Toyota Highlander (2020 year). Manual in english — part 7

393

6-1. Maintenance and care

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce

a

nd

ca
re



Remove dirt and dust using a
vacuum cleaner.



Wipe it off with a soft cloth
dampened with neutral deter-
gent diluted to approximately
1%.



Wring out any excess water
from the cloth and thoroughly
wipe off remaining traces of
detergent and water.

Cleaning the synthetic
leather areas

394

6-2. Maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6-2.Maintenance

■

Repair and replacement

It is recommended that genuine

Toyota parts be used for repairs to

ensure performance of each sys-

tem. If non-Toyota parts are used in

replacement or if a repair shop other

than a Toyota dealer performs

repairs, confirm the warranty cover-

age.

■

Allow inspection and repairs to

be performed by a Toyota

dealer

●

Toyota technicians are

well-trained specialists and are

kept up to date with the latest ser-

vice information. They are well

informed about the operation of all

systems on your vehicle.

●

Keep a copy of the repair order. It

proves that the maintenance that

has been performed is under war-

ranty coverage. If any problem

should arise while your vehicle is

under warranty, your Toyota

dealer will promptly take care of it.

General maintenance should be

performed on a daily basis. This

can be done by yourself or by a

Toyota dealer.

Scheduled maintenance should

be performed at specified inter-

vals according to the mainte-

nance schedule.

For details about maintenance

items and schedules, refer to the

“Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or

“Owner’s Manual Supplement”.

Maintenance require-

ments

To ensure safe and econom-

ical driving, day-to-day care

and regular maintenance

are essential. It is the

owner’s responsibility to

perform regular checks.

Toyota recommends the fol-

lowing maintenance:

WARNING

■

If your vehicle is not properly

maintained

Improper maintenance could

result in serious damage to the

vehicle and possible death or seri-

ous injury.

■

Handling of the battery

●

Engine exhaust, some of its

constituents, and a wide variety

of automobile components con-

tain or emit chemicals known to

the State of California to cause

cancer and birth defects and

other reproductive harm. Work

in a well ventilated area.

●

Oils, fuels and fluids contained

in vehicles as well as waste pro-

duced by component wear con-

tain or emit chemicals known to

the State of California to cause

cancer and birth defects or

other reproductive harm. Avoid

exposure and wash any

affected area immediately.

●

Battery posts, terminals and

related accessories contain lead

and lead compounds which are

known to cause brain damage.

Wash your hands after han-

dling. (



P.408)

General maintenance

Scheduled maintenance

395

6-2. Maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce

a

nd

ca
re

■

Resetting the message indicat-
ing maintenance is required

After the required maintenance is
preformed according to the mainte-
nance schedule, please reset the
message.To reset the message, fol-
low the procedures described
below:



4.2-inch display

1

Press

or

of the meter

control switch to select

.

2

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select

and

then press and hold

.

3

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select “Scheduled
Maintenance” and then press

.

4

Select “Yes” and press

.

5

A message will be displayed on
the multi-information display
when the reset procedure has
been completed.



7-inch display

1

Press

or

of the meter

control switch to select

.

2

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select

and

then press and hold

.

3

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select “Scheduled
Maintenance” and then press

.

4

Select “Yes” and press

.

5

A message will be displayed on
the multi-information display
when the reset procedure has
been completed.

You can perform some mainte-
nance procedures by yourself.
Please be aware that do-it-your-
self maintenance may affect
warranty coverage.

The use of Toyota Repair Manuals
is recommended.

For details about warranty cover-
age, refer to the separate “Owner’s
Warranty Information Booklet” or
“Owner’s Manual Supplement”.

Do-it-yourself mainte-
nance

396

6-2. Maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

General maintenance

Listed below are the general

maintenance items that

should be performed at the

intervals specified in the

“Owner’s Warranty Informa-

tion Booklet” or “Owner’s

Manual Supplement/Sched-

uled Maintenance Guide”. It

is recommended that any

problem you notice should

be brought to the attention

of your Toyota dealer or

qualified service shop for

advice.

WARNING

■

If the engine is running

Turn the engine off and ensure

that there is adequate ventilation

before performing maintenance

checks.

Engine compartment

Items

Check points

Battery

Check the connec-

tions. (



P.408)

Brake fluid

Is the brake fluid at

the correct level?

(



P.408)

Engine coolant

Is the engine cool-

ant at the correct

level? (



P.407)

Engine oil

Is the engine oil at

the correct level?

(



P.404)

Exhaust sys-

tem

There should not

be any fumes or

strange sounds.

Radiator/con-

denser

The radiator and

condenser should

be free from for-

eign objects.

(



P.408)

Washer fluid

Is there sufficient

washer fluid?

(



P.410)

Vehicle interior

Items

Check points

Accelerator

pedal

• The accelerator

pedal should

move smoothly

(without uneven

pedal effort or

catching).

Automatic

transmission

“Park” mecha-

nism

• When parked on

a slope and the

shift lever is in P,

is the vehicle

securely

stopped?

Items

Check points

397

6-2. Maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce

a

nd

ca
re

Brake pedal

• Does the brake

pedal move
smoothly?

• Does the brake

pedal have
appropriate
clearance from
the floor?
(



P.499)

• Does the brake

pedal have the
correct amount
of free play?
(



P.499)

Brakes

• The vehicle

should not pull to
one side when
the brakes are
applied.

• The brakes

should work
effectively.

• The brake pedal

should not feel
spongy.

• The brake pedal

should not get
too close to the
floor when the
brakes are
applied.

Head
restraints

• Do the head

restraints move
smoothly and
lock securely?

Horn

• Works properly?

Indica-
tors/buzzers

• Do the indica-

tors and buzzers
function prop-
erly?

Items

Check points

Lights

• Do all the lights

come on?

• Are the head-

lights aimed cor-
rectly? (



P.431)

Parking brake

• Does the park-

ing brake switch
operate nor-
mally?

• When parked on

a slope and the
parking brake is
on, is the vehicle
securely
stopped?

Seat belts

• Do the seat belts

operate
smoothly?

• The seat belts

should not be
damaged.

Seats

• Do the seat con-

trols operate
properly?

Steering wheel

• Does the steer-

ing wheel rotate
smoothly?

• Does the steer-

ing wheel have
the correct
amount of free
play?

• There should not

be any strange
sounds coming
from the steer-
ing wheel.

Items

Check points

398

6-2. Maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

The OBD system determines
that a problem exists some-
where in the emission control
system. Your vehicle may not
pass the I/M test and may need
to be repaired. Contact your
Toyota dealer to service the
vehicle.



When the battery is discon-
nected or discharged

Readiness codes that are set
during ordinary driving are erased.
Also, depending on your driving
habits, the readiness codes may
not be completely set.



When the fuel tank cap is
loose

Vehicle exterior

Items

Check points

Doors

• Do the doors

operate
smoothly?

Engine hood

• Does the engine

hood lock system
work properly?

Fluid leaks

• There should not

be any signs of
fluid leakage
after the vehicle
has been parked.

Tires

• Is the tire infla-

tion pressure
correct?

• The tires should

not be damaged
or excessively
worn.

• Have the tires

been rotated
according to the
maintenance
schedule?

• The wheel nuts

should not be
loose.

Windshield
wipers/rear
window wiper

• The wiper blades

should not show
any signs of
cracking, split-
ting, wear, con-
tamination or
deformation.

• The wiper blades

should clear the
windshield/rear
window without
streaking or skip-
ping.

Emission inspection

and maintenance (I/M)

programs

Some states have vehicle
emission inspection pro-
grams which include OBD
(On Board Diagnostics)
checks. The OBD system
monitors the operation of
the emission control sys-
tem.

If the malfunction indica-
tor lamp comes on

Your vehicle may not pass
the I/M test in the follow-
ing situations:

399

6-2. Maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce

a

nd

ca
re

The malfunction indicator lamp
comes on indicating a temporary
malfunction and your vehicle may
not pass the I/M test.

The error code in the OBD sys-
tem will not be cleared unless
the vehicle is driven 40 or more
times.

Contact your Toyota dealer to
prepare the vehicle for re-test-
ing.

When the malfunction
indicator lamp still
remains on after several
driving trips

If your vehicle does not
pass the I/M test

400

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6-3.Do-it-yourself maintenance

Do-it-yourself service

precautions

If you perform maintenance
by yourself, be sure to fol-
low the correct procedure
as given in these sections.

Maintenance

Items

Parts and tools

Battery condi-
tion (



P.408)

• Warm water
• Baking soda
• Grease
• Conventional

wrench (for ter-
minal clamp
bolts)

Brake fluid
level (



P.408)

• FMVSS No.116

DOT 3 or SAE
J1703 brake fluid

• Rag or paper

towel

• Funnel (used

only for adding
brake fluid)

Engine cool-
ant level
(



P.407)

• “Toyota Super

Long Life Cool-
ant” or a similar
high quality eth-
ylene gly-
col-based
non-silicate,
non-amine,
non-nitrite and
non-borate cool-
ant with long-life
hybrid organic
acid technology
For the U.S.A.:
“Toyota Super
Long Life Cool-
ant” is pre-mixed
with 50% cool-
ant and 50%
deionized water.
For Canada:
“Toyota Super
Long Life Cool-
ant” is pre-mixed
with 55% cool-
ant and 45%
deionized water.

• Funnel (used

only for adding
coolant)

Engine oil level
(



P.404)

• “Toyota Genuine

Motor Oil” or
equivalent

• Rag or paper

towel

• Funnel (used

only for adding
engine oil)

Fuses
(



P.429)

• Fuse with same

amperage rating
as original

Items

Parts and tools

401

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce
a

nd
ca

re

Headlight aim

(



P.431)

• Phillips-head

screwdriver

Light bulbs

(



P.432)

• Bulb with same

number and

wattage rating as

original

• Flathead screw-

driver

• Wrench

Radiator and

condenser

(



P.408)



Tire inflation

pressure

(



P.423)

• Tire pressure

gauge

• Compressed air

source

Washer fluid

(



P.410)

• Water or washer

fluid containing

antifreeze (for

winter use)

• Funnel (used

only for adding

water or washer

fluid)

WARNING

The engine compartment contains

many mechanisms and fluids that

may move suddenly, become hot,

or become electrically energized.

