Toyota Highlander (2021 year). Manual in english - part 3

141

3-3. Adjusting the seats

3

Before driv

ing

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3-3.Adjusting the seats



Manual seat

Seat position adjustment 
lever
Seatback angle adjustment 
lever



Power seat

Seat position adjustment 
switch
Seatback angle adjustment 
switch
Seat cushion (front) angle 
adjustment switch (driver’s 
side only)

Vertical height adjustment 
switch (driver’s side only)
Lumbar support adjustment 
switch (driver’s side only)

■

When adjusting the seat

Take care when adjusting the seat 

so that the head restraint does not 

touch the ceiling.

Front seats

Adjustment procedure

WARNING

■

When adjusting the seat posi-

tion

●

Take care when adjusting the 

seat position to ensure that 

other passengers are not 

injured by the moving seat.

●

Do not put your hands under the 

seat or near the moving parts to 

avoid injury. Fingers or hands 

may become jammed in the 

seat mechanism.

●

Make sure to leave enough 

space around the feet so they 

do not get stuck.

■

Seat adjustment

●

Be careful that the seat does 

not hit passengers or luggage.

●

To reduce the risk of sliding 

under the lap belt during a colli-

sion, do not recline the seat 

more than necessary.

If the seat is too reclined, the lap 

belt may slide past the hips and 

apply restraint forces directly to 

the abdomen, or your neck may 

contact the shoulder belt, increas-

ing the risk of death or serious 

injury in the event of an accident.
Adjustments should not be made 

while driving as the seat may 

unexpectedly move and cause 

the driver to lose control of the 

vehicle.

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WARNING

●

Manual seat only: After adjust-

ing the seat, make sure that the 

seat is locked in position.

Rear seats

The seat position and seat-
back angle can be adjusted, 
and the seatback can be 
folded by operating a seat-
back angle adjustment 
lever.

WARNING

■

Seat adjustment

●

To reduce the risk of sliding 

under the lap belt during a colli-

sion, do not recline the seat 

more than necessary.

If the seat is too reclined, the lap 

belt may slide past the hips and 

apply restraint forces directly to 

the abdomen, or your neck may 

contact the shoulder belt, increas-

ing the risk of death or serious 

injury in the event of an accident.
Adjustments should not be made 

while driving as the seat may 

unexpectedly move and cause 

the driver to lose control of the 

vehicle.

●

Be careful that the seat does 

not hit passengers or luggage.

●

Be careful not to get your hands 

or feet caught in the seat.

■

After adjusting or returning 

the seats

Observe the following precau-

tions. Failure to do so may result 

in death or serious injury.

●

Make sure that the seat and 

seatback are securely locked in 

position by lightly rocking them 

back and forth.

●

Check that the seat belts are 

not twisted or caught in the 

seatback.

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■

Second seats



8-seat models

Seatback angle adjustment 
lever
Seat position adjustment 
lever

WARNING

■

When folding the rear seat-

backs down

Observe the following precau-

tions. Failure to do so may result 

in death or serious injury.

●

Do not fold the seatbacks down 

while driving.

●

Stop the vehicle on level 

ground, set the parking brake 

and shift the shift lever to P.

●

Do not allow anyone to sit on a 

folded seatback or in the lug-

gage compartment while driv-

ing.

●

Do not allow children to enter 

the luggage compartment.

●

Do not fold down a rear seat-

back when there are passen-

gers sitting in the rear seats or 

when there is luggage placed 

on the rear seats.

●

Be careful not to catch your 

hand when folding the rear seat-

backs.

Adjustment procedure

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

7-seat models

Seatback angle adjustment 
lever
Seat position adjustment 
lever

■

Third seats

Seatback angle adjustment 
lever

■

When entering/exiting the 
vehicle

Pull the seatback angle adjust-
ment lever   or   to tilt the 
seatback forward and then slide 
the seat forward.

Make sure that the second seat is 
free of passengers and obstruc-
tions before operating the lever.

■

After passengers have 
entered/exited the vehicle

Lift up the seatback and slide 
the seat backward until it locks.

■

Before folding down the 
second seats

1

Stow the armrest. (



P.383)

Moving a second seat for 
third seat access

Folding down the second 
seats

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3-3. Adjusting the seats

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2

Stow the second seat belt 
buckles.

3

Pass the outer seat belts 
through the seat belt hangers 
and secure the seat belt 
plates.

This prevents the shoulder belts 

from being damaged.

4

Lower the head restraints to 
the lowest position. (



P.150)

■

Folding down the second 
seats

1

Pull the seatback angle 
adjustment lever   or   to 
tilt the seatback forward.

Each seatback may be folded sep-

arately.

2

Pull the seatback folding 
lever to unlock the seatback. 
The seatback will be folded 
down.

■

After folding down the sec-
ond seats

Slide the folded second seats 
backward until they lock.

