2019 Toyota Highlander parts and specs

What changed for the 2019 Toyota Highlander

• 2018–2019Carryover; these years are in the Denso fuel pump recall population

Known problems with the 2019 Toyota Highlander

3 of the 5 issues we track for the 2014–2019 generation are documented against the 2019 model year, and 2 carry a recall or service bulletin.

• Denso low-pressure fuel pump failure (recall)

  majorNHTSA 20V-012, expanded under 20V-682 (Toyota 20TA02/20TB02)

  A defective Denso in-tank fuel pump impeller can swell and seize, causing rough running, no-starts, or engine stall while driving. 2017–2019 Highlanders (gas and hybrid) are part of Toyota's massive multi-model fuel pump recall; dealers replace the pump assembly free. Check your VIN, the campaign was amended repeatedly through 2025.

  Typical cost: Free under recall; ~$500–$900 if a failed pump is replaced outside recall scope

• 8-speed transmission shudder, whine, and harsh shifts

  moderateTSB T-SB-0160-18 (UA80E/UA80F)

  Early UA80E/UA80F 8-speeds (new for 2017) draw widespread complaints: shudder at low speed, whine under acceleration, hesitation and clunky downshifts. Toyota issued TSB T-SB-0160-18 (torque converter / valve body / recalibration depending on symptom). Most cars are fixed under powertrain warranty; a minority needed torque converters or transmission assemblies.

  Typical cost: Free under powertrain warranty (5 yr/60k); $1,500–$4,500 for torque converter or rebuild out of warranty

• Power liftgate won't open/close or falls

  minor

  Power liftgate struts and motors wear on XU50s just as they did on the XU40: the gate reverses, beeps and stops, or drifts down. Strut replacement is cheap; a failed power liftgate motor/latch is pricier. Annoying but not a safety issue.

  Typical cost: $60–$150 (struts) to $400–$900 (motor/latch)

Full detail, costs and sources on the Toyota Highlander problems and years to avoid guide.