Table 1 shows one common hybrid propulsion system related problems of the 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid.
| Problem Category | Number of Problems |
|---|---|
| Hybrid Propulsion System Inverter problems |
We took the vehicle to the dealer in for a 5,000 mile service maintenance. After our service advisor looked over the vehicle he said we needed new set of tires as the current ones were at the wear indicators. Our service advisor also said our vehicle was in the open campaign (NHTSA campaign number: 13v396000) to replace the intelligent power module (ipm) in the vehicle hybrid system. The service advisor said it would take about four hours and there would be no charge. Since the replacement of the ipm the vehicle has experienced a significant drop in mpg. Before the replacement of the ipm the vehicle was averaging 26 - 27 mph in the city and about 30 mpg (29. 8 mpg highest) freeway driving. After the replacement of the ipm the vehicle is averaging 21 - 22 mpg in the city and 24-25 on the freeway. This is a 5-6 mpg decrease. We have been told by the dealer the replacement of the ipm has nothing to do with the mpg and it is because of the winter months our mpg has drop. I do not believe the winter months would have this much effect on the mpg. I have done some online research and found other owners having the exact same issue after their ipm was replaced.
The contact owns a 2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The contact stated that while driving approximately 50 mph, the check hybrid system warning light illuminated then the vehicle suddenly stalled. The vehicle was towed to the dealer for diagnostic testing. The technician stated that the hybrid inverter would have to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure recurred two more times. The approximate failure mileage was 21,000. Updated 6/21/13 updated 07/18/2013.