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Which Toyotas have transmission problems?

There isn’t a single model that universally has transmission problems, but a subset of older Toyotas and hybrids have been linked to transmission-related complaints and recalls.

What forms of transmission problems have been reported

Across consumer reviews, owner reports, and official recalls, the most common symptoms fall into a few patterns. These are not universal across all Toyotas, but they have appeared frequently enough to warrant attention from buyers and owners alike.

Slipping gears or delayed engagement in automatic transmissions

Transmission shudder or harsh shifting at low speeds

Unintended downshifts or failure to downshift when needed

Transmission failure requiring replacement (reported in isolated cases)

Hybrid-specific CVT issues in models like Prius and other hybrids

The prevalence of these problems varies by model year and generation. Many issues are addressed under recall campaigns or service bulletins, and some repairs are covered under warranty.

Models and generations most commonly linked

Some model families have appeared more often in complaints and in recall notices than others. The following families have been cited in consumer reports, NHTSA records, and Toyota service communications as having transmission-related concerns.

Camry family (midsize sedans) with reports of slipping, shuddering, or hard shifts in certain generations

Corolla family (compact cars) with occasional CVT-related symptoms in some generations

Sienna (minivan) with reports of shifting irregularities in a subset of model years

RAV4 and other Toyota SUVs with a range of transmission complaints in certain production periods

Prius and other hybrids (CVT-driven) with CVT-specific wear or performance concerns

Note: Issues are model-year and VIN-specific. Prospective buyers and current owners should verify coverage using official recall databases and service campaigns.

Camry and related sedans

The Camry, long a benchmark for reliability, has seen reports of transmission slipping, rough shifting, and, in some generations, more serious failures. Toyota has issued service campaigns and recalls that affect a subset of Camrys. If you notice unusual transmission behavior—slipping, delayed engagement, or shudder—arranging a dealer inspection promptly can prevent further damage and determine whether coverage applies.

Corolla and compact cars

Corolla and other compact Toyotas have occasionally experienced CVT-related symptoms, such as hesitation, whining, or jerky acceleration. CVTs can require specialized maintenance, and some variants have been subject to recalls or service bulletins. Owners should monitor for irregular transmission performance and consult a dealer if symptoms appear.

Sienna and minivans

Several Sienna generations have had reports of shifting irregularities or sluggish response in certain VIN ranges. While less common than in some sedans, these issues have prompted recalls and service notices. Owners who observe transmission issues should seek a professional diagnosis and verify recall status.

RAV4 and SUVs

RAV4 and other Toyota SUVs have been tied to a spectrum of transmission concerns in particular production periods. Symptoms can include slow engagement, unexpected shifts, or noise. As with other models, VIN-specific recall checks are essential to determine eligibility for coverage and repair.

Prius and hybrids

Hybrids like the Prius use CVTs in many generations, and some owners have reported CVT whine, transient loss of power, or jerky behavior. Toyota has issued recalls and technical service bulletins for certain hybrids with CVT-related issues. If you own a Prius or another hybrid and notice unusual driving feel or sound, have your system inspected promptly.

What to do if you suspect a problem

Start with clear documentation of symptoms: when they occur, under what conditions, and whether warning lights illuminate. Check the recall status for your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) through the NHTSA recall database or Toyota’s official owners portal. If a recall or service campaign covers your vehicle, schedule the repair at an authorized dealer. For non-recall transmission concerns, obtain a diagnostic from a qualified technician, and keep records of any repairs or parts replaced.

Advice for buyers and owners

For prospective buyers, review maintenance history and verify recall status before purchasing a used Toyota. During ownership, stay informed about service campaigns and ensure preventive maintenance for transmissions, such as timely fluid changes where applicable and using the correct fluid specification. If symptoms arise, address them early to minimize potential damage and cost.

Conclusion

Transmission problems in Toyotas are not a universal trait across the brand. They tend to appear in specific generations and hybrid configurations, and many issues are addressed through recalls or service campaigns. By staying informed, verifying VIN-specific coverage, and seeking timely diagnosis, owners can mitigate risk and maintain reliability expectations.

Summary

In short: while Toyota overall remains highly regarded for reliability, certain older Camry, Corolla, Sienna, RAV4, and Prius models have shown transmission-related issues in various generations. Always verify VIN-specific recall coverage and consult a qualified technician if symptoms arise.

What Toyota models are being recalled?

Recent Toyota recalls affect models including the 2022-2024 Tundra, 2022-2024 Lexus LX, 2024 Lexus GX (engine debris issue) and a broader recall covering the 2023-2025 Crown, GR Corolla, Highlander, RAV4, Venza, and 2024-2025 Tacoma and Grand Highlander (potential driving blind issue). Other models with past or separate recalls include the 2019-2020 Corolla, CH-R, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, and various 2020-2021 models like the Camry, Corolla, and RAV4. It is recommended to check the specific VIN on the Toyota USA Newsroom or NHTSA website to see if your vehicle is affected.
Current and recent recalls

Engine debris: 2022-2024 Toyota Tundra, 2022-2024 Lexus LX, and 2024 Lexus GX vehicles.
Driving blind issue: 2023-2025 Toyota Crown, GR Corolla, Highlander, RAV4, and Venza; 2024-2025 Tacoma and Grand Highlander.
Other affected models: 2025 Camry, Crown Signia, and RAV4 PHEV, along with the 2024-2025 Lexus TX and 2025 Lexus RX.

