NHTSA Reviews Petition Alleging Road Debris Damage on Toyota Grand Highlander Heat Exchangers
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened Defect Petition DP26006 to evaluate claims that road debris may damage the cooling system in certain 2024-2026 Toyota Grand Highlander vehicles.
The petition alleges that the vehicle's front grille design leaves critical cooling components vulnerable to rocks and other debris encountered during normal driving, potentially resulting in coolant leaks and a sudden loss of propulsion.
What Is the Alleged Problem?
According to the petition submitted to NHTSA, the Grand Highlander's front grille contains large openings with no protective screen between the grille and the vehicle's heat exchangers.
The petitioner claims this design allows rocks and road debris to strike the heat exchangers during everyday driving, leading to:
- Damage to the cooling system
- Coolant leaks
- Sudden loss of vehicle propulsion
If these allegations are confirmed, a loss of propulsion could increase the risk of a crash, particularly at highway speeds.
Why Is NHTSA Reviewing the Petition?
The petition cites 13 consumer complaints already received by NHTSA. Combined with the petitioner's own complaint, 14 incidents are currently under review.
NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) will evaluate the complaints and conduct a technical review to determine whether a formal safety investigation should be opened.
At this stage, NHTSA has not determined that a safety defect exists. The agency is deciding whether the petition warrants a full defect investigation.
What Should Owners Do?
Owners of a 2024-2026 Toyota Grand Highlander who experience coolant leaks, overheating, warning messages, or an unexpected loss of power should have their vehicle inspected promptly and keep copies of all repair records.
If repeated cooling system failures cannot be permanently repaired during the warranty period, owners may have rights under their state's lemon law. Depending on the circumstances, available remedies may include a vehicle buyback, replacement, or other compensation.