2020 Toyota Highlander
Vehicle Specs & Maintenance Data
The 2020 Toyota Highlander maintenance specs on this page cover the key fluids, torque values, and wear items you need for routine service. Use these numbers as a quick reference when performing oil changes, tire rotations, brake jobs, and other scheduled maintenance on your Toyota Highlander.
For oil changes, the 2020 Toyota Highlander takes 0W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil with a capacity of 6.2 quarts. Brake fluid type is DOT 3, the recommended coolant is Pink Long Life Coolant (OAT), and transmission fluid is ATF WS. Always use the manufacturer-recommended fluids to maintain warranty coverage and engine longevity.
When mounting wheels on the Toyota Highlander, torque the lug nuts to 80 ft-lbs using a calibrated torque wrench. Over- or under-torquing can lead to warped brake rotors or loose wheels. Re-torque after 50 to 100 miles on newly installed wheels.
Owners of the 2020 Toyota Highlander have reported 5 common issues including "Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) Software Defect", "Front Bumper Cover Detachment" and "Water Pump Leak (A25A Engine)". Scroll down to the Diagnostics tab for detailed descriptions, solutions, and estimated repair costs.
Specifications on this page are compiled from multiple publicly available sources including manufacturer documentation, NHTSA data, and automotive databases. Always cross-reference with your owner's manual or official factory documentation before purchasing parts or performing any service.
The 2020 Toyota Highlander uses 0W-20 Full Synthetic motor oil (6.2 qt capacity), requires lug nuts torqued to 80 ft-lbs, takes DOT 3 brake fluid.
Manufacturer-recommended maintenance schedule for the 2020 Toyota Highlander. Always verify intervals against your owner's manual.
Enter a diagnostic trouble code to see causes, symptoms, and fixes for the 2020 Toyota Highlander.
Common problems reported by 2020 Toyota Highlander owners, with recommended fixes and estimated repair costs.
Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) Software Defect
The Skid Control ECU software may not turn on the Vehicle Stability Control system when the vehicle is restarted after the driver previously disabled it. This means VSC remains off without the driver's knowledge, failing to comply with FMVSS 126.
Toyota issued recall 22TA03 to update the Skid Control ECU software. Dealers perform the software update free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 27, 2022. Check your VIN on Toyota's recall lookup page.
Est. Cost: Covered under recallFront Bumper Cover Detachment
During normal vehicle operation, minor impacts to the front lower bumper cover can cause the cover to come loose or fully detach from the vehicle. The fasteners and clips holding the bumper cover can fail under relatively minor stress from road debris or parking lot contact.
Toyota issued a recall to reinforce the bumper cover attachment. Dealers inspect and reattach or replace the front bumper cover and install improved retention clips free of charge.
Est. Cost: Covered under recallWater Pump Leak (A25A Engine)
The electric water pump on the 2.5L A25A engine can develop leaks from the pump body or electrical connector, leading to coolant loss. The MIL may illuminate with DTCs P26CA14 or P26CA31. Coolant may be visible on the engine or dripping underneath.
Replace the electric water pump assembly per Toyota TSB T-SB-0087-21. Covered under the powertrain warranty. The updated replacement pump has improved sealing to prevent recurrence.
Est. Cost: $0 under warranty; $400 - $800 if out of warrantyHVAC Water Entry Into Cabin
Some 2020-2022 Highlander vehicles may experience water intrusion from the HVAC drain hose being disconnected from the air conditioning radiator assembly. Owners notice wet carpet on the passenger side floorboard, especially after heavy AC use.
Toyota issued TSB T-SB-0112-21 to reconnect the HVAC drain hose and secure it with an updated clip. The dealer reattaches the drain hose to the evaporator assembly. Covered under the basic warranty.
Est. Cost: $0 under warranty; $100 - $200 if out of warrantyInterior Rattles and Squeaks
Owners report various interior rattles and squeaks from the dashboard, center console, and rear cargo area. Rattling noises are particularly noticeable on rough roads and can come from loose interior trim clips, the liftgate area, and the third-row seat mechanism.
Identify the source of the rattle and have the dealer apply felt tape or foam padding to the contact points. Loose trim clips should be replaced. Toyota dealers can use a TSB-recommended noise isolation procedure to systematically locate and address interior noise sources.
Est. Cost: $0 under warranty; $100 - $300 if out of warranty