What year did Toyota have transmission problems?

There isn’t a single year that defines Toyota transmission problems; issues have appeared across several model years and regions. Some waves of recalls and service campaigns targeted multiple years, particularly in the late 2000s and early 2010s, with variations by model and country.

This article outlines how transmission problems have manifested across Toyota’s lineup, how to verify whether a specific vehicle is affected, and what steps owners can take if they suspect transmission trouble. It focuses on factual, publicly reported information and practical guidance for current owners and prospective buyers.

Understanding the scope of the problem

Transmission problems can involve automatic transmissions, continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), torque converters, and related control software. The history of recalls and service campaigns for Toyota spans many years and models, and the exact year affected depends on the vehicle’s model, production date, and country.

Common types of transmission issues

These categories cover the kinds of problems owners report, across various Toyota models and years. They are not limited to a single model or region.

• Slipping, hard shifting, or delayed engagement between gears


• Fluid leaks, low fluid levels, or fluid contamination


• Torque converter problems or lockup issues


• CVT-specific symptoms such as shudder, jerking, or loss of power during acceleration


• Complete transmission failure or unexpected loss of drive

Repair needs and symptoms can vary by transmission type, model, and mileage. Some problems may be addressed through recalls or service campaigns, while others require component replacement under warranty or after extended coverage.

How to check if a Toyota is affected by a transmission issue

To determine whether a specific Toyota is affected by a transmission-related recall or service campaign, use the following steps. Checking the VIN is the most reliable way to verify coverage for your exact vehicle.

1. Find your vehicle’s VIN (17-character code), typically located on the driver-side dashboard near the windshield or on the driver’s door jamb and registration documents.


2. Visit official recall databases (such as the NHTSA recall database in the United States or your country’s equivalent) and enter the VIN to view open campaigns, recalls, and warranty extensions related to transmissions.


3. Check Toyota’s official recall portal for model-year-specific campaigns and to see whether a recall has been completed or is still outstanding.


4. Contact your local Toyota dealer with the VIN to confirm coverage, obtain repair estimates, and schedule service if needed.

Keeping an eye on recalls is important because Toyota occasionally issues service campaigns that are free of charge to owners, even beyond standard warranty periods.

What to do if you’re experiencing transmission problems now

If you notice transmission symptoms such as slipping, shuddering, hard shifts, warning lights, or unusual noises, consider these practical steps:

1. Cease driving if the vehicle loses drive or exhibits dangerous symptoms, and have it towed or serviced promptly.


2. Schedule a diagnostic with a certified Toyota technician who can read transmission control module codes and assess fluid condition and mechanical wear.


3. Ask about open recalls or campaigns for your VIN and whether they cover the observed symptoms.


4. If the vehicle is under warranty or a recall covers the issue, repairs should be performed at no cost to you.

Documenting symptoms, service visits, and recall notices can support warranty claims or goodwill assistance from the dealer or manufacturer.

Summary

There is no single year that encompasses all Toyota transmission problems. Instead, transmission-related issues have appeared across multiple model years and regions, with notable recall activity in the late 2000s and early 2010s for various models. For any given vehicle, the most reliable way to determine exposure is to check the VIN against official recall databases and consult a Toyota dealer for confirmation and next steps. This information reflects publicly available data up to 2024–2025, but recall status can change, so owners should verify current campaigns regularly.

Resources for further verification

Useful sources to confirm recalls and service campaigns include:

• NHTSA Recall Database (U.S.) — search by VIN or make/model


• Toyota Official Recall/Service Campaign Portal


• Local consumer protection or automotive safety agencies

What year to stay away from a Toyota Highlander?

Years to avoid in the Toyota Highlander include 2003, 2008, 2014, 2015, and 2020 due to common issues like transmission problems, oil leaks, and technology glitches. Other problematic years to consider are 2001-2007 (engine and climate control issues) and 2016-2019 (varying issues including potential oil leaks in some models).
 