Older or separate recalls

2019-2020: Corolla, Corolla Hybrid, and C-HR.
2020-2022: Camry, Camry Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, and various Lexus ES and RX models.
2021: Sienna Hybrid.

How to check your specific vehicle

Visit the Toyota recall website.
Enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) or license plate information.
You can also check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.

Which Toyotas do not have CVT transmission?

Toyota models that do not have a continuously variable transmission (CVT) include the 4Runner, Tacoma, Tundra, Land Cruiser, and Supra. The 86 also does not have a CVT, and the Corolla is only available with a manual transmission in its high-performance GR model, while other models may have a CVT or a manual option depending on the year and configuration.

Models without a CVT

4Runner: This SUV is equipped with a traditional automatic transmission.
Land Cruiser: A rugged SUV that does not use a CVT.
Tacoma: This truck uses a traditional automatic or manual transmission.
Tundra: A full-size truck that also uses traditional automatic or manual transmissions.
Supra: This sports car does not use a CVT.
86: Toyota's sports car counterpart to the Subaru BRZ, it features a traditional automatic or manual gearbox.
Corolla: While many gas-powered models have a CVT, the GR Corolla is an exception and offers a manual transmission.

Other Toyota vehicles

Some models, like the Avalon and Camry, may offer a CVT in certain configurations or hybrid versions, while non-hybrid versions might have a traditional automatic transmission.
The Highlander also offers a traditional automatic transmission, but some hybrid models have an electric CVT (eCVT) which is different from a belt-and-pulley CVT.
The Yaris is a hybrid model that comes with a CVT automatic transmission.

What car brand has the most transmission problems?

Nissan and the combination of Ford/GM are frequently cited for having the most transmission problems, due to their use of problematic Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) in many Nissan models and the 10-speed automatic in Ford and GM trucks. Early to mid-2000s Nissan CVTs (especially in models like the Altima, Rogue, and Sentra) and Ford/GM's 10-speed automatics (found in F-150, Silverado, and Sierra trucks, among others) have a reputation for failure, shuddering, and harsh shifts.
Nissan

CVT Issues: Nissan's long history with Jatco CVTs has earned it a reputation for poor transmission reliability.
Affected Models: Models like the Altima, Rogue, Sentra, and Pathfinder from roughly 2006-2015 are particularly notorious.
Symptoms: Common complaints include jerking, shuddering, overheating, delayed acceleration, and complete failure.
Risk: These issues can occur before 75,000 miles and often result in expensive replacement costs, as the transmissions are not typically rebuilt.

Ford and GM

10-Speed Automatic Problems: Ford and GM's co-developed 10-speed automatic (the 10R80 for Ford and 10L80 for GM) has been the source of numerous complaints.
Affected Models: This transmission is found in their full-size trucks and SUVs, including the Ford F-150 and the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra, primarily from 2017 onward.
Symptoms: Owners report harsh shifting, clunking noises, loss of power, and catastrophic failure.
Risk: These problems have led to multiple recalls and costly repairs, with some vehicles requiring transmission replacement.

Are Toyotas known for transmission problems?

While Toyota vehicles are generally known for reliability, they can have transmission problems like other cars, especially with high mileage. Some reported issues include transmission fluid leaks, slipping gears, and rough or delayed shifting. Recent recalls have also addressed specific transmission issues in certain models, such as vehicles in neutral not properly disengaging from the drivetrain, and reports of transmission failures in some newer models like the Tacoma.
Common symptoms of Toyota transmission problems

Leaking fluid: Look for red or reddish-brown fluid puddles under your car.
Strange noises: Listen for clunking, whining, or grinding sounds, particularly when shifting.
Rough or delayed shifting: Experience jerky shifts or a noticeable lag when changing gears.
Gear slippage: The car may unexpectedly shift out of gear or the engine RPMs may increase without corresponding acceleration.
Burning smell: A burning odor can indicate overheating transmission fluid.
Check Engine light: The check engine light can be triggered by various transmission-related issues.

Recent specific issues

Vehicle creep: A recall was issued for certain 2022-2024 Toyota Tundras, 2023-2024 Sequoia SUVs, and Lexus LX 600s because the transmission may not fully disengage in neutral, causing the vehicle to creep forward.
2024 Tacoma transmission failures: Some owners have reported serious transmission failures in new 2024 Tacoma models, including a case where a transmission failed after only 342 miles. Dealerships have replaced some of these transmissions under warranty.

What you can do

Regularly check your transmission fluid level and color.
If you notice any of the symptoms above, have a qualified technician inspect your transmission promptly.
Stay up-to-date on recalls and have any necessary service performed.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.