My 2010 Toyota Highlander with 240K Runs Better Than My 2021 Highlander with 75K, the Transmission Failed and It’s 6-9 Months Before the Dealer Can Fix It

Is Toyota's reliability getting better or worse? 

Greetings, Torque News readers! Denis Flierl here, diving deep into a recent, troubling report from the trenches of Toyota ownership.

That's a question that many Toyota owners have been asking in the last few years. Toyota Tundra owners have had the most questions, but Toyota Highlander owners are now less confident that their newer models are as reliable as their older versions.

La Donna Douglas, who has owned three Highlanders, should know. She owns a 2010 Highlander and a 2021 Highlander. Here is her unbelievable story.

She shares this on the Toyota Highlander Owners Club Facebook page, 

La Donna says, "My 2021 Highlander Platinum AWD has a failed transmission. The mileage is 75,000 miles, and getting a new or a used transmission is 6-9 months out. The car has to remain at the Toyota dealership for that length of time."

"Thoughts on rebuilt transmission?"  

"I don't know if the dealership will install a third-party part? I will find out today. My second question is, what are the thoughts on the 2024, 2025 XLE  or Platinum with the new engine? I think it's a 2.4 turbo?" 

"This is my third Highlander and I loved the V6."  

"I have a 2010 Highlander Limited with 240,000 miles, that's now my daily driver, and it's more reliable than my 2021 Highlander."

La Donna's story highlights a potentially significant issue for some Highlander owners and raises critical questions about repairs and the future of Toyota's beloved family hauler.

La Donna's plight is stark: her 2021 Highlander Platinum AWD, with a respectable 75,000 miles on the odometer, has suffered a catastrophic transmission failure. Compounding this major mechanical breakdown is the grim reality of parts availability. 

She's been informed that a new or even used transmission could take an agonizing six to nine months to procure, leaving her vehicle stranded at the Toyota dealership for the foreseeable future. This kind of wait time is simply unacceptable for a daily driver, especially for a vehicle that many families rely on.

What Are the Problems With the Highlander Transmission?

I've covered the Highlander's transmission problems as they are well-documented. 

However, La Donna's immediate concern, and rightfully so, revolves around her options. She asks, "Thoughts on rebuilt transmission?" and whether the dealership will install a third-party part.

This is a critical juncture for any vehicle owner facing a major repair. Here's my take, keeping in mind the typical Toyota dealership approach:

A rebuilt transmission involves disassembling the existing unit, replacing worn or damaged components (like clutches, gaskets, bands, and seals) with new ones, and thoroughly cleaning the entire system. When done by a reputable specialist, a rebuilt transmission can be a viable and often more cost-effective solution than a brand-new unit. The key here is "reputable specialist" and a solid warranty. A properly rebuilt transmission can offer a lifespan comparable to a new one, potentially 100,000 to 300,000 miles with diligent maintenance.

However, when it comes to dealerships and third-party parts, this is where it gets tricky. Toyota dealerships, by policy, primarily use Toyota Genuine Parts, whether new or remanufactured by Toyota. Their warranty information explicitly states coverage for "new or remanufactured parts which are Toyota Genuine Parts." 

While parts purchased over-the-counter from a Toyota dealer and installed by a third party might carry a limited 12-month parts-only warranty, it's highly improbable that a Toyota dealership service center would install a transmission rebuilt by an independent, third-party shop. They want to ensure the repair quality and maintain their service warranties. 

La Donna will likely find that the dealership will insist on a Toyota-sourced (new or factory-remanufactured) transmission, if available, or suggest a complete replacement through their channels. This business decision is rooted in quality control and warranty liability. La Donna's inquiry to the dealership will likely find them unwilling to use non-Toyota parts.

Are the Highlander Transmission Problems a Widespread Issue?

La Donna's 2021 Highlander is equipped with the UA80E or UA80F 8-speed automatic transmission. This is not the first time we've heard whispers of issues with this particular transmission. There have been reports and even a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB T-SB-0008-21) from Toyota for select 2021 Highlander, Avalon, and Camry vehicles concerning a "whine or grind noise" stemming from the front carrier assembly pinion shafts. 

