Toyota Highlander (2020 year). Manual in english - part 6

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Pressing the on/off switch turns off 
the fan.

When the fan is off, pressing the 
on/off switch or turning the fan 
speed control switch will turn on the 
fan.

■

Change the airflow mode

Press the airflow mode control 
switch.

1

Upper body

2

Upper body and feet

3

Feet

4

Feet and the windshield 
defogger operates

■

Switching between outside 
air and recirculated air 
modes

Press the outside/recirculated 
air mode switch.

The mode switches between 
outside air mode and recircu-
lated air mode each time the 
switch is operated.

When recirculated air mode is 
selected, the indicator illuminates 
on the outside/recirculated air 
mode switch.

■

Set cooling and dehumidifi-
cation function

Press the “A/C” switch.

When the function is on, the indica-
tor illuminates on the “A/C” switch.

■

Defogging the windshield

Defoggers are used to defog the 
windshield and front side win-
dows.

Press the windshield defogger 
switch.

Set the outside/recirculated air 
mode switch to outside air mode if 
the recirculated air mode is used.

To defog the windshield and the 
side windows quickly, turn the air 
flow and temperature up.

To return to the previous mode, 
press the windshield defogger 
switch again when the windshield is 
defogged.

When the windshield defogger 
switch is on, the indicator illumi-
nates on the windshield defogger 
switch.

■

Defogging the rear window 
and outside rear view mir-
rors

Defoggers are used to defog the 
rear window, and to remove 
raindrops, dew and frost from 
the outside rear view mirrors.

Press the rear window defogger 
and outside rear view mirror 
defoggers switch.

When the rear window defogger 
and outside rear view mirror defog-
gers switch is on, the indicator illu-

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minates on the rear window 
defogger and outside rear view mir-
ror defoggers switch.

The defoggers will automatically 
turn off after a while.

■

Windshield wiper de-icer

This feature is used to prevent 
ice from building up on the wind-
shield and wiper blades.

Press the windshield wiper 
de-icer switch.

When the windshield wiper de-icer 
switch is on, the indicator illumi-
nates on the windshield wiper 
de-icer switch.

The windshield wiper de-icer will 
automatically turn off after a period 
of time.

■

For quick cooling

Press the “MAX A/C” switch.

The air conditioning will automati-
cally turn on.

At this time, the following will occur:

●

The recirculated air mode will be 
set

●

The windshield defogger will turn 
off

●

The air flow mode will change to 
the upper body mode

●

The fan speed will be set to high.

■

Fogging up of the windows

●

The windows will easily fog up 
when the humidity in the vehicle is 
high. Turning the “A/C” switch on 
will dehumidify the air from the 
outlets and defog the windshield 
effectively.

●

If you turn the “A/C” switch off, the 
windows may fog up more easily.

●

The windows may fog up if the 
recirculated air mode is used.

■

When driving on dusty roads

Close all windows. If dust thrown up 
by the vehicle is still drawn into the 
vehicle after closing the windows, it 
is recommended that the air intake 
mode be set to outside air mode and 
the fan speed to any setting except 
off.

■

Outside/recirculated air mode

Setting to the recirculated air mode 
temporarily is recommended in pre-
venting dirty air from entering the 
vehicle interior and helping to cool 
the vehicle when the outside air 
temperature is high.

■

Operation of the air condition-
ing system in Eco drive mode

In Eco drive mode, the air condition-
ing system is controlled to prioritize 
fuel efficiency by regulating the 
engine speed and compressor oper-
ation to restrict the heating/cooling 
capacity.

To improve air conditioning perfor-
mance, perform the following opera-
tions:

●

Adjust the fan speed

●

Adjust the temperature setting

●

Turn off Eco drive mode (



P.306)

■

When the outside temperature 
is low

The dehumidification function may 
not operate even when the “A/C” 
switch is pressed.

■

Ventilation and air conditioning 
odors

●

To let fresh air in, set the air condi-
tioning system to the outside air 
mode.

●

During use, various odors from 
inside and outside the vehicle may 
enter into and accumulate in the 
air conditioning system. This may 
then cause odor to be emitted 
from the vents.

●

To reduce potential odors from 
occurring: It is recommended that 
the air conditioning system be set 

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to outside air mode prior to turning 

the vehicle off.

●

When parking, the system auto-

matically switches to outside air 

mode to encourage better air cir-

culation throughout the vehicle, 

helping to reduce odors that occur 

when starting the vehicle.

■

Air conditioning filter



P.426

■

Air conditioning system refrig-

erant

●

A label regarding the refrigerant of 

the air conditioning system is 

attached to the hood at the loca-

tion shown in the following illustra-

tion.

●

The meaning of each symbol on 

the label are as follows:

Caution

Air conditioning sys-

tem

Air conditioning sys-

tem lubricant type
Requires registered 

technician to service 

air conditioning sys-

tem

Flammable refrigerant

WARNING

■

To prevent the windshield 

from fogging up

Do not use the windshield defog-

ger switch during cool air opera-

tion in extremely humid weather. 

The difference between the tem-

perature of the outside air and 

that of the windshield can cause 

the outer surface of the wind-

shield to fog up, blocking your 

vision.

■

When the outside rear view 

mirror defoggers are operat-

ing

Do not touch the rear view mirror 

surfaces when the outside rear 

view mirror defoggers are on.

■

When the windshield wiper 

de-icer is operating

Do not touch the glass at lower 

part of the windshield or to the 

side of the front pillars when the 

windshield wiper de-icer is on.

NOTICE

■

To prevent battery discharge

Do not leave the air conditioning 

system on longer than necessary 

when the engine is off.

■

When repairing/replacing 

parts of the air conditioning 

system

Have repair/replacement per-

formed by your Toyota dealer.

When a part of the air conditioning 

system, such as the evaporator, is 

to be replaced, it must be 

replaced with a new one.

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■

Location of air outlets

The air outlets and air volume 

change according to the 

selected airflow mode.

■

Adjusting the air flow direc-

tion and opening/closing 

the air outlets



Front center outlets

Direct air flow to the left or right, up 

or down



Front side outlets

1

Direct air flow to the left or 

right, up or down

2

Open the vent

3

Close the vent

Air outlet layout and oper-

ations

WARNING

■

To not interrupt the wind-

shield defogger from operat-

ing

Do not place anything on the 

instrument panel which may cover 

the air outlets. Otherwise, air flow 

may be obstructed, preventing the 

windshield defoggers from defog-

ging.

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*

: If equipped

Automatic mode switch (



P.342)

Left-hand side temperature control switch

“OFF” switch

Windshield defogger switch

Rear air conditioning system on/off switch (



P.349)

S-FLOW mode switch (



P.342)

Right-hand side temperature control switch

“A/C” switch

Outside/recirculated air mode switch

“REAR CLIMATE” switch (



P.349)

Rear seat temperature contorl knob (



P.349)

Airflow mode control knob

Fan speed control knob

“SYNC” control knob

Rear window defogger and outside rear view mirror defoggers 

Front automatic air conditioning system

*

Air outlets and fan speed are automatically adjusted accord-
ing to the temperature setting.

Vehicles with a 12.3-inch display: The air conditioning system 
can be displayed and operated on the toyota multi-operation 
touch.

Air conditioning controls (vehicle with a 8-inch display)

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5-2. Using the air conditioning system and defogger

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switch

Windshield wiper de-icer switch

■

Adjusting the temperature 
setting

Turn driver’s side temperature 
control switch clockwise to 
increases the temperature and 
turn the switch counterclockwise 
to decreases the temperature.

If “A/C” switch is not pressed, the 
system will blow ambient tempera-
ture air or heated air.

The temperature for the driver, 
front passenger and rear seats 
can be adjusted separately 
when:



“SYNC” control knob is 
moved upward or downward. 
(The “PASS” and “REAR” dis-
plays disappear)



The passenger’s side tem-
perature control switch is 
turned. (The “PASS” display 
disappears)



The rear seat temperature 
contorl knob is moved upward 
or downward. (The “REAR” 
display disappears)

To the air conditioning system 
switches between individual and 
simultaneous modes move “SYNC” 
control knob upward or downward.

■

Setting the fan speed

To set the fan speed, move the 
fan speed control knob upward 
or downward.

Upward: Increases the fan speed

Downward: Decreases the fan 
speed

Pressing the “OFF” switch to turns 
off the fan.

■

Change the airflow mode

To change the airflow mode, 
move the airflow mode control 
knob upward or downward.

1

Upper body

2

Upper body and feet

3

Feet

4

Feet and the windshield 
defogger operates

■

Switching between outside 
air and recirculated air 
modes

Press the outside/recirculated 
air mode switch.

The mode switches between out-
side air mode and recirculated air 
mode each time the switch is oper-
ated.

When recirculated air mode is 

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selected, the indicator illuminates 
on the outside/recirculated air 
mode switch.

■

Set cooling and dehumidifi-
cation function

Press the “A/C” switch.

When the function is on, the indica-
tor illuminates on the “A/C” switch.

■

Defogging the windshield

Defoggers are used to defog the 
windshield and front side win-
dows.

Press the windshield defogger 
switch.

Set the outside/recirculated air 
mode switch to outside air mode if 
the recirculated air mode is used. (It 
may switch automatically.)

To defog the windshield and the 
side windows quickly, turn the air 
flow and temperature up.

To return to the previous mode, 
press the windshield defogger 
switch again when the windshield is 
defogged.

When the windshield defogger 
switch is on, the indicator illumi-
nates on the windshield defogger 
switch.

■

Defogging the rear window 
and outside rear view mir-
rors

Defoggers are used to defog the 
rear window and to remove rain-
drops, dew and frost from the 
outside rear view mirrors.

Press the rear window defogger 
and outside rear view mirror 

defoggers switch.

When the rear window defogger 
and outside rear view mirror defog-
gers switch is on, the indicator illu-
minates on the rear window 
defogger and outside rear view mir-
ror defoggers switch.

The defoggers will automatically 
turn off after a while.

■

Windshield wiper de-icer

This feature is used to prevent 
ice from building up on the wind-
shield and wiper blades.

