Are Toyota Highlanders Safe for you and your family? Absolutely, the Toyota Highlander consistently earns top safety ratings, making it a reliable choice for families in Boise, Idaho, and beyond; with advanced safety features and robust crash test performance, the Highlander prioritizes occupant protection. At millertoyota.net, we understand that safety is paramount, and we’re here to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision; explore our website for detailed specifications, customer testimonials, and current offers on new and used Toyota Highlanders. So you can rest assured knowing your family is protected in a safe and reliable vehicle.
1. What Makes the Toyota Highlander a Safe Vehicle?
The Toyota Highlander is a safe vehicle due to its comprehensive suite of safety features and excellent crash test performance. The Highlander prioritizes the safety of its occupants through a combination of advanced technology and robust construction.
- Advanced Safety Features: The Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), a suite of active safety technologies designed to help prevent accidents.
- Crash Test Performance: The Highlander has consistently earned high marks in crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
- High Safety Ratings: This stellar performance makes it a trusted choice for families.
2. What Safety Features Come Standard on a Toyota Highlander?
Toyota Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies. This suite enhances driver awareness and helps prevent accidents.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection | Uses a camera and radar to detect vehicles and pedestrians. It provides an audible and visual warning and can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid a collision. |
| Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist | Alerts the driver when the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane. It can also provide gentle steering input to help keep the vehicle centered. |
| Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control | Maintains a preset speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead. It can automatically adjust the Highlander’s speed to maintain a safe gap, even in stop-and-go traffic. |
| Automatic High Beams | Automatically switches between high and low beams based on the presence of other vehicles, improving visibility without blinding other drivers. |
| Road Sign Assist | Uses a forward-facing camera to detect speed limit signs, stop signs, yield signs, and other road signs, displaying them on the multi-information display to keep the driver informed. |
| Lane Tracing Assist | Works with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control to keep the vehicle centered in its lane. It uses lane markers and preceding vehicles to provide gentle steering assistance. |
| Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert | Alerts the driver to the presence of vehicles in their blind spots. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert warns of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space or driveway. |
3. How Does the Toyota Highlander Perform in IIHS Crash Tests?
The Toyota Highlander performs exceptionally well in IIHS crash tests, consistently earning top ratings. These ratings reflect the vehicle’s ability to protect occupants in various types of collisions.
- Small Overlap Front: The Highlander earns a “Good” rating in both driver-side and passenger-side small overlap front crash tests. This test simulates a collision where only a small portion of the vehicle’s front end impacts another vehicle or object.
- Moderate Overlap Front: The Highlander earns a “Good” rating in the original moderate overlap front crash test. However, in the updated test, the Highlander received a “Marginal” rating due to rear passenger safety concerns. This test evaluates how well the vehicle protects occupants in a more typical frontal collision.
- Side Impact: The Highlander earns a “Good” rating in the side impact crash test. This test simulates a collision between a vehicle and a striking barrier at a higher speed.
- Roof Strength: The Highlander earns a “Good” rating in the roof strength test. This test measures the vehicle’s ability to withstand forces in a rollover accident.
- Head Restraints & Seats: The Highlander earns a “Good” rating for its head restraints and seats. This evaluation assesses how well the seats and head restraints protect occupants from whiplash in a rear-end collision.
IIHS Crash Test Ratings for Toyota Highlander (2020-2025 Models)
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front (Driver-Side) | Good |
| Small Overlap Front (Passenger-Side) | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Original) | Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front (Updated) | Marginal |
| Side Impact | Good |
| Roof Strength | Good |
| Head Restraints & Seats | Good |
4. How Does the Toyota Highlander Perform in NHTSA Crash Tests?
The Toyota Highlander also performs well in NHTSA crash tests, earning high overall safety ratings. NHTSA’s testing program evaluates vehicle safety through a series of crash tests and assessments.
- Overall Safety Rating: NHTSA assigns an overall safety rating based on the vehicle’s performance in frontal crash, side crash, and rollover tests.
- Frontal Crash: This test evaluates the risk of injury to the driver and front passenger in a head-on collision.
- Side Crash: This test assesses the risk of injury to occupants in a side impact collision.
- Rollover: This test measures the vehicle’s resistance to rolling over in a single-vehicle crash.
Prospective buyers can check NHTSA’s website for the most up-to-date crash test ratings for specific Toyota Highlander model years.