To avoid death or serious injury,

observe the following precautions.

■

When working on the engine

compartment

●

Keep hands, clothing and tools

away from the moving fan and

engine drive belt.

Items

Parts and tools

●

Be careful not to touch the

engine, radiator, exhaust mani-

fold, etc. right after driving as

they may be hot. Oil and other

fluids may also be hot.

●

Do not leave anything that may

burn easily, such as paper and

rags, in the engine compart-

ment.

●

Do not smoke, cause sparks or

expose an open flame to fuel or

the battery. Fuel and battery

fumes are flammable.

●

Be extremely cautious when

working on the battery. It con-

tains poisonous and corrosive

sulfuric acid.

■

When working near the elec-

tric cooling fan or radiator

grille

Be sure the engine switch is off.

With the engine switch in ON, the

electric cooling fan may automati-

cally start to run if the air condi-

tioning is on and/or the coolant

temperature is high. (



P.408)

■

Safety glasses

Wear safety glasses to prevent

flying or falling material, fluid

spray, etc. from getting in your

eyes.

NOTICE

■

If you remove the air cleaner

filter

Driving with the air cleaner filter

removed may cause excessive

engine wear due to dirt in the air.

402

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

1

Pull the hood lock release

lever.

The hood will pop up slightly.

2

Pull up the auxiliary catch

lever and lift the hood.

3

Hold the hood open by insert-

ing the support rod into the

slot.

Hood

Opening the hood

WARNING

■

Pre-driving check

Check that the hood is fully closed

and locked.

If the hood is not locked properly,

it may open while the vehicle is in

motion and cause an accident,

which may result in death or seri-

ous injury.

■

After installing the support

rod into the slot

Make sure the rod supports the

hood securely preventing it from

falling down onto your head or

body.

NOTICE

■

When closing the hood

Be sure to return the support rod

to its clip before closing the hood.

Closing the hood with the support

rod not clipped could cause the

hood to bend.

403

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce

a

nd

ca
re

■

Front

■

Rear

Positioning a floor

jack

When using a floor jack, fol-
low the instructions in the
manual provided with the
jack and perform the opera-
tion safely.
When raising your vehicle
with a floor jack, position
the jack correctly. Improper
placement may damage
your vehicle or cause injury.

Location of the jack point

404

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

Engine coolant reservoir (



P.407)

Fuse boxes (



P.429)

Engine oil filler cap (



P.405)

Engine oil level dipstick (



P.404)

Battery (



P.408)

Brake fluid reservoir (



P.408)

Washer fluid tank (



P.410)

Electric cooling fan

Condenser (



P.408)

Radiator (



P.408)

With the engine at operating
temperature and turned off,
check the oil level on the dip-

stick.

■

Checking the engine oil

1

Park the vehicle on level
ground. After warming up the
engine and turning it off, wait

Engine compartment

Components

Checking and adding the
engine oil

405

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce

a

nd

ca
re

more than 5 minutes for the
oil to drain back into the bot-
tom of the engine.

2

Holding a rag under the end,
pull the dipstick out.

3

Wipe the dipstick clean.

4

Reinsert the dipstick fully.

5

Holding a rag under the end,
pull the dipstick out and
check the oil level.

Low

Normal

Excessive

The shape of the dipstick may differ
depending on the type of vehicle or
engine.

6

Wipe the dipstick and reinsert
it fully.

■

Checking the oil type and
preparing the item needed

Make sure to check the oil type
and prepare the items needed
before adding oil.



Engine oil selection



P.495



Oil quantity (Low



Full)

1.9 qt. (1.8 L, 1.6 Imp. qt.)



Item
Clean funnel

■

Adding engine oil

If the oil level is below or near
the low level mark, add engine
oil of the same type as that
already in the engine.

1

Remove the oil filler cap by
turning it counterclockwise.

2

Add engine oil slowly, check-
ing the dipstick.

3

Install the oil filler cap by
turning it clockwise.

■

Engine oil consumption

A certain amount of engine oil will
be consumed while driving. In the
following situations, oil consump-
tion may increase, and engine oil
may need to be refilled in between
oil maintenance intervals.

406

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

●

When the engine is new, for

example directly after purchasing

the vehicle or after replacing the

engine

●

If low quality oil or oil of an inap-

propriate viscosity is used

●

When driving at high engine

speeds or with a heavy load,

when towing, or when driving

while accelerating or decelerating

frequently

●

When leaving the engine idling for

a long time, or when driving fre-

quently through heavy traffic

■

If the oil is spilled on the engine

cover

To prevent the engine cover from

being damaged, remove any engine

oil from the engine cover as soon as

possible using a neutral detergent.

Do not use an organic solvent such

as brake cleaner.

■

After changing the engine oil

The engine oil maintenance data

should be reset. Perform the follow-

ing procedures:



4.2-inch display

1

Press

or

of the meter

control switch to select

.

2

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select

and

then press and hold

.

3

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select “Oil Mainte-
nance” and then press

.

4

Select “Yes” and press

.

5

A message will be displayed on

the multi-information display

when the reset procedure has

been completed.



7-inch display

1

Press

or

of the meter

control switch to select

.

2

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select

and

then press and hold

.

3

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select “Oil Mainte-
nance” and then press

.

4

Select “Yes” and press

.

5

A message will be displayed on

the multi-information display

when the reset procedure has

been completed.

WARNING

■

Used engine oil

●

Used engine oil contains poten-

tially harmful contaminants

which may cause skin disorders

such as inflammation and skin

cancer, so care should be taken

to avoid prolonged and

repeated contact. To remove

used engine oil from your skin,

wash thoroughly with soap and

water.

●

Dispose of used oil and filters

only in a safe and acceptable

manner. Do not dispose of used

oil and filters in household trash,

in sewers or onto the ground.

Call your Toyota dealer, service

station or auto parts store for

information concerning recy-

cling or disposal.

●

Do not leave used engine oil

within the reach of children.

NOTICE

■

To prevent serious engine

damage

Check the oil level on a regular

basis.

407

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce
a

nd
ca

re

The coolant level is satisfactory

if it is between the “FULL” and

“LOW” lines on the reservoir

when the engine is cold.

Reservoir cap
“FULL” line
“LOW” line

If the level is on or below the “LOW”

line, add coolant up to the “FULL”

line. (



P.487)

■

Coolant selection

Only use “Toyota Super Long Life

Coolant” or a similar high quality

ethylene glycol based non-silicate,

non-amine, non-nitrite, and

non-borate coolant with long-life

hybrid organic acid technology.

U.S.A.:
“Toyota Super Long Life Coolant” is

a mixture of 50% coolant and 50%

deionized water. (Minimum tem-

perature: -31°F [-35°C])
Canada:
“Toyota Super Long Life Coolant” is

a mixture of 55% coolant and 45%

deionized water. (Minimum tem-

perature: -44°F [-42°C])
For more details about coolant, con-

tact your Toyota dealer.

■

If the coolant level drops within

a short time of replenishing

Visually check the radiator, hoses,

engine coolant reservoir cap, drain

cock and water pump.

If you cannot find a leak, have your

Toyota dealer test the cap and

check for leaks in the cooling sys-

tem.

NOTICE

■

When replacing the engine oil

●

Be careful not to spill engine oil

on the vehicle components.

●

Avoid overfilling, or the engine

could be damaged.

●

Check the oil level on the dip-

stick every time you refill the

vehicle.

●

Be sure the engine oil filler cap

is properly tightened.

Checking the coolant

WARNING

■

When the engine is hot

Do not remove the engine coolant

reservoir cap and radiator cap.
The cooling system may be under

pressure and may spray hot cool-

ant if the cap is removed, causing

serious injuries, such as burns.

NOTICE

■

When adding coolant

Coolant is neither plain water nor

straight antifreeze. The correct

mixture of water and antifreeze

must be used to provide proper

lubrication, corrosion protection

and cooling. Be sure to read the

antifreeze or coolant label.

■

If you spill coolant

Be sure to wash it off with water to

prevent it from damaging parts or

paint.

408

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

Check the radiator and con-

denser and clear away any for-

eign objects. If either of the

above parts is extremely dirty or

you are not sure of their condi-

tion, have your vehicle

inspected by your Toyota dealer.

■

Checking fluid level

The brake fluid level should be

between the “MAX” and “MIN”

lines on the tank.

■

Adding fluid

Make sure to check the fluid

type and prepare the necessary

item.



Fluid type

SAE J1703 or FMVSS No.116 DOT

3 brake fluid



Item

Clean funnel

■

Brake fluid can absorb moisture

from the air

Excess moisture in the brake fluid

can cause a dangerous loss of brak-

ing efficiency. Use only newly

opened brake fluid.

Check the battery as follows.

■

Battery exterior

Make sure that the battery termi-

nals are not corroded and that

there are no loose connections,

cracks, or loose clamps.

Checking the radiator and

condenser

WARNING

■

When the engine is hot

Do not touch the radiator or con-

denser as they may be hot and

cause serious injuries, such as

burns.

Checking and adding the

brake fluid

WARNING

■

When filling the reservoir

Take care as brake fluid can harm

your hands and eyes and damage

painted surfaces.

If fluid gets on your hands or in

your eyes, flush the affected area

with clean water immediately.
If you still experience discomfort,

see a doctor.

NOTICE

■

If the fluid level is low or high

It is normal for the brake fluid level

to go down slightly as the brake

pads wear out or when the fluid

level in the accumulator is high.

If the reservoir needs frequent

refilling, there may be a serious

problem.

