership: $32,844 (~$547/mo). Repair risk buffer is standard due to vehicle risk profile.

3 open recalls (unverified repair status)−$1,500
Total recommended deduction−$1,500
HIGH
Verify recall ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL has been repaired
Recall on record for: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Toyota Venza, 2023-2025 RAV4 Prime, RAV
HIGH
Verify recall BACK OVER PREVENTION:DISPLAY FUNCTION has been repaired
Recall on record for: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2022-2026 Toyota, Lexus, and Subaru Solterra vehi
HIGH
Verify recall SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:ANCHORAGE has been repaired
Recall on record for: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2024-2025 Highlander and Highlander Hybrid vehicl
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Test drive and inspect: SERVICE BRAKES
Multiple owner complaints filed for this component — verify it functions correctly during test drive.
MEDIUM
Get an independent pre-purchase inspection from a trusted mechanic
For any used vehicle with a risk score above Low, a $100–$150 independent inspection is always worth it.
MEDIUM
Run a VIN check on NHTSA.gov to confirm all recalls are closed
Free at nhtsa.gov/vehicle-safety/recalls — enter the VIN and confirm all campaigns show as completed.
MEDIUM
Verify title is clean and check for salvage/rebuilt brands at your state DMV
Title washing across state lines is common — confirm with your state DMV before finalizing purchase.
20%
18-month
36%
2-year
Moderate Probability
Cumulative 2-year risk: 36%

20% estimated recall probability — some indicators present but not alarming.

  • Accelerating complaint rate — increasing pressure on NHTSA to act

Maintenance intervals vary significantly by make, model, year, engine, and driving conditions. Always follow the manufacturer's official schedule — not generic industry estimates.

Tip: Request the seller's service records and compare against the manufacturer schedule. Missing intervals are a negotiation point.

History & Auctions
Full Coverage
$2,040–$2,590/yr
~$170–$216/mo
Liability Only
$560–$710/yr
~$47–$59/mo
Category: Standard Vehicle
New / recent model year: +15% (high replacement cost)

Based on 2024 national avg ($2,011/yr full coverage). Individual rates vary by driver, location & insurer. Always compare 3+ quotes.

TOYOTA has been fined $1217M+ by NHTSA. Most recently in 2014: Criminal settlement — concealed unintended acceleration defects for years before recall.

2014$1200MCriminal settlement — concealed unintended acceleration defects for years before recall
2012$17MFailure to promptly notify NHTSA of power window defect

Select your state to see what consumer protection laws, lemon law coverage, and title disclosure requirements apply to this vehicle purchase.

Vehicle Identity

VIN5TDKDRAH9SS552523
Model Year2025
MakeTOYOTA
ModelHighlander
TrimLE, XLE, Limited
Series70 Series
Vehicle TypeMULTIPURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLE (MPV)

Body & Configuration

Body StyleSport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV)
Doors5
Drive Type4x2
Fuel TypeGasoline
TransmissionAutomatic

Engine

Engine Cylinders4
Displacement (L)2.4
Horsepower265

Manufacturer

ManufacturerTOYOTA MOTOR MANUFACTURING, INDIANA, INC.
Assembly CityPRINCETON
Assembly CountryUNITED STATES (USA)

VIN Structure

WMI (Chars 1–3)5TD
Check Digit (Char 9)9
Model Year Code (Char 10)S
Plant Code (Char 11)S
Sequence (Chars 12–17)552523

Safety Data

NHTSA Recall Count3
NHTSA Complaint Count5
5
1
T
2
D
3
K
4
D
5
R
6
A
7
H
8
9
9
S
10
S
11
5
12
5
13
2
14
5
15
2
16
3
17
WMI (1–3)
VDS (4–8)
Check Digit (9)
Model Year (10)
Serial (11–17)
5
World Manufacturer
Country & region of manufacture
Position 1
T
Manufacturer
Specific manufacturer identifier
Position 2
D
Vehicle Type
Division or vehicle type
Position 3
KDRAH
Vehicle Descriptor Section (VDS)
Body style, engine type, restraint system
Position 4–8
9
Check Digit
Mathematical validation character
Position 9
S
Model Year
Year of manufacture
Position 10
S
Assembly Plant
Where the vehicle was assembled
Position 11
552523
Production Sequence
Unique serial number for this vehicle
Position 12–17
Country of Manufacture
United States
From VIN position 1 (5)
Model Year Character
"S" → 2025
Could also be 1995
Check Digit (Pos 9)
✓ Valid
ISO 3779 weighted-sum algorithm

Disclaimer: Data sourced from NHTSA public APIs and scraped auction listings. For informational purposes only. Not a substitute for a paid vehicle history report. Retrieved: 4/22/2026, 10:21:55 PM.