What 298 owners told NHTSA about the 2020 Toyota Highlander

Vehicle: 2020 Toyota Highlander XLE Purchased: August 2020 Owner: Original owner Transmission: UA80F Dealer quote for “Transmission assembly remove and replace: $8,666.22 +tax The vehicle is experiencing delayed acceleration (lagging power) and a loud whirring noise from the transmission when the accelerator pedal is pressed. The whirring noise immediately stops when the accelerator pedal is released. The Toyota Highlander had just exceeded the 60,000 mile/5 year powertrain warranty. Vehicle has 68,079 miles and is 5 1/2 years old. The delayed acceleration creates a serious safety hazard, particularly when starting from a complete stop while attempting to make a turn into traffic. On multiple occasions, the vehicle failed to respond promptly when the accelerator was pressed, placing the vehicle at risk of being struck by oncoming traffic. On February 17, 2026, Oakbrook Toyota diagnosed the vehicle with a failed/bad transmission after charging a $200 diagnostic fee to investigate the whirring noise and power delay. This failure occurred on a vehicle that has been properly maintained and has not been modified. Upon searching the Internet, there are many, many complaints regarding the UA80 transmissions failing between 60,000 and 70,000 miles. There are also multiple lawsuits filed for failed transmissions.

NHTSA ODI 11721186

My 2020 Toyota Highlander, with 83k miles, started making a whining noise when accelerating. I took the vehicle to a local auto shop and they advised there was a transmission issue. There were never any warning signs of issue. I then took the vehicle to Antwerpen Toyota in Clarksville, MD (where the vehicle was purchased) and paid $185 for a diagnostic appointment. On February 20, 2026, The dealership provided a written estimate for “Replace automatic transmission assy” with a total cost of $9,403.77. I am very concerned for the safety of myself and others continuing to drive the vehicle without proper repair. The vehicle is otherwise in great condition and I keep up with all regular maintenance.

NHTSA ODI 11720132

At approximately 120,000 miles, the vehicle began exhibiting a pronounced shudder or vibration between 40–50 mph under light acceleration or steady cruising. The condition progressed to delayed shifting and intermittent loss of acceleration response. The most concerning issue is hesitation and reduced acceleration when attempting to merge into traffic or increase speed. On multiple occasions, the vehicle failed to respond promptly to throttle input, creating a potential safety hazard due to loss of propulsion. The vehicle was evaluated at two authorized Toyota dealerships. Both indicated that the condition is consistent with torque converter or transmission failure. Full transmission replacement was recommended at an estimated cost of approximately $9,000. No whining or grinding noises are present; symptoms primarily involve shuddering and hesitation. The vehicle has not been driven since October 21, 2025, due to safety concerns and to prevent further damage. The vehicle has been regularly maintained at Toyota dealerships and has not been used for towing. This complaint concerns loss of acceleration, transmission shudder, and potential premature failure of the 8-speed automatic transmission.

NHTSA ODI 11719509

THE TRANSMISSION FAILED SUDDENLY.

NHTSA ODI 11714593

Our 2020 Highlander with 45,000 miles started making a whining noise when accelerating. After the Toyota garage looked at it we were told that we needed a full transmission replacement. No warning lights came on alerting of us of problem. We were also told by the service depart that they are not surprised there hasn’t been a recall due to how many transmissions they have replaced on these vehicles and especially this type of transmission. Upon researching this particular issue, It is a wide known issue with class action lawsuits. New transmissions are also only carrying a 1 year warranty. That is hardly a warranty on a costly repair. It will cost us out of pocket $8,000 for a vehicle that is meticulously maintained and with only 44,000 miles. These vehicles are still being sold putting myself, my family and many more Americans as risk.

NHTSA ODI 11711916

I have experienced ongoing transmission problems, including but not limited to rough shifting, delayed acceleration, jerking while driving, and abnormal noises. These issues have significantly affected the safety, reliability, and drivability of my vehicle. This transmission failure significantly undermines Toyota’s long-standing reputation for reliability and has substantially reduced the value of my vehicle.