Battery

409

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce
a

nd
ca

re

Terminals
Hold-down clamp

■

Before recharging

When recharging, the battery pro-

duces hydrogen gas which is flam-

mable and explosive. Therefore,

observe the following precautions

before recharging:

●

If recharging with the battery

installed on the vehicle, be sure to

disconnect the ground cable.

●

Make sure the power switch on

the charger is off when connecting

and disconnecting the charger

cables to the battery.

■

After recharging/reconnecting

the battery

●

The engine may not start. Follow

the procedure below to initialize

the system.

1

Shift the shift lever to P.

2

Open and close any of the doors.

3

Restart the engine.

●

Unlocking the doors using the

smart key system may not be pos-

sible immediately after reconnect-

ing the battery. If this happens,

use the wireless remote control or

the mechanical key to lock/unlock

the doors.

●

Start the engine with the engine

switch in ACC. The engine may

not start with the engine switch

turned off. However, the engine

will operate normally from the sec-

ond attempt.

●

The engine switch mode is

recorded by the vehicle. If the bat-

tery is disconnected and recon-

nected, the vehicle will return the

engine switch mode to the status it

was in before the battery was dis-

connected. Make sure to turn off

the engine before disconnecting

the battery. Take extra care when

connecting the battery if the

engine switch mode prior to the

battery being disconnected is

unknown.

If the system will not start even after

multiple attempts, contact your Toy-

ota dealer.

WARNING

■

Chemicals in the battery

Batteries contain poisonous and

corrosive sulfuric acid and may

produce hydrogen gas which is

flammable and explosive. To

reduce the risk of death or serious

injury, take the following precau-

tions while working on or near the

battery:

●

Do not cause sparks by touch-

ing the battery terminals with

tools.

●

Do not smoke or light a match

near the battery.

●

Avoid contact with eyes, skin

and clothes.

●

Never inhale or swallow electro-

lyte.

●

Wear protective safety glasses

when working near the battery.

●

Keep children away from the

battery.

410

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

If any washer does not work or

the warning message appears

on the multi-information display,

the washer tank may be empty.

Add washer fluid.

WARNING

■

Where to safely charge the

battery

Always charge the battery in an

open area. Do not charge the bat-

tery in a garage or closed room

where there is insufficient ventila-

tion.

■

How to recharge the battery

Only perform a slow charge (5 A

or less). The battery may explode

if charged at a quicker rate.

■

Emergency measures regard-

ing electrolyte

●

If electrolyte gets in your eyes

Flush your eyes with clean

water for at least 15 minutes

and get immediate medical

attention. If possible, continue

to apply water with a sponge or

cloth while traveling to the near-

est medical facility.

●

If electrolyte gets on your skin

Wash the affected area thor-

oughly. If you feel pain or burn-

ing, get medical attention

immediately.

●

If electrolyte gets on your

clothes

It can soak through clothing on

to your skin. Immediately take

off the clothing and follow the

procedure above if necessary.

●

If you accidentally swallow elec-

trolyte

Drink a large quantity of water

or milk. Get emergency medical

attention immediately.

NOTICE

■

When recharging the battery

Never recharge the battery while

the engine is running. Also, be

sure all accessories are turned

off.

Washer fluid

WARNING

■

When adding washer fluid

Do not add washer fluid when the

engine is hot or running as

washer fluid contains alcohol and

may catch fire if spilled on the

engine, etc.

NOTICE

■

Do not use any fluid other

than washer fluid

Do not use soapy water or engine

antifreeze instead of washer fluid.
Doing so may cause streaking on

the vehicle’s painted surfaces, as

well as damaging the pump lead-

ing to problems of the washer

fluid not spraying.

■

Diluting washer fluid

Dilute washer fluid with water as

necessary.
Refer to the freezing tempera-

tures listed on the label of the

washer fluid bottle.

411

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce

a

nd

ca
re

Check if the treadwear indica-
tors are showing on the tires.
Also check the tires for uneven
wear, such as excessive wear
on one side of the tread.

Check the spare tire condition
and pressure if not rotated.

New tread

Worn tread

Treadwear indicator

The location of treadwear indicators

is shown by a “TWI” or “

” mark,

etc., molded into the sidewall of
each tire.
Replace the tires if the treadwear
indicators are showing on a tire.

■

When to replace your vehicle’s
tires

Tires should be replaced if:

●

The treadwear indicators are
showing on a tire.

●

You have tire damage such as
cuts, splits, cracks deep enough
to expose the fabric, and bulges
indicating internal damage.

●

A tire goes flat repeatedly or can-
not be properly repaired due to the
size or location of a cut or other
damage.

If you are not sure, consult with your
Toyota dealer.

■

Tire life

Any tire over 6 years old must be
checked by a qualified technician
even if it has seldom or never been
used or damage is not obvious.

■

Proper storage of the spare tire

As an improperly stored spare tire
may cause damage to the wire
cable that holds it, check that the
spare tire is stored properly on a
daily basis.

●

If the stored spare tire appears to
be slanted or rattles while driving,
the spare tire may not be properly
stored. Store the spare tire again
by performing the following tire
change procedure correctly:

Tires

Replace or rotate tires in
accordance with mainte-
nance schedules and tread-
wear.

Checking tires

412

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

1

If the spare tire is slanted, the
hoist assembly may be stuck in
the wheel opening. If the spare
tire rattles while driving, it may
not be fully raised. Lower the
spare tire to the ground and
make sure that the hoist assem-
bly is perpendicular to the wheel
opening.

2

Raise the tire slowly and steadily
until a click is heard and the jack
handle skips.

If the spare tire cannot be lowered,
the wire cable may be severed.
Have the vehicle inspected at your
Toyota dealer.

■

Maximum load of tire

Check that the number given by
dividing the maximum load by 1.10
of the replacement tire is greater
than 1/2 of the Gross Axle Weight
Ratings (GAWR) of either the front
axle or the rear axle, whichever is
greater.

For the GAWR, see the Certification
Label.
For the maximum load of the tire,
see the load limit at maximum cold
tire inflation pressure mentioned on
the sidewall of the tire. (



P.505)

■

Tire types

●

Summer tires

Summer tires are high-speed perfor-
mance tires best suited to highway
driving under dry conditions. Since
summer tires do not have the same
traction performance as snow tires,
summer tires are inadequate for

driving on snow-covered or icy
roads. For driving on snow-covered
roads or icy roads, the use of snow
tires is recommended. When install-
ing snow tires, be sure to replace all
four tires.

●

All season tires

All season tires are designed to pro-
vide better traction in snow and to
be adequate for driving in most win-
ter conditions as well as for use
year-round. All season tires, how-
ever, do not have adequate traction
performance compared with snow
tires in heavy or loose snow. Also,
all season tires fall short in accelera-
tion and handling performance com-
pared with summer tires in highway
driving.

●

Snow tires

For driving on snow-covered roads
or icy roads, we recommend using
snow tires. If you need snow tires,
select tires of the same size, con-
struction and load capacity as the
originally installed tires. Since your
vehicle has radial tires as original
equipment, make sure your snow
tires also have radial construction.
Do not install studded tires without
first checking local regulations for
possible restrictions. Snow tires
should be installed on all wheels.
(



P.319)

■

If the tread on snow tires wears
down below 0.16 in. (4 mm)

The effectiveness of the tires as
snow tires is lost.

413

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce
a

nd
ca

re

Rotate the tires in the order

shown.



Vehicles with a compact

spare tire

Front



Vehicles with a full-size spare

tire

Front

To equalize tire wear and extend

tire life, Toyota recommends that

tire rotation is carried out at the

same interval as tire inspection.
Do not fail to initialize the tire pres-

WARNING

■

When inspecting or replacing

tires

Observe the following precautions

to prevent accidents.

Failure to do so may cause dam-

age to parts of the drive train as

well as dangerous handling char-

acteristics, which may lead to an

accident resulting in death or seri-

ous injury.

●

Do not mix tires of different

makes, models or tread pat-

terns.

Also, do not mix tires of remark-

ably different treadwear.

●

Do not use tire sizes other than

those recommended by Toyota.

●

Do not mix differently con-

structed tires (radial, bias-belted

or bias-ply tires).

●

Do not mix summer, all season

and snow tires.

●

Do not use tires that have been

used on another vehicle.

Do not use tires if you do not

know how they were used previ-

ously.

●

Vehicles with a compact spare

tire: Do not tow if your vehicle

has a compact spare tire

installed.

NOTICE

■

Driving on rough roads

Take particular care when driving

on roads with loose surfaces or

potholes.

These conditions may cause

losses in tire inflation pressure,

reducing the cushioning ability of

the tires. In addition, driving on

rough roads may cause damage

to the tires themselves, as well as

the vehicle’s wheels and body.

■

If tire inflation pressure of

each tire becomes low while

driving

Do not continue driving, or your

tires and/or wheels may be

ruined.

Tire rotation

414

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

sure warning system after tire rota-
tion.

Your vehicle is equipped with a
tire pressure warning system
that uses tire pressure warning
valves and transmitters to detect
low tire inflation pressure before
serious problems arise.



The tire pressure detected by
the tire pressure warning sys-
tem can be displayed on the
multi-information display.
(



P.82, 91)

The illustration used is intended as
an example, and may differ from
the image that is actually displayed
on the multi-information display.



4.2-inch display



7-inch display



If the tire pressure drops
below a predetermined level,
the driver is warned by a
screen display and a warning
light. (



P.454)

The illustration used is intended as
an example, and may differ from
the image that is actually displayed
on the multi-information display.



4.2-inch display



7-inch display

■

Routine tire inflation pressure
checks

The tire pressure warning system
does not replace routine tire inflation
pressure checks. Make sure to
check tire inflation pressure as part
of your routine of daily vehicle
checks.