Press the windshield wiper 
de-icer switch.

When the windshield wiper de-icer 
switch is on, the indicator illumi-
nates on the windshield wiper 
de-icer switch.

The windshield wiper de-icer will 
automatically turn off after a period 
of time.

■

When the outside temperature 
exceeds 75°F (24°C) and the air 
conditioning system is on

●

In order to reduce the air condi-
tioning power consumption, the air 
conditioning system may switch to 
recirculated air mode automati-
cally. This may also reduce fuel 
consumption.

●

Recirculated air mode is selected 
as a default mode when the 
engine switch is turned to ON.

●

It is possible to switch to outside 
air mode at any time by pressing 
the outside air mode switch.

■

Fogging up of the windows

●

The windows will easily fog up 
when the humidity in the vehicle is 
high. Turning “A/C” on will dehu-
midify the air from the outlets and 

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defog the windshield effectively.

●

If you turn “A/C” off, the windows 
may fog up more easily.

●

The windows may fog up if the 
recirculated air mode is used.

■

When driving on dusty roads

Close all windows. If dust thrown up 
by the vehicle is still drawn into the 
vehicle after closing the windows, it 
is recommended that the air intake 
mode be set to outside air mode and 
the fan speed to any setting except 
off.

■

Outside/recirculated air mode

●

Setting to the recirculated air 
mode temporarily is recom-
mended in preventing dirty air 
from entering the vehicle interior 
and helping to cool the vehicle 
when the outside air temperature 
is high.

●

Outside/recirculated air mode may 
automatically switch depending on 
the temperature setting or the 
inside temperature.

■

Operation of the air condition-
ing system in Eco drive mode

●

In Eco drive mode, the air condi-
tioning system is controlled as fol-
lows to prioritize fuel efficiency:

• Engine speed and compressor 

operation controlled to restrict 
heating/cooling capacity

• Fan speed restricted when auto-

matic mode is selected

●

To improve air conditioning perfor-
mance, perform the following 
operations:

• Adjust the fan speed
• Turn off Eco drive mode (



P.306)

■

When the outside temperature 
is low

The dehumidification function may 
not operate even when the “A/C” 
switch is pressed.

■

Ventilation and air conditioning 
odors

●

To let fresh air in, set the air condi-

tioning system to the outside air 
mode.

●

During use, various odors from 
inside and outside the vehicle may 
enter into and accumulate in the 
air conditioning system. This may 
then cause odor to be emitted 
from the vents.

●

To reduce potential odors from 
occurring:

• It is recommended that the air 

conditioning system be set to out-
side air mode prior to turning the 
vehicle off.

• The start timing of the blower may 

be delayed for a short period of 
time immediately after the air con-
ditioning system is started in auto-
matic mode.

●

When parking, the system auto-
matically switches to outside air 
mode to encourage better air cir-
culation throughout the vehicle, 
helping to reduce odors that occur 
when starting the vehicle.

■

Air conditioning system opera-
tions when the engine is 
stopped due to the Stop & Start 
system (vehicles with Stop & 
Start system)

When the engine is stopped due to 
Stop & Start system operations, the 
automatic air conditioning cooling, 
heating and dehumidification func-
tions turn off and the fan speed is 
decreased according to the outside 
temperature etc. or air blowing 
stops. To stop the air conditioning 
system from turning off, press the 
Stop & Start cancel switch and 
refrain from using the Stop & Start 
system.

■

When the windshield is fogged 
up and the engine is stopped 
due to the Stop & Start system 
(vehicles with Stop & Start sys-
tem)

Press the windshield defogger 
switch to restart the engine and 
defog the windshield.

If the windshield continuously fogs 

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up, press the Stop & Start cancel 

switch and refrain from using the 

Stop & Start system.

■

When an odor comes from the 

air conditioning system while 

the engine is stopped due to the 

Stop & Start system (vehicles 

with Stop & Start system)

Press the Stop & Start cancel switch 

to restart the engine.

■

Air conditioning filter



P.426

■

Air conditioning system refrig-

erant

●

A label regarding the refrigerant of 

the air conditioning system is 

attached to the hood at the loca-

tion shown in the following illustra-

tion.

●

The meaning of each symbol on 

the label are as follows:

■

Customization

Some functions can be customized. 

(



P.515)

Caution

Air conditioning sys-

tem

Air conditioning sys-

tem lubricant type
Requires registered 

technician to service 

air conditioning sys-

tem

Flammable refrigerant

WARNING

■

To prevent the windshield 

from fogging up

Do not use the windshield defog-

ger switch during cool air opera-

tion in extremely humid weather. 

The difference between the tem-

perature of the outside air and 

that of the windshield can cause 

the outer surface of the wind-

shield to fog up, blocking your 

vision.

■

When the outside rear view 

mirror defoggers are operat-

ing

Do not touch the rear view mirror 

surfaces when the outside rear 

view mirror defoggers are on.

■

When the windshield wiper 

de-icer is operating

Do not touch the glass at lower 

part of the windshield or to the 

side of the front pillars when the 

windshield wiper de-icer is on.

NOTICE

■

To prevent battery discharge

Do not leave the air conditioning 

system on longer than necessary 

when the engine is off.

■

When repairing/replacing 

parts of the air conditioning 

system

Have repair/replacement per-

formed by your Toyota dealer.

When a part of the air conditioning 

system, such as the evaporator, is 

to be replaced, it must be 

replaced with a new one.

338

5-2. Using the air conditioning system and defogger

HIGHLANDER_U

Left-hand side temperature control switch

Automatic mode switch (



P.342)

Fan speed increase switch

Windshield defogger switch

Right-hand side temperature control switch

Rear window defogger and outside rear view mirror defoggers 
switch

Fan speed decrease switch

“OFF” switch

■

Adjusting the temperature 
setting

Press 

 to increase the 

temperature and 

 to 

decrease the temperature.

If “A/C” switch is not pressed, the 
system will blow ambient tempera-
ture air or heated air.

■

Setting the fan speed

Operate the 

 switch to 

increase the fan speed and the 

 switch to decrease the 

fan speed.

Pressing the “OFF” switch to turns 
off the fan.

■

Defogging the windshield

Defoggers are used to defog the 
windshield and front side win-
dows.

Press the windshield defogger 
switch.

Set the outside/recirculated air 
mode switch to outside air mode if 
the recirculated air mode is used. (It 
may switch automatically.)

To defog the windshield and the 
side windows quickly, turn the air 
flow and temperature up.

To return to the previous mode, 
press the windshield defogger 
switch again when the windshield is 
defogged.

Air conditioning controls (vehicle with a 12.3-inch dis-
play)

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When the windshield defogger 
switch is on, the indicator illumi-
nates on the windshield defogger 
switch.

■

Defogging the rear window 
and outside rear view mir-
rors

Defoggers are used to defog the 
rear window and to remove rain-
drops, dew and frost from the 
outside rear view mirrors.

Press the rear window defogger 
and outside rear view mirror 
defoggers switch.

When the rear window defogger 
and outside rear view mirror defog-
gers switch is on, the indicator illu-
minates on the rear window 
defogger and outside rear view mir-
ror defoggers switch.

The defoggers will automatically 
turn off after a while.

■

Air conditioning system opera-
tions when the engine is 
stopped due to the Stop & Start 
system

When the engine is stopped due to 
Stop & Start system operations, the 
automatic air conditioning cooling, 
heating and dehumidification func-
tions turn off and the fan speed is 
decreased according to the outside 
temperature etc. or air blowing 
stops. To stop the air conditioning 
system from turning off, press the 
Stop & Start cancel switch and 
refrain from using the Stop & Start 
system.

■

When the windshield is fogged 
up and the engine is stopped 
due to the Stop & Start system

Press the windshield defogger 
switch to restart the engine and 

defog the windshield.

If the windshield continuously fogs 
up, press the Stop & Start cancel 
switch and refrain from using the 
Stop & Start system.

■

When an odor comes from the 
air conditioning system while 
the engine is stopped due to the 
Stop & Start system

Press the Stop & Start cancel switch 
to restart the engine.

■

Air conditioning filter



P.426

■

Air conditioning system refrig-
erant

●

A label regarding the refrigerant of 
the air conditioning system is 
attached to the hood at the loca-
tion shown in the following illustra-
tion.

●

The meaning of each symbol on 
the label are as follows:

Caution

Air conditioning sys-
tem

Air conditioning sys-
tem lubricant type

Requires registered 
technician to service 
air conditioning sys-
tem

Flammable refrigerant

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■

Customization

Some functions can be customized. 

(



P.515)

■

Main control screen

Adjust the left side seat tem-

perature setting
Select the air flow mode

: Air flows to the upper body
: Air flows to the upper body and 

feet

: Air flows to the feet
: Air flows to the feet and the 

windshield defogger operates

Display the option control 

screen.
Adjust the fan speed setting
Adjust the right side seat 

temperature setting
“SYNC” switch

If the indicator on the “SYNC” 

switch is off, the temperature for the 

driver, passenger and rear seats 

can be adjusted separately.

Display the rear air condition-

ing control screen (



P.350)

Select the outside air and 

recirculated air modes

WARNING

■

To prevent the windshield 

from fogging up

Do not use the windshield defog-

ger switch during cool air opera-

tion in extremely humid weather. 

The difference between the tem-

perature of the outside air and 

that of the windshield can cause 

the outer surface of the wind-

shield to fog up, blocking your 

vision.

■

When the outside rear view 

mirror defoggers are operat-

ing

Do not touch the rear view mirror 

surfaces when the outside rear 

view mirror defoggers are on.

NOTICE

■

To prevent battery discharge

Do not leave the air conditioning 

system on longer than necessary 

when the engine is off.

■

When repairing/replacing 

parts of the air conditioning 

system

Have repair/replacement per-

formed by your Toyota dealer.

When a part of the air conditioning 

system, such as the evaporator, is 

to be replaced, it must be 

replaced with a new one.

Front air conditioning 

control screen (vehicle 

with a 12.3-inch display)

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Set eco air conditioning 
mode

The air conditioning is controlled 
with low fuel consumption priori-
tized such as reducing fan speed, 
etc.