NHTSA ODI 11711712

Whine noise when you accelerate coming from the automatic transmission. Car is hesitant in shifting gears when needing to accelerate causing safety issues/concerns while driving due to the inconsistency. Toyota dealer as inspected the vehicle and recommended a transmission replacement. Dealer has filed a claim with Toyota to see if it will be covered or not. Total price of repair quoted from dealer was $8700.00. I am also being told there is a back order on parts related to the repair of the vehicle and that the amount of vehicles with this issue are increasing in numbers each day. I purchased this vehicle new in 2020 and have been the sole owner.

NHTSA ODI 11710814

Transmission is presenting a high-pitched whining noise.

NHTSA ODI 11710248

The contact's wife owns a 2020 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that soon after purchasing a new set of tires, the vehicle made an abnormal rattling sound upon acceleration. The vehicle was taken to a dealer for an oil change and tire rotation, and the contact was informed that no defect was found on the vehicle. As the failure persisted, the vehicle was taken back to the shop, where the tires were purchased. The contact was informed that there was no defect in the tires, and the failure might be related to the differentials of the vehicle. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with transmission failure. The manufacturer was then notified of the failure, and the contact was offered partial financial assistance towards the purchase of a new engine. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 55,000.

NHTSA ODI 11708000

My 2020 Highlander developed a whining or grinding noise consistent with the Technical Service Bulletin. I took it to a Toyota Dealership for diagnostic and they confirmed the whining and hissing sound. They said it would cost $9,000 to repair. I called Toyota to request a goodwill repair and they denied me. Toyota case number: 251229000423. The car does not feel safe to drive. We worry that at any moment the car could break down with our children inside. The problem was reproduced at a dealer and inspected. There were no warning lamps or messages, just the obvious sound coming from the transmission.

NHTSA ODI 11707470

Shortly after the powertrain warranty expired, the automatic transmission in my 2020 Toyota Highlander began producing a loud whining/howling noise during normal driving. The noise appears to come from the transmission area and increases with vehicle speed. The issue was not present during the warranty period and began unexpectedly soon after expiration. The abnormal noise raises concerns about internal transmission failure and potential loss of drivability. This condition could pose a safety risk if the transmission were to fail while driving, especially at highway speeds or when merging into traffic. No warning lights or messages were displayed prior to or during the issue. The vehicle was inspected by a Toyota dealer, and the problem was confirmed to be related to the transmission.

NHTSA ODI 11707237

Transmission stutters. Only has 32000 miles.

NHTSA ODI 11706447

Transmission whines in low gear.

NHTSA ODI 11706060

Transmission failure. Noticed whining when driving, took to local Toyota dealership and they diagnosed transmission failure. They quoted $12,000 for transmission replacement and confirmed that this is a known issue with certain years/models of Toyota Highlander. Ours is a 2020.

NHTSA ODI 11703925

The vehicle’s automatic transmission (power train) has developed a loud whining/whirring noise under acceleration. This noise increases with engine load and indicates internal mechanical failure. The transmission is still installed in the vehicle and is available for inspection upon request. This issue poses a safety risk because it causes hesitation and unpredictable acceleration behavior while merging or crossing traffic. There is also concern that the transmission could suddenly fail while driving, resulting in loss of propulsion and potentially causing an accident. The problem has been inspected and confirmed by a Toyota dealership, which advised that the entire transmission needs to be replaced at a cost of over $8,000, despite the vehicle having only approximately 77,000 miles. The vehicle has been inspected by a Toyota manufacturer service center. They identified the transmission failure but stated there are no current recall programs covering this specific VIN. No warning lights or error messages were displayed at any time before or during the failure. The first noticeable symptom was the transmission whining/whirring noise during acceleration, which began around 77,000 miles and continues to worsen.

