Transmission issues with my 2019 SR5

When shifting into DRIVE the transmission sits in NEUTRAL for approximately 5 seconds then it kicks into drive. Doesn't happen all the time- very inconsistent. Toyota dealership said needs new transmission and switch assembly- approximately $6700. Any thoughts or suggestions?

 

Depends on a lot of factors.

Let's start with how many miles are on the SR5?

 

Why? I have 185K on my 2011 and if it needed a new transmission I would probably do it. Not at the dealer, mind you. No matter what it's better than forking over $50K for a new 4R.

 

I'm thinking low fluid level.

 

I hate to ask the obvious, but as @whippersnapper02 said, did you check to make sure it has the proper amount of fluid?

 

And we're back to Texoma's question.
How many miles?
Then my question. To your knowledge has the fluid ever been serviced/changed?

 

could be neutral switch on transmission, usually is rusts out after about 5-7 years and make shifting to drive inconsistent. If transmission wasn't abused too much and serviced on regular intervals as per manual it would be highly unusual that transmission needs replacement. Does OBD scanner show any codes?

 

47,300 miles. Transmission fluid checked- was low a quart but was topped off. Problem still exists.

 

47,300

 

No codes and fluid topped off- was low a quart.

 

Are you not still covered under the powertrain warranty?

 

No. Powertrain warranty expires 8 months ago. I have contacted Toyota Cares to see if they can work with me.

 

I was going to recommend that. I had a 4th gen out of warranty with a timing cover leak. They offered to pay 50% of the bill. I don’t remember exactly who I contacted then, just the number for Toyota USA/North America. Good luck.

 

Hmm, a quart low?
How was that determined?
Was the proper fill check method done at temperature?

 

Local Toyota dealership did a multipoint inspection and also checked transmission fluid- based on what I informed them was happening with my 4Runner.

 

If you’re the original owner, and there has been no leak, I’d suspect the original factory fill was low.
Or if the previous owner did a transmission fluid change they could have underfilled it.
In either case if it was driven a lot with low fluid there could be serious damage done.
Hopefully Toyota will help you out with this. Good luck.