This video discusses problems with the Toyota Highlander from 2020 to 2025, including paint issues: 54sCarnivautoYouTube · Feb 11, 2025
Toyota Highlander years to avoid

• 2001–2007: Prone to engine overheating, head gasket failures, and climate control issues like AC compressor and blower motor problems. 
• 2003: A big year for issues, particularly engine oil sludge buildup and premature transmission wear, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch. 
• 2008: A redesigned model that experienced oil cooler line leaks, which can cause engine damage if not addressed, and lower-quality interior components. 
• 2014: A recall was issued for the second-row seat assembly that may not lock correctly into the seat track, and there were also reports of issues that might be linked to the transmission, says Clutch and Reddit users. 
• 2015: Experienced growing pains from its redesign, with various reports of growing issues, according to Regan Motors Inc and Clutch. 
• 2020: Experienced early transmission and software problems, say Clutch and Reddit users. 

You can watch this video to learn more about common problems with the 2020-2025 Toyota Highlander: 51sChris DrivesYouTube · Jul 5, 2025

Which Toyotas have transmission problems?

The recall covers certain Toyota Tundra, Sequoia and Lexus LX 600 vehicles from the 2022-2024 model years. Owners will be notified of the issue by late April, the company said, and dealers will update the transmission software to repair the problem at no cost.

What year is CVT transmission bad?

Nissan CVTs from the 2013–2018 model years are frequently cited as being problematic due to issues like overheating, premature failure, and costly repairs. Specific model years and vehicles with a higher risk include the 2013-2014 Pathfinder, 2013-2016 Altima, 2015 Murano, and 2014-2018 Rogue, which were subject to recalls and lawsuits. Subaru also had issues with its early TR690 CVTs around 2010-2011, specifically torque converter clutch failures. 
Nissan CVT problems

• Years: 2013–2018 are often highlighted, but problems have continued into newer models. 
• Common issues: Jerky acceleration, overheating, shuddering, hesitations, and premature failure. 
• Affected models: Pathfinder, Altima, Murano, Rogue, Sentra, and Versa are among the most frequently mentioned. 
• Recalls and lawsuits: Several recalls and class-action lawsuits have been filed for various Nissan models from these years. 

Subaru CVT problems

• Years: 2010–2011.
• Common issues: Torque converter clutch failures, leading to stalling when stopping.
• Affected models: Legacy and Outback models equipped with the TR690 CVT. 

General CVT considerations

• Maintenance is key: Proper maintenance, including regular fluid changes and avoiding abusive driving habits, can significantly extend the life of a CVT transmission, regardless of the year. 
• Towing: CVTs are generally not recommended for regular heavy towing. 

What year did Toyota have engine problems?

Toyota has experienced engine problems in several recent years, most notably with certain 2022-2024 Tundra, Lexus LX, and GX models due to a manufacturing defect. Additionally, certain models from earlier years, such as the 2007-2011 Camry Hybrid and 2006-2008 RAV4, had oil-burning issues.
 
Recent engine problems

• 2022-2024 Tundra, 2022-2024 Lexus LX, and 2024 Lexus GX: In November 2025, a safety recall was issued for these models due to machining debris in the engines, which could cause engine knocking or stalling. The issue affects specific gas-powered vehicles, and Toyota is working on a fix. 
• Specific production windows: The recall mainly affects Tundras produced from late 2021 through early 2023, though the problem also appears to affect some vehicles produced through February 2024. 

Earlier engine problems

• 2007-2011 Camry Hybrid: Some models experienced oil-burning issues.
• 2006-2008 RAV4: Certain RAV4 models from these years were subject to oil-burning problems.
• Other models: Other past issues have included the 2007-2009 Camry, 2007-2008 Solara, 2009 Corolla, 2009 Matrix, and 2008-2009 Scion XB, according to Ethen Ostroff Law. 

How to check for recalls

• You can check for recalls by entering your vehicle's VIN on the Toyota USA safety recalls website. 
• You can also check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website for recalls on any vehicle.