Set cooling and dehumidifi-
cation function

If “A/C” switch is not pressed, the 
system will blow ambient tempera-
ture air or heated air.

■

Option control screen

Select “Option” to display the 
option control screen.

The functions can be switched on 
and off.

When the function is on, the indica-
tor illuminates on the screen.

Select to display the previous 
screen.

Select the S-FLOW mode 
(



P.342)

■

When the outside temperature 
exceeds 75°F (24°C) and the air 
conditioning system is on

●

In order to reduce the air condi-
tioning power consumption, the air 
conditioning system may switch to 
recirculated air mode automati-
cally. This may also reduce fuel 
consumption.

●

Recirculated air mode is selected 
as a default mode when the 
engine switch is turned to ON.

●

It is possible to switch to outside 
air mode at any time by pressing 
the outside air mode switch.

■

Fogging up of the windows

●

The windows will easily fog up 
when the humidity in the vehicle is 
high. Turning “A/C” on will dehu-
midify the air from the outlets and 
defog the windshield effectively.

●

If you turn “A/C” off, the windows 
may fog up more easily.

●

The windows may fog up if the 
recirculated air mode is used.

■

When driving on dusty roads

Close all windows. If dust thrown up 
by the vehicle is still drawn into the 
vehicle after closing the windows, it 
is recommended that the air intake 
mode be set to outside air mode and 
the fan speed to any setting except 
off.

■

Outside/recirculated air mode

●

Setting to the recirculated air 
mode temporarily is recom-
mended in preventing dirty air 
from entering the vehicle interior 
and helping to cool the vehicle 
when the outside air temperature 
is high.

●

Outside/recirculated air mode may 
automatically switch depending on 
the temperature setting or the 
inside temperature.

■

Eco air conditioning mode

When Eco drive mode is selected 
using the driving mode select 
switch, eco air conditioning mode 
turns on.

When a drive mode other than Eco 
drive mode is selected, eco air con-
ditioning mode may turn off.

■

Operation of the air condition-
ing system in Eco drive mode

●

In Eco drive mode, the air condi-

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5-2. Using the air conditioning system and defogger

HIGHLANDER_U

tioning system is controlled as fol-
lows to prioritize fuel efficiency:

• Engine speed and compressor 

operation controlled to restrict 
heating/cooling capacity

• Fan speed restricted when auto-

matic mode is selected

●

To improve air conditioning perfor-
mance, perform the following 
operations:

• Adjust the fan speed
• Turn off Eco drive mode (P.306)
• Turn off Eco air conditioning mode

●

When the driving mode is set to 
Eco driving mode, the air condi-
tioning eco mode will be turned on 
automatically. Even in this case, 
the air conditioning eco mode can 
be turned off by pressing the Eco 
air conditioning mode switch.

■

When the outside temperature 
is low

The dehumidification function may 
not operate even when “A/C” is 
pressed.

■

Ventilation and air conditioning 
odors

●

To let fresh air in, set the air condi-
tioning system to the outside air 
mode.

●

During use, various odors from 
inside and outside the vehicle may 
enter into and accumulate in the 
air conditioning system. This may 
then cause odor to be emitted 
from the vents.

●

To reduce potential odors from 
occurring:

• It is recommended that the air 

conditioning system be set to out-
side air mode prior to turning the 
vehicle off.

• The start timing of the blower may 

be delayed for a short period of 
time immediately after the air con-
ditioning system is started in auto-
matic mode.

●

When parking, the system auto-
matically switches to outside air 
mode to encourage better air cir-

culation throughout the vehicle, 
helping to reduce odors that occur 
when starting the vehicle.

1

Press the automatic mode 
switch.

The dehumidification function 
begins to operate. Air outlets and 
fan speed are automatically 
adjusted according to the tempera-
ture setting and humidity.

2

Adjust the temperature set-
ting.

3

To stop the operation, press 
the “OFF” switch.

If the fan speed setting or air 
flow modes are operated, the 
automatic mode indicator goes 
off. However, automatic mode 
for functions other than that 
operated is maintained.

■

Using automatic mode

Fan speed is adjusted automati-
cally according to the temperature 
setting and the ambient conditions.

Therefore, the fan may stop for a 
while until warm or cool air is ready 
to flow immediately after the auto-
matic mode switch is pressed.

This function automatically con-
trols the air conditioning airflow 
so that priority is given to the 
front seats. When the front pas-
senger seat is not occupied, air-
flow may switch to only the 
driver’s seat. Unnecessary air 

Using automatic mode

Front seat concentrated 
airflow mode (S-FLOW)

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conditioning is suppressed, con-
tributing to increased fuel effi-
ciency.

Front seat concentrated airflow 
mode operates in the following 
situations.



No passengers are detected 
in the rear seats



The windshield defogger is 
not operating

While operating, the indicator illumi-
nates on the S-FLOW mode switch.

■

Manually turning front seat 
concentrated airflow mode 
on/off

In front seat concentrated air-
flow mode, directing airflow to 
the front seats only and to all 
seats can be switched via switch 
operation. When the mode has 
been switched manually, auto-
matic airflow control stops oper-
ating.

Select 

 on the option control 

screen or press the S-FLOW 
mode switch on the air condi-
tioning operation panel and 
switch the airflow.



Indicator illuminated: Airflow 
to the front seats only



Indicator off: Airflow to all the 
seats

■

Operation of automatic airflow 
control

●

In order to maintain a comfortable 
interior, airflow may be directed to 
seats without passengers immedi-

ately after the engine is started 
and at other times depending on 
the outside temperature.

●

After the engine is started, if pas-
sengers move around inside or 
enter/exit the vehicle, the system 
cannot accurately detect the pres-
ence of passengers and automatic 
airflow control will not operate.

■

Operation of manual airflow 
control

Even if the function is manually 
switched to directing airflow to only 
the front seats, when a rear seat is 
occupied, it may automatically direct 
airflow to all seats.

■

To return to automatic airflow 
control

1

With the indicator off, turn the 
engine switch off.

2

After 60 minutes or more elapse, 
turn the engine switch to ON.

This feature is used to prevent 
ice from building up on the wind-
shield and wiper blades.

Press the switch to turn the sys-
tem on/off.

The indicator comes on when 
the system is on.

The windshield wiper de-icer will 
automatically turn off after a period 
of time.

Windshield wiper de-icer 
(vehicle with a 12.3-inch 
display)

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■

Location of air outlets

The air outlets and air volume 

change according to the 

selected air flow mode.

■

Adjusting the air flow direc-

tion and opening/closing 

the air outlets



Front center outlets

Direct air flow to the left or right, up 

or down



Front side outlets

1

Direct air flow to the left or 

right, up or down

2

Open the vent

3

Close the vent

WARNING

■

To prevent burns

Do not touch the glass at lower 

part of the windshield or to the 

side of the front pillars when the 

windshield wiper deicer is on.

Air outlet layout and oper-

ations

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WARNING

■

To not interrupt the wind-

shield defogger from operat-

ing

Do not place anything on the 

instrument panel which may cover 

the air outlets. Otherwise, air flow 

may be obstructed, preventing the 

windshield defoggers from defog-

ging.

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5-2. Using the air conditioning system and defogger

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*

: If equipped

Adjust the rear seats fan speed setting

Press 

 to increase the fan speed and 

 to decrease the fan 

speed.

“OFF” switch

Pressing the “OFF” switch to turns off the fan.

Airflow mode control switch

Adjust the rear seats temperature setting

Press 

 to increase the temperature and 

 to decrease the tem-

perature.

To change the airflow mode, 
press the airflow mode control 
switch.

The air outlets used are switched 
each time the switch is pressed.

1

Upper body

Rear manual air conditioning system

*

Air conditioning controls

Change the airflow mode

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es

2

Upper body and feet

3

Feet

■

Location of air outlets

The air outlets and air volume 

changes according to the 

selected air flow mode.

■

Adjusting the position of 

and opening and closing 

the air outlets

Adjusting the position of and 

opening and closing the air out-

lets

1

Direct air flow to the left or 

right, up or down

2

Open the vent

3

Close the vent

Air outlets

NOTICE

■

To prevent battery discharge

Do not leave the air conditioning 

system on longer than necessary 

when the engine is off.

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5-2. Using the air conditioning system and defogger

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*

: If equipped

■

Rear air conditioning control panel

Adjust the rear seats fan speed setting

Press 

 to increase the fan speed and 

 to decrease the fan 

speed.

“OFF” switch

Pressing the “OFF” switch to turns off the fan.

Air flow mode control switch

Automatic mode switch

When the function is on, the indicator illuminates on the control screen.

Adjust the rear seats temperature setting

Rear automatic air conditioning system

*

The air outlets and fan speed are automatically adjusted 
according to the temperature setting.

Vehicles with a 8-inch display: The rear air conditioning sys-
tem can be operated using the front air conditioning control 
panel and rear air conditioning control panel. Press the 
“REAR CLIMATE” switch on the front air condiotioning con-
trol panel to change the rear air conditioning control mode.

Vehicles with a 12.3-inch display: The rear air conditioning 
system can be operated using the toyota multi-operation 
touch and rear air conditioning control panel. Select “REAR” 
on the front air condiotioning control screen to display the 
rear air conditioning control screen.

Rear air conditioning control operation

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Press 

 to increase the temperature and 

 to decrease the tem-

perature.

■

Front air conditioning control panel (vehicle with a 8-inch dis-
play)

Rear air conditioning system on/off switch

“REAR CLIMATE” switch

The mode switches between the rear air conditioning control mode and 
front air conditioning control mode each time the “REAR CLIMATE” switch 
is pressed.

Rear seat temperature contorl knob

To set temperature, move the rear seat temperature control knob upward or 
downward.

Upward: Increases the temperature

Downward: Decreases the temperature

Airflow mode control knob

The airflow mode control knob can be operated while the rear air condition-
ing control indicator is appeared.

Adjust the rear seats fan speed setting

Rear seats fan speed setting can be adjusted while the rear air conditioning 
control indicator is appeared.

