One problem related to power train driveline has been reported for the 2008 Toyota Highlander. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2008 Toyota Highlander based on all problems reported for the 2008 Highlander.
Sudden acceleration of new Highlander 2008 model. I had reported for the first time I Feb 19, 2009 when I took the car for service that there is something wrong with acceleration, as it runs at a higher speed. They checked & I was told there is nothing wrong by the dealer. My wife who never had any accidents got involved in an accident on Dec. 21,2009 when as she was parking the car accelerated suddenly & hit the building in front. The impact was so great the people that were working in that building came out to see what happened. Inspite of wearing seat belts, her chest hit the steering wheel she was in severe pain. After emergency visit, she did not have any fractures, but bruises of ribs. She was so scared she was afraid to drive for weeks. It took more than 8k for repairs. The car still has the same problems &we are at a loss what to do. She is driving with caution locally until this problem is resolved. When we contacted 2 dealers, we are told the car is manufactured in japan & it is not on recall list. We try to contact numerous times without success. Need help in returning this car to Toyota , as it is a serious hazard .