NHTSA ODI 11703108

TRANSFER CASE MAKING ROTATIONAL BEARING NOISE FLUID HAVE LOTS OF METAL DEBRI

NHTSA ODI 11702219

Road noise was very loud. I thought it was a bearing and I took it to the shop and found out that the 'transfer box' on the side of the transmission had to be replaced. I was told that not replacing it could lead to major transmission failure. This cost $6000. Mechanic said it's unusual. Upon reading the internet I'm learning that I'm not the only one this and similar problems.

NHTSA ODI 11702304

While driving and/or accelerating you can feel some harsh shifts as well as slipping and shuttering with only 84k miles on this vehicle.

NHTSA ODI 11700700

Transmission malfunction that left us on the highway with no power and in an unsafe situation. Not confirmed as of yet. At dealership tomorrow. No inspection completed by parties listed above. Check engine light appeared prior to malfunction.

NHTSA ODI 11699712

The car started making whining noises when pressing the gas pedal. Toyota reported "noise from transaxle final drive. recommend replace. vehicle ok to drive but noise will continue until transaxle is replaced." There are no warning lights, messages or other symptoms prior to the sound starting or currently. This is a known issue with its 8-speed automatic transmission (UA80E/UA80F) that can cause whining, erratic shifting, and premature failure. This issue is the subject of a Customer Support Program (CSP ZJC) and several lawsuits, but the program has limited coverage for VINs, leading to owner complaints about a lack of assistance from Toyota.

NHTSA ODI 11697161

After my 75000 mile inspection at my Toyota dealership, which is required and I have been bring my vehicle in every 5,000 miles. I started hearing a slight whinny noise. I thought it was around my wheels or tires. Then I thought it must be a new wind noise. Which that is another issue. I took a short trip and by the time I got back it was louder. I took it to the dealership and the technician drove it and said I need a new transmission. I ask my service provider if he has seen any other vehicles having this problem? And I should not have any transmission issues at this mileage. My service provider stated that he knows of highlanders having this issues.

NHTSA ODI 11696718

At around 45,000 miles, my 2020 Toyota Highlander started making a whining noise on acceleration. This condition seemed to get worse (whining got louder) I took it to a Toyota dealership and they said there are no codes left by the vehicle but the repair technician knows that this whine is related to a total transmission failure so the recommendation is to replace the transmission at a cost of approximately $8000, Toyota said the vehicle is out of warranty (by 4 months) so they will offer nothing to assist with the repair. Looking on the internet and this website, it is very clear that this is a common issue with this model of vehicle. Dealer said I can drive it but eventually the transmission will fail, leaving me stranded on the roadside.

NHTSA ODI 11696327

UNKNOWN, dealers are reporting 1-2 2020-2022 Highlanders are needing completely transmission replacements at 8-10k in cost. They are all failing and toyota knows this.

NHTSA ODI 11692000

I am filing a complaint with the NHTSA regarding persistent transmission slipping in my 2020 Toyota Highlander LE equipped with the UA80-E 8-speed automatic transmission. Since reaching approximately 55,000 miles, I have experienced noticeable slipping, characterized by delayed acceleration, erratic shifting, and occasional lurching, which align with documented defects in the UA80 platform as outlined in over 430 NHTSA complaints and Toyota’s Technical Service Bulletins (e.g., T-SB-0160-18 and T-SB-0008-21). These issues stem from a known manufacturing flaw involving a washer tab failing to secure the counter drive gear’s retaining nut, leading to gear movement, internal wear, and symptoms like mine. This defect, prompting Toyota’s Customer Support Program ZJC for 2017–2018 models and reported in later years like 2020, compromises vehicle safety and reliability, as slipping can cause unpredictable handling. I urge the NHTSA to investigate further and hold Toyota accountable for addressing this widespread issue across affected models.

NHTSA ODI 11691766

Whining noise when accelerating. Took it to toyota dealership and confirm it was the transmission .toyota corporate would not assist repair cost as my warranty is 7k miles pass warranty mark..did a research about the transmission and there is a class action law suit about the faulty transmission

NHTSA ODI 11691192