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Is the Ford Explorer more reliable than the Toyota Highlander?
Sara Winchester’s story about her 2017 Toyota Highlander and its repeated transmission failures has ignited a heated discussion in the online car community. The frustration of dealing with two failed transmissions in one year led her to make a significant decision-switching brands and purchasing a new 2025 Ford Explorer.
Was It A Good Decision?
This article delves into the common issues with the 2017 Highlander’s transmission, Sara’s struggle to get it fixed under warranty, and whether her new Ford Explorer is a more reliable choice.
After Sara shared her post on the Toyota Highlander Owners Club Facebook page, it sparked a lively debate. We invite you to join the conversation and share your thoughts on her decision.
But first, imagine owning a 2017 Toyota Highlander with 105,500 miles, only to have the transmission fail not once but twice in one year.
Do you fix it and keep driving it, or do you get what you can out of it and trade it? Would you switch from the Toyota brand and buy a Ford Explorer, thinking it’s more reliable?
Share your thoughts and comments in the Comment section below, but first, here is Sara’s dilemma.
She says, “After two failed transmissions in a year, I said goodbye to the Highlander and got a nice Ford Explorer with bumper-to-bumper warranty. It’s (Toyota Highlander) been an expensive ride, but I’m glad to be off that crazy train.”
“My 2017 Highlander XLE was in the shop for 4 weeks getting the transmission replaced, and the first time I picked it up, it was still whining loudly at 45 mph.”
“The shop says it’s the transfer case making the noise and not the rebuilt transmission. They have it torn apart, inspecting it, but said the noise will not replicate on the lift, only when driving.”
“Does anyone know what would cause this? They’re stumped. This is at an independent transmission shop, not the dealer.”
Why didn’t Sara take her Highlander to the Toyota dealer?
She says,
“My 2017 XLE transmission just failed at 106,000 miles, and Toyota told me my VIN doesn’t qualify for the customer satisfaction extended coverage recall, even though it’s within the build date for the faulty transmission.”
“So I called Toyota corporate about my 2017 and the transmission issue, and they’re saying there’s no customer support program bulletin for my VIN. It was built in September 2017, so it falls within the date range to be covered.”
The Highlander Transmission Issue
First, does the 2017 Toyota Highlander have transmission problems?
The 2017 Toyota Highlander is known to have experienced some transmission issues. Specifically, the 8-speed automatic transmission in some 2017 models has been reported to have problems with delayed or harsh shifting, as well as potential complete failure, according to The Lemon Law Experts.
These issues are believed to be related to the front carrier assembly pinion shafts within the transmission.
They say, “The most common problems with the Toyota Highlander transmission are gear slipping, rough or delayed shifting, fluid leaks, whining noises, hesitation when accelerating, unresponsive gears, and complete transmission failure.”
Sara Is Not Alone
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Another Highlander owner, Reddit user Arestocles, shared a similar experience, saying, “The Dealer has had our 2017 Highlander for eight months! The transmission went, and it was under warranty. They say it’s backordered and may take another four months! They also say this happens a lot. We aren’t the only people in this position.”
Here Are More Details
- Delayed or Harsh Shifting: Some owners have reported that the transmission may hesitate or shift roughly, especially between 2nd and 3rd gear.
- Whining Noises: A whining noise coming from the transmission while driving is another reported symptom.
- Transmission Failure: In some cases, the transmission has completely failed, requiring replacement.
- Software Issues: Consumer Reports found that the 2017 Highlander’s 8-speed transmission had software issues that caused the engine to rev before upshifting, leading to a less-than-smooth driving experience.
Warranty and Fixes:
Toyota has acknowledged the issue and offered a Customer Support Program to cover repairs for certain 2017-2018 Highlander and Sienna models.
The initial warranty for the transmission is 5 years/60,000 miles. The recommended fix by Toyota dealerships is often a complete transmission replacement, as the faulty parts are difficult to repair.
What’s Next for Highlander Owners?
- If you own a 2017 Highlander and are experiencing any of the mentioned symptoms, it’s best to have the transmission inspected by a qualified mechanic or Toyota dealership.
- If you are close to the mileage limit of the warranty, consider having it checked before the warranty expires.
- Be aware of potential delays in getting a replacement transmission if needed.
Now To the Next Question:
Sara’s decision to trade her troubled Highlander for a 2025 Ford Explorer raises a critical question for many car buyers: Is the Ford Explorer more reliable than the Toyota Highlander?
Is the 2025 Ford Explorer a Reliable SUV?
The 2025 Ford Explorer’s reliability is a mixed bag, with some sources reporting positive experiences and others highlighting potential issues. While some owners praise its performance, smooth ride, and technology, others report concerns about mechanical problems, particularly with the engine and transmission.
Here Are the Concerns with the Ford Explorer
Sara’s new 2025 Ford Explorer comes with a bumper-to-bumper warranty, giving her peace of mind after her costly Highlander repairs. However, is the Explorer truly a more reliable vehicle?
- Mechanical Issues: Some owners have reported problems with the engine and transmission, including issues with the engine mounting, fuel lines, and connectors.
- Reliability Concerns: There are reports of reliability and quality issues with the latest model year, though some sources suggest these are isolated incidents.
Consumer Reports gives the Explorer a predicted reliability rating of only 45/100, which is significantly lower than the Highlander’s rating of 65/100. This rating is based on extensive testing and owner surveys, providing a comprehensive view of the vehicle’s reliability.
In the End
Did Sara make the right vehicle choice in purchasing the Ford Explorer?
Time will tell, but overall, the 2025 Ford Explorer has a lower reliability rating than the 2025 Toyota Highlander.
The 2025 Ford Explorer is a mixed bag. While it offers strong performance, good technology, and a family-friendly interior, some owners have experienced mechanical issues and concerns about overall reliability.
It’s Your Turn
What would you do in Sara’s situation? Consider going back to a Highlander or leaving the Toyota brand to buy a Ford Explorer. Click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know
Check out my 2025 Ford Explorer story: My 2025 Ford Explorer Won’t Start 3,000 Miles In, After Two Weeks the Dealer Still Doesn’t Know What’s Wrong, Should I Keep It Until They Lemon Law It?
I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news, covering owner stories, and providing expert analysis, ensuring that you are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on X @DenisFlierl, @WorldsCoolestRides, Facebook, and Instagram
Photo credit: Denis Flierl via Sara Winchester
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Source: torquenews.com
