2019 Kluger 2WD Transmission whine

[Scooter79]

Over the last 2 weeks we've notice a mechanical whine when accelerating. Pitch of the whine corresponds with the revs. Doing some research I discovered the T-SB-160-18 service bulletin. Went and had a discussion with the local Toyota service manager about if he was aware of this issue. He simply said I would have to book the car in for a 20 minute test drive assessment at a cost of $181.50. If they deem there is indeed an issue they would send the car away to have the trans stripped down at my cost, only for them to then decide if it is a warranty issue. I asked why I had to pay for the transmission tear down and he stated "To make sure you haven't flogged it, done burnouts or driven through water". Seriously, who is doing burnouts in a front wheel drive Kluger?!?!?! He said even if Toyota cover the warranty, I will still incur the upfront cost of the tear down of the transmission. At about $200/hr I could be out of pocket many thousands with no guarantee it will be covered. Should I try my luck with another Toyota dealer? Any advice appreciated.

For the record the delivery date for the car was February 2019. It's a 2019 model but wouldn't it be made with a 2018 transmission? The service bulletin covers 2017-2018 trans.

Cheers.

[Ericisbanaman]

How did you go with this problem? Mine is doing something similar so I’m curious. Can I ask where you found the service bulletin?

[campbeam]

Do a Google search https://www.google.com/search?client=firefox-b-d&q=T-SB-160-18 

Then download the file and read it. If applicable as a warranty claim, the transaxle will be replaced.

T-SB-0160-18 - Transaxle Whine Noise, Harsh Shift, MIL ON, or Reduced Power .pdf

The assessment cost relates to Steps 1-3 to confirm that this service bulletin and warranty claim is applicable.

[Ericisbanaman]

Does anyone know the cost of this repair? I’m pretty sure mine is outside the warranty period. 
I’ll book it in anyway, just curious is all.

[Ericisbanaman]

Ok so I just had mine fixed. For your info getting it fixed without warranty cost just under $20k. Luckily Toyota approved warranty and I didn’t pay a cent to have it fixed. I didn’t even pay the original diagnostic cost to determine the issue. My warranty cover is well and truely expired and my car is a 2018 Kluger with 125,000km. Toyota put in a new transmission and torque converter in so it’s worth trying to get it 

[Bishop72]

Hi our 2018 Kluger AWD developed a whirring sound in the transmission/transfer case at around 115,000 kms in June of this year. 2024, it’s always been serviced on time and also had extra engine oil changes in between so every 5000kms. I took it to Toyota in Tanunda SA and paid $160 to get it assessed and they picked up the noise and they said to monitor it, its coming from the driveline and some noise isn’t unusual for this model. I asked if they can check the transmission fluid which they said was a bit dark and would recommend a change soon. However they did tell me you have to as the customer to request a transmission service or they will never do one. I feel Toyota don’t want to know about the issue at all. This is the second Kluger we have owned having no issues with our 2012 FWD model and we are disappointed we are having this issue. As of today after a recent transmission fluid and transfer case oil change the noise it is getting louder and its on 118,569 kms. I am thinking of taking it to a Trans specialist to get a diagnosis. 

Edited September 9 by Bishop72
About to update

[Bishop72]

Update 9/9/2024 it is booked in to go to Peter Kittle Para hills after I complained to Toyota Australia however they are insisting they will be charging me a fee too look at and diagnose which I don’t understand. 

[campbeam]

21 hours ago, Bishop72 said:

Update 9/9/2024 it is booked in to go to Peter Kittle Para hills after I complained to Toyota Australia however they are insisting they will be charging me a fee too look at and diagnose which I don’t understand. 

I believe that they want to check that you have not been hooning in the vehicle or thrashing it before accepting a warranty claim.

[Bishop72]

On 9/9/2024 at 9:10 PM, Bishop72 said:

Update 9/9/2024 it is booked in to go to Peter Kittle Para hills after I complained to Toyota Australia however they are insisting they will be charging me a fee too look at and diagnose which I don’t understand. 

update 

Peter Kittle diagnosed it as a Transaxle noise and they submitted an out of warranty claim. Toyota Aust honored the claim and replaced the transmission(transaxle assembly). My diagnostic fee was also refunded. Thankyou Liam at Peter Kittle for listening and responding to the issue.