2022 Toyota Highlander: Power Train complaints
Owner-reported issue (NHTSA complaints, not a recall)
Symptoms
NHTSA has 54 owner complaints for the 2022 Toyota Highlander that list the power train component. Complaints are individual owner reports, not verified defects.
Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11768070 (filed 09/30/2026): “On september 23, 2026, at approximately 7:30 am, i was driving the vehicle in a parking garage at an estimated speed of approximately 10 mph. while driving over a curve in the parking garage and applying the brakes to slow the vehicle and maneuver into a parking space, the vehicle suddenly accelerat…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11765723 (filed 09/20/2026): “Vehicle begin making grinding noises, and stalling during accelerating and also fuel smell. took vehicle into toyota waldorf, md dealership for diagnostic. at 58,000 miles, 2022 toyota highlander xle stalls to accelerate due to front differentials failing, causing large chunks of metal on the drain …”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11765724 (filed 09/20/2026): “Vehicle begin making grinding noises, and stalling during accelerating and also fuel smell. took vehicle into toyota waldorf, md dealership for diagnostic. at 58,000 miles, 2022 toyota highlander xle stalls to accelerate due to front differentials failing, causing large chunks of metal on the drain …”
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 .