To set the fan speed, move the fan speed control knob upward or down-
ward.

Upward: Increases the fan speed

Downward: Decreases the fan speed

Automatic mode switch (



P.351)

The automatic mode switch can be operated when the rear air conditioning 
control indicator is displayed.

Rear air conditioning control indicator

When the “REAR CLIMATE” switch is pressed, the rear air conditioning 

350

5-2. Using the air conditioning system and defogger

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control indicator is displayed for several seconds.

■

Rear air conditioning con-
trol screen (vehicle with a 
12.3-inch display)

Adjust the rear seats fan 
speed setting

Adjust the rear seats tem-
perature setting

Air flow mode control switch

“OFF” switch

Pressing the “OFF” switch to turns 
off the fan.

Automatic mode switch

■

Rear air conditioning con-
trol panel

To change the airflow mode, 
press the airflow mode control 
switch.

The air outlets used are switched 
each time the switch is pressed.

1

Upper body

2

Upper body and feet

3

Feet

■

Front air conditioning con-
trol panel (vehicle with a 
8-inch display)

To change the airflow mode, 
move the airflow mode control 
knob upward or downward.

1

Upper body

2

Upper body and feet

3

Feet

Change the airflow mode

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■

Rear air conditioning con-

trol screen (vehicle with a 

12.3-inch display)

To change the airflow mode, 

select the airflow mode control 

switch.

The air outlets used are switched 

each time the switch is selected.

: Air flows to the upper body

: Air flows to the upper body and 

feet

: Air flows to the feet

1

Press the automatic mode 

switch.

2

Adjust the temperature set-

ting.

3

To stop the operation, press 

the “OFF” switch.

If the fan speed setting or air 

flow modes are operated, the 

automatic mode indicator goes 

off. However, automatic mode 

for functions other than that 

operated is maintained.

■

Using automatic mode

Fan speed is adjusted automati-

cally according to the temperature 

setting and the ambient conditions.
Therefore, the fan may stop for a 

while until warm or cool air is ready 

to flow immediately after the auto-

matic mode switch is pressed.

■

Location of air outlets

The air outlets and air volume 

changes according to the 

selected air flow mode.

■

Adjusting the position of 

and opening and closing 

the air outlets

Adjusting the position of and 

opening and closing the air out-

lets

1

Direct air flow to the left or 

right, up or down

2

Open the vent

3

Close the vent

Using automatic mode

Air outlets

NOTICE

■

To prevent battery discharge

Do not leave the air conditioning 

system on longer than necessary 

when the engine is off.

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*

: If equipped

Turns the heated steering wheel 

on/off

The indicator light comes on when 

the heated steering wheel is oper-

ating.

■

Operation condition

The engine switch is in ON.

■

Timer function

The heated steering wheel will auto-

matically turn off after a period of 

time.

■

Front (Front air condition-

ing control panel)

Each time the switch is pressed, 

the operation condition changes 

as follows.
Hi (3 segments lit)



Mid (2 seg-

ments lit)



Lo (1 segment 

lit)



Off

The level indicator (amber)   

lights up during operation.

Heated steering 

wheel

*

/seat heat-

ers

*

/seat ventilators

*



Heated steering wheel

Warms up the grip of the 

steering wheel



Seat heaters

Warm up the seat upholstery



Seat ventilators

Maintain good ventilation 

using a fan built into the seat

WARNING

■

To prevent minor burn inju-

ries

Care should be taken if anyone in 

the following categories comes in 

contact with the steering wheel or 

seats when the heater is on:

●

Babies, small children, the 

elderly, the sick and the physi-

cally challenged

●

Persons with sensitive skin

●

Persons who are fatigued

●

Persons who have taken alco-

hol or drugs that induce sleep 

(sleeping drugs, cold remedies, 

etc.)

NOTICE

■

To prevent damage to the 

seat heaters

Do not put heavy objects that 

have an uneven surface on the 

seat and do not stick sharp 

objects (needles, nails, etc.) into 

the seat.

■

To prevent battery discharge

Do not use the functions when the 

engine is off.

Heated steering wheel

Seat heaters

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

Vehicle with a 12.3-inch dis-

play



Vehicle with a 8-inch display

■

Front (Toyota multi-opera-

tion touch: Vehicle with a 

12.3-inch display)

Select 

 to display the seats 

climate screen.
Each time the switch is selected, 

the operation condition changes 

as follows.
Hi (3 segments lit)



Mid (2 seg-

ments lit)



Lo (1 segment 

lit)



Off

The level indicator (red)   lights 

up during operation.

■

Rear

Each time the switch is pressed, 

the operation condition changes 

as follows.
Hi (3 segments lit)



Mid (2 seg-

ments lit)



Lo (1 segment 

lit)



Off

The level indicator (amber)   

lights up during operation.

■

Operation condition

The engine switch is in ON.

WARNING

■

To prevent overheating and 

minor burn injuries

Observe the following precautions 

when using the seat heaters.

●

Do not cover the seat with a 

blanket or cushion when using 

the seat heater.

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5-2. Using the air conditioning system and defogger

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■

Front air condioning con-

trol panel

Each time the switch is pressed, 

the operation condition changes 

as follows.
Hi (3 segments lit)



Mid (2 seg-

ments lit)



Lo (1 segment 

lit)



Off

The level indicator (green)   lights 

up during operation.



Vehicle with a 12.3-inch dis-

play



Vehicle with a 8-inch display

■

Toyota multi-operation 

touch (Vehicle with a 

12.3-inch display)

Select 

 to display the seat cli-

mate screen.
Each time the switch is selected, 

the operation condition changes 

as follows.
Hi (3 segments lit)



Mid (2 seg-

ments lit)



Lo (1 segment 

lit)



Off

The level indicator (blue)   lights 

up during operation.

■

Operation condition

The engine switch is in ON.

WARNING

●

Do not use seat heater more 

than necessary.

Seat ventilators

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5-3. Using the interior lights

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5-3.Using the interior lights

Front personal lights (



P.356)

Front interior lights (



P.356)

Shift lever light

Open tray lights (if equipped)

Door courtesy lights

Ambient lights (if equipped)

Rear personal lights (if equipped) (



P.356)

Rear personal lights (if equipped) (



P.356)

Rear interior light (



P.356)

Outer foot lights (if equipped)

Interior lights list

Location of the interior lights

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5-3. Using the interior lights

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■

Front interior lights

1

Turns the lights on/off linked 
to door positions

2

Turns the lights on

3

Turns the lights off

■

Rear interior lights

1

Turns the door position on

The rear interior light turns on/off 
together the front interior lights.

When a door is opened while the 
front and rear interior light door 
position is on, the lights turn on.

2

Turns the light on

■

Front personal lights

Turns the lights on/off

■

Rear personal lights

Turns the lights on/off



Vehicles without panoramic 
moon roof



Vehicles with panoramic 
moon roof

■

Illuminated entry system

The lights automatically turn on/off 
according to the engine switch 
mode, the presence of the elec-
tronic key, whether the doors are 
locked/unlocked, and whether the 
doors are opened/closed.

Operating the interior 
lights

Operating the personal 
lights

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es

■

To prevent the battery from 

being discharged

If the interior lights remain on when 

the engine switch is turned off, the 

lights will go off automatically after 

20 minutes.

■

The interior lights may turn on 

automatically when

If any of the SRS airbags deploy 

(inflate) or in the event of a strong 

rear impact, the interior lights will 

turn on automatically.
The interior lights will turn off auto-

matically after approximately 20min-

utes.
The interior lights can be turned off 

manually. However, in order to help 

prevent further collisions, it is rec-

ommended that they be left on until 

safety can be ensured.
(The interior lights may not turn on 

automatically depending on the 

force of the impact and conditions of 

the collision.)

■

Customization

Some functions can be customized. 

(



P.515)

NOTICE

■

To prevent battery discharge

Do not leave the lights on longer 

than necessary when the engine 

is not running.

358

5-4. Using the storage features

HIGHLANDER_U

5-4.Using the storage features

Auxiliary boxes (



P.361)

Open tray (if equipped) (



P.361)

Glove box (



P.359)

Bottle holders (



P.360)

Cup holders (



P.360)

Console box (



P.359)

List of storage features

Location of the storage features

WARNING

■

Items that should not be left 

in the storage spaces

Do not leave glasses, lighters or 

spray cans in the storage spaces, 

as this may cause the following 

when cabin temperature becomes 

high:

●

Glasses may be deformed by 

heat or cracked if they come 

into contact with other stored 

items.

●

Lighters or spray cans may 

explode. If they come into con-

tact with other stored items, the 

lighter may catch fire or the 

spray can may release gas, 

causing a fire hazard.

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1

Unlock with the mechanical 

key

2

Lock with the mechanical key

3

Open (pull lever)

■

Glove box light

The glove box light turns on when 

the tail lights are on.

1

Push the tab and slide the 

console box lid.

2

Vehicles with wireless 

charge: Lift the wireless char-

ger.

■

Tray inside console box

The tray can be slid forward/back-

ward.

WARNING

■

When storage compartments 

are not in use

When driving or when the storage 

compartments are not in use, 

keep the lids closed.
In the event of sudden braking or 

sudden swerving, an accident 

may occur due to an occupant 

being struck by an open lid or the 

items stored inside.

Glove box

Console box

360

5-4. Using the storage features

HIGHLANDER_U



Front seats



Second seats (8-seat models)

Pull the armrest down.



Second seats (7-seat models)



Third seats



Front doors

Cup holders

WARNING

■

Items unsuitable for the cup 

holder

Do not place anything other than 

cups, aluminum cans, or water 

bottles in the cup holders. Other 

items may be thrown out of the 

holders in the event of an acci-

dent or sudden braking, possibly 

causing injury. If possible, cover 

hot drinks to prevent burns.

Bottle holders

361

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5

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

Rear doors

■

Bottle holders

●

When storing a bottle, close the 

cap.

●

The bottle may not be stored 

depending on its size or shape.



Overhead

Push the lid.



