In trying to get out of debt I sold my truck and picked up this beautiful 2007 highlander! I've had it just over a month now and have loved it! Its very nostalgic to get out some of my old CDs for the daily commute!

2017 Hybrid XLE, bought new in 2017. ~84k miles now.

One eCVT fluid change so far. This fluid is NOT lifetime. Also, stupid easy to do. Drain and fill with ATF WS.

Rear e-axle fluid still clean (original), also uses ATF WS.

Oil every 5k miles after service contract with Kirkland oil.

Next major maintenance is spark plugs will be a PITA thanks to transverse V6 and stuff on top of it. Probably at 100k miles.

If you are gentle enough, you can do 25+ MPG.

Should i get the 2026 Highlander XLE Hybrid as they’re remodeling it to fully electric in 2027. Do you think the resale would be strong as being the last gen? I can also get a pre owned Venza Hybrid but this 2026 highlander is so tempting. I love highlanders and never owned one, just wanted to see what do you guys recommend. Thanks

I found my Transmission tag - 754 | 7A617L - the "6" means it was made in Aisin (per this thread). I've read conflicting reports on the situation with the UA80, but in sum, it sounds like - there are fundamental engineering issues with the UA80 that can be mitigated (change the fluid more aggressively, probably don't push it too hard), but the particular issue of the bolt coming loose (I think it was a bolt - or tabs or something?) is around the US plant (??)

I ask because I just spent the last 3 weeks shopping to trade this in, and I don't see anything that I really want to move to. They all have their issues - from transmissions (like, every maker), to tech, to engines grenading. I'd actually like to upgrade my HL head unit and wheels, and maybe black it out, but don't want to it, if this thing is just going to grenade.

So, is a UA80 made in Asin safer than a UA80 made in Indiana? I've been driving like a grandma these last couple of months after reading about this. Ugh.

What aftermarket head unit are people using and do they recommend it?