CarFix Answers

2014–2018 Toyota Highlander: Stalling, misfires or warning lights (ECM connector corrosion)

Likely causes, ranked

  1. Water corrosion in the A43 ECM connector (connector, harness or ECM replaced)Shop
  2. Leaking aftermarket windshield deicer harness letting water inShop

Real-owner fix counts will appear here as reports come in.

DIY or shop: See DIY or shop section

Parts to check

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Symptom: Stalling, misfires, low fuel pressure, or a cluster of codes such as P0171 and P0300.

Likely causes

  1. Corroded ECM connector. Toyota's bulletin traces it to water entering the ECM connector.
  2. Windshield deicer harness. Poorly sealed windshield deicer wiring is a common entry point.

DIY or shop?

Dealer or shop.

Useful steps

  1. Ask for T-SB-0072-19.
  2. Have the connector inspected.

Vehicle focus: 2014–2018 Toyota Highlander.

Safety / mechanic note

Stalling is dangerous. Verify with a mechanic.

Related trouble codes

  • P0171 System Too Lean Bank 1
  • P0300 Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
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Recalls & service bulletins

Technical service bulletins

  • T-SB-0072-19 Toyota bulletin for drivability problems and DTCs on 2014–2018 Highlanders caused by water corrosion in the A43 ECM connector. Details

NHTSA complaints: 158 keyword-matched complaints (of 996 unique complaints filed under NHTSA model names HIGHLANDER, HIGHLANDER HV, HIGHLANDER HYBRID, 2014–2018; NHTSA complaints API by model year, queried 2026-10-15).

Always check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

Sources

What actually fixed it?

Had this problem? Tell other owners what the real fix was. Reports are counted above; we never show made-up numbers.

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