2017 Toyota Highlander: Power Train complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 77 owner complaints for the 2017 Toyota Highlander that list the power train component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11772328 (filed 10/20/2026): “Transmission whining, rough shifts at lower gears. dealership says my car doesn't fall under the secondary csp even though it has the same symptoms.…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11769850 (filed 10/08/2026): “Transmission failure after whining noise, taken to toyota multiple times with no diagnosis. today was informed the transmission is failing by another mechanic. 193,000 miles.…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11769168 (filed 10/05/2026): “2017 ua80f awd toyota highlander transmission failure at 145,000 miles with regular maintenance. starts off delayed shifting and jerking when accelerating, accompanied with faint whistle/whirring sound from under the dash. with transmission falls under the toyota customer support program zjc tsb 016…”
Likely causes
These complaints do not establish a single root cause; read the examples above and get a diagnosis.
Fix, in plain English
No single fix is established by these reports. Check your VIN for open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls, ask a dealer about technical service bulletins (TSBs) or extended warranty coverage, then have the system diagnosed.
DIY difficulty: Pro
Diagnosis needs a scan tool; repair or replacement needs a lift, transmission jack and the manufacturer's fluid fill/relearn procedure. (Our assessment.)
Cost
No sourced cost range for this issue. Get a written quote after diagnosis.
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
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Sources
Page last updated .