2011 Toyota Highlander: engine knocking or ticking

5 of the 182 complaints about the 2011 Toyota Highlander describe engine knocking or ticking.

owner complaints: 5
of this car's complaints: 3%
recalls: 0

Is there a fix? 42 service bulletins cover this area of the car. See below

Engine knocking or ticking by model year

2023
1
2022
1
2021
4
2019
2
2018
1
2017
6
2016
2
2013
11
2012
3
2011
5
2009
4
2008
12
2007
1
2005
6
2004
1
2003
3
2001
3

What owners say

Filed May 25, 2024 · Engine, Transmission · GA

Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to file a formal complaint regarding persistent safety issues with my 2011 Toyota Highlander V6 AWD. Specifically, I have experienced significant problems related to the engine timing guide, timing chain, transmission system, which pose a risk to both vehicle occupants and other road users. Vehicle Information: Toyota Highlander V6 AWD, VIN: [XXX] Description of the Issue: The transmission in my Highlander has exhibited the following problems: 1) Low engine oil pressure, ticking Noise: There is low engine pressure, faulty guides timing chains, recurring ticking noise. This noise represents issues from the powertrain area and has raised concerns about potential mechanical flaws1. 2) Defective components, slipping Transmission: The transmission surges/slips affecting overall control and safety. This issue has been reported by other Highlander owners as well. Cross-Referencing Other Complaints and Recalls: 3) They did not go far back, Per the federal safety agency database, there have been two documented complaints related to transmission issues in the 2011 Toyota Highlander V6 AWD, these complaints align with my experience, however they have not sent me the recall notice. In fact, Toyota has faced recalls and technical service bulletins (TSBs) related to transmission problems in various Highlander models: The 8-speed UA80E/UA80F automatic transmission used in the 2020 Highlander received a TSB for shift flare during wide-open throttle acceleration from 40 – 60 mph and during the upshift from 2nd to 3rd gear. Toyota addressed this issue under warranty1. The 6-speed U660F/U760E automatic transmission, used in earlier Highlander models, was generally reliable. However, the introduction of the 8-speed UA80E/UA80F unit caused initial problems1. Request for Action: Per the federal safety agency findings please ensure all the models sharing the chassis, model family, part and Toyota transmission oil are included in recall or service campaign. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C.

Filed Dec 1, 2021 · Steering, Visibility · 80,000 miles · TX

The contact owns a 2011 Toyota Highlander. The contact stated that the intermediate steering shaft was making an abnormal knocking noise while turning to the left or the right. Additionally, the driver’s side window failed to roll up or down because it was off track. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer but was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.

Filed Jan 5, 2019 · Steering · 90,000 miles · NC

The steering in my highlander has started making a popping and knocking sound when turning the vechicle. This seems to be a known design defect with this vechicle by toyota and they should issue a safety recall. The noise is mostly noticeable at lower speeds when parking but it also occurs when the vehicle is in motion.

Filed Dec 4, 2018 · Steering · 99,000 miles · NH

Clunking or tapping noise when turning left or right that can be felt in the steering wheel. Diagnosed by toyota as "steering intermediate shaft binding." this is a known issue with the 2008-2013 highlander. Advised by toyota mechanic that it doesn't need to be fixed unless I prefer it not to knock or clunk when turning.

Filed Sep 17, 2018 · Steering · 156,000 miles · GA

Tl* the contact owns a 2011 toyota highlander. While driving unknown speeds, there was an abnormal knocking and popping noise when turning the steering wheel left and right. There were no warning indicators illuminated. The contact called the local dealer (five star toyota of milledgeville, 2816 n columbia st, milledgeville, ga 31061, (478) 387-2112) and was informed to schedule a service appointment. The contact stated that the failure was similar to the federal safety agency action number: pe18005 (steering). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure mileage was 156,000.