I Got My 2023 Highlander’s Oil Changed, A Light Came On, and There’s No Oil On the Dipstick, Toyota Dealer Says, ‘Oh, We Forgot To Torque the Drain Plug’

A Toyota dealer's oil change failure left a 2023 Toyota Highlander bone dry because they under-torqued the drain plug. Is just "adding oil" enough to fix this engine scare?

Donna Thompson Field on the Toyota Highlander Owners Club Facebook page says, 

"I have a 2023 Highlander Platinum, with 11,007 miles. I took it in for an oil change less than 500 miles ago at the dealership. I noticed the oil pressure light flickering, so I checked the oil, and none was showing on the dipstick. I immediately took it back, and according to the dealership, they apparently did not properly torque the drain plug when they serviced it. They are "adding oil" and have cleaned the underside of the vehicle. Is there anything else that should be done?"

Is This a Crisis Averted, or Are There Problems Ahead For This Highlander Owner?

Donna shared this nightmare scenario that far too many new vehicle owners face: dealership service error resulting in near-catastrophic engine oil loss.

Imagine taking your 2023 Toyota Highlander Platinum, with just over 11,000 miles, for a routine oil change. Then you see the oil pressure light flickering with less than 500 miles after a scheduled oil change at the dealer. Upon checking, the dipstick was dry. You immediately take it back, and the dealer confirms the cause: an improperly torqued oil drain plug leading to a slow but total oil leak. You would be furious. 

The Dealer's Solution

The dealer's solution—"adding oil" and cleaning the underside—is only half the story. While Donna's quick action has likely avoided the immediate crisis of engine seizure, the potential for long-term, invisible damage requires a much deeper, expert-level response. This report provides the definitive, three-phase action plan for any owner caught in this all-too-common service error trap.

What Should Donna Do Next?

A vehicle can lose oil in two ways: slowly over thousands of miles (consumption) or rapidly due to mechanical failure or, in this case, human error. Even a few hundred miles of driving with critically low oil levels can cause irreparable damage.

Demand a Comprehensive Engine Health Check After Oil Loss

The 2023 Highlander Platinum utilizes the newer 2.4L turbocharged engine, which operates under higher pressures and tolerances than its V6 predecessor. Running this complex engine without adequate lubrication, even for a short duration, risks scoring cylinder walls, damaging the turbocharger's bearings (which spin at extremely high RPMs), and prematurely aging the Variable Valve Timing (VVT) components.

Simply cleaning up the oil and topping off the system is not enough. Donna must formally request a Comprehensive Engine Health Check After Oil Loss. This inspection must go beyond a simple visual check and include the following:

• Cylinder Leak-Down and Compression Tests: These tests measure the integrity of the piston rings and valves, which are the first components to suffer from oil starvation and heat. Lower-than-spec compression readings indicate potential long-term power loss.
• Borescope Inspection: The technician should visually inspect the cylinder walls (through the spark plug bores) for scoring or discoloration, which is evidence of excessive friction due to oil loss.
• Turbocharger Health: Request verification of turbo boost pressures and listen for any abnormal whining or rattling, which may signal compromised bearings due to a lack of oil pressure.

The dealer, having admitted fault, is on the hook for verifying the long-term health of this engine. This is the only way to safeguard against future failure tied to this event.

Document Everything

In any service dispute, the paperwork is your best defense. The moment a potential warranty issue arises, every communication must be documented.

1. Service Order Specifics: The initial work order for the return visit must explicitly state the dealer's finding: "Drain plug improperly torqued, resulting in critical oil loss." Do not settle for vague language like "Addressed fluid level."
2. Oil Used: Verify the specific grade and type of oil added. The 2.4L turbo engine requires 0W-20 synthetic, and deviations could void the warranty.
3. Written Guarantee: Request a written statement guaranteeing that any future engine issues (specifically related to oil consumption, VVT failure, or turbo failure) occurring within the vehicle's power train warranty period will be covered, with this oil loss event acknowledged as the root cause. This protects against the dealer later initiating a 2023 Toyota Highlander Oil Consumption Test Procedure and denying a claim by blaming the owner.