Driver’s side instrument panel

Pull the tab to open.



Instrument panel

NOTICE

■

Items unsuitable for the bottle 

holders

Do not place open bottle, glass or 

paper cups containing liquid in the 

bottle holders. Otherwise, con-

tained liquid may be spilled. Glass 

cups may break if used in the bot-

tle holders.

Auxiliary boxes

WARNING

■

Items unsuitable for storing 

(Overhead)

Do not store items heavier than 

0.44 lb. (200 g).

Doing so may cause the auxiliary 

box to open and the items inside 

may fall out, resulting in an acci-

dent.

■

Caution while driving 

(Driver’s side instrument 

panel)

Keep the auxiliary box closed 

while driving. 

Injuries may result in the event of 

an accident or sudden braking.

Open tray

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5-4. Using the storage features

HIGHLANDER_U



Front of console



Rear of console box (if 

equipped)

■

Cable pass through (Instru-

ment panel)

The open tray is provided with a 

hole that allows cables to be passed 

through the tray from the USB port, 

USB charging ports or power outlet.
Remove the cover.

WARNING

■

Items unsuitable for the open 

tray

Observe the following precautions 

when putting items in the open 

tray. Failure to do so may cause 

items to be thrown out of the tray 

in the event of sudden braking or 

steering. In these cases, the items 

may interfere with pedal operation 

or cause driver distraction, result-

ing in an accident.

●

Do not store items in the tray 

that can easily shift or roll out.

●

Do not stack items in the tray 

higher than the tray’s edge.

●

Do not put items in the tray that 

may protrude over the tray’s 

edge.

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Pull down the hook to use.

The cargo hooks are provided for 

securing loose items.

To hang the cargo net, use the 

cargo net hooks and cargo 

hooks.

■

Removing the luggage 

cover unit (vehicles with-

out side deck board)

1

Fold down the third seats. 

(



P.143)

Luggage compart-

ment features

Cargo hooks

WARNING

■

When cargo hooks are not in 

use

To avoid injury, always return the 

hooks to their stowed positions 

when not in use.

Cargo net hooks

WARNING

■

When the cargo net is not in 

use

To avoid injury, always return the 

hooks to their stowed positions 

when not in use.

Grocery bag hooks

NOTICE

■

To prevent damage to the gro-

cery bag hooks

Do not hang any object heavier 

than 6.6 lb. (3 kg) on the grocery 

bag hooks.

Luggage cover (if 

equipped)

364

5-4. Using the storage features

HIGHLANDER_U

2

Remove the center deck 
board (



P.467) and take out 

the luggage cover unit.

■

Removing the luggage 
cover unit (vehicles with 
side deck board)

1

Fold down the third seats. 
(



P.143)

2

Remove the center deck 
board (



P.467) and side 

deck board (



P.366) and 

take out the luggage cover 
unit.

■

Installing the luggage cover

1

Fold down the third seats. 
(



P.143)

2

Press the lock release but-
tons to extend the ends of the 
luggage cover unit.

3

To install the luggage cover 
unit, with the lock release 
buttons facing upward, insert 
one end into the recess, then 
compress the other end and 
insert it into the other recess.

4

Pull out the luggage cover 
and hook it onto the anchors.

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■

Removing the luggage 
cover

1

Release the cover from the 
left and right anchors and 
allow it to retract.

2

Compress the end of the lug-
gage cover and lift the lug-
gage cover up.

■

Stowing the luggage cover 
(vehicles without side deck 
board)

1

Remove the center deck 
board. (



P.467)

2

To store the luggage cover 
unit, compress both ends 
until they lock.

Store the unit with the lock release 
buttons facing up and the cover 
portion facing the rear of the vehi-

cle.

■

Stowing the luggage cover 
(vehicles with side deck 
board)

1

Remove the center deck 
board (



P.467) and the side 

deck board. (



P.366)

2

To store the luggage cover 
unit, compress both ends 
until they lock.

Store the unit with the lock release 
buttons facing up and the cover 
portion facing the rear of the vehi-
cle.

366

5-4. Using the storage features

HIGHLANDER_U



Center deck under tray

Pull the strap upwards to open 

the center deck board.



Deck side box (if equipped)

Pull the strap upwards to open 

the side deck board.

WARNING

■

Luggage cover

●

When installing/stowing the lug-

gage cover, make sure that the 

luggage cover is securely 

installed/stowed. Failure to do 

so may result in serious injury in 

the event of sudden braking or a 

collision.

●

Do not place anything on the 

luggage cover. In the event of 

sudden braking or turning, the 

item may go flying and strike an 

occupant. This could lead to an 

unexpected accident, resulting 

in death or serious injury.

●

Do not allow children to climb 

on the luggage cover. Climbing 

on the luggage cover could 

result in damage to the luggage 

cover, possibly causing death or 

serious injury to the child.

●

Do not point the luggage cover 

unit at your face or body, as 

doing so may cause injuries if 

the cover ends extend sud-

denly.

NOTICE

■

When using the luggage 

cover

●

Do not put heavy items on the 

luggage cover.

●

Install the cover unit in the cor-

rect direction so that the lock 

release button faces upward.

Auxiliary boxes

WARNING

■

Caution while driving

Keep the deck board closed. In 

the event of sudden braking, an 

accident may occur due to an 

occupant being struck by the deck 

board or the items stored under 

the deck board.

367

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5-5.Using the other interior features

The USB charging ports are 

used to supply 2.1 A of electric-

ity at 5 V to external devices.

The USB charging ports are for 

charging only. They are not 

designed for data transfer or 

other purposes.

Depending on the external 

device, it may not charge prop-

erly. Refer to the manual 

included with the device before 

using a USB charging port.

■

Using the USB charging 

ports



On the instrument panel

Open the lid.



Rear of console box

Open the lid.

■

The USB charging ports can be 

used when

The engine switch is in ACC or ON.

■

Situations in which the USB 

charging ports may not operate 

correctly

●

If a device which consumes more 

than 2.1 A at 5 V is connected

●

If a device designed to communi-

cate with a personal computer, 

such as a USB memory device, is 

connected

●

If the connected external device is 

turned off (depending on device)

●

If the temperature inside the vehi-

cle is high, such as after the vehi-

cle has been parked in the sun

■

About connected external 

devices

Depending on the connected exter-

nal device, charging may occasion-

ally be suspended and then start 

again. This is not a malfunction.

Other interior features

USB charging ports

NOTICE

■

To prevent damage to the 

USB charging ports

●

Do not insert foreign objects into 

the ports.

●

Do not spill water or other liq-

uids into the ports.

●

When the USB charging ports 

are not in use, close the lids. If a 

foreign object or liquid enters a 

port may cause a short circuit.

368

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A portable device, such as a 

smartphone or mobile battery, 

can be charged by just placing it 

on the charging area, provided 

the device is compatible with the 

Qi wireless charging standard 

created by the Wireless Power 

Consortium.
The wireless charger cannot be 

used with a portable device that 

is larger than the charging area. 

Additionally, depending on the 

portable device, the wireless 

charger may not operate prop-

erly. Refer to the operation man-

ual of the portable device.

■

The “Qi” symbol

The “Qi” symbol is a trademark 

of the Wireless Power Consor-

tium.

■

Name for all parts

Power supply switch
Operation indicator light
Charge area

■

Using the wireless charger

1

Push the tab and slide the 

console box lid. (



P.359)

2

Press the power supply 

switch of the wireless char-

ger.

Pressing the switch again turns the 

wireless charger off.
When turned on, the operation indi-

cator light (green) comes on.
When the engine switch is turned 

off, the on/off state of the wireless 

NOTICE

●

Do not apply excessive force to 

or impact the USB charging 

ports.

●

Do not disassemble or modify 

the USB charging ports.

■

To prevent damage to exter-

nal devices

●

Do not leave external devices in 

the vehicle. The temperature 

inside the vehicle may become 

high, resulting in damage to an 

external device.

●

Do not push down on or apply 

unnecessary force to an exter-

nal device or the cable of an 

external device while it is con-

nected.

■

To prevent battery discharge

Do not use the USB charging 

ports for a long period of time with 

the engine stopped.

Wireless charger (if 

equipped)

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charger will be memorized.

3

Place a portable device on 
the charging area with its 
charging surface facing 
down.

While charging, the operation indi-
cator light (orange) will be illumi-
nated.

If charging does not begin, move 
the portable device as close to the 
center of the charging area as pos-
sible.

When charging is complete, the 
operation indicator light (green) will 
illuminate.

■

Recharging function



If a certain amount of time has 
elapsed since charging com-
pleted and the portable device 
has not been moved, the 
wireless charger will restart 
charging.



If the portable device is 
moved within the charging 

area, charging will stop tem-
porarily then restart.

■

Operation indicator light 
status

*

: Depending on the portable 

device, the operation indicator 
light may stay illuminated 
(orange) after charging has com-
pleted.

■

If the operation indicator 
light blinks

If an error is detected, the oper-
ation indicator light will blink 
(orange). Take the appropriate 
measures according to the table 
below.



Blinks (orange) at a one sec-
ond interval continuously

Operation indi-
cator light

State

Off

The Wireless char-
ger is off

Green (illumi-
nated)

Standby (charging 
is possible)

Charging is com-

plete

*

Orange (illumi-
nated)

A portable device 
has been placed 
on the charging 
area (identifying 
the portable 
device)

Charging in prog-
ress

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

Blinks (orange) 3 times 
repeatedly



Blinks (orange) 4 times 
repeatedly

■

The wireless charger can be 
operated when

The engine switch is in ACC or ON.

■

Portable devices that can be 
charged

●

Portable devices compatible with 
the Qi wireless charging standard 
can be charged by the wireless 

charger. However, compatibility 
with all devices which meet the Qi 
wireless charging standard is not 
guaranteed.

●

The wireless charger is designed 
to supply low power electricity (5 
W or less) to a cellular phone, 
smartphone, or other portable 
device.

