2019 Toyota Highlander UA80E — correct transmission fill procedure

This video demonstrates the ‘‘right way’’ to service and set transmission fluid level on a 2019 Toyota Highlander (UA80E automatic transmission; procedure applies to 2017 through 2020 Highlander). The presenter emphasizes using a diagnostic scanner to measure transmission fluid temperature and setting the level by temperature rather than by volume removed. Key specs called out: the factory capacity for the service procedure is "3.2 quarts" but the presenter fills with a full gallon (4 quarts) to ensure sufficient fluid; required temperature window is "95 and 113 degrees Fahrenheit" (35–45 °C); final drain-plug torque is given as "36 foot ponds" (36 ft‑lb, as stated).

Tools, fluids, and parts used: hand pump, diagnostic scanner, Valvoline Max Life (meets Toyota/Lexus WS standard; Toyota WS is acceptable), 24 mm socket, 10 mm hex, 6 mm hex, 3/8-to-1/2 adapter, torque wrench, breaker bar, wheel socket and jack equipment. The presenter notes a replacement crush washer is recommended "by the book" but says he often reuses the original and links new washers in the description (omitted here).

Step-by-step procedure condensed:

• Remove driver-side wheel and shielding to access the fill plug; crack the fill plug loose first so filling later will not be blocked.
• Drain fluid: remove the 10 mm drain plug; then remove the 6 mm Allen 'fill level tube' to allow most of the fluid to drain.
• Reinstall the fill level tube by hand, and snug the drain plug so it won't leak during filling.
• Pump the transmission fluid (he pumps a full gallon) into the fill plug opening. Install and hand-start the fill plug, then torque to spec with extension.
• Start the vehicle, shift through the gears, and use the scanner to monitor transmission temperature until it enters 95–113 °F.
• With the vehicle idling in Park and temperature in range, crack the 10 mm drain plug and let excess fluid drain until it dribbles; then reinstall and torque to 36 ft‑lb.

Rationale and checks: the speaker stresses that measuring only the removed fluid returns you to the prior level (which may be incorrect) and cites instances of underfill from dealers. He verifies the fluid condition visually on this example (35,000 miles) and notes no metal on the drain plug magnet because there is none. The procedure includes shifting through gears before final level and rechecking temperature with a scanner.