NHTSA Complaint #11607965 — 2018 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

My 2018 Highlander Transmission (8 speed model UA80) began a whine noise characteristic of Customer Support Bulletin POL19-04 when the vehicle hit 101k miles. Toyota performed an inspection on 8/9/2024 and recommends full transmission + transfer case replacement. The dealer confirmed also confirmed the issue is characteristic of POL19-04, but because the vehicle was manufactured 6-months after vehicles bracketed in POL19-04 (based on the transmission serial number) it is not included in the support program therefore not covered. Toyota UA80 transmissions have continued to have this issue (example - T-SB-0008-21 for '21 UA80 transmission). While Toyota acknowledges replacement of transmission is necessary to maintain a safe drivetrain, no customer-facing error messages are evident. Also note - transmission fluid has been maintained only using Toyota's recommended Fluid (Toyota branded WS ATF) at Toyota's specified intervals.