2019 Toyota Highlander
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Power train is the leading concern among 483 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 2nd highest complaint count among 25 Highlander model years with reports.
Of the 2019 reports, 22 involved a crash and 1 involved a fire. 18 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Fuel system, gasoline, delivery, fuel pumpNov 4, 2020
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2018-2019 4Runner, 2019-2020 Avalon, 2019 Corolla Hatchback, 2017-2019 Highlander, 2018-2020 Camry, 2020 Corolla, 2018-2019 Land Cruiser, 2017-2020 Tacoma, 2019-2020 RAV4, 2019-2020 Sequoia, 2017-2020 Sienna, 2019-2020 Tundra, 2018-2020 Lexus ES350, 2017 Lexus GS200t, 2017-2019 Lexus GS350, 2019 Lexus GS300, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500h, 2019-2020 Lexus LS500, 2018-2019 Lexus GX460, 2017 Lexus IS200t, 2019 Lexus IS300, 2019 Lexus IS350, 2018-2020 Lexus LC500, 2018 Lexus LS500, 2019 Lexus LS500h, 2018-2019 Lexus LX570, 2017 Lexus RC200t, 2019 Lexus RC300, RC350, 2017 and 2019-2020 Lexus RX350, 2018-2020 RX350L, 2019 Lexus UX200, 2018-2019 Lexus NX300 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump assembly with an improved one, free of charge. Owners of specific models were notified that remedy parts were available starting January 21, 2021. Owners of other models will be notified as remedy parts become available. Remedy parts should be available for all affected vehicles by late March 2021. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Note: This recall is an expansion of recall 20V-012. Toyota's number for this recall is 20TA02. Lexus' number for this recall is 20LA01.
Campaign 20V682000 on NHTSA.gov
Fuel system, gasoline, delivery, fuel pumpJan 13, 2020
Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) recalled certain 2018-2019 4Runner, Highlander, Camry, Land Cruiser, Sequoia, Sienna, Tacoma and Tundra, and Lexus RC 300, RC 350, GS 350, GX 460, IS 300, LC 500, LS 500, LX 570, RX 350L, and 2019 Toyota Avalon and Corolla, and certain Lexus NX 300, and ES 350 vehicles on January 13, 2020. On March 4, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include certain 2014-2015 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser, 2018 Avalon, Corolla, 2014 FJ Cruiser, 2017 Sienna and Lexus 2018 ES 350, 2018-2019 GS 300, 2013-2014 GS350, 2014-2015 GX 460, IS 350 and LX 570, 2014 IS F, 2018-2019 IS 350, LC 500H and LS 500H, 2013-2015 LS 460, 2015 NX 200T and RC350, 2017 RC 200T and RX 350. Toyota also removed the 2018-2019 Toyota 4Runner and Land Cruiser and 2018-2019 Lexus GX 460 and LX 570 and 2019 NX300 from inclusion in this recall. On March 19, 2020, Toyota expanded the recall to include 2015 Lexus GS350 vehicles. The low-pressure fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
If the fuel pump fails, the engine can stall while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
Toyota will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began May 4, 2020. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371 or Lexus customer service at 1-800-255-3987. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 20TB02 and 20TA02 for Toyota vehicles and 20LB01 and 20LA01 for Lexus vehicles.
Campaign 20V012000 on NHTSA.gov
Equipment, other, labelsMar 27, 2019
Gulf States Toyota (GST) is recalling certain 2019 C-HR, 4Runner, Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Camry, Camry Hybrid, Highlander, Land Cruiser, Prius, RAV4, Sequoia, Tacoma, Sienna, Tundra and Yaris vehicles. The text on the load capacity label may become illegible. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 110, "Tire Selection and Rims."
If the driver cannot read the label, they may unknowingly overload the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
GST will notify owners, and dealers will provide corrected load carrying capacity modification labels, free of charge. The recall began May 24, 2019. Owners may contact GST customer service at 1-800-444-1074. GST's number for this recall is 19R1.