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■

Returning the second seats

Lift up the seatbacks until they 
lock.

Remove the secured seat belts 
from the seat belt hangers before 
using them.

■

Before folding down the 
third seats

1

Stow the third seat belt buck-
les.

2

Pass the outer seat belts 
through the seat belt hangers 
and secure the seat belt 
plates.

This prevents the shoulder belts 

from being damaged.

3

Lower the center head 
restraint to the lowest posi-
tion. (



P.150)

■

Folding down the third 
seats

While pulling the the seatback 
angle adjustment lever, fold 
down the seatbacks.

The outer head restraints will fold 
forward.

■

Returning the third seats

1

Returning the seatbacks



From inside

Lift up the seatbacks until they lock.

Folding down the third 
seats

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

From outside

Pull the straps and raise the seat-
backs until they lock.
After using either strap, use the vel-
cro on the strap to attach it to the 
seatback.

2

Returning the outer head 
restraints.

Remove the secured seat belts 

from the seat belt hangers before 

using them.

*

: If equipped

1

Check that the shift lever is in 
P.

2

Turn the engine switch to 
ON.

3

Adjust the driver’s seat, out-
side rear view mirrors and 
head-up display (if equipped) 
to the desired positions.

4

While pressing the “SET” but-
ton, or within 3 seconds after 
the “SET” button is pressed, 
press button “1” or “2” until 
the buzzer sounds.

If the selected button has already 

been preset, the previously 

recorded position will be overwrit-

Driving position mem-

ory

*

This feature automatically 
adjusts the driver’s seat, 
outside rear view mirrors 
and head-up display (if 
equipped) to suit your pref-
erences.

Two different driving posi-
tions can be recorded into 
memory.

Each electronic key can be 
registered to recall your pre-
ferred driving position.

Recording a driving posi-
tion into memory

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3-3. Adjusting the seats

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ten.

■

Seat positions that can be 

memorized

The adjusted positions other than 

the position adjusted by lumbar sup-

port switch can be recorded.

■

In order to correctly use the 

driving position memory func-

tion

If a seat position is already in the 

furthest possible position and the 

seat is operated in the same direc-

tion, the recorded position may be 

slightly different when it is recalled.

1

Check that the shift lever is in 
P.

2

Turn the engine switch to 
ON.

3

Press one of the buttons for 
the driving position you want 

to recall until the buzzer 
sounds.

■

To stop the position recall oper-

ation part-way through

Perform any of the following opera-

tions:

●

Press the “SET” button.

●

Press button “1” or “2”.

●

Operate any of the seat adjust-

ment switches (only cancels seat 

position recall).

■

Operating the driving position 

memory after turning the 

engine switch off

Recorded seat positions can be 

activated up to 180 seconds after 

the driver’s door is opened and 

another 60 seconds after it is closed 

again.

■

When the recorded seat posi-

tion cannot be recalled

The seat position may not be 

recalled in some situations when the 

seat position is recorded in a certain 

range. For details, contact your Toy-

ota dealer.

■

Registering procedure

Record your driving position to 

WARNING

■

Seat adjustment caution

Take care during seat adjustment 

so that the seat does not strike 

the rear passenger or squeeze 

your body against the steering 

wheel.

Recalling a driving posi-
tion

Registering/cancel-
ing/recall a driving posi-
tion to an electronic key 
(memory recall function)

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3-3. Adjusting the seats

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button “1” or “2” before perform-
ing the following:
Carry only the key you want to 
register, and then close the 
driver’s door.

If 2 or more keys are in the vehicle, 
the driving position cannot be 
recorded properly.

1

Check that the shift lever is in 
P.

2

Turn the engine switch to 
ON.

3

Recall the driving position 
that you want to record.

4

While pressing the recalled 
button, press and hold the 
door lock switch (either lock 
or unlock) until the buzzer 
sounds.

If the button could not be regis-

tered, the buzzer sounds continu-

ously for approximately 3 seconds.

■

Cancelation procedure

Carry only the key you want to 
cancel and then close the 
driver’s door.

If 2 or more keys are in the vehicle, 
the driving position cannot be can-
celed properly.

1

Turn the engine switch to 
ON.

2

While pressing the “SET” but-
ton, press and hold the door 
lock switch (either lock or 
unlock) until the buzzer 
sounds twice.

If the button could not be canceled, 

the buzzer sounds continuously for 

approximately 3 seconds.

■

Recall procedure

Make sure that the doors are 
locked before recalling the driv-
ing position. Carry the electronic 
key that has been registered to 
the driving position, and then 
unlock and open the driver’s 
door using the smart key system 
or wireless remote control.

The driving position will move to the 
recorded position.
If the driving position is in a position 
that has already been recorded, the 
seat and outside rear view mirrors 
will not move.