■

If a cover or accessory is 
attached to the portable device

Do not charge a portable device if a 
cover or accessory which is not Qi 
compatible is attached. Depending 
on the type of cover and/or acces-
sory attached, it may not be possi-
ble to charge the portable device. If 
the portable device is placed on the 
charging area and does not charge, 
remove the cover and/or accesso-
ries.

■

If interference is heard in AM 
radio broadcasts while 
charging

Turn off the wireless charger and 
check if the noise is reduced. If 
noise is reduced, press and hold the 
power supply switch of the wireless 
charger for 2 seconds. The fre-
quency of the wireless charger is 
changed and noise may be 
reduced. When the frequency is 
changed, the operation indicator 
light will blink (orange) 2 times.

■

Charging precautions

●

If the electronic key cannot be 
detected in the cabin, charging 
cannot be performed. When a 
door is opened and closed, 
charging may be temporarily sus-
pended.

●

While charging, the wireless char-
ger and the portable device will 
become warm. This is not a mal-
function. If a portable device 
becomes warm while charging 
and charging stops due to the pro-
tection function of the portable 
device, wait until the portable 
device cools down and charge it 

Suspected 
causes

Measure

Vehicle to 
charger com-
munication 
failure.

Contact your Toy-
ota dealer.

Suspected 
causes

Measure

A foreign 
object exists 
between the 
portable 
device and 
charging area.

Remove the for-
eign object.

Portable 
device is not 
positioned 
properly on the 
charging area.

Move the portable 
device toward the 
center of the 
charging area.

Suspected 
causes

Measure

The tempera-
ture of the 
wireless char-
ger is exces-
sively high.

Stop charging 
immediately and 
continue charging 
after a while.

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again.

■

Sound generated during opera-
tion

When the power supply switch is 
turned on or while a portable device 

is being identified, operation sounds 
may be heard. This is not a malfunc-
tion.

■

Cleaning the wireless charger



P.391

■

Certification for the wireless charger

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WARNING

■

Caution while driving

When charging a portable device 

while driving, for safety reasons, 

the driver should not operate the 

portable device.

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5-5. Using the other interior features

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WARNING

■

Caution regarding interfer-

ence with electronic devices

People with implantable cardiac 

pacemakers, cardiac resynchroni-

zation therapy pacemakers or 

implantable cardioverter defibrilla-

tors, as well as any other electri-

cal medical device, should consult 

their physician about the usage of 

the wireless charger.
Operations of the wireless char-

ger may have an affect on medi-

cal devices.

■

To prevent damage or burns

Observe the following precau-

tions.
Failure to do so may result in the 

possibility of fire, equipment fail-

ure or damage, or burns due to 

heat.

●

Do not put any metallic objects 

between the charging area and 

the portable device while 

charging.

●

Do not attach metallic objects, 

such as aluminum stickers, to 

the charging area.

●

Do not cover the wireless char-

ger with a cloth or other object 

while charging.

●

Do not attempt to charge porta-

ble devices which are not com-

patible with the Qi wireless 

charging standard.

●

Do not disassemble, modify or 

remove the wireless charger.

●

Do not apply force or impact to 

the wireless charger.

NOTICE

■

Conditions in which the wire-

less charger may not operate 

correctly

In the following situations, the 

wireless charger may not operate 

correctly:

●

When a portable device is fully 

charged

●

When there is a foreign object 

between the charging area and 

portable device

●

When a portable device 

becomes hot while charging

●

When a portable device is 

placed on the wireless area with 

its charging surface facing up

●

When a portable device is not 

centered on the charging area

●

When the vehicle is near a TV 

tower, electric power plant, gas 

station, radio station, large dis-

play, airport or other facility that 

generates strong radio waves or 

electrical noise

●

When the portable device is in 

contact with, or is covered by 

any of the following metallic 

objects:

• Cards to which aluminum foil is 

attached

• Cigarette boxes that have alu-

minum foil inside

• Metallic wallets or bags
• Coins
• Metal hand warmers
• Media such as CDs and DVDs

●

When wireless keys (that emit 

radio waves) other than those of 

your vehicle are being used 

nearby.

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es



Second seats (8-seat models)

Pull the armrest down for use.



Second seats (7-seat models)

Pull the armrest down for use.

An assist grip installed on the 

ceiling can be used to support 

your body while sitting on the 

seat.

NOTICE

If in situations other than above 

the wireless charger does not 

operate properly or the operation 

indicator light is blinking, the wire-

less charger may be malfunction-

ing. Contact your Toyota dealer.

■

To prevent failure or damage 

to data

●

Do not bring magnetic cards, 

such as a credit card, or mag-

netic recording media, close to 

the wireless charger while 

charging. Otherwise, data may 

be erased due to the influence 

of magnetism. Additionally, do 

not bring precision instruments 

such as wrist watches, close to 

the wireless charger, as such 

objects may malfunction.

●

Do not leave portable devices in 

the cabin. The temperature 

inside the cabin may become 

high when parked in the sun, 

and cause damage to the 

device.

■

To prevent battery discharge

Do not use the wireless charger 

for a long period of time with the 

engine is stopped.

Armrest

NOTICE

■

To prevent damage to the 

armrest

Do not apply too much load on the 

armrest.

Assist grips

WARNING

■

Assist grip

Do not use the assist grip when 

getting in or out of the vehicle or 

rising from your seat.

376

5-5. Using the other interior features

HIGHLANDER_U

The coat hooks are provided 

with the rear assist grips.

■

12 V

Please use as a power supply 

for electronic goods that use 

less than 12 VDC/10 A (power 

consumption of 120 W).
When using electronic goods, 

make sure that the power con-

sumption of all the connected 

power outlets is less than 120 

W.



On the instrument panel

Open the lid.



Inside the console box

Open the lid.

■

120 VAC (if equipped)

Accessories that use less than 

100 W.
Open the lid.

NOTICE

■

To prevent damage to the 

assist grip

Do not hang any heavy object or 

put a heavy load on the assist 

grip.

Coat hooks

WARNING

■

Items that must not be hung 

on the hook

Do not hang coat hangers or 

other hard or sharp objects on the 

hook. If the SRS curtain shield air-

bags deploy, these items may 

become projectiles, causing death 

or serious injury.

Power outlets

377

5-5. Using the other interior features

HIGHLANDER_U

5

Interior

 featur

es

■

The power outlet can be used 

when



12 V

The engine switch is in ACC or ON.



120 VAC (if equipped)

The engine switch is in ON.

■

Using the power outlet (vehi-

cles with Stop & Start system)

When the engine restarts after hav-

ing been stopped by the Stop & 

Start system, the power outlets may 

be temporarily unusable, but this is 

not a malfunction.

■

When turning the engine switch 

off

Disconnect electrical devices with 

charging functions, such as mobile 

battery packs.

If such devices are left connected, 

the engine switch may not be turned 

off normally.

1

To set the visor in the forward 

position, flip it down.

2

To set the visor in the side 

position, flip down, unhook, 

and swing it to the side.

3

To use the side extender, 

place the visor in the side 

position, then slide it back-

ward.

Open the cover.

The light turns on when the cover is 

opened.

NOTICE

■

To avoid damaging the power 

outlet

Close the power outlet lid when 

the power outlet is not in use. 

Foreign objects or liquids that 

enter the power outlet may cause 

a short circuit.

■

To prevent the battery from 

being discharged

Do not use the power outlet lon-

ger than necessary when the 

engine is not running.

■

Appliances that may not 

operate properly (120 VAC)

The following 120 VAC appliances 

may not operate properly even if 

their power consumption is under 

100 W.

●

Appliances with high initial peak 

wattage

●

Measuring devices that pro-

cess precise data

●

Other appliances that require an 

extremely stable power supply

Sun visors

Vanity mirrors

378

5-5. Using the other interior features

HIGHLANDER_U

■

To prevent battery discharge

If the vanity lights remain on when 

the engine switch is turned off, the 

lights will go off automatically after 

20 minutes.

1

Push the lid.

2

Push the lid back up half way.

■

To use the overhead console 

from the conversation mirror 

state

Fully close the lid, then open it 

again. (



P.361)

1

Pull the tab up.

2

Hook the sunshade on to the 

anchors.

To lower the sunshade, pull the tab 

up slightly to unhook the shade 

from the anchors, and lower it 

slowly.

NOTICE

■

To prevent the battery from 

being discharged

Do not leave the vanity lights on 

for extended periods while the 

engine is off.

Conversation mirror

Rear door sunshades (if 

equipped)

NOTICE

■

To ensure normal operation 

of the sunshades

●

Do not put anything in an area 

where it may interfere with the 

operation of a rear door sun-

shade.

●

To prevent damage to the rear 

door sunshades, do not apply 

excessive load or attach items 

to the rear door sunshades.

379

5-5. Using the other interior features

HIGHLANDER_U

5

Interior

 featur

es

*

: If equipped

The HomeLink

®

 wireless control 

system in your vehicle has 3 
buttons which can be pro-
grammed to operate 3 different 
devices. Refer to the program-
ming methods on the following 
pages to determine the method 
which is appropriate for the 
device.



Vehicles with auto anti-glare 
inside rear view mirror

HomeLink

®

 indicator light

Garage door operation indi-
cators

HomeLink

®

 icon

Illuminates while HomeLink

®

 is 

operating.

Buttons



Vehicles with Digital Rearview 
Mirror

HomeLink

®

 logo

Appears while HomeLink

®

 is oper-

ating. When the menu button 
(



P.152) is pressed, the logo dis-

appears even while the HomeLink

®

 

is operating.

Garage door operation indi-
cators

HomeLink

®

 indicator light

Illuminates above each button 
selected.

Buttons

■

Codes stored in the Home-
Link

®

 memory

●

The registered codes are not 
erased even if the battery cable is 
disconnected.

●

If learning failed when registering 
a different code to a HomeLink

®

 

button that already has a code 
registered to it, the already regis-
tered code will not be erased.

Garage door opener

*

The garage door opener can 
be programmed using the 

HomeLink

®

 to operate 

garage doors, gates, entry 
doors, door locks, home 
lighting systems, security 
systems, and other devices.