Campaign 19V244000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
483 reports, newest first.
Power train, Feb 16, 2026
Transmission failure. Unexpectedly failed while driving. Failure to accelerate before total failure. Repaired with used transmission since new ones are unavailable. Called Toyota to report the failure. No acknowledgement of any failure mechanism.
Air bags, Feb 9, 2026
While driving down the road about 30mph on a paved road, heard a loud bang from the back. Stopped and inspected. The stability button shot off the door into the door jam, the door panel coming off, and the weather stripping separating from the door. The passenger rear airbag went off. Nothing visible on outside. Everything mechanically like it should be. 55,000 miles on car. Bought new from dealership. Done all maintenance and safety recalls. Vehicle is at dealership getting inspected.
Power train, Feb 8, 2026
While driving, my vehicle experienced a sudden transmission failure. The vehicle began to lose power and was unable to shift properly, making it difficult and unsafe to continue driving. I had the vehicle inspected and the transmission is currently being rebuilt. The mechanic performing the rebuild has stated that the failure was caused by a faulty build and a manufacturer defect, not normal wear and tear. I am currently awaiting written documentation from the mechanic confirming this, which will be submitted once received.
Power train, Feb 6, 2026
My Toyota was just in the shop for 100,000 mile service and investigation of whining noise upon acceleration. Was notified that the transmission needs replaced and will cost over $7500 . Transmissions are supposedly on back order. Upon further investigation, discovered there is a known issue with 2017-2019 Highlander transmissions that Toyota failed to issue a recall and failed to notify owners of these models. Repairs have not been made as transmissions are on backorder due to the magnitude of the issue.
Power train, Feb 4, 2026
On Sunday, February 1st 2026 during sub-freezing temperatures The vehicle's 8-speed automatic transmission (UA80) experienced a complete mechanical failure while driving. This resulted in a sudden and total loss of vehicle propulsion, requiring the car to be towed. Prior to the failure, the vehicle's AWD system indicator light was illuminated. The failure was diagnosed by Alexandria Toyota on February 3rd of 2026 as a catastrophic internal transmission failure requiring full replacement of the transmission Assembly with cooler (see attached quote). This defect causes an unreasonable safety risk by potentially stranding the vehicle in moving traffic or causing a crash due to unexpected loss of power.
Power train, Feb 3, 2026
Transmission starting making a whining noise failing at 106,950 miles. Inspection by transmission shop shows issue related to UA80E/F transmissions. Concerns or increased inspection for transmission were never mentioned during prior maintenance with dealerships or any notices sent out to owners. No warnings or codes recorded on system ECO. •Toyota Tech Tip T TT 0410 •Bulletin T SB 0160 18 •Bulletin T SB 0008 21 •Bulletin T SB 0122 20 •Bulletin T SB 0087 23
Engine, Jan 30, 2026
Bought car in April 2025. Has 80,000 miles. Transmission failed.
Power train, Jan 30, 2026
Transmission has High pitch when accelerating
Power train, Vehicle speed control, Engine, Jan 28, 2026
1. What component or system failed or malfunctioned? System: Power Train: Automatic Transmission Specific Component: UA80 8-Speed Automatic Transmission (Internal Failure) Available for Inspection: Yes, the vehicle is currently available. 2. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? While merging onto the highway, the transmission failed to upshift, resulting in a sudden and unexpected loss of acceleration. The vehicle could not reach or maintain highway speeds (speed limit). This created an immediate hazard as I was unable to keep up with the flow of traffic, forcing me to make an emergency exit across multiple lanes while moving significantly slower than other vehicles. The loss of motive power increased the risk of a high-speed rear-end collision. 3. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer? Yes. The problem was confirmed by Heritage Toyota Service. The technicians confirmed an internal transmission failure. A secondary consultation with a transmission specialist (AAMCO) also identified the failure as a known mechanical defect common to this transmission model. 4. Has the vehicle been inspected by the manufacturer... or others? Yes, it has been inspected by the authorized Toyota Dealership listed above. I have also reported the issue to Toyota Brand Engagement (National), but a corporate field inspection (DSPM) has not yet been performed. 5. Were there any warning lamps... or other symptoms? Symptoms: A distinct whining noise from the engine/transmission area that increased with vehicle speed. Prior Events: The vehicle was taken to the dealer specifically for this noise. The dealer performed a fluid change and released the vehicle. The catastrophic failure (loss of power) occurred less than 24 hours after leaving the dealership. No dashboard warning lights illuminated prior to the loss of power.
