Toyota Highlander Power Tailgate Service Bulletin: Complete Guide for 2014-2015 Owners

Understanding the Power Tailgate Malfunction

Toyota has identified a potential issue affecting the automatic power tailgate system in select Highlander and Highlander Hybrid (HV) models. The condition primarily manifests in two ways:

• Complete inoperation: The power liftgate fails to respond to control inputs
• Operation interruption: The tailgate stops mid-cycle during opening or closing

Automotive engineers have traced the root cause to two potential component failures within the tailgate system:

• Faulty power liftgate actuator unit - The motorized mechanism that drives the tailgate movement
• Defective multiplex door connector - The electrical interface controlling signal transmission
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Environmental Factors and Symptom Patterns

Field reports indicate the malfunction demonstrates particular sensitivity to cold weather conditions. Temperature-related factors may include:

• Increased electrical resistance in connectors during low temperatures
• Lubricant viscosity changes affecting mechanical components
• Thermal contraction of materials altering component tolerances

Affected Vehicle Models and Production Dates

The service bulletin (TSB No. SB0023-16) specifically applies to the following Toyota Highlander configurations:

• Conventional gasoline models:
  • 2014 Toyota Highlander
  • 2015 Toyota Highlander
• Hybrid electric variants:
  • 2014 Toyota Highlander HV
  • 2015 Toyota Highlander HV

Official Repair Protocol

Authorized Toyota dealerships will perform the following corrective actions for affected vehicles:

• Comprehensive diagnostic scan of the power tailgate system
• Replacement of faulty components (power unit and/or multiplex connector)
• Software reprogramming of the body control module (BCM)
• Full system functionality testing post-repair

Warranty Coverage and Owner Responsibilities

Toyota is addressing this issue under its comprehensive new-vehicle warranty program, meaning:

• No out-of-pocket expenses for diagnosis or repairs
• Coverage regardless of current mileage (for original warranty period)
• Use of genuine Toyota replacement parts
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Recommended Action Steps for Owners

If you own an affected Highlander model, follow this complete verification and repair process:

1. Confirm vehicle involvement: Contact your local Toyota dealership with your VIN (vehicle identification number)
2. Schedule service: Arrange an appointment for diagnosis and repair
3. Alternative verification: Check Toyota's official recall portal or NHTSA database

Important Contact Information

• Toyota Customer Experience Center: 800-331-4331
• NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 888-327-4236
• Reference: Always mention TSB No. SB0023-16 when inquiring

Finding Authorized Service Centers

Use MotorVero's Service & Repair Center Locator to find your nearest Toyota dealership with certified technicians trained to perform this specific repair.

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Understanding Service Bulletins vs. Safety Recalls

While this issue is currently addressed via a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB), owners should understand the distinction:

Additional Recommendations

• Periodically check for new service bulletins affecting your vehicle
• Maintain complete service records for all warranty work
• Consider manual operation of the tailgate if experiencing issues until repaired

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will the repair take?

Most dealerships complete the service within 2-3 hours, depending on parts availability.

Can I continue driving with this issue?

While not classified as a safety recall, prompt repair is recommended to prevent complete failure.

Does this affect resale value?

Properly documented warranty repairs typically don't negatively impact resale value.

Staying Informed About Vehicle Updates

Owners can proactively monitor their vehicle's status through these official channels:

• Toyota Owner's Portal (requires VIN registration)
• NHTSA recall database (safercar.gov)
• MotorVero's vehicle alert notification system
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