One problem related to steering noise has been reported for the 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid based on all problems reported for the 2012 Highlander Hybrid.
The vehicle developed a clunk or knock type noise when turning the steering wheel left or right. It occurred at slow speeds such as turning at an intersection. This required replacement of the steering intermediate shaft. This is a known , reported defect on highlanders from 2008 - 2013. It needs to be elevated to the level of a recall.