5. What is Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) and How Does it Enhance Safety?
Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) is a suite of active safety technologies designed to enhance driver awareness, prevent accidents, and mitigate the severity of collisions. TSS uses sensors, cameras, and radar to monitor the vehicle’s surroundings and provide alerts or assistance to the driver.
| TSS Feature | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection | Uses a camera and radar to detect vehicles and pedestrians. It provides an audible and visual warning and can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid a collision. | Helps prevent or reduce the severity of frontal collisions with vehicles and pedestrians. |
| Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist | Alerts the driver when the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane. It can also provide gentle steering input to help keep the vehicle centered. | Helps prevent unintentional lane departures, which can lead to side collisions or run-off-road accidents. |
| Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control | Maintains a preset speed and following distance from the vehicle ahead. It can automatically adjust the Highlander’s speed to maintain a safe gap, even in stop-and-go traffic. | Reduces driver fatigue and stress on long drives, while also helping to maintain a safe following distance. |
| Automatic High Beams | Automatically switches between high and low beams based on the presence of other vehicles, improving visibility without blinding other drivers. | Maximizes visibility at night, making it easier to see potential hazards on the road. |
| Road Sign Assist | Uses a forward-facing camera to detect speed limit signs, stop signs, yield signs, and other road signs, displaying them on the multi-information display to keep the driver informed. | Helps drivers stay aware of important road signs, promoting safer driving habits. |
| Lane Tracing Assist | Works with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control to keep the vehicle centered in its lane. It uses lane markers and preceding vehicles to provide gentle steering assistance. | Provides additional support to help drivers stay centered in their lane, reducing the risk of unintentional lane departures. |
| Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert | Alerts the driver to the presence of vehicles in their blind spots. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert warns of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space or driveway. | Helps drivers avoid collisions with vehicles in their blind spots or when backing up. |
6. Does the Toyota Highlander Have Good Headlights for Nighttime Safety?
Yes, the Toyota Highlander offers good headlight performance, particularly on higher trim levels; the IIHS headlight ratings vary depending on the trim level, with Platinum and Hybrid Platinum trims earning a “Good” rating due to their LED projector headlights with curve-adaptive technology and high-beam assist.
| Trim Level | Headlight Type | Curve-Adaptive? | High-Beam Assist? | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Platinum, Hybrid Platinum | LED Projector | Yes | Yes | Good |
| Other Trims | LED Projector | No | Yes | Acceptable |
- Visibility: Good headlights provide ample illumination of the road ahead, making it easier to spot pedestrians, cyclists, and other potential hazards.
- Glare Reduction: Good headlights minimize glare for oncoming drivers, reducing the risk of accidents caused by impaired vision.
- Curve Adaptation: Curve-adaptive headlights adjust their beam direction based on the vehicle’s steering angle, providing better visibility around curves.
- High-Beam Assist: High-beam assist automatically switches between high and low beams based on the presence of other vehicles, maximizing visibility without blinding other drivers.
7. How Does the Toyota Highlander Protect Pedestrians?
The Toyota Highlander protects pedestrians through its Front Crash Prevention system with Pedestrian Detection. This system uses a camera and radar to detect pedestrians in front of the vehicle and can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid a collision.
- Daytime Performance: In daytime tests, the Highlander has demonstrated the ability to avoid collisions with crossing children at 12 mph and reduce impact speed at 25 mph.
- Nighttime Performance: At night, the Highlander can avoid collisions with crossing adults at 12 mph and 25 mph when using both high and low beams. It can also avoid collisions with parallel adults at 25 mph and reduce impact speed at 37 mph.
Toyota Highlander Pedestrian Front Crash Prevention Performance (2024-2025 Models)
| Scenario | Speed (mph) | High Beams | Low Beams | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crossing Child – Day | 12 | N/A | N/A | Avoided Collision |
| Crossing Child – Day | 25 | N/A | N/A | Impact Speed Reduced by 22 mph |
| Crossing Adult – Night | 12 | Yes | Yes | Avoided Collision |
| Crossing Adult – Night | 25 | Yes | Yes | Avoided Collision |
| Parallel Adult – Night | 25 | Yes | Yes | Avoided Collision |
| Parallel Adult – Night | 37 | Yes | Yes | Impact Speed Reduced by 25 mph |
| Parallel Adult – Night | 37 | Yes | Yes | Warning Issued 2 Seconds Before Impact |
8. How Safe is the Toyota Highlander For Children?
The Toyota Highlander is very safe for children, thanks to its comprehensive child seat anchor system (LATCH) and its overall crash test performance. The Highlander has two rear seating positions with complete LATCH hardware, making it easy to install child safety seats securely.
- LATCH System: The LATCH system includes lower anchors and tether anchors that allow you to install child seats without using the vehicle’s seat belts.
