Automatic Transmission problems of the 2009 Toyota Highlander

The contact owns a 2009 Toyota Highlander. While turning at approximately 5 mph in snowy conditions, the vehicle became stuck in the snow. The vehicle was able to reverse but would not accelerate forward. The vehicle was towed to an authorized dealership where the contact was informed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The transmission was replaced at that time. The failure and current mileages were approximately 11,000. Updated 11/03/10 updated 11/04/10.

My 2009 Toyota Highlander with keyless start allows the vehicle to shut off when not in park and the vehicle starts moving. It also will turn off in reverse, or neutral and will turn back on in neutral and will also turn off in drive. This does not feel safe and should be immediately investigated. The vehicle should have to be in park to turn off and start like all other cars with keys to start the vehicle. Local dealer investigated but said all keyless start vehicles operate this way and didn't indicate there was a fix to the situation.

We bought a new 2009 Toyota Highlander in July,2009. Immediately, it demonstrated a huge vibration in reverse, and now in drive. When I stop at a light, it feels like it will bolt when I take my foot off the brake. We went through arbitration, but they claimed, since we couldn't prove it was a safety hazard, we had no case. I think these vehicles should also be investigated. I have read similar complaints on the internet from other Highlander owners. I am really fearful to drive my family in this vehicle. For Toyota to tell me that, yes there is a severe vibration, but there is nothing wrong with the vehicle is absolutely preposterous. Toyota says they don't know what is wrong with it, so they say nothing is wrong with it. Our own mechanic says that he believes it will join the other recalls at some point. But I really hope you will look into it soon. Thank you.