■

Situations in which the tire
pressure warning system may
not operate properly

●

In the following cases, the tire
pressure warning system may not

Tire pressure warning
system

415

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce

a

nd

ca
re

operate properly.

• If non-genuine Toyota wheels are

used.

• A tire has been replaced with a

tire that is not an OE (Original
Equipment) tire.

• A tire has been replaced with a

tire that is not of the specified size.

• Tire chains, etc. are equipped.
• An auxiliary-supported run-flat tire

is equipped.

• If a window tint that affects the

radio wave signals is installed.

• If there is a lot of snow or ice on

the vehicle, particularly around the
wheels or wheel housings.

• If the tire inflation pressure is

extremely higher than the speci-
fied level.

• If the spare tire is in a location

subject to poor radio wave signal
reception.

*

• If wheel without the tire pressure

warning valve and transmitter is
used.

• If the ID code on the tire pressure

warning valves and transmitters is
not registered in the tire pressure
warning computer.

*

: Vehicles with full-size spare tire

only

●

Performance may be affected in
the following situations.

• Near a TV tower, electric power

plant, gas station, radio station,
large display, airport or other facil-
ity that generates strong radio
waves or electrical noise

• When carrying a portable radio,

cellular phone, cordless phone or
other wireless communication
device

●

If tire position information is not
correctly displayed due to the
radio wave conditions, the display
may be corrected by driving and
changing the radio wave condi-
tions.

●

When the vehicle is parked, the
time taken for the warning to start
or go off could be extended.

●

When tire inflation pressure
declines rapidly for example when
a tire has burst, the warning may
not function.

■

Warning performance of the tire
pressure warning system

The warning of the tire pressure
warning system will change in
accordance with the conditions
under which it was initialized. For
this reason, the system may give a
warning even if the tire pressure
does not reach a low enough level,
or if the pressure is higher than the
pressure that was adjusted to when
the system was initialized.

416

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

■

Tire pressure warning system certification

When replacing tires or wheels,
tire pressure warning valves and
transmitters must also be

Installing tire pressure
warning valves and trans-
mitters

417

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce
a

nd
ca

re

installed.
When new tire pressure warning

valves and transmitters are

installed, new ID codes must be

registered in the tire pressure

warning computer and the tire

pressure warning system must

be initialized. Have tire pressure

warning valves and transmitter

ID codes registered by your Toy-

ota dealer. (



P.420)

■

Replacing tires and wheels

If the ID code of the tire pressure

warning valve and transmitter is not

registered, the tire pressure warning

system will not work properly. After

driving for about 20 minutes, the tire

pressure warning light blinks for 1

minute and stays on to indicate a

system malfunction.

■

The tire pressure warning

system must be initialized

in the following circum-

stances:



When the tire inflation pres-

sure is changed such as

when changing traveling

speed.



When the tire inflation pres-

sure is changed such as

when the tire size is changed.



When rotating the tires.



After registering the ID codes.

(



P.420)

When the tire pressure warning

system is initialized, the current

tire inflation pressure is set as

the benchmark pressure.

NOTICE

■

Repairing or replacing tires,

wheels, tire pressure warn-

ing valves, transmitters and

tire valve caps

●

When removing or fitting the

wheels, tires or the tire pressure

warning valves and transmit-

ters, contact your Toyota dealer

as the tire pressure warning

valves and transmitters may be

damaged if not handled cor-

rectly.

●

Make sure to install the tire

valve caps. If the tire valve caps

are not installed, water could

enter the tire pressure warning

valves and the tire pressure

warning valves could be bound.

●

When replacing tire valve caps,

do not use tire valve caps other

than those specified. The cap

may become stuck.

■

To avoid damage to the tire

pressure warning valves and

transmitters

When a tire is repaired with liquid

sealants, the tire pressure warn-

ing valve and transmitter may not

operate properly. If a liquid seal-

ant is used, contact your Toyota

dealer or other qualified service

shop as soon as possible. Make

sure to replace the tire pressure

warning valve and transmitter

when replacing the tire. (



P.416)

Initializing the tire pres-

sure warning system

418

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

■

How to initialize the tire
pressure warning system



4.2-inch display

1

Park the vehicle in a safe
place and turn the engine
switch off.

Initialization cannot be performed
while the vehicle is moving.

2

Adjust the tire inflation pres-
sure to the specified cold tire
inflation pressure level.
(



P.499)

Make sure to adjust the tire pres-
sure to the specified cold tire infla-
tion pressure level. The tire
pressure warning system will oper-
ate based on this pressure level.

3

Turn the engine switch to
ON.

4

Press

or

of the meter

control switch to select

.

5

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select

and

then press and hold

.

6

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select “TPWS”

and then press

.

7

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select “Set
Pressure” and then press

and hold

.



7-inch display

1

Park the vehicle in a safe
place and turn the engine
switch off.

Initialization cannot be performed

while the vehicle is moving.

2

Adjust the tire inflation pres-
sure to the specified cold tire
inflation pressure level.
(



P.499)

Make sure to adjust the tire pres-
sure to the specified cold tire infla-
tion pressure level. The tire
pressure warning system will oper-
ate based on this pressure level.

3

Turn the engine switch to
ON.

4

Press

or

of the meter

control switch to select

.

5

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select

and

then press and hold

.

6

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select “TPWS”

and then press

.

7

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select “Set
Pressure” and then press

and hold

.

“Setting Tire Pressure Warning
System” will be displayed on the
multi-information display and the
tire pressure warning light will
blink 3 times.

When the message disappears,
initialization is complete.

A message is displayed on the
multi-information display. Also,
“--” is displayed for inflation
pressure of each tire on the
multi-information display while

419

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce

a

nd

ca
re

the tire pressure warning sys-
tem determines the position.

Drive the vehicle at approxi-
mately 25 mph (40 km/h) or
more for approximately 10 to 30
minutes until the inflation pres-
sure of each tire is displayed on
the multi-information display.

When initialization is complete,
the inflation pressure of each
tire will be displayed on the
multi-information display.

Even if the vehicle is not driven
at approximately 25 mph (40
km/h) or more, initialization can
be completed by driving for a
long time. However, if initializa-
tion does not complete after
driving for 1 hour or more, park
the vehicle in a safe place for
approximately 20 minutes and
then drive the vehicle again.

■

Initializing the tire pressure
warning system

Initialize the system with the tire
inflation pressure adjusted to the
specified level.

■

Initialization procedure

●

Make sure to carry out initializa-
tion after adjusting the tire inflation
pressure.
Also, make sure the tires are cold
before carrying out initialization or
tire inflation pressure adjustment.

●

If you have accidentally turned the
engine switch off during initializa-
tion, it is not necessary to restart
the initialization again as initializa-
tion will restart automatically when
the engine switch has been turned
to ON for the next time.

●

If you accidentally restart the ini-

tialization when initialization is not
necessary, adjust the tire inflation
pressure to the specified level
when the tires are cold, and con-
duct initialization again.

●

While the position of each tire is
being determined and the inflation
pressures are not being displayed
on the multi-information display, if
the inflation pressure of a tire
drops, the tire pressure warning
light will come on.

■

When initialization of the tire
pressure warning system has
failed

Initialization may take longer to
complete if the vehicle is driven on
an unpaved road. When performing
initialization, drive on a paved road if
possible. Depending on the driving
environment and condition of the
tires, initialization will be completed
in approximately 10 to 30 minutes. If
initialization is not complete after
driving approximately 10 to 30 min-
utes, continue driving for a while.

If the inflation pressure of each tire
is not displayed after driving for
approximately 1 hour, perform the
following procedure.

●

Park the vehicle in a safe place for
approximately 20 minutes. Then
drive straight (with occasional left
and right turns) at approximately
25 mph (40 km/h) or more for
approximately 10 to 30 minutes.

However, in the following situations,
the tire inflation pressure will not be
recorded and the system will not
operate properly. Perform initializa-
tion again.

●

If the vehicle is reversed during
initialization, the data up to that
point is reset, so perform the ini-
tialization procedure again from
the beginning.

●

When operating the tire pressure
warning reset switch, the tire pres-
sure warning light does not blink 3
times.

420

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

●

After performing initialization, the

tire pressure warning light blinks

for 1 minute then stays on while

driving.

If the inflation pressure of each tire

is still not displayed, have the vehi-

cle inspected by your Toyota dealer.

Every tire pressure warning

valve and transmitter has a

unique ID code. When replacing

a tire pressure warning valve

and transmitter, it is necessary

to register the ID code. When

registering the ID codes, per-

form the following procedure.



4.2-inch display

1

Park the vehicle in a safe

place and turn the engine

switch off.

Initialization cannot be performed

while the vehicle is moving.

2

Adjust the tire inflation pres-

sure to the specified cold tire

inflation pressure level.

(



P.499)

Make sure to adjust the tire pres-

sure to the specified cold tire infla-

tion pressure level. The tire

pressure warning system will oper-

ate based on this pressure level.

3

Turn the engine switch to

ON.

4

Press

or

of the meter

control switch to select

.

5

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select

and

then press and hold

.

6

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select “TPWS”
and then press

.

7

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select

“Change Wheel” and then
press

until the tire pres-

sure warning light starts

slowly blinking 3 times.

The change wheel set mode is acti-

vated and registration is started.
Then a message will be displayed

on the multi-information display.

When registration is being per-

formed, the tire pressure warning

light will blink for approximately 1

minute then illuminate and “--” will

be displayed for the inflation pres-

sure of each tire on the multi-infor-

mation display.

8

Drive the vehicle at approxi-

mately 25mph (40 km/h) or

more for approximately 10 to

30 minutes.

When registration is completed, the

tire pressure warning light will go off

and the inflation pressure of each

tire will be displayed on the

multi-information display.

WARNING

■

When initializing the tire pres-

sure warning system

Do not initializing tire inflation

pressure without first adjusting

the tire inflation pressure to the

specified level. Otherwise, the tire

pressure warning light may not

come on even if the tire inflation

pressure is low, or it may come on

when the tire inflation pressure is

actually normal.

