Toyota · Vehicle Guide
Toyota Highlander Transmission Fluid
The correct transmission fluid for the Toyota Highlander, how much it takes, how often to change it, and how to check the level.
Quick answer
The Toyota Highlander typically uses Toyota Genuine ATF WS. Refill capacity on a drain-and-fill is ≈ 3.5–4.0 qt drain-and-fill, with a common change interval of inspect ~60,000 mi; ~60,000 mi severe service. Dipstick: No. Hybrid Highlanders use an eCVT with different fluid — this covers the non-hybrid automatic.
Fluid specifications
- Recommended fluid
- Toyota Genuine ATF WS
- Transmission
- 6-speed / 8-speed automatic
- Refill capacity
- ≈ 3.5–4.0 qt drain-and-fill
- Change interval
- inspect ~60,000 mi; ~60,000 mi severe service
- Dipstick
- No
- Applies to
- 2008–present (non-hybrid automatic)
Figures are general guidance for the Toyota Highlander. Always confirm the exact fluid spec and capacity for your model year in the owner's manual before servicing.
How to check it
Because the Toyota Highlander is sealed, the fluid is checked from underneath at the fill/level plug with the vehicle level and the fluid at a specified temperature. See our step-by-step guides:
Frequently asked questions
What type of transmission fluid does the Toyota Highlander use?+
The Toyota Highlander typically uses Toyota Genuine ATF WS. Always confirm the exact specification for your model year in the owner's manual before topping up or changing fluid — using the wrong fluid can damage the transmission.
Does the Toyota Highlander have a transmission dipstick?+
Most Toyota Highlander models are sealed and do not have a transmission dipstick, so the fluid is checked from a fill/level plug at a specified temperature.
How often should Toyota Highlander transmission fluid be changed?+
A common interval for the Toyota Highlander is inspect ~60,000 mi; ~60,000 mi severe service. Severe service — towing, heat, stop-and-go — shortens that. Follow your owner's manual for the definitive schedule.
Not sure how serious it is?
Run the free symptom checker and get an instant urgency read.
More Toyota guides