Recall 20V162 affects 38,810 2020 Toyota Highlander vehicles for an engine-stall ECU programming error. Repair is free at any franchised Toyota dealer.
Toyota is recalling 38,810 2020 Highlander vehicles because an ECU programming error can interrupt fuel supply when the stop and restart feature is in use. A stall increases the risk of a crash, and Toyota dealers will complete the repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The engine control unit on the 2020 Toyota Highlander is the computer that controls engine operation, including fuel delivery. On Highlanders with the 3.5 L V6 engine, it also manages the stop and restart feature, which shuts the engine off at a stop and restarts it when the driver moves again. That restart depends on the ECU sending the right fuel command at the right time.
On affected Highlanders, the ECU software has a programming error in that stop and restart logic. The error can cause fuel to be supplied incorrectly when the system restarts the engine. If the engine does not get the fuel it needs, it can stall while driving, including at higher speeds, depending on driving pattern and vehicle conditions.
The warning sign is not gradual rough running or a slow loss of power. If the stall occurs, an audible chime sounds and multiple warning lights illuminate to show that the engine has stopped.
Who's affected?
| 2020 Toyota Highlander | Engine |
|---|---|
| 2020 Toyota Highlander | fuel system |
| Units affected | 38,810 |
A matching year and model does not guarantee inclusion. Check your VIN to confirm whether this recall applies to your specific SUV.
What's the safety risk?
Improper fuel supply programming can make the engine stall, which increases crash risk. If the engine stops, an audible chime sounds and several warning indicators illuminate. Move out of traffic when safe, shut the vehicle down, and schedule the recall repair promptly. Repair is free at any franchised Toyota dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2020 Toyota Highlander is included in this recall.
- Contact your nearest franchised Toyota dealer to schedule the free ECU reprogramming that corrects the fuel-supply programming error.
- Bring the recall notice if you received one. If not, reference recall number 20V162 when you call.
- Drive with extra space to pull over if the engine stalls before the ECU update is complete.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Toyota technician reprograms the engine control unit software so fuel is supplied correctly while the stop and restart feature is in use. The recall repair is available now, and parts and labor are free. If you paid out of pocket for an ECU software repair tied to this condition before the recall notice, Toyota's general reimbursement plan handles eligible documented expenses. Bring repair invoices and payment records to the service desk, or contact Toyota customer service for claim instructions.
| Reimbursement | Reimbursement available |
|---|
Timeline
| March 19, 2020 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| March 19, 2020 | Dealer notification began |
| March 19, 2020 | Dealer notification ended |
| April 24, 2020 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
| May 15, 2020 | Owner notification mailed |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 20V162?
Recall 20V162 covers 38,810 2020 Toyota Highlander vehicles with a 3.5 L V6 gasoline engine. An ECU programming error can interrupt fuel supply while the stop and restart feature is in use, causing a stall and increasing crash risk.
What should I do if my 2020 Toyota Highlander is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific Highlander is included in recall 20V162. If it is, contact a franchised Toyota dealer to schedule the free ECU reprogramming. Reference Toyota recall number 20TA06 when you call.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires the manufacturer to repair the defect at no cost, and Toyota's remedy for recall 20V162 is an ECU reprogramming performed free of charge at a franchised Toyota dealer.
Is it safe to drive my 2020 Toyota Highlander before the ECU repair?
Toyota's recall filing does not include a do-not-drive order. The safety risk is an engine stall from incorrect fuel supply during the stop and restart feature, which increases crash risk. If your VIN is included, arrange the free ECU reprogramming with a Toyota dealer.
When did Toyota start the recall repair?
Toyota began the recall on May 15, 2020. That means the ECU reprogramming remedy is available now through franchised Toyota dealers. Use recall number 20V162 or Toyota recall number 20TA06 when you contact the service desk.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/20V162000 |
|---|---|
| Toyota customer service | 1-888-270-9371 |
| NHTSA recall # | 20V162 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 20V162000 |
Source documents
-
Download Recall Document (PDF) (PDF) - Download Misc. Document (PDF)
- Download Recall Investigation Document (PDF) (PDF)
- Download Owner Notification Letter (PDF)
- Download Owner Notice (PDF)
- Download Recall Report (PDF)
- Download Quarterly Report (PDF)
- Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 23, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →