One problem related to software 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.
Toyota Highlander 2008 limited can be put in reverse with no visible or audible warning that a door is open. Resulted in backing out of garage and causing property damage. Highlander has lcd screen to display warnings and other messages to the driver. Same screen is used to show rear camera image in reverse. When car is in reverse, rear camera image supersedes warning message giving the driver the impression that all systems are go and it is ok to back-up. Toyota needs to reprogram onboard computer so that if any door is open, or if any other warnings (perhaps seatbelts) are engaged the rear camera view does not show on the lcd screen so that the warnings car be displayed. Given the lcd screen and after having the car for only two months, it is clear that drivers will look to that screen for information and not so much use the instrument panel lights.