Registering ID codes

421

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce

a

nd

ca
re

Even if the vehicle is not driven at
approximately 25 mph (40 km/h) or
more, registration can be com-
pleted by driving for a long time.
However, if registration does not
complete after driving for 1 hour or
more, perform the procedure again
from the beginning.

9

Initialize the tire pressure
warning system. (



P.418)



7-inch display

1

Park the vehicle in a safe
place and turn the engine
switch off.

Initialization cannot be performed
while the vehicle is moving.

2

Adjust the tire inflation pres-
sure to the specified cold tire
inflation pressure level.
(



P.499)

Make sure to adjust the tire pres-
sure to the specified cold tire infla-
tion pressure level. The tire
pressure warning system will oper-
ate based on this pressure level.

3

Turn the engine switch to
ON.

4

Press

or

of the meter

control switch to select

.

5

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select

and

then press and hold

.

6

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select “TPWS”

and then press

.

7

Press

or

of the meter

control switch, select
“Change Wheel” and then

press

until the tire pres-

sure warning light starts
slowly blinking 3 times.

The change wheel set mode is acti-
vated and registration is started.

Then a message will be displayed
on the multi-information display.
When registration is being per-
formed, the tire pressure warning
light will blink for approximately 1
minute then illuminate and “--” will
be displayed for the inflation pres-
sure of each tire on the multi-infor-
mation display.

8

Drive the vehicle at approxi-
mately 25mph (40 km/h) or
more for approximately 10 to
30 minutes.

When registration is completed, the
tire pressure warning light will go off
and the inflation pressure of each
tire will be displayed on the
multi-information display.

Even if the vehicle is not driven at
approximately 25 mph (40 km/h) or
more, registration can be com-
pleted by driving for a long time.
However, if registration does not
complete after driving for 1 hour or
more, perform the procedure again
from the beginning.

9

Initialize the tire pressure
warning system. (



P.418)

■

When registering ID codes

●

ID code registration is performed
while driving at a vehicle speed of
approximately 25 mph (40 km/h)
or more.

●

Before performing ID code regis-
tration, make sure that no wheels
with tire pressure warning valve
and transmitters installed are near
the vehicle.

●

Make sure to initialize the tire
pressure warning system after

422

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

registering the ID codes. If the
system is initialized before regis-
tering the ID codes, the initialized
values will be invalid.

●

ID codes can be registered by
yourself, but depending on the
driving conditions and driving
environment, registration may
take some time to complete.

■

Canceling ID code registration

●

To cancel ID code registration
after it has been started, turn the
engine switch off before driving
the vehicle. If the vehicle is driven
after ID code registration is
started, to cancel registration, per-
form the ID code registration start
procedure again and turn the
engine switch off before driving.

●

If ID code registration has been
canceled, the tire pressure warn-
ing light will blink for approxi-
mately 1 minute when the engine
switch is turned to ON and then
illuminate. The tire pressure warn-
ing system will be operational
when the tire pressure warning
light turns off.

●

If the warning light does not turn
off even after several minutes
have elapsed, ID code registration
may not have been canceled cor-
rectly. To cancel registration, per-
form the ID code registration start
procedure again and then turn the
engine switch off before driving.

■

If ID codes are not registered
properly

In the following situations, ID code
registration may take longer than
usual to be completed or may not be
possible. Normally, registration com-
pletes within approximately 30 min-
utes.

●

Vehicle is not parked for approxi-
mately 20 minutes or more before
driving

●

Vehicle is not driven at approxi-
mately 25 mph (40 km/h) or more

●

Vehicle is driven on unpaved

roads

●

Vehicle is driven near other vehi-
cles and system cannot recog-
nize tire pressure warning valve
and transmitters of your vehicle
over those of other vehicles

Wheel with tire pressure warning
valve and transmitter installed is
inside or near the vehicle

If registration does not complete
after driving for 1 hour or more, per-
form the ID code registration proce-
dure again from the beginning.

●

If the vehicle is reversed during
registration, the data up to that
point is reset, so perform the reg-
istration procedure again from the
beginning.

●

In the following situations, ID code
registration will not be started or
was not completed properly and
the system will not operate prop-
erly. Perform the ID code registra-
tion procedure again.

• If, when attempting to start ID

code registration, the tire pressure
warning light does not blink slowly
3 times.

• If, when the vehicle has been

driven for about 20 minutes after
performing ID code registration,
the tire pressure warning light
blinks for approximately 1 minute
and then illuminates.

If the ID codes cannot be registered
even when performing the above
procedure, contact your Toyota
dealer.

423

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce

a

nd

ca
re

The recommended cold tire
inflation pressure and tire size
are displayed on the tire and
loading information label.
(



P.499)

Tire valve

Tire pressure gauge

1

Remove the tire valve cap.

2

Press the tip of the tire pres-
sure gauge onto the tire
valve.

3

Read the pressure using the
gauge gradations.

4

If the tire inflation pressure is
not at the recommended
level, adjust the pressure.
If you add too much air, press
the center of the valve to
deflate.

5

After completing the tire infla-
tion pressure measurement
and adjustment, apply soapy
water to the valve and check
for leakage.

6

Put the tire valve cap back
on.

■

Tire inflation pressure check
interval

You should check tire inflation pres-
sure every two weeks, or at least
once a month. Do not forget to
check the spare.

■

Effects of incorrect tire inflation
pressure

Driving with incorrect tire inflation
pressure may result in the following:

●

Reduced fuel economy

●

Reduced driving comfort and poor
handling

●

Reduced tire life due to wear

●

Reduced safety

●

Damage to the drive train

If a tire needs frequent inflating,
have it checked by your Toyota
dealer.

■

Instructions for checking tire
inflation pressure

When checking tire inflation pres-

Tire inflation pressure

Checking the specified
tire inflation pressure

Inspection and adjust-
ment procedure

424

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

sure, observe the following:

●

Check only when the tires are

cold.

If your vehicle has been parked for

at least 3 hours or has not been

driven for more than 1 mile or 1.5

km, you will get an accurate cold

tire inflation pressure reading.

●

Always use a tire pressure gauge.

It is difficult to judge if a tire is

properly inflated based only on its

appearance.

●

It is normal for the tire inflation

pressure to be higher after driving

as heat is generated in the tire. Do

not reduce tire inflation pressure

after driving.

●

Never exceed the vehicle capacity

weight.

Passengers and luggage weight

should be placed so that the vehi-

cle is balanced.

WARNING

■

Proper inflation is critical to

save tire performance

Keep your tires properly inflated.

If the tires are not properly

inflated, the following conditions

may occur which could lead to an

accident resulting in death or seri-

ous injury:

●

Excessive wear

●

Uneven wear

●

Poor handling

●

Possibility of blowouts resulting

from overheated tires

●

Air leaking from between tire

and wheel

●

Wheel deformation and/or tire

damage

●

Greater possibility of tire dam-

age while driving (due to road

hazards, expansion joints,

sharp edges in the road, etc.)

NOTICE

■

When inspecting and adjust-

ing tire inflation pressure

Be sure to put the tire valve caps

back on.

If a valve cap is not installed, dirt

or moisture may get into the valve

and cause an air leak, resulting in

decreased tire inflation pressure.

425

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce
a

nd
ca

re

When replacing wheels, care

should be taken to ensure that

they are equivalent to those

removed in load capacity, diam-
eter, rim width and inset

*

.

Replacement wheels are avail-

able at your Toyota dealer.

*

: Conventionally referred to as off-

set.

Toyota does not recommend

using the following:



Wheels of different sizes or

types



Used wheels



Bent wheels that have been

straightened

■

When replacing wheels

The wheels of your vehicle are

equipped with tire pressure warning

valves and transmitters that allow

the tire pressure warning system to

provide advance warning in the

event of a loss in tire inflation pres-

sure. Whenever wheels are

replaced, tire pressure warning

valves and transmitters must be

installed. (



P.416)

Wheels

If a wheel is bent, cracked or

heavily corroded, it should

be replaced. Otherwise, the

tire may separate from the

wheel or cause a loss of

handling control.

Wheel selection

WARNING

■

When replacing wheels

●

Do not use wheels that are a dif-

ferent size from those recom-

mended in the Owner’s Manual,

as this may result in a loss of

handling control.

●

Never use an inner tube in a

leaking wheel which is designed

for a tubeless tire.

Doing so may result in an acci-

dent, causing death or serious

injury.

■

When installing the wheel

nuts

Never use oil or grease on the

wheel bolts or wheel nuts.

Oil and grease may cause the

wheel nuts to be excessively tight-

ened, leading to bolt or disc wheel

damage. In addition, the oil or

grease can cause the wheel nuts

to loosen and the wheel may fall

off, causing an accident and

resulting in death or serious injury.

Remove any oil or grease from

the wheel bolts or wheel nuts.

■

Use of defective wheels pro-

hibited

Do not use cracked or deformed

wheels. Doing so could cause the

tire to leak air during driving, pos-

sibly causing an accident.

NOTICE

■

Replacing tire pressure warn-

ing valves and transmitters

●

Because tire repair or replace-

ment may affect the tire pres-

sure warning valves and

transmitters, make sure to have

tires serviced by your Toyota

dealer or other qualified service

shop. In addition, make sure to

purchase your tire pressure

warning valves and transmit-

ters at your Toyota dealer.

426

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U



Use only Toyota wheel nuts

and wrenches designed for

use with your aluminum

wheels.



When rotating, repairing or

changing your tires, check

that the wheel nuts are still

tight after driving 1000 miles

(1600 km).



Be careful not to damage the

aluminum wheels when using

tire chains.



Use only Toyota genuine bal-

ance weights or equivalent

and a plastic or rubber ham-

mer when balancing your

wheels.

1

Turn the engine switch off.

2

Open the glove box. Slide off

the damper.