System components

380

5-5. Using the other interior features

HIGHLANDER_U

■

Certification for the garage door opener

■

When support is necessary

Visit on the web at 

www.homelink.com/toyota or call 

1-800-355-3515.

WARNING

■

When programming a garage 

door or other remote control 

device

The garage door or other device 

may operate, so ensure people 

and objects are out of danger to 

prevent potential harm.

■

Conforming to federal safety 

standards

Do not use the HomeLink

®

 com-

patible transceiver with any 

garage door opener or device that 

lacks safety stop and reverse fea-

tures as required by federal safety 

standards.
This includes any garage door 

that cannot detect an interfering 

object. A door or device without 

these features increases the risk 

of death or serious injury.

■

When operating or program-

ming HomeLink

®

Never allow a child to operate or 

play with the HomeLink

®

 buttons.

381

5-5. Using the other interior features

HIGHLANDER_U

5

Interior

 featur

es

■

Before programming Home-

Link

®



During programming, it is pos-
sible that garage doors, 
gates, or other devices may 
operate. For this reason, 
make sure that people and 
objects are clear of the 
garage door or other devices 
to prevent injury or other 
potential harm.



It is recommended that a new 
battery be placed in the 
remote control transmitter for 
more accurate programming.



Garage door opener motors 
manufactured after 1995 may 
be equipped with rolling code 
protection. If this is the case, 
you may need a stepladder or 
other sturdy, safe device to 
reach the “Learn” or “Smart” 
button on the garage door 
opener motor.

■

Programming HomeLink

®

Steps 

1

 through 

3

 must be per-

formed within 60 seconds, oth-

erwise the HomeLink

®

 indicator 

light will stop flashing and pro-
gramming will not be success-
fully completed.

1

Press and release the Home-

Link

®

 button you want to pro-

gram and check that the 

HomeLink

®

 indicator light 

flashes (orange).

2

Point the remote control 
transmitter for the device at 
the rear view mirror, 1 to 3 in. 
(25 to 75 mm) from the 

HomeLink

®

 buttons.

Keep the HomeLink

®

 indicator light 

in view while programming.



Vehicles with auto anti-glare 
inside rear view mirror



Vehicles with Digital Rearview 
Mirror

3

Program a device.

Programming the Home-

Link

®

382

5-5. Using the other interior features

HIGHLANDER_U



Vehicles with auto anti-glare 
inside rear view mirror



Vehicles with Digital Rearview 
Mirror



Programming a device other 
than an entry gate (for U.S.A. 
owners)

Press and hold the remote con-
trol transmitter button until the 

HomeLink

®

 indicator light 

changes from slowly flashing 
orange to rapidly flashing green 
(rolling code) or continuously lit 
green (fixed code), then release 
the button.



Programming an entry gate 
(for U.S.A. owners)/Program-
ming a device in the Cana-
dian market

Press and release the remote 
control transmitter button at 2 

second intervals, repeatedly, 

until the HomeLink

®

 indicator 

light changes from slowly flash-
ing (orange) to rapidly flashing 
(green) (rolling code) or continu-
ously lit (green) (fixed code).

4

Test the HomeLink

®

 opera-

tion by pressing the newly 
programmed button and 
observing the indicator light:



HomeLink

®

 indicator light illu-

minates: Programming of a 
fixed code device has com-
pleted. The garage door or 
other device should operate 

when a HomeLink

®

 button is 

pressed and released.



HomeLink

®

 indicator light 

flashes rapidly: The garage 
door opener motor or other 
device is equipped with a roll-
ing code. To complete pro-
gramming, firmly press and 

hold the HomeLink

®

 button 

for 2 seconds then release it.



If the garage door or other 
device does not operate, pro-
ceed to “Programming a roll-
ing code system”.

5

Repeat the steps above to 
program another device for 
any of the remaining Home-

Link

®

 buttons.

■

Programming a rolling code 
system

Two or more people may be 
necessary to complete rolling 

383

5-5. Using the other interior features

HIGHLANDER_U

5

Interior

 featur

es

code programming.

1

Locate the “Learn” or “Smart” 
button on the garage door 
opener motor in the garage.

This button can usually be found 
where the hanging antenna wire is 
attached to the unit. The name and 
color of the button may vary by 
manufacturer. Refer to the owner’s 
manual supplied with the garage 
door opener motor for details.

2

Press and release the 
“Learn” or “Smart” button.

Perform 

3

 within 30 seconds after 

performing 

2

.

3

Press and hold the desired 

HomeLink

®

 button (inside the 

vehicle) for 2 seconds and 
release it. Repeat this 
sequence 
(press/hold/release) up to 3 
times to complete program-
ming.
If the garage door opener 

motor operates when the 

HomeLink

®

 button is 

pressed, the garage door 
opener motor recognizes the 

HomeLink

®

 signal.



Vehicles with auto anti-glare 
inside rear view mirror



Vehicles with Digital Rearview 
Mirror

■

Enabling 2-way communi-
cation with a garage door 
(only available for compati-
ble devices)

When enabled, 2-way communi-
cation allows you to check the 
status of the opening and clos-
ing of a garage door through 
indicators in your vehicle.

2-way communication is only 
available if the garage door 
opener motor used is a compati-

384

5-5. Using the other interior features

HIGHLANDER_U

ble device. (To check device 
compatibility, refer to 
www.homelink.com.)

1

Within 5 seconds after pro-
gramming the garage door 
opener has been completed, 
if the garage door opener 
motor is trained to Home-

Link

®

, both garage door 

operation indicators will flash 
rapidly (green) and the light 
on the garage door opener 
motor will blink twice, indicat-
ing that 2-way communica-
tion is enabled.

If the indicators do not flash, per-
form 

2

 and 

3

 within the first 10 

presses of the HomeLink

®

 button 

after programming has been com-
pleted.

2

Press a programmed Home-

Link

®

 button to operate a 

garage door.

3

Within 1 minute of pressing 

the HomeLink

®

 button, after 

the garage door operation 
has stopped, press the 
“Learn” or “Smart” button on 
the garage door opener 
motor. Within 5 seconds of 
the establishment of 2-way 
communication with the 
garage door opener, both 
garage door operation indica-
tors in the vehicle will flash 
rapidly (green) and the light 
on the garage door opener 
motor will blink twice, indicat-

ing that 2-way communica-
tion is enabled.

■

Reprogramming a single 

HomeLink

®

 button

When the following procedure is 
performed, buttons which 
already have devices registered 
to them can be overwritten:

1

Press and hold the desired 

HomeLink

®

 button.

2

When the HomeLink

®

 indica-

tor starts flashing orange, 

release the HomeLink

®

 but-

ton and perform “Program-

ming HomeLink

®

” 

1

 (it takes 

20 seconds for the Home-

Link

®

 indicator to start flash-

ing).

■

Before programming

●

Install a new battery in the trans-
mitter.

●

The battery side of the transmitter 
must be pointed away from the 
HomeLink

®

 buttons.

Press the appropriate Home-

Link

®

 button. The HomeLink

®

 

indicator light should turn on.

The status of the opening and 
closing of a garage door is 
shown by the garage door 
opener indicators.

Operating HomeLink

®

385

5-5. Using the other interior features

HIGHLANDER_U

5

Interior

 featur

es



Vehicles with auto anti-glare 
inside rear view mirror

Opening

Closing



Vehicles with Digital Rearview 
Mirror

Opening

Closing

This function is only available if the 
garage door opener motor used is a 
compatible device. (To check 
device compatibility, refer to 
www.homelink.com.)

The indicators can operate 
within approximately 820 ft. (250 
m) of the garage door. However, 
if there are obstructions 
between the garage door and 
the vehicle, such as houses and 
trees, feedback signals from the 
garage door may not be 
received.

To recall the previous door oper-
ation status, press and release 

either HomeLink

®

 buttons 

 

and 

 or 

 and 

 (vehicles 

with auto anti-glare inside rear 

view mirror), 

 and 

 

or 

 and 

 (vehicles 

with Digital Rearview Mirror), 
simultaneously. The last 
recorded status will be dis-
played for 3 seconds.

Press and hold the 2 outside 
buttons for 10 seconds until the 

HomeLink

®

 indicator light 

changes from continuously lit 
(orange) to rapidly flashing 
(green).

Color

Status

Orange (flash-

ing)

Currently open-

ing/closing

Green

Opening/closing 

has completed

Red (flashing)

Feedback sig-

nals cannot be 

received

Erasing the entire Home-

Link

®

 memory (all three 

codes)

Color

Status

386

5-5. Using the other interior features

HIGHLANDER_U

If you sell your vehicle, be sure to 
erase the programs stored in the 

HomeLink

®

 memory.



Vehicles with auto anti-glare 
inside rear view mirror



Vehicles with Digital Rearview 
Mirror

387

HIGHLANDER_U

6

6

Maintena

nce

 a

nd 

ca
re

Maintenance and care

.

6-1. Maintenance and care

Cleaning and protecting the 

vehicle exterior ..........

388

Cleaning and protecting the 

vehicle interior ...........

391

6-2. Maintenance

Maintenance requirements

..................................

394

General maintenance..

396

Emission inspection and 

maintenance (I/M) pro-
grams ........................

398

6-3. Do-it-yourself mainte-

nance

Do-it-yourself service pre-

cautions.....................

400

Hood ...........................

402

Positioning a floor jack

..................................

403

Engine compartment ...

404

Tires ............................

411

Tire inflation pressure..

423

Wheels ........................

425

Air conditioning filter....

426

Electronic key battery..

428

Checking and replacing 

fuses..........................

429

Headlight aim ..............

431

Light bulbs...................

432

388

6-1. Maintenance and care

HIGHLANDER_U

6-1.Maintenance and care



Working from top to bottom, 
liberally apply water to the 
vehicle body, wheel wells and 
underside of the vehicle to 
remove any dirt and dust.



Wash the vehicle body using 
a sponge or soft cloth, such 
as a chamois.



For hard-to-remove marks, 
use car wash soap and rinse 
thoroughly with water.



Wipe away any water.



Wax the vehicle when the 
waterproof coating deterio-
rates.