Accountability and Warranty Implications

The issue of an improperly torqued oil drain plug is strictly a matter of technician error and poor quality control. This falls squarely under the dealer's liability.

Donna's vehicle is under Toyota's 5-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Warranty. A technician error that causes damage to a covered component (the engine) means the dealer—and by extension, the manufacturer—must take responsibility.

Warranty Implications of Dealership Service Errors: 

When the dealer performs the service, they effectively underwrite the process. If their negligence causes damage, they cannot use that damage to void the warranty later. Donna has the right to demand more than just a free oil change. I recommend asking for:

• Full Tank of Gas: A simple gesture for the inconvenience and multiple trips.
• Complimentary Future Services: A package of 2-3 complimentary oil changes to demonstrate good faith and continued commitment to her vehicle's upkeep.
• Loaner Vehicle: During the required testing and inspection phase, a high-quality loaner vehicle should be provided.

What You Should Do after Any Service Department Visit

This scenario highlights why owners must remain vigilant, even when trusting trained professionals. Here are three crucial steps owners should take after a dealer service visit.

• The Post-Service Walk-Around: Before driving away, specifically look beneath the engine area for any fresh drips or residual oil. If the lift is available, have the technician show you the properly torqued plug and filter housing.
• The 50-Mile Dipstick Check: This is a habit I advocate for all owners after any oil service. Drive the vehicle 50-100 miles, allow the engine to cool for 10-15 minutes, and check the dipstick yourself. A massive loss, as Donna experienced, will be immediately evident.
• Consider an Aftermarket Valve: For ultimate peace of mind and clean oil changes, consider installing a Fumoto or similar quick-drain valve (if compatible and approved for the 2.4L Highlander). This eliminates the risk of an improperly torqued plug.

What the Community is Saying

This situation is regrettably common across all brands. On social media groups and forums dedicated to newer Toyota models, the sentiment often boils down to a few key themes:

Trust Erosion: "I don't even trust the dealership for simple jobs anymore. I'm going to change my own oil from now on."

The Dipstick Panic: "The light flickered once, and I checked. Nothing. I thought I was crazy until they admitted they forgot the cap. The panic is real."

The 'Clean-Up' Lie: "They cleaned the bottom of my truck and acted like it was fixed. But the damage had already been done. My Senior Reporter Expert Advice Toyota Highlander Oil issues need deep inspection."

Related Coverage

• I Took My 2025 Toyota Tundra to the Dealer For the 10K Service, and I'll Never Leave the Lot Before Checking. There Was Oil All Over the Engine Bay, and A Puddle Under the Truck
• I Love My Tacoma, But the Toyota Dealer Just Ruined My Owner Experience, and It Makes Me Wonder If I Can Ever Trust Them

Conclusion

Donna's swift action saved her engine from an immediate, catastrophic failure. The dealership has initiated the repair, but the job is not finished until the long-term health of your engine is guaranteed. She is entitled to a comprehensive engine inspection to ensure this service error does not turn into a powertrain catastrophe down the road. The modern Toyota Highlander engine leaves no room for human error, and owners must become the final layer of quality control.

The Question I Pose to Our Readers:

If you've experienced critical oil loss due to a dealership error, what specific, non-monetary concession (e.g., loaner car, free future service, extended warranty coverage) did you successfully negotiate, and what additional advice would you give to Donna? Click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.

I'm Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012, bringing over 30 years of automotive expertise to every story. My career began with a consulting role for every major car brand, followed by years as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles—equipping me with a wealth of insider knowledge. I specialize in delivering the latest auto news, sharing compelling owner stories, and providing expert, up-to-date analysis to keep you fully informed.

Follow me on X @DenisFlierl, @WorldsCoolestRides, Facebook, and Instagram

Photo credit: Denis Flierl