3

Push in the glove box on the

vehicle’s outer side to discon-

nect the claws. Then pull out

the glove box and disconnect

the lower claws.

4

Unlock the filter cover ( ),

pull the filter cover out of the

NOTICE

●

Ensure that only genuine Toyota

wheels are used on your vehi-

cle.

Tire pressure warning valves

and transmitters may not work

properly with non-genuine

wheels.

Aluminum wheel precau-

tions

Air conditioning filter

The air conditioning filter

must be changed regularly

to maintain air conditioning

efficiency.

Removing the air condi-

tioning filter

427

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce
a

nd
ca

re

claws ( ), and remove the

filter cover.

5

Remove the filter case.

6

Remove the air conditioning

filter from the filter case and

replace it with a new one.

The “

UP” marks shown on the

filter and the filter case should be

pointing up.

■

Checking interval

Inspect and replace the air condi-

tioning filter according to the mainte-

nance schedule. In dusty areas or

areas with heavy traffic flow, early

replacement may be required. (For

scheduled maintenance information,

please refer to the “Owner’s Manual

Supplement” or “Scheduled Mainte-

nance Guide”.)

■

If air flow from the vents

decreases dramatically

The filter may be clogged. Check

the filter and replace if necessary.

NOTICE

■

When using the air condition-

ing system

Make sure that a filter is always

installed.

Using the air conditioning system

without a filter may cause damage

to the system.

428

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

■

If the electronic key battery is
depleted

The following symptoms may occur:

●

The smart key system and wire-
less remote control will not func-
tion properly.

●

The operational range will be
reduced.



Flathead screwdriver



Small flathead screwdriver



Lithium battery CR2032

■

Use a CR2032 lithium battery

●

Batteries can be purchased at
your Toyota dealer, local electrical
appliance shops or camera stores.

●

Replace only with the same or
equivalent type recommended by
the manufacturer.

●

Dispose of used batteries accord-
ing to the local laws.

1

Release the lock and remove
the mechanical key.

2

Remove the key cover.

To prevent damage to the key,
cover the tip of the flathead screw-
driver with a rag.

3

Remove the depleted battery.

When removing the cover, the elec-
tronic key module may stick to the
cover and the battery may not be
visible. In this case, remove the
electronic key module in order to
remove the battery.

When removing the battery, use a
screwdriver of an appropriate size.
Insert a new battery with the “+” ter-

Electronic key battery

Replace the battery with a
new one if it is depleted.

You will need the follow-
ing items:

Replacing the battery

429

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce
a

nd
ca

re

minal facing up.

1

Turn the engine switch off.

2

Open the fuse box cover.



Engine compartment: type A

fuse box

Push the tab in and lift the lid off.



Engine compartment: type B

fuse box

Push the tab in and lift the lid off.

WARNING

■

Removed battery and other

parts

These parts are small and if swal-

lowed by a child, they can cause

choking. Keep away from chil-

dren. Failure to do so could result

in death or serious injury.

NOTICE

■

For normal operation after

replacing the battery

Observe the following precautions

to prevent accidents:

●

Always work with dry hands.

Moisture may cause the battery

to rust.

●

Do not touch or move any other

component inside the remote

control.

●

Do not bend either of the battery

terminals.

Checking and replac-

ing fuses

If any of the electrical com-

ponents do not operate, a

fuse may have blown. If this

happens, check and replace

the fuses as necessary.

Checking and replacing

fuses

430

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U



Under the driver’s side instru-
ment panel

Remove the lid.

Make sure to push the claw when
removing/installing the lid.

3

Remove the fuse.

Only type B fuse can be removed
using the pullout tool.

4

Check if the fuse is blown.

Replace the blown fuse with a new
fuse of an appropriate amperage
rating. The amperage rating can be
found on the fuse box lid.



Type A

Normal fuse

Blown fuse



Type B

Normal fuse

Blown fuse



Type C

Normal fuse

Blown fuse

■

After a fuse is replaced

●

If the lights do not turn on even
after the fuse has been replaced,
a bulb may need replacement.
(



P.432)

●

If the replaced fuse blows again,
have the vehicle inspected by
your Toyota dealer.

■

If there is an overload in a cir-
cuit

The fuses are designed to blow, pro-
tecting the wiring harness from
damage.

431

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce
a

nd
ca

re

■

When replacing light bulbs

Toyota recommends that you use

genuine Toyota products designed

for this vehicle. Because certain

bulbs are connected to circuits

designed to prevent overload,

non-genuine parts or parts not

designed for this vehicle may be

unusable.

Adjustment bolt A
Adjustment bolt B



Make sure the vehicle has a

full tank of gasoline and the

area around the headlight is

not deformed.



Park the vehicle on level

ground.



Make sure the tire inflation

pressure is at the specified

level.



Have someone sit in the

driver’s seat.



Bounce the vehicle several

times.

WARNING

■

To prevent system break-

downs and vehicle fire

Observe the following precau-

tions.

Failure to do so may cause dam-

age to the vehicle, and possibly a

fire or injury.

●

Never use a fuse of a higher

amperage rating than that indi-

cated, or use any other object in

place of a fuse.

●

Always use a genuine Toyota

fuse or equivalent.

Never replace a fuse with a

wire, even as a temporary fix.

●

Do not modify the fuses or fuse

boxes.

NOTICE

■

Before replacing fuses

Have the cause of electrical over-

load determined and repaired by

your Toyota dealer as soon as

possible.

Headlight aim

Vertical movement adjust-

ing bolts

Before checking the head-

light aim

432

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

1

Using a Phillips-head screw-
driver, turn bolt A in either
direction.

Remember the turning direction
and the number of turns.

2

Turn bolt B the same number
of turns and in the same
direction as step

1

.

If the headlight cannot be adjusted
using this procedure, take the vehi-
cle to your Toyota dealer to adjust
the headlight aim.

Check the wattage of the light
bulb to be replaced. (



P.501)



P.520



Front (type A)

Front turn signal lights/park-

Adjusting the headlight
aim

Light bulbs

You may replace the follow-
ing bulbs by yourself. The
difficulty level of replace-
ment varies depending on
the bulb. If necessary bulb
replacement seems difficult
to perform, contact your
Toyota dealer.

For more information about
replacing other light bulbs,
contact your Toyota dealer.

Preparing for light bulb
replacement

Turning off the power
back door main switch (if
equipped)

Bulb locations

433

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce

a

nd

ca
re

ing lights

Front side marker lights



Front (type B)

Front turn signal lights

Front side marker lights



Rear

Rear turn signal lights

Back-up lights

License plate lights

■

Lights that need to be
replaced by your Toyota
dealer



Headlight low beams



Headlight high beams



Parking lights (type B)



Daytime running lights (type
A)



Daytime running lights/park-
ing lights (type B)



Front fog lights



Side turn signal lights



Tail lights/stop lights



Rear side marker lights



Tail lights



High mounted stoplight



Outer foot lights (if equipped)

■

LED lights

The lights other than the following
lights each consist of a number of
LEDs. If any of the LEDs burn out,
take your vehicle to your Toyota
dealer to have the light replaced.

●

Front turn signal lights/parking
lights (type A)

●

Front turn signal lights (type B)

●

Front side marker lights

●

Rear turn signal lights

●

Back-up lights

●

License plate lights

■

Condensation build-up on the
inside of the lens

Temporary condensation build-up
on the inside of the light lens does
not indicate a malfunction. Contact
your Toyota dealer for more informa-
tion in the following situations:

●

Large drops of water have built up
on the inside of the lens.

●

Water has built up inside the light.

■

When replacing light bulbs



P.431

434

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

■

Front turn signal
lights/parking lights (type
A) and front turn signal
lights (type B)

1

Turn the bulb base counter-
clockwise and remove it.

2

Remove the light bulb.

3

Install a new light bulb, and
then install the bulb base to
the light unit by inserting it
and turning the bulb base
clockwise.

After installing the bulb base, wig-
gle it lightly to make sure it is
securely installed and turn the lights
and turn signal lights on to visually
check that there is no light leaking
from between the bulb base and

light unit.

■

Front side marker lights

1

Turn the bulb base counter-
clockwise and remove it.

2

Remove the light bulb.

3

Install a new light bulb, and
then install the bulb base to
the light unit by inserting it
and turning the bulb base
clockwise.

After installing the bulb base, wig-
gle it lightly to make sure it is
securely installed and turn the lights
on to visually check that there is no
light leaking from between the bulb

Replacing light bulbs

435

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce

a

nd

ca
re

base and light unit.

■

Rear turn signal lights

1

Open the back door and
using a flathead screwdriver,
remove the cover.

To prevent damage to the vehicle,
wrap the tip of the flathead screw-
driver with tape, etc.

2

Remove the securing 2
screws and light unit.

Remove the light unit by pulling it
straight back from the rear of the
vehicle.

3

Disconnect the wire harness.

4

Turn the bulb base counter-
clockwise and remove it.

5

Remove the light bulb.

6

Install a new light bulb, and
then install the bulb base to
the light unit by inserting it
and turning it clockwise.

After installing the bulb base, wig-
gle it lightly to make sure it is
securely installed and turn on the
turn signal lights to visually check
that there is no light leaking from
between the bulb base and light

436

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

unit.

7

Install the light unit.

Align the 2 guides and push the
light unit toward the front of the
vehicle to install it.

8

Install the 2 screws.

9

Install the cover.

■

Back-up lights

1

Open the back door and
remove the cover.

Using a flathead screwdriver,
remove the cover.

To prevent damage to the vehicle,
wrap the tip of the flathead screw-
driver with tape, etc.

2

Turn the bulb base counter-
clockwise and remove it.

437

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce

a

nd

ca
re

3

Remove the light bulb.

4

Install a new light bulb, and
then install the bulb base to
the light unit by inserting it
and turning it clockwise.

