2016 Toyota Highlander Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios
AI-generated reference. Always verify torque values, fluid capacities, intervals, and procedures against the manufacturer's service manual or OEM repair information before performing work. Repairius is not liable for damage from acting on this content without verification.
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Transmission gear ratios
The 2016 Toyota Highlander was offered with a single transmission option across all trims: a 6-speed automatic electronically controlled transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) and sequential shift mode.
| Gear | Ratio |
|---|---|
| 1st | 3.300 |
| 2nd | 1.900 |
| 3rd | 1.420 |
| 4th | 1.000 |
| 5th | 0.713 |
| 6th | 0.608 |
| Reverse | 2.196 |
Available axle ratios
All 2016 Toyota Highlander models, regardless of engine or trim, came with a consistent axle ratio. This simplifies identification and aftermarket considerations.
| Ratio | Available With (engine/trim/package) | RPO/Axle Code | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.480 | All 2.7L I4 and 3.5L V6 (FWD & AWD) | Check door jamb sticker or VIN | Balanced performance and fuel economy |
How to identify your axle ratio
For the 2016 Toyota Highlander, identifying your axle ratio is straightforward due to the single ratio offered. However, for future reference or other Toyota models, you can typically find this information on the vehicle's door jamb sticker, often located on the driver's side door frame. Look for a label that contains various codes and specifications. The axle code is usually a three or four-character alphanumeric code. If you cannot locate it there, a Toyota dealership can decode your VIN to provide the exact specifications of your vehicle, including the axle ratio.
Towing vs MPG impact
In general, axle ratios have a direct impact on a vehicle's towing capacity and fuel economy. A numerically lower axle ratio (e.g., 3.480) means the engine has to work less to turn the wheels at a given speed, leading to better fuel economy on the highway. Conversely, a numerically higher axle ratio (e.g., 4.10) provides more torque to the wheels, improving towing capability and acceleration, but at the expense of fuel efficiency, especially at higher speeds.
Since the 2016 Toyota Highlander consistently uses a 3.480 axle ratio, it's designed to offer a balanced approach, providing adequate towing capability for its class while maintaining respectable fuel economy. This ratio strikes a good compromise for the typical Highlander owner who might occasionally tow a small trailer or boat.
Common issues
The 2016 Toyota Highlander is generally known for its reliability. Regarding the drivetrain, specific widespread "common issues" related to differential or transmission gear ratios themselves are not widely reported. However, like any mechanical component, issues can arise over time with wear and tear. These might include:
- Differential noise: While not common, a humming or whining noise from the rear of the vehicle, especially during acceleration or deceleration, could indicate worn differential bearings or an improperly set up ring and pinion gear.
- Transmission shifting issues: Though unrelated to the gear ratios themselves, if the transmission is not shifting smoothly or correctly, it could indicate internal transmission problems. Regular transmission fluid changes are crucial for longevity.
These issues are typically rare in a well-maintained 2016 Highlander.
Find a driveline shop on Repairius.
More specs for the 2016 Toyota Highlander
Oil Capacity & Filter
Capacity, weight, filter PN, drain plug torque, change interval.
Fluid Type Specs
Engine oil, coolant, ATF, diff, brake, PS, DEF — with OEM spec numbers.
Coolant Capacity & Type
Total system capacity, OEM coolant spec, flush interval, bleed tips.
Transmission Fluid & Service
Trans model, fluid spec, capacity, filter PN, service interval.
Torque Specifications
Lug nuts, drain plug, caliper, axle nut, plug, key fasteners.
Brake Pad & Rotor Specs
Pad PNs, rotor size, min thickness, caliper torque.
Tire Size & Pressure
OEM size, cold psi, bolt pattern, wheel size, TPMS.
Battery Size & Group
Group size, CCA, AGM/flooded, dimensions, reset note.
A/C Refrigerant & Oil
R-134a or R-1234yf, charge oz, PAG oil spec.
Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)
Headlight, fog, tail, turn, reverse, interior.
Factory Maintenance Schedule
Service intervals by mileage, severe-duty notes, known issues.
Towing Capacity & Payload
Max tow, payload, GVWR/GCWR, hitch class by trim.
Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage
Fuse box locations, layout, amps, and what each fuse controls.
Serpentine Belt Routing & Length
Belt routing, length, rib count, OEM + aftermarket PNs.
Wheel Alignment Specifications
Camber, caster, toe ranges (front & rear), adjustability notes.
Paint Color Codes
All factory colors with paint codes, sticker location, touch-up tips.
Wiper Blade Sizes
Driver/passenger/rear blade size, attachment, OEM + cross-refs.
Spark Plug Type & Gap
Plug PN, gap, torque, interval by engine.
Key Fob Programming
DIY programming steps, FCC ID, fob PN, battery, transponder.
Same spec — other model years
Maintenance & repair guides
2016 Toyota Highlander Maintenance Schedule →
Available maintenance guidance; confirm the manufacturer schedule.
Repair planning references →
Plan the scope of work; detailed procedures need configuration-matched evidence.
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