- Ease of Use: The Highlander’s LATCH system is designed to be easy to use, with anchors that are not too deep in the seat and require minimal force to attach.
- Number of Positions: The Highlander has two rear seating positions with complete LATCH hardware and one additional seating position with a tether anchor only.
Toyota Highlander LATCH System Details
| Position | Tether Anchor | Lower Anchors |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Easy-to-find location, no confusing hardware | Not too deep in seat, not too much force needed to attach, easy to maneuver around |
| 2 | Easy-to-find location, no confusing hardware | Can be borrowed from positions 1 and 3 |
| 3 | Easy-to-find location, no confusing hardware | Not too deep in seat, not too much force needed to attach, easy to maneuver around |
| 5 | Easy-to-find location, no confusing hardware | None available |
9. What Could Be Improved in the Toyota Highlander’s Safety Performance?
While the Toyota Highlander performs well overall in safety tests, there is room for improvement, particularly in the updated moderate overlap front crash test, where it received a “Marginal” rating due to rear passenger safety concerns.
- Rear Passenger Protection: The updated moderate overlap front crash test revealed a moderate risk of injury to the rear passenger’s head or neck and abdominal injuries due to the lap belt moving from the ideal position on the pelvis onto the abdomen.
- Further Enhancements: Toyota could focus on improving the design of the rear seatbelts and restraint systems to better protect rear passengers in frontal collisions.
10. How Can I Learn More About Toyota Highlander Safety at Miller Toyota?
You can learn more about Toyota Highlander safety by visiting millertoyota.net. Our website provides detailed information about the Highlander’s safety features, crash test ratings, and available safety technologies.
- Visit Our Website: millertoyota.net
- View Model Details: Access detailed specifications, features, and safety ratings for the Toyota Highlander.
- Read Customer Reviews: See what other Toyota owners in Boise, Idaho, have to say about the Highlander’s safety and reliability.
- Contact Us: Reach out to our knowledgeable sales team for personalized assistance and answers to your safety-related questions.
- Schedule a Test Drive: Experience the Toyota Highlander’s safety features firsthand and get a feel for its overall driving experience.
- Explore Safety Technologies: Learn more about Toyota Safety Sense and how it enhances the Highlander’s safety performance.
- Get Expert Advice: Our team can provide expert guidance on choosing the right Toyota Highlander model with the safety features that best meet your needs.
- Find Peace of Mind: At Miller Toyota, we prioritize your safety and are committed to helping you make an informed decision about your next vehicle.
11. What Specific Safety Technologies are Available on the Toyota Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander boasts a range of advanced safety technologies beyond the standard Toyota Safety Sense suite, offering enhanced protection for drivers and passengers.
| Safety Technology | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) | Uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spots and alerts you with a visual warning on the corresponding side mirror. | Helps prevent lane change accidents by alerting you to vehicles that may be difficult to see. |
| Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA) | Detects vehicles approaching from the side while you’re backing up and alerts you with an audible and visual warning. | Makes backing out of parking spaces and driveways safer by alerting you to approaching vehicles. |
| Parking Assist with Automatic Braking | Uses sensors to help you park by providing guidance and can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an obstacle. | Simplifies parking and helps prevent low-speed collisions. |
| Bird’s Eye View Camera | Provides a 360-degree view of the area around the vehicle, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. | Enhances visibility and helps prevent collisions when parking or maneuvering in confined areas. |
| Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) | Helps prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on a steep incline. | Provides added confidence and control when starting on hills. |
| Downhill Assist Control (DAC) | Helps maintain a controlled speed when descending steep slopes. | Enhances control and stability when driving downhill in challenging conditions. |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) | Monitors the tire pressure of each tire and alerts you if the pressure is too low. | Helps prevent tire blowouts and improves fuel efficiency by ensuring proper tire inflation. |
12. How Does the Highlander’s Structure Contribute to Safety?
The Toyota Highlander’s robust structure plays a crucial role in its overall safety performance. The Highlander’s structure is designed to absorb and distribute crash energy.
- High-Strength Steel: The Highlander’s body is constructed using high-strength steel, which provides exceptional strength and rigidity.
- Energy-Absorbing Design: The Highlander’s frame and body panels are designed to deform in a controlled manner during a collision, absorbing crash energy and reducing the forces transmitted to the occupants.
- Reinforced Safety Cage: The Highlander features a reinforced safety cage that surrounds the passenger compartment, providing added protection in the event of a serious accident.
13. What Are Some Real-World Accident Scenarios Where the Highlander’s Safety Features Would Be Beneficial?
The Toyota Highlander’s safety features can be beneficial in a variety of real-world accident scenarios.