After installing the bulb base, wig-
gle it lightly to make sure it is
securely installed and turn on the
back-up lights to visually check that
there is no light leaking from
between the bulb base and light
unit.

5

Install the cover.

Align the tabs of the cover with the
grooves and install the cover.

■

License plate lights

1

Remove the cover.

Using a flathead screwdriver,
remove the cover.

To prevent damage to the vehicle,
wrap the tip of the flathead screw-
driver with tape, etc.

2

Remove the lens.

Lens

Hook

438

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

1

Insert a small flathead screw-
driver, etc. into either the
right or left hole of the lens.

2

Push the screwdriver side-
ways in the direction of the
arrow shown in the illustra-
tion, disengage the hook, and
then remove the lens.

To prevent damage to the vehicle,
wrap the tip of the screwdriver with
tape, etc.

3

Remove the light bulb.

4

Install a new light bulb.

5

Install the lens.

Hooks

1

Fit the lens into either the
right or left hooks.

2

Push the lens into place.

After installation, confirm that the
lens is properly installed by gently
pulling it.

6

Install the cover.

439

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce
a

nd
ca

re

WARNING

■

To prevent injury

Before performing any light bulb

replacement procedure, be sure

to turn the engine switch off. Fail-

ure to do so may result in burns

from hot components or a part of

your body may get caught on an

operating component, possibly

causing serious injury.

■

Replacing light bulbs

●

Turn off the lights. Do not

attempt to replace the bulb

immediately after turning off the

lights.The bulbs become very

hot and may cause burns.

●

Do not touch the glass portion

of the light bulb with bare

hands. When it is unavoidable

to hold the glass portion, use

and hold with a clean dry cloth

to avoid getting moisture and

oils on the bulb. Also, if the bulb

is scratched or dropped, it may

blow out or crack.

●

Fully install light bulbs and any

parts used to secure them. Fail-

ure to do so may result in heat

damage, fire, or water entering

the light unit. This may damage

the lights or cause condensa-

tion to build up on the lens.

●

Do not attempt to repair or dis-

assemble light bulbs, connec-

tors, electric circuits or

component parts.

Doing so may result in death or

serious injury due to electric

shock.

■

To prevent damage or fire

●

Make sure bulbs are fully

seated and locked.

●

Check the wattage of the bulb

before installing to prevent heat

damage.

440

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

441

HIGHLANDER_U

7

7

Whe

n tr

ouble

ar

ises

When trouble arises

.

7-1. Essential information

Emergency flashers .

442

If your vehicle has to be

stopped in an emergency

. . . . . . . . ..

442

If the vehicle is trapped in

rising water. . . .

443

7-2. Steps to take in an emer-

gency

If your vehicle needs to be

towed. . . . . . .

445

If you think something is

wrong . . . . . .

448

Fuel pump shut off system

. . . . . . . . ..

449

If a warning light turns on or

a warning buzzer sounds

. . . . . . . . ..

450

If a warning message is dis-

played. . . . . .

460

If you have a flat tire.

464

If the engine will not start

. . . . . . . . ..

478

If you lose your keys ...

479

If the fuel filler door cannot

be opened . . . . .

480

If the electronic key does

not operate properly ..

481

If the vehicle battery is dis-

charged . . . . . .

483

If your vehicle overheats

. . . . . . . . ..

487

If the vehicle becomes stuck

. . . . . . . . ..

489

442

7-1. Essential information

HIGHLANDER_U

7-1.Essential information

Press the switch.

All the turn signal lights will flash.
To turn them off, press the switch
once again.

■

Emergency flashers

●

If the emergency flashers are
used for a long time while the
engine is not operating, the bat-
tery may discharge.

●

If any of the SRS airbags deploy
(inflate) or in the event of a strong
rear impact, the emergency flash-
ers will turn on automatically.
The emergency flashers will turn
off automatically after operating
for approximately 20 minutes. To
manually turn the emergency
flashers off, press the switch
twice.
(The emergency flashers may not
turn on automatically depending
on the force of the impact and
conditions of the collision.)

1

Steadily step on the brake
pedal with both feet and
firmly depress it.

Do not pump the brake pedal
repeatedly as this will increase the
effort required to slow the vehicle.

2

Shift the shift lever to N.



If the shift lever is shifted to N

3

After slowing down, stop the
vehicle in a safe place by the
road.

4

Stop the engine.



If the shift lever cannot be
shifted to N

3

Keep depressing the brake
pedal with both feet to reduce
vehicle speed as much as
possible.

4

To stop the engine, press and
hold the engine switch for 2
consecutive seconds or

Emergency flashers

The emergency flashers are
used to warn other drivers
when the vehicle has to be
stopped on the road due to
a breakdown, etc.

Operating instructions

If your vehicle has to

be stopped in an emer-

gency

Only in an emergency, such
as if it becomes impossible
to stop the vehicle in the
normal way, stop the vehicle
using the following proce-
dure:

Stopping the vehicle

443

7-1. Essential information

HIGHLANDER_U

7

Whe

n

trouble

ar

ises

more, or press it briefly 3

times or more in succession.

5

Stop the vehicle in a safe

place by the road.



Remove the seat belt first.



If the door can be opened,

open the door and exit the

vehicle.



If the door can not be opened,

open the window using the

power window switch and exit

the vehicle through the win-

dow.



If the window can not be

opened using the power win-

dow switch, remain calm, wait

until the water level inside the

vehicle rises to the point that

the water pressure inside of

the vehicle equals the water

pressure outside of the vehi-

cle, and then open the door

and exit the vehicle.

WARNING

■

If the engine has to be turned

off while driving

Power assist for the brakes and

steering wheel will be lost, making

the brake pedal harder to depress

and the steering wheel heavier to

turn. Decelerate as much as pos-

sible before turning off the engine.

If the vehicle is

trapped in rising water

In the event the vehicle is

submerged in water, remain

calm and perform the fol-

lowing.

444

7-1. Essential information

HIGHLANDER_U

WARNING

■

Using an emergency hammer

*

for emergency escape

The front side windows and rear

side windows, as well as the rear

window can be shattered with an

emergency hammer

*

used for

emergency escape.

However, an emergency hammer

*

can not shatter the windshield as

it is laminated glass.

*

: Contact your Toyota dealer or

aftermarket accessory manu-

facturer for further information

about an emergency hammer.

■

Escaping the vehicle from the

window

There are cases where escaping

the vehicle from the window is not

possible due to seating position,

passenger body type, etc.

When using an emergency ham-

mer, consider your seat location

and the size of the window open-

ing to ensure that the opening is

accessible and large enough to

escape.

445

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

HIGHLANDER_U

7

Whe

n

trouble

ar

ises

7-2.Steps to take in an emergency

If your vehicle needs

to be towed

If towing is necessary, we

recommend having your

vehicle towed by your Toy-

ota dealer or commercial

towing service, using a

wheel-lift type truck or flat-

bed truck.
Use a safety chain system

for all towing, and abide by

all state/provincial and local

laws.
If towing your vehicle with a

wheel-lift type truck from

the front, the vehicle’s rear

wheels and axles must be in

good conditions. (



P.447)

If they are damaged, use a

towing dolly or flatbed

truck.

WARNING

Observe the following precau-

tions.

Failure to do so may result in

death or serious injury.

■

When towing the vehicle



2WD models

Be sure to transport the vehicle

with the front wheels raised or

with all four wheels raised off the

ground. If the vehicle is towed

with the front wheels contacting

the ground, the drivetrain and

related parts may be damaged.



AWD models

Be sure to transport the vehicle

with all four wheels raised off the

ground. If the vehicle is towed

with the tires contacting the

ground, the drivetrain or related

parts may be damaged, the vehi-

cle may fly off the truck.

446

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

HIGHLANDER_U

The following may indicate a

problem with your transmission.

Contact your Toyota dealer or

commercial towing service

before towing.



The engine is running but the

vehicle does not move.



The vehicle makes an abnor-

mal sound.

WARNING

■

While towing

●

When towing using cables or

chains, avoid sudden starts, etc.

which place excessive stress on

the towing eyelets, cables or

chains. The towing eyelets,

cables or chains may become

damaged, broken debris may hit

people, and cause serious dam-

age.

●

Do not turn the engine switch

off.

There is a possibility that the

steering wheel is locked and

cannot be operated.

NOTICE

■

To prevent damage to the

vehicle when towing using a

wheel-lift type truck

●

Do not tow the vehicle from the

rear when the engine switch is

off. The steering lock mecha-

nism is not strong enough to

hold the front wheels straight.

●

When raising the vehicle,

ensure adequate ground clear-

ance for towing at the opposite

end of the raised vehicle. With-

out adequate clearance, the

vehicle could be damaged while

being towed.

■

To prevent damage to the

vehicle when towing with a

sling-type truck

Do not tow with a sling-type truck,

either from the front or rear.

■

To prevent damage to the

vehicle during emergency

towing

Do not secure cables or chains to

the suspension components.

■

When towing a vehicle

equipped with a Stop & Start

system (if equipped)

If it is necessary to tow the vehicle

with all 4 wheels on the ground,

perform the following procedure

before towing the vehicle, in order

to protect the system.

Turn the engine switch off and

then start the engine or turn the

engine switch to ON.

■

Recreational towing (behind

motor home, etc.)

Never dinghy tow your vehicle to

prevent causing serious damage

to the Dynamic Torque Control

AWD system (AWD models) or

Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD

system (AWD models) and trans-

mission. (



P.199)

Situations when it is nec-

essary to contact dealers

before towing

447

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

HIGHLANDER_U

7

Whe

n

trouble

ar

ises



From the front (2WD models)

Release the parking brake.

Turn automatic mode off.P.210



From the front (AWD models)

Use a towing dolly under the

rear wheels.



From the rear

Use a towing dolly under the

front wheels.

If your vehicle is transported by

a flatbed truck, it should be tied

down at the locations shown in

the illustration.