Power train, Jan 27, 2026
The transmission is whining and is going out it is shifting hard now.
Power train, Jan 26, 2026
Transmission failed catastrophically at 133,000 miles while vehicle was in operation at a busy intersection. Vehicle became immobilized and unable to move. Unable to safely exit vehicle due to traffic. Stranded for 60-90 minutes with multiple vehicles nearly striking the disabled vehicle, creating a serious safety hazard. Police were called but failed to show up. Prior to failure: Vehicle exhibited loud whining noise during initial startup that would sometimes lessen or stop. This symptom appeared sometime within the last 1,000 miles of operation. Toyota dealer service at 132k miles noted transmission fluid was "Ok" during routine maintenance. At 133k miles transmission failed catastrophically. Independent transmission service center reports burnt-smelling transmission fluid indicating severe thermal damage and transmission failure. Problem confirmed by two independent service centers. Transmission is available for inspection upon request. Vehicle is not drivable.
Power train, Jan 23, 2026
The car started making a wining noise while accelerating. The car was brought to my local dealer where I always have my service done and they said I need a new transmission. The cost will be approx. $9,300.00. The car has less than 84,000 miles on it and is just 6 years old. Every recommend service has been done to date.
Power train, Jan 23, 2026
128,000 Miles and the transmission is making a whining sound that progressively gets worse with acceleration. Also has occasional erratic shift associated with no throttle response. Sound is obnoxiously loud on the freeway deeming it almost undriveable.
Power train, Jan 22, 2026
Vehicle experienced sudden loss of power and severe hesitation from a stop. Acceleration is extremely weak from approximately 0–20 mph, then returns to normal once moving. Traction control system automatically disables itself and check engine light illuminates. Vehicle feels unsafe when pulling into traffic or intersections due to delayed acceleration. Diagnostic trouble codes retrieved: P0740 (Torque Converter Clutch Actuator Stuck On), P0745 (Pressure Control Solenoid A Stuck Off), and P2713 (Pressure Control Solenoid D Stuck Off). Dealer recommended full transmission replacement costing over $11,000 at only 79,000 miles. Dealer stated this failure is common on this model. Similar failures have been reported by other owners of Toyota vehicles equipped with the UA80 8-speed automatic transmission. No recall currently exists for this issue. This condition presents a safety concern due to delayed acceleration when entering traffic and loss of traction control functionality. Vehicle is being driven minimally until repaired.
Power train, Jan 21, 2026
On Monday December 15, 2025 our transmission failed as we began to drive up a small grade in between two sets of railroad tracks at the intersection of Cary, Ushers and Coons Crossing Road in the county of Saratoga, NY. If it had failed on one of the two sets of tracks it may have endangered us. On December 17, 2025 Northway Toyota in Latham, NY diagnosed the transmission failure at their dealership. I had attached the appropriate documents. The only warning for failure was a whining sound a few days leading up to the failure, but we thought it was a normal sound from the engine which we have subsequently learned was a sign of a failing transmission as we investigated prior complaints from others.
Power train, Other or unspecified, Engine, Jan 21, 2026
2019 highlander has a winding sound coming from engine area, no warning lights turned on but winding sound only occurs when in drive and accelerating. vehicle has 90000 miles and winding sound started around 80000 miles. i brought highlander to toyota service and they stated they heard the sound but didnt diagnose it.