- Frontal Collision: The Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection can help prevent or mitigate the severity of frontal collisions with vehicles or pedestrians.
- Lane Departure: The Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist can help prevent unintentional lane departures, which can lead to side collisions or run-off-road accidents.
- Rear-End Collision: The Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control can help maintain a safe following distance and prevent rear-end collisions in stop-and-go traffic.
- Blind Spot Accident: The Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert can help prevent collisions with vehicles in your blind spots or when backing up.
- Parking Accident: The Parking Assist with Automatic Braking and Bird’s Eye View Camera can help prevent low-speed collisions when parking or maneuvering in tight spaces.
14. How Does the Toyota Highlander Compare to Other SUVs in Terms of Safety?
The Toyota Highlander consistently ranks among the safest SUVs in its class, outperforming many competitors in crash tests and safety feature availability. According to customer satisfaction surveys in Boise, Idaho, in July 2025, Toyota provides value for money.
- Crash Test Performance: The Highlander’s consistently high ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA demonstrate its ability to protect occupants in a variety of crash scenarios.
- Safety Feature Availability: The Highlander comes standard with a comprehensive suite of active safety technologies, while many competitors offer these features as optional extras.
- Real-World Safety: The Highlander’s safety features have been proven to be effective in real-world accident scenarios, helping to prevent collisions and reduce injuries.
15. Does the Toyota Highlander Have a Good Safety Record?
Yes, the Toyota Highlander has a good safety record based on crash test results, owner reviews, and real-world accident data. The Highlander’s comprehensive suite of safety features and its robust construction contribute to its excellent safety record.
- IIHS Top Safety Pick: The Toyota Highlander has earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation, indicating its superior safety performance.
- NHTSA 5-Star Safety Rating: The Toyota Highlander has received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, the highest rating possible.
- Positive Owner Reviews: Many Toyota Highlander owners praise the vehicle’s safety features and its ability to protect occupants in the event of an accident.
16. What Maintenance is Recommended to Keep the Toyota Highlander’s Safety Features Working Properly?
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that the Toyota Highlander’s safety features continue to function properly.
| Maintenance Item | Recommended Interval | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Calibration | As Needed | Ensures accurate readings from sensors used for Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert, and other safety features. |
| Camera Cleaning | Regularly | Maintains clear visibility for cameras used for Road Sign Assist, Lane Tracing Assist, and other safety features. |
| Brake System Inspection | Every 6 Months | Checks brake pads, rotors, and lines to ensure proper braking performance. |
| Tire Inflation and Condition | Monthly | Ensures proper tire pressure and tread depth for optimal handling and braking. |
| Windshield Wiper Replacement | Every 6-12 Months | Maintains clear visibility in inclement weather. |
| Fluid Level Checks | Monthly | Ensures proper fluid levels for brake fluid, power steering fluid, and other essential systems. |
| Battery Inspection and Maintenance | Annually | Ensures reliable electrical power for all safety systems. |
| Headlight and Taillight Inspection | Regularly | Verifies proper operation of headlights and taillights for optimal visibility. |
17. Are There Any Safety Recalls for the Toyota Highlander?
It’s important to stay informed about any safety recalls for your Toyota Highlander. Toyota issues recalls to address safety-related defects or non-compliance with federal safety standards.
- Check Toyota’s Website: Visit Toyota’s official website and enter your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to check for any open recalls.
- Sign Up for Recall Notifications: Register your vehicle with Toyota to receive recall notifications by mail or email.
- Contact Miller Toyota: Our service team at Miller Toyota can help you determine if your vehicle is subject to any open recalls and schedule a free repair.
18. What Are Some Tips for Driving Safely in a Toyota Highlander?
Following safe driving practices can further enhance the safety of your Toyota Highlander.
- Always Wear Your Seat Belt: Ensure that all occupants are properly restrained with seat belts.
- Avoid Distractions: Minimize distractions such as cell phones, eating, and adjusting the radio while driving.
- Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Leave plenty of space between your vehicle and the vehicle ahead.
- Obey Traffic Laws: Adhere to speed limits, traffic signals, and other traffic laws.
- Drive Defensively: Be aware of your surroundings and anticipate potential hazards.
- Adjust to Weather Conditions: Slow down and increase your following distance in rain, snow, or fog.
- Get Enough Rest: Avoid driving when you’re tired or fatigued.
- Regular Vehicle Maintenance: Keep your Toyota Highlander properly maintained to ensure that all safety systems are functioning correctly.
- Familiarize Yourself with Safety Features: Understand how the Highlander’s safety features work and how to use them effectively.
