2021 Toyota Highlander power train problems
199 owner complaints filed with NHTSA name the power train on the 2021 Toyota Highlander — 41% of all complaints for this model year.
What owners report
“My transmission started to have a noticeable whine at 53k miles. It became noticeably louder during acceleration. It was diagnosed at the Toyota dealership as a failing transmission. My vehicle was a few months out of warranty. I was told to contact Toyota corporate to ask for assistance. I was…”
filed Aug 4, 2026
“Vehicle is experiencing a distinct, high-pitched mechanical whine or grind sound from the transmission during acceleration that increases in pitch with vehicle speed. The noise does not happen while cruising or coasting. This symptom aligns directly with Toyota Technical Service Bulletin…”
filed Aug 4, 2026
“High pitched whirring from engine when accelerating. Took to mechanic who diagnosed worn internal transmission bearings that could lead to transmission failure. No warning lights or indicators. Toyota is aware of this issue (see Toyota Technical Service Bulletin T-SB-0008-21) but is doing nothing in response.”
filed Jul 31, 2026
Verbatim excerpts from complaints filed with NHTSA. Reports are not independently verified.
Power Train problems in other Highlander years
| Year | Reports | Share |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 Highlander | 3 | 8% |
| 2023 Highlander | 16 | 9% |
| 2022 Highlander | 47 | 21% |
| 2020 Highlander | 120 | 40% |
| 2019 Highlander | 187 | 40% |
| 2018 Highlander | 60 | 23% |
| 2017 Highlander | 70 | 27% |
| 2016 Highlander | 1 | 1% |
| 2015 Highlander | 7 | 4% |
| 2014 Highlander | 8 | 6% |
| 2013 Highlander | 11 | 5% |
| 2012 Highlander | 7 | 4% |
Other reported problem areas on the 2021 Toyota Highlander
Counts are unique NHTSA complaints naming this component group. Complaints are unverified owner reports; mileage is computed only from complaints that included a usable odometer reading.