Used 2018 Toyota Highlander for Sale nearDes Moines, IA

How much does the 2018 Toyota Highlander cost?

Prices have softened 6.98% compared to this time last year, making it a favorable time to shop this model year.

There are 2,777 listings available, which gives you a solid amount of inventory to compare before you buy.

Is the 2018 Toyota Highlander a good car?

Yes — the 4.57/5 user rating points to strong owner satisfaction. Drivers consistently praise its reliability, spaciousness, and smooth ride, and many also like its family-friendly features and usable power. In practical terms, that lines up well if you want a comfortable midsize SUV for daily driving, kids, and road trips. With 33.7% of listings marked as good or great deals, you have a decent chance of finding a competitive price.

Is the 2018 Toyota Highlander reliable?

Owners rate it 4.57/5, a strong signal of long-term satisfaction.

The review summary repeatedly highlights reliability, and it also points to a dependable, trouble-free ownership experience for many drivers. That kind of feedback matters if you want a used SUV you can count on for family duty and long-term use. For used buyers, the main risk is less about the model’s reputation and more about finding one that has been maintained well over time.

What should I look for when buying a used 2018 Toyota Highlander?

At 62.8% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.

Start with a vehicle history report so you can separate clean examples from ones with accident records. Then prioritize a pre-purchase inspection, especially on suspension, brakes, tires, and any signs of uneven wear or repair quality. You should also focus on overall condition and maintenance records, since a well-kept Highlander is more likely to deliver the comfort and dependability you want.

Is now a good time to buy a used 2018 Toyota Highlander?

This looks like a moderate market where selective buyers can still find value if they shop carefully.

• Deal availability: 33.7% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• Inventory: There are 2,777 listings available.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 6.98% compared with last year.
• Clean inventory: 62.8% of listings are accident-free.

If you find a listing below $21,258, that's toward the low end of the year-round range and worth acting on quickly.

What is the 2018 Toyota Highlander's resale value?

The current average of $21,573 sits slightly below last year's $23,193.

That price movement suggests the market has cooled a bit, which can help you buy more confidently now but may also limit upside if you plan to resell soon. If you keep the vehicle in strong condition and maintain it well, you should be in a better position to protect value over time. The Highlander’s broad appeal and family-friendly reputation should continue to support demand, even if prices remain softer than they were a year ago.

Vehicles with strong owner satisfaction ratings, like this model year's 4.57/5, tend to retain buyer demand, which supports resale value over time.

Should I buy a 2018 Toyota Highlander or consider a different year?

If you're weighing the 2018 against nearby model years, here's how to think about it:

Choose the 2018 if:

• 33.7% of listings are priced as good or great deals.
• At 62.8% accident-free, a meaningful share of listings has prior incidents — history verification is especially important.
• Price trend: Prices have softened 6.98% compared with last year.
• Owners rate it 4.57/5 — a strong satisfaction signal.

Consider the 2017 if:

• At $20,145, the 2017 costs less than the current year's $21,573 average.
• It was refreshed with updated styling, standard safety gear, and a sportier trim.

The bottom line:
Choose the 2018 if you want the stronger current-market balance of price, owner satisfaction, and inventory depth. If your priority is spending less upfront, the 2017 is the better value play, especially if you find one in clean condition with solid maintenance history.

These recommendations are based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from September 22, 2026, CarGurus experts' opinions, and generative AI.