19. How Can Teen Drivers Benefit From the Toyota Highlander’s Safety Features?
The Toyota Highlander’s safety features can be especially beneficial for teen drivers, who are often less experienced and more prone to accidents.
- Pre-Collision System: The Pre-Collision System can help teen drivers avoid or mitigate the severity of frontal collisions, which are a common type of accident for new drivers.
- Lane Departure Alert: The Lane Departure Alert can help teen drivers stay in their lane and avoid unintentional lane departures, which can be caused by inattention or distraction.
- Blind Spot Monitor: The Blind Spot Monitor can help teen drivers safely change lanes by alerting them to vehicles in their blind spots.
- Driving Habits: Parents can use these systems to monitor their teen’s driving habits and provide constructive feedback.
20. How Does Miller Toyota Support Customer Safety?
At Miller Toyota, we are committed to supporting customer safety by providing safe and reliable vehicles, expert service, and ongoing safety education.
- Safe and Reliable Vehicles: We offer a wide selection of new and used Toyota Highlanders that have been thoroughly inspected to ensure their safety and reliability.
- Expert Service: Our certified technicians are trained to properly maintain and repair your Toyota Highlander’s safety systems.
- Safety Education: We provide our customers with information and resources to help them drive safely and maintain their vehicles properly.
- Genuine Toyota Parts: We use only genuine Toyota parts for all repairs, ensuring the highest quality and performance.
- Customer Satisfaction: We are committed to providing exceptional customer service and ensuring that our customers are satisfied with their purchase and service experience.
- Community Involvement: We are actively involved in the Boise, Idaho, community and support local safety initiatives.
Is the Toyota Highlander a safe vehicle? The evidence overwhelmingly suggests that it is. From its advanced safety features to its excellent crash test performance, the Highlander prioritizes occupant protection. At millertoyota.net, we’re proud to offer this safe and reliable SUV to our customers in Boise, Idaho. Visit our website today to learn more about the Toyota Highlander and experience its safety features firsthand with a test drive. Drive safe with Toyota, and choose Miller Toyota for peace of mind on every journey; contact us at +1 (208) 376-8888 or visit our showroom at 208 N Maple Grove Rd, Boise, ID 83704, United States.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Toyota Highlander Safety
1. Is the Toyota Highlander a safe car for families?
Yes, the Toyota Highlander is a very safe car for families, consistently earning top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features and has excellent crash test performance.
2. What is Toyota Safety Sense (TSS)?
Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) is a suite of active safety technologies designed to enhance driver awareness, prevent accidents, and mitigate the severity of collisions. It includes features such as Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.
3. How does the Toyota Highlander perform in crash tests?
The Toyota Highlander performs exceptionally well in crash tests conducted by the IIHS and NHTSA, earning top ratings in most categories. These ratings reflect the vehicle’s ability to protect occupants in various types of collisions.
4. What safety features come standard on the Toyota Highlander?
The Toyota Highlander comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), which includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Automatic High Beams, and Road Sign Assist.
5. Does the Toyota Highlander have good headlights for nighttime driving?
Yes, the Toyota Highlander offers good headlight performance, particularly on higher trim levels. The Platinum and Hybrid Platinum trims earn a “Good” rating from the IIHS due to their LED projector headlights with curve-adaptive technology and high-beam assist.
6. How does the Toyota Highlander protect pedestrians?
The Toyota Highlander protects pedestrians through its Front Crash Prevention system with Pedestrian Detection. This system uses a camera and radar to detect pedestrians in front of the vehicle and can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid a collision.
7. Is the Toyota Highlander safe for teen drivers?
Yes, the Toyota Highlander is a safe choice for teen drivers, thanks to its comprehensive suite of safety features and its overall crash test performance. These features can help teen drivers avoid accidents and mitigate the severity of collisions.
8. What maintenance is recommended to keep the Toyota Highlander’s safety features working properly?
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that the Toyota Highlander’s safety features continue to function properly. This includes sensor calibration, camera cleaning, brake system inspection, tire inflation, and fluid level checks.
9. Are there any safety recalls for the Toyota Highlander?
It’s important to stay informed about any safety recalls for your Toyota Highlander. You can check Toyota’s website or contact Miller Toyota to determine if your vehicle is subject to any open recalls.
10. Where can I learn more about Toyota Highlander safety?
You can learn more about Toyota Highlander safety by visiting millertoyota.net. Our website provides detailed information about the Highlander’s safety features, crash test ratings, and available safety technologies. You can also contact our knowledgeable sales team for personalized assistance.