Furthermore, a class-action lawsuit has been brought against Toyota over alleged defects in the UA80E/UA80F 8-speed transmissions in 2017-present Highlander and Sienna models, citing issues like delayed/harsh shifting, hesitation, and even unintended acceleration. While La Donna's experience is a complete failure, it aligns with a pattern of concerns around this transmission.

Should La Donna Ditch the 2021 Highlander and Get a Newer Model?

La Donna contemplates her next move, asking about the 2024 and 2025 Highlander XLE or Platinum with the new 2.4-liter turbocharged engine. 

Her statement, "This is my 3rd Highlander and I loved the V6," echoes the feelings of many loyal Toyota owners who appreciate the proven reliability and smooth power of the naturally aspirated V6.

Toyota made a significant powertrain shift for the 2023 model year, replacing the long-standing 3.5-liter V6 with the new 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This change carries over into the 2024 and 2025 models.

Here's what you need to know about the new engine:

• 2.4L Turbo Engine: This engine produces 265 horsepower and a stout 310 lb-ft of torque. It's paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
• Torque Advantage: Crucially, the new turbo-four delivers more torque than the outgoing V6 (310 lb-ft vs. 263 lb-ft). This translates to better off-the-line acceleration and a peppier feel, especially in city driving.
• Fuel Economy: Toyota claims improved fuel efficiency with the turbo engine, with FWD models rated at 22 city/29 highway/25 combined MPG, and AWD models at 21 city/28 highway/24 combined MPG. These are slightly better than the V6 figures.
• Towing Capacity: The 2.4L turbo maintains the 5,000-pound towing capacity, which is competitive for the segment.
• Driving Experience: Reviews generally indicate that while it's different from the V6, the turbocharged engine provides adequate power for most driving situations. It feels responsive, though some V6 purists might miss the silky-smooth power delivery of the naturally aspirated engine.

For La Donna, moving to a 2024 or 2025 Highlander would mean embracing this new powertrain. It offers a different driving dynamic – more immediate torque, but with a four-cylinder engine note that some might find less refined than the V6. Given her appreciation for the V6, it would be a noticeable change, but one that offers modern efficiency and plenty of practical power.

Toyota Durability (and a Wake-Up Call)

Ironically, La Donna is driving her 2010 Highlander Limited daily, which boasts an incredible 240,000 miles. This older model stands as a testament to the legendary Toyota reliability that generations of owners have come to expect. Her current predicament with the 2021 model, however, serves as a stark reminder that even tried-and-true brands can encounter significant issues.

This situation underscores the importance of:

1. Extended Warranties/Vehicle Service Agreements: For high-mileage drivers or those who plan to keep their vehicles long-term, these can be invaluable.
2. Diligent Maintenance: While not always preventing failures, regular fluid changes and inspections are paramount.
3. Owner Community Engagement: La Donna's use of the Facebook group to seek advice is a prime example of how vital these communities are for sharing experiences and finding solutions.

Conclusion:

La Donna's experience with her 2021 Highlander transmission underscores growing concerns about Toyota's recent reliability. While older models, like her 2010 Highlander, embody the brand's legendary durability, issues with newer powertrains, including the 2.4L turbo engine, signal a potential shift. This report serves as a crucial wake-up call, emphasizing the need for consumers to adapt their expectations and maintenance approaches.

How About You?

What would you do in La Donna's situation? Do you own a newer or older Highlander? What are your experiences with the SUV? If so, click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.

Check out my Toyota Highlander story: After 2 Failed Transmissions, I Said Goodbye To My Toyota Highlander and Got a Nice Ford Explorer, I’m Glad I’m Off That Crazy Train

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news, covering owner stories, and providing expert analysis, ensuring that you are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on X @DenisFlierl, @WorldsCoolestRides, Facebook, and Instagram

Photo credit: Denis Flierl