Legendary Reliability — With a Few Known Exceptions — Expert Toyota transmission service since 1987. All models, all years. Free diagnostic.
Toyota has earned its reputation for reliability, and most Toyota transmissions outlast the rest of the drivetrain with proper maintenance. However, the U660E valve body used in Camry and RAV4 has a documented weak point, and Toyota's CVT introduction on the Corolla and Camry (2019+) has introduced a new category of failures Chicago shops are now seeing regularly.
Toyota makes up about 18% of our work. The U660E is one of our most frequently rebuilt units — we stock valve body assemblies and can often repair without a full rebuild.
Years to watch: 2007–2014 Camry and RAV4 (U660E valve body — most failures 80–120k miles); 2003–2009 4Runner and Tacoma (A750 solenoid failures); 2019–2023 Camry and Corolla (CVT belt wear if fluid not serviced); 2001–2007 Sequoia/Tundra (transfer case chain).
Our technicians know these failure modes by heart — we rebuild and repair them every week.
Transmission: U660E
The U660E six-speed automatic (2007–2017 Camry, RAV4, Highlander, Venza) develops solenoid failure in the linear solenoid assembly, causing erratic shift timing and P0750–P0770 codes. Toyota released multiple TSBs on this unit.
Symptoms: Harsh upshifts especially 1-2 and 2-3, delayed engagement from Park, hunting between gears, check engine with P0750-P0770
Transmission: A750E
The A750E/A750F used in 2003–2009 4Runner, Tacoma, and Tundra develops individual solenoid failures, particularly the SLT and SLC linear solenoids that control line pressure.
Symptoms: Delayed engagement into drive or reverse, harsh shifts under load, slipping at highway speeds, P0751 or P0752 codes
Transmission: Toyota CVT
The 2019+ Corolla and Camry CVT (K311F) and some 2018+ RAV4 units are developing whine noise and belt wear earlier than expected for Toyota. CVT fluid intervals matter enormously — skipping the 30k service accelerates failure.
Symptoms: Whining or droning noise especially during acceleration, shudder at low speed, delayed response when pressing accelerator, CVT warning light
Transmission: Sequoia/Tundra
High-mileage Sequoia and Tundra (2001–2007 in particular) develop chain wear in the A340F transfer case, causing 4WD engagement problems and clunking.
Symptoms: Clunking when engaging 4WD, grinding when switching between 2H and 4H, binding during low-speed turns in 4WD
U660E valve body repair: $550–900 | U660E full rebuild: $1,600–2,100 | A750 solenoid service: $400–650 | Toyota CVT service: $149–199 | Toyota CVT rebuild: $2,800–3,800. Call for exact quote on your specific vehicle.
All prices include Chicago market labor rates ($125–145/hr). Call for exact quote on your specific vehicle and year.
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On a 2007–2017 Camry with the U660E, harsh 1-2 or 2-3 shifts usually mean a faulty linear solenoid. Get a free diagnostic — this is often repairable without a full rebuild ($550–900).
Toyota calls it 'lifetime fluid' but we disagree. In Chicago conditions (stop-and-go, cold starts, heat), change every 30,000–40,000 miles. CVT fluid even more critical — every 30,000 miles.
If the car is otherwise in good shape and under 100k miles, a CVT repair or replacement is usually worth it. At 80–120k miles, weigh the cost ($2,800–3,800) against the vehicle value. We'll give you an honest assessment.
Likely the A750F transfer case, not the main transmission. Chain wear or the electromagnetic actuator are the usual causes. Transfer case rebuild runs $800–1,400 depending on damage.
Yes. We use Toyota WS fluid or equivalent for U660E and A750 rebuilds, and Toyota CVT fluid for CVT units. Using the wrong fluid in a Toyota is a fast way to cause new problems.
Free computer diagnostic included with any Toyota transmission inspection. Same-day appointments available at our Lincoln Park shop.