If water does not bead on a clean 
surface, apply wax when the vehi-
cle body is cool.

■

Automatic car washes

●

Before washing the vehicle:

• Fold the mirrors
• Turn off the power back door (if 

equipped)

Start washing from the front of the 
vehicle. Extend the mirrors before 
driving.

●

Brushes used in automatic car 
washes may scratch the vehicle 
surface, parts (wheel, etc.) and 

harm your vehicle’s paint.

●

Rear spoiler may not be washable 
in some automatic car washes. 
There may also be an increased 
risk of damage to vehicle.

■

High pressure car washes

As water may enter the cabin, do 
not bring the nozzle tip near the 
gaps around the doors or perimeter 
of the windows, or spray these 
areas continuously.

■

When using a car wash

If the door handle becomes wet 
while the electronic key is within the 
effective range, the door may lock 
and unlock repeatedly. In that case, 
follow the following correction pro-
cedures to wash the vehicle:

●

Place the key in a position 6 ft. (2 
m) or more separate from the 
vehicle while the vehicle is being 
washed. (Take care to ensure that 
the key is not stolen.)

●

Set the electronic key to bat-
tery-saving mode to disable the 
smart key system. (



P.132)

■

Wheels and wheel ornaments

●

Remove any dirt immediately by 
using a neutral detergent.

●

Wash detergent off with water 
immediately after use.

●

To protect the paint from damage, 
make sure to observe the follow-
ing precautions.

• Do not use acidic, alkaline or 

abrasive detergent

• Do not use hard brushes
• Do not use detergent on the 

wheels when they are hot, such 
as after driving or parking in hot 
weather

■

Bumpers

Do not scrub with abrasive cleaners.

■

Plated portions

If dirt cannot be removed, clean the 
parts as follows:

●

Use a soft cloth dampened with an 

Cleaning and protect-

ing the vehicle exte-

rior

Perform cleaning in a man-
ner appropriate to each 
component and its material.

Cleaning instructions

389

6-1. Maintenance and care

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd 
ca

re

approximately 5% solution of neu-

tral detergent and water to clean 

the dirt off.

●

Wipe the surface with a dry, soft 

cloth to remove any remaining 

moisture.

●

To remove oily deposits, use alco-

hol wet wipes or a similar product.

WARNING

■

When washing the vehicle

Do not apply water to the inside of 

the engine compartment. Doing 

so may cause the electrical com-

ponents, etc. to catch fire.

■

When cleaning the windshield 

(vehicles with rain-sensing 

windshield wipers)

Set the wiper switch to off.

If the switch is in “AUTO”, the wip-

ers may operate unexpectedly in 

the following situations, and may 

result in hands being caught or 

other serious injuries and cause 

damage to the wiper blades.

AUTO

●

When the upper part of the 

windshield where the raindrop 

sensor is located is touched by 

hand

●

When a wet rag or similar is 

held close to the raindrop sen-

sor

●

If something bumps against the 

windshield

●

If you directly touch the raindrop 

sensor body or if something 

bumps into the raindrop sensor

■

Precautions regarding the 

exhaust pipe

Exhaust gasses cause the 

exhaust pipe to become quite hot.

When washing the vehicle, be 

careful not to touch the pipe until it 

has cooled sufficiently, as touch-

ing a hot exhaust pipe can cause 

burns.

■

Precaution regarding the rear 

bumper with Blind Spot Moni-

tor (if equipped)

If the paint of the rear bumper is 

chipped or scratched, the system 

may malfunction.If this occurs, 

consult your Toyota dealer.

NOTICE

■

To prevent paint deteriora-

tion and corrosion on the 

body and components (alumi-

num wheels, etc.)

●

Wash the vehicle immediately in 

the following cases:

• After driving near the sea coast
• After driving on salted roads
• If coal tar or tree sap is present 

on the paint surface

• If dead insects, insect droppings 

or bird droppings are present on 

the paint surface

• After driving in an area contami-

nated with soot, oily smoke, 

mine dust, iron powder or chem-

ical substances

• If the vehicle becomes heavily 

soiled with dust or mud

• If liquids such as benzene and 

gasoline are spilled on the paint 

surface

390

6-1. Maintenance and care

HIGHLANDER_U

NOTICE

●

If the paint is chipped or 

scratched, have it repaired 

immediately.

●

To prevent the wheels from cor-

roding, remove any dirt and 

store in a place with low humid-

ity when storing the wheels.

■

Cleaning the exterior lights

●

Wash carefully. Do not use 

organic substances or scrub 

with a hard brush.

This may damage the surfaces 

of the lights.

●

Do not apply wax to the sur-

faces of the lights.

Wax may cause damage to the 

lenses.

■

When using an automatic car 

wash (vehicles with 

rain-sensing windshield wip-

ers)

Set the wiper switch to the off 

position.

If the wiper switch is in “AUTO”, 

the wipers may operate and the 

wiper blades may be damaged.

■

When using a high pressure 

car wash

●

When washing the vehicle, do 

not let water of the high pres-

sure washer hit directly or the 

vicinity of the camera. Due to 

the shock from the high pres-

sure water, it is possible the 

device may not operate as nor-

mal.

●

Do not bring the nozzle tip close 

to boots (rubber or resin manu-

factured cover), connectors or 

the following parts. The parts 

may be damaged if they come 

into contact with high-pressure 

water.

• Traction related parts

• Steering parts
• Suspension parts
• Brake parts

●

Keep the cleaning nozzle at 

least 11.9 in. (30 cm) away from 

the vehicle body. Otherwise 

resin section, such as moldings 

and bumpers, may be deformed 

and damaged.

Also, do not continuously hold the 

nozzle in the same place.

●

Do not spray the lower part of 

the windshield continuously.

If water enters the air conditioning 

system intake located near the 

lower part of the windshield, the 

air conditioning system may not 

operate correctly.

391

6-1. Maintenance and care

HIGHLANDER_U

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd 
ca

re



Remove dirt and dust using a 

vacuum cleaner. Wipe dirty 

surfaces with a cloth damp-

ened with lukewarm water.



If dirt cannot be removed, 

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.

■

Shampooing the carpets

There are several commercial foam-

ing-type cleaners available. Use a 

sponge or brush to apply the foam. 

Rub in overlapping circles. Do not 

use water. Wipe dirty surfaces and 

let them dry. Excellent results are 

obtained by keeping the carpet as 

dry as possible.

■

Handling the seat belts

Clean with mild soap and lukewarm 

water using a cloth or sponge. Also 

check the belts periodically for 

excessive wear, fraying or cuts.

Cleaning and protect-

ing the vehicle interior

Perform cleaning in a man-

ner appropriate to each 

component and its material.

Protecting the vehicle 

interior

WARNING

■

Water in the vehicle

●

Do not splash or spill liquid in 

the vehicle.

Doing so may cause electrical 

components, etc. to malfunc-

tion or catch fire.

●

Do not get any of the SRS com-

ponents or wiring in the vehicle 

interior wet.

(



P.32)

An electrical malfunction may 

cause the airbags to deploy or 

not function properly, resulting 

in death or serious injury.

●

Vehicles with wireless charger: 

Do not let the wireless charger 

(



P.368) get wet. Failure to do 

so may cause the charger to 

become hot and cause burns or 

could cause electric shock 

resulting in death or serious 

injury.

■

Cleaning the interior (espe-

cially instrument panel)

Do not use polish wax or polish 

cleaner. The instrument panel 

may reflect off the windshield, 

obstructing the driver’s view and 

leading to an accident, resulting in 

death or serious injury.

NOTICE

■

Cleaning detergents

●

Do not use the following types 

of detergent, as they may dis-

color the vehicle interior or 

cause streaks or damage to 

painted surfaces:

• Non-seat portions: Organic sub-

stances such as benzene or 

gasoline, alkaline or acidic solu-

tions, dye, and bleach

• Seats: Alkaline or acidic solu-

tions, such as thinner, benzene, 

and alcohol

392

6-1. Maintenance and care

HIGHLANDER_U



Remove dirt and dust using a 

vacuum cleaner.



Wipe off any excess dirt and 

dust with a soft cloth damp-

ened with diluted detergent.

Use a diluted water solution of 

approximately 5% neutral wool 

detergent.



Wring out any excess water 

from the cloth and thoroughly 

wipe off all remaining traces 

of detergent.



Wipe the surface with a dry, 

soft cloth to remove any 

remaining moisture. Allow the 

leather to dry in a shaded and 

ventilated area.

■

Caring for leather areas

Toyota recommends cleaning the 

interior of the vehicle at least twice a 

year tomaintain the quality of the 

vehicle’s interior.

NOTICE

●

Do not use polish wax or polish 

cleaner. The instrument panel’s 

or other interior part’s painted 

surface may be damaged.

■

Preventing damage to leather 

surfaces

Observe the following precautions 

to avoid damage to and deteriora-

tion of leather surfaces:

●

Remove any dust or dirt from 

leather surfaces immediately.

●

Do not expose the vehicle to 

direct sunlight for extended peri-

ods of time. Park the vehicle in 

the shade, especially during 

summer.

●

Do not place items made of 

vinyl, plastic, or containing wax 

on the upholstery, as they may 

stick to the leather surface if the 

vehicle interior heats up signifi-

cantly.

■

Water on the floor

Do not wash the vehicle floor with 

water.

Vehicle systems such as the 

audio system may be damaged if 

water comes into contact with 

electrical components such as the 

audio system above or under the 

floor of the vehicle. Water may 

also cause the body to rust.

■

When cleaning the inside of 

the windshield

Do not allow glass cleaner to con-

tact the lens. Also, do not touch 

the lens. (



P.227)

■

Cleaning the inside of the rear 

window

●

Do not use glass cleaner to 

clean the rear window, as this 

may cause damage to the rear 

window defogger heater wires 

or antenna. Use a cloth damp-

ened with lukewarm water to 

gently wipe the window clean. 

Wipe the window in strokes run-

ning parallel to the heater wires 

or antenna.

●

Be careful not to scratch or 

damage the heater wires or 

antenna.

Cleaning the leather areas