If you use chains or cables to tie

down your vehicle, the angles

shaded in black must be 45°.

Towing with a wheel-lift

type truck

NOTICE

■

Towing with a sling-type truck

Do not tow with a sling-type truck

to prevent body damage.



2WD models



AWD models

Using a flatbed truck

448

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

HIGHLANDER_U

A driver must be in the vehicle to

steer and operate the brakes.

The vehicle’s wheels, drive train,

axles, steering and brakes must

be in good condition.



Fluid leaks under the vehicle

(Water dripping from the air

conditioning after use is nor-

mal.)



Flat-looking tires or uneven

tire wear



Engine coolant temperature

gauge needle continually

points higher than normal



Changes in exhaust sound



Excessive tire squeal when

cornering



Strange noises related to the

suspension system



Pinging or other noises

related to the engine



Engine missing, stumbling or

running roughly



Appreciable loss of power



Vehicle pulls heavily to one

NOTICE

■

Using a flatbed truck

Do not overly tighten the tie

downs or the vehicle may be

damaged.

Emergency towing

If you think something

is wrong

If you notice any of the fol-

lowing symptoms, your

vehicle probably needs

adjustment or repair. Con-

tact your Toyota dealer as

soon as possible.

Visible symptoms

Audible symptoms

Operational symptoms

449

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

HIGHLANDER_U

7

Whe

n

trouble

ar

ises

side when braking



Vehicle pulls heavily to one

side when driving on a level

road



Loss of brake effectiveness,

spongy feeling, pedal almost

touches the floor

Follow the procedure below to

restart the engine after the sys-

tem is activated.

1

Turn the engine switch to

ACC or turn it OFF.

2

Restart the engine.

Fuel pump shut off

system

To minimize the risk of fuel

leakage when the engine

stalls or when an airbag

inflates upon collision, the

fuel pump shut off system

stops the supply of fuel to

the engine.

Restarting the engine

NOTICE

■

Before starting the engine

Inspect the ground under the

vehicle.

If you find that fuel has leaked

onto the ground, the fuel system

has been damaged and is in need

of repair. Do not restart the

engine.

450

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

HIGHLANDER_U

■

Brake system warning light

■

Brake system warning light

■

High coolant temperature warning light

*

(warning buzzer)

*

: This light illuminates on the multi-information display.

If a warning light turns on or a warning buzzer

sounds

Calmly perform the following actions if any of the warning
lights comes on or flashes. If a light comes on or flashes, but
then goes off, this does not necessarily indicate a malfunction
in the system. However, if this continues to occur, have the
vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer.

Actions to the warning lights or warning buzzers

Warning light

Details/Actions

(U.S.A.)

or

(red)

(Canada)

Indicates that:



The brake fluid level is low; or



The brake system is malfunctioning



Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and con-
tact your Toyota dealer. Continuing to drive the vehi-
cle may be dangerous.

Warning light

Details/Actions

(yellow)

Indicates a malfunction in the electric parking brake



Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer
immediately.

Warning light

Details/Actions

Indicates that the engine coolant temperature is too high



Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place.
Handling method (



P.487)

451

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

HIGHLANDER_U

7

Whe

n tr

ouble

ar

ises

■

Charging system warning light

■

Low engine oil pressure warning light

*

(warning buzzer)

*

: This light illuminates on the multi-information display.

■

Malfunction indicator lamp

■

SRS warning light

Warning light

Details/Actions

Indicates a malfunction in the vehicle’s charging system



Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and con-
tact your Toyota dealer.

Warning light

Details/Actions

Indicates that the engine oil pressure is too low



Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and con-
tact your Toyota dealer.

Warning light

Details/Actions

(U.S.A.)

or

(Canada)

Indicates a malfunction in:



The electronic engine control system;



The electronic throttle control system; or



The electronic automatic transmission control system



Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and con-
tact your Toyota dealer.

Warning light

Details/Actions

Indicates a malfunction in:



The SRS airbag system;



The front passenger occupant classification system; or



The seat belt pretensioner system



Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer
immediately.

452

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

HIGHLANDER_U

■

ABS warning light

■

Brake Override System warning light/Drive-Start Control
warning light

*

(warning buzzer)

*

: This light illuminates on the multi-information display.

■

Electric power steering system warning light (warning
buzzer)

Warning light

Details/Actions

(U.S.A.)

or

(Canada)

Indicates a malfunction in:



The ABS; or



The brake assist system



Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer
immediately.

Warning light

Details/Actions

When a buzzer sounds:



Brake Override System is malfunctioning;



Drive-Start Control is operating;



Drive-Start Control is malfunctioning; or



Parking Support Brake function (for static objects) (if
equipped) is operating



Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-infor-
mation display.

When a buzzer does not sound:

Brake Override System is operating



Release the accelerator pedal and depress the brake
pedal.

Warning light

Details/Actions

(red/yellow)

Indicates a malfunction in the EPS (Electric Power Steer-
ing) system



Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer
immediately.

453

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

HIGHLANDER_U

7

Whe

n tr

ouble

ar

ises

■

Low fuel level warning light

■

Driver’s and front passenger’s seat belt reminder light (warn-
ing buzzer)

*

*

: Driver’s seat belt warning buzzer:

The driver’s seat belt warning buzzer sounds to alert the driver that his or
her seat belt is not fastened. Once the engine switch is turned to ON, the
buzzer sounds. If the seat belt is still unfastened, the buzzer sounds inter-
mittently for a certain period of time after the vehicle reaches a certain
speed.

Front passenger’s seat belt warning buzzer:

The front passenger's seat belt warning buzzer sounds to alert the front
passenger that his or her seat belt is not fastened. If the seat belt is unfas-
tened, the buzzer sounds intermittently for a certain period of time after the
vehicle reaches a certain speed.

■

Rear passengers’ seat belt reminder light

*1

(warning buzzer)

*2

*1

: This light illuminates on the multi-information display.

*2

: Rear passengers’ seat belt warning buzzer:

The rear passengers' seat belt warning buzzer sounds to alert the rear pas-
senger that his or her seat belt is not fastened. If the seat belt is unfas-
tened, the buzzer sounds intermittently for a certain period of time, after the

Warning light

Details/Actions

Indicates that remaining fuel is approximately 2.7 gal. (10.2
L, 2.2 Imp. gal.) or less



Refuel the vehicle.

Warning light

Details/Actions

Warns the driver and/or front passenger to fasten their seat
belts



Fasten the seat belt.
If the front passenger’s seat is occupied, the front
passenger’s seat belt also needs to be fastened to
make the warning light (warning buzzer) turn off.

Warning light

Details/Actions

Warns the second and/or third seat passengers to fasten
their seat belts. An indicator corresponding to an unfas-
tened second or third seat seat belt will illuminate.



Fasten the seat belt.

454

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

HIGHLANDER_U

seat belt is fastened and unfastened and the vehicle reaches a certain
speed.

■

Tire pressure warning light

■

LTA indicator

*

(warning buzzer)

*

: This light illuminates on the multi-information display.

■

Stop & Start cancel indicator

*

*

: This light illuminates on the multi-information display.

Warning light

Details/Actions

When the light comes on after blinking for approximately 1
minute:

Malfunction in the tire pressure warning system



Have the system checked by your Toyota dealer.

When the light comes on:

Low tire inflation pressure such as



Natural causes



Flat tire



Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place.
Handling method (



P.458)

Warning light

Details/Actions

(orange)

Indicates a malfunction in the LTA (Lane Tracing Assist)



Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-infor-
mation display. (



P.250)

Warning light

Details/Actions

(flashes)

(if equipped)

Indicates a malfunction in the Stop & Start system

(The Stop & Start cancel indicator will come on when the
system is canceled:



P.265)



Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer
immediately.

455

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

HIGHLANDER_U

7

Whe

n tr

ouble

ar

ises

■

Intuitive parking assist OFF indicator (warning buzzer)

■

RCTA OFF indicator

*

(warning buzzer)

*

: This light illuminates on the multi-information display.

■

PKSB OFF indicator (warning buzzer)

Warning light

Details/Actions

(flashes)

(if equipped)

Indicates a malfunction in the intuitive parking assist func-
tion



Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer
immediately.

Indicates that the system is temporarily unavailable, possi-
bly due to a sensor being dirty or covered with ice, etc.



Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-infor-
mation display. (



P.279)

Warning light

Details/Actions

(flashes)

(if equipped)

When a buzzer sounds:

Indicates a malfunction in the RCTA (Rear Cross Traffic
Alert) function



Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer
immediately.

When a buzzer does not sound:

Indicates that the rear bumper around the radar sensor is
covered with dirt, etc. (



P.272)



Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-infor-
mation display. (



P.285)

Warning light

Details/Actions

(flashes)

(if equipped)

When a buzzer sounds:

Indicates a malfunction in the PKSB (Parking Support
Brake) system



Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer
immediately.

When a buzzer does not sound:

Indicates that the system is temporarily unavailable, possi-
bly due to a sensor being dirty or covered with ice, etc.



Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-infor-
mation display. (



P.294, 460)

456

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

HIGHLANDER_U

■

PCS warning light

■

Slip indicator

Warning light

Details/Actions

(flashes or illu-

minates)

When a buzzer sounds simultaneously:

Indicates a malfunction has occurred in the PCS (Pre-Colli-
sion System).



Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer
immediately.

When a buzzer does not sound:

The PCS (Pre-Collision System) has become temporarily
unavailable, corrective action may be necessary.



Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-infor-
mation display. (



P.227, 462)

If the PCS (Pre-Collision System) or VSC (Vehicle Stability
Control) system is disabled, the PCS warning light will illu-
minate.



P.240

Warning light

Details/Actions

When the warning light is illuminated:

Indicates a malfunction in:



The VSC system;



The TRAC system;



The Trailer Sway Control; or



The hill-start assist control system;



Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer
immediately.

When the warning light flashes:

Indicates that the VSC, TRAC or Trailer Sway Control sys-
tem is operating