Power train, Jan 20, 2026
I am experiencing a turbine whining noise from my transmission while under load. This has been reported to be an issue that stem from incorrect assembly of the locking washer to the locking nut in the UA80F 8 speed transmission. Toyota only provided extended warranty to 2017-2018 vehicles but not all vehicles that were manufactured with the same exact transmission. This whine is a sign of premature transmission failure that can occur at any given time while driving which is an extreme safety hazard. Please do something to force Toyota to be held accountable of their poor manufacturing and fix this safety hazard via recall. There is a law suit from James LeBoutheller pertaining to this issue.
Engine, Jan 20, 2026
In early January 2026 there was rough/delayed shifting, whining noises, and fluid leaks. Probably linked to the faulty UA80E/F transmission type. The check engine light came on 1/15/26, I took it into a local repair shop. The mechanic flushed and changed the transmission fluid, replaced all of the spark plugs and the serpentine belt. I picked it up on 1/16/26. There was still shuddering, strange sounds (whining/grinding), and hesitation. On 1/20/26 I drove it and the rough/delayed shifting, whining noises, hesitation and burning smell started happening. The car completely broke down on the freeway and wouldn't drive at all. I had to slowly pull over to the shoulder of the freeway and have the car towed to the repair shop. They inspected it and said I need a new transmission, and it cannot be fixed. I believe the next steps are to have it towed to the toyota dealership to have it looked at.
Electrical system, Jan 18, 2026
Radio head unit keeps resetting. While using navigation. Disturbing driving. Something it will continually loop resetting. Can not determine consistent cause. Would like a free replacement and or upgrade including navigation
Power train, Electrical system, Engine, Jan 15, 2026
Transmission failure resulted in sudden loss of power while driving, creating a safety risk in traffic. Vehicle was unable to accelerate and required immediate repair. Put myself and my children at risk, as the car suddenly died while I was driving it. Prior to this, there were not issues. Has been routinely maintained and only has approx 83k miles. Toyota agreed that the transmission is the only issue with my car but won't cover the cost to replace it (10k) or the cost of a loaner vehicle. I have been without a car for almost a month while the (refurbished) transmission is on backorder.
Power train, Jan 14, 2026
Good Morning, I purchased a 2019 Toyota Highlander at a Toyota dealership and the transmission has died at 68,000. It died while driving in heavy traffic with my kids in the car. Toyota has completed an inspection of the transmission and determined that it needed to be replaced. They also said that because the transmissions are in back order due to all of the failures, I would have to wait 45-60 days to get a remanufactured transmission. I've also heard that they are replacing these transmissions with the same ones that are failing and only offering a 1 year warranty. Ive already spoke with Toyota Brand engagement and they told me that there was nothing that they could do.
Power train, Jan 12, 2026
Transmission began to manifest gear shifting issues. Took to mechanic shop to have diagnosed and found premature wear. The recommendation was to replace this transmission. However there are no factory replacements for this transmission and the only alternative is a used transmission replacement. Parts can't be sourced for even a rebuild. This vehicle has 96k miles on it. In review of recommended, routine services for this vehicle, transmission service is not recommended due to being a "sealed" transmission. Apparently this is a known issue as documented by Toyota under TSB "CSP ZJC". In this particular situation there have not been any warning lights. Replacement quote for a used transmission was $15,000 on 01/12/2025.
Engine, Jan 10, 2026
Initially had issues with acceleration with RPM’s going high with car moving very slowly. Five days after that started, car broke down 3 times in one trip & would not drive or go in reverse. Per dealership, the car needs a new transmission even though it’s only a 2019 with 110,000 miles.
Power train, Jan 6, 2026
Transmission stopped working while I was driving. Could not drive the car.
Other or unspecified, Jan 5, 2026
After 3 weeks of inconsistent shifting with the automatic transmission and whining and clunking, the car failed to go into gear at all yesterday 1/5/26 while driving near Dulles airport. I had it towed, was told the transmission failed and then I found that this is a systemic design issue with the 2017-2022 cohort of gas V6, 8 speed, AWD Highlanders. Repair will be between $5K and $10K.