One problem related to engine exhaust system has been reported for the 2009 Toyota Highlander. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2009 Toyota Highlander based on all problems reported for the 2009 Highlander.
Brand new 2009 Toyota Highlander defective front O2 sensor made out of ceramic built into all cars in japan then shipped to u. S. First sign of sensor damage the cars traction control light goes on. Soon after the front O2 ceramic sensor heats up. Then the car will not start. When you try to start it up at this point engine has caught on fire. The general manager of dealership stated that Toyota knows of this defective part but will not recall. We believe owners should be notified. The part was replaced. However, we did not feel car was safe after seeing engine on fire. The dealership would not refund money. Our only option allowed was to trade in car for another at our cost. This all happened within 3 days of taking delivery of the vehicle and having only driven it 40 miles.