■

Recalling the driving position 

using the memory recall func-

tion

●

Different driving positions can be 

registered for each electronic key. 

Therefore, the driving position that 

is recalled may be different 

depending on the key being car-

ried.

●

If a door other than the driver’s 

door is unlocked with the smart 

key system, the driving position 

cannot be recalled. In this case, 

press the driving position button 

which has been set.

■

Customization

Some functions can be customized. 

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(



P.521)

■

Front seats

1

Up

Pull the head restraints up.

2

Down

Push the head restraint down while 
pressing the lock release button 

.

Head restraints

Head restraints are provided 
for all seats.

WARNING

■

Head restraint precautions

Observe the following precautions 

regarding the head restraints. 

Failure to do so may result in 

death or serious injury.

●

Use the head restraints 

designed for each respective 

seat.

●

Adjust the head restraints to the 

correct position at all times.

●

After adjusting the head 

restraints, push down on them 

and make sure they are locked 

in position.

●

Do not drive with the head 

restraints removed.

Adjusting a head restraint

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■

Second seats

1

Up

Pull the head restraints up.

2

Down

Push the head restraint down while 
pressing the lock release button 

.

■

Third center seat

1

Up

Pull the head restraints up.

2

Down

Push the head restraint down while 
pressing the lock release button 

.

■

Adjusting the height of the head 

restraints

Make sure that the head restraints 

are adjusted so that the center of 

the head restraint is closest to the 

top of your ears.

■

Adjusting the third center seat 

head restraint

Always raise the head restraint one 

level from the stowed position when 

using.

■

When using the outboard third 

seats

If a head restraint is folded forward, 

make sure to return it to the upright 

position. (



P.146)

Pull the head restraint up while 
pressing the lock release button 

.

If the head restraint touches the 
ceiling, making the removal difficult, 
change the seat height or angle. 
(



P.141, 142)



Front seats

Removing the head 
restraints

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

Second seats



Third center seat

Align the head restraint with the 
installation holes and push it 
down to the lock position.
Press and hold the lock release 
button   when lowering the 
head restraint.



Front seats



Second seats



Third center seat

Installing the head 
restraints

153

3-4. Adjusting the steering wheel and mirrors

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3-4.Adjusting the steering wheel and mirrors

1

Hold the steering wheel and 
push the lever down.

2

Adjust to the ideal position by 
moving the steering wheel 
horizontally and vertically.

After adjustment, pull the lever up 

to secure the steering wheel.

Press on or close to the 

 

mark.

Steering wheel

Adjustment procedure

WARNING

■

Caution while driving

Do not adjust the steering wheel 

while driving.

Doing so may cause the driver to 

mishandle the vehicle and cause 

an accident, resulting in death or 

serious injury.

■

After adjusting the steering 

wheel

Make sure that the steering wheel 

is securely locked.

Otherwise, the steering wheel 

may move suddenly, possibly 

causing an accident, and resulting 

in death or serious injury. Also, 

the horn may not sound if the 

steering wheel is not securely 

locked.

Sounding the horn

154

3-4. Adjusting the steering wheel and mirrors

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*

: If equipped

The height of the rear view mir-
ror can be adjusted to suit your 
driving posture.
Adjust the height of the rear 
view mirror by moving it up and 
down.



Manual anti-glare inside rear 
view mirror

Reflected light from the head-
lights of vehicles behind can be 
reduced by operating the lever.

Normal position
Anti-glare position



Auto anti-glare inside rear 
view mirror

Responding to the level of 
brightness of the headlights of 
vehicles behind, the reflected 
light is automatically reduced.
Turn the automatic anti-glare 
function mode on/off

When the automatic anti-glare func-
tion is in ON mode, the indicator 

 

illuminates. The function will set to 
ON mode each time the engine 
switch is turned to ON.
Pressing the button turns the func-
tion to OFF mode. (The indicator 

 also turns off.)

Inside rear view mir-

ror

*

The rear view mirror’s posi-
tion can be adjusted to 
enable sufficient confirma-
tion of the rear view.

Adjusting the height of 
rear view mirror

WARNING

■

Caution while driving

Do not adjust the position of the 

mirror while driving.

Doing so may lead to mishandling 

of the vehicle and cause an acci-

dent, resulting in death or serious 

injury.

Anti-glare function

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■

To prevent sensor error (vehi-

cles with auto anti-glare inside 

rear view mirror)

To ensure that the sensors operate 

properly, do not touch or cover 

them.

*

: If equipped

Digital Rearview Mir-

ror

*

The Digital Rearview Mirror 
is a system that uses the 
camera on the rear of the 
vehicle and displays its 
image on the display of the 
Digital Rearview Mirror.

The Digital Rearview Mirror 
can be changed between 
optical mirror mode and dig-
ital mirror mode by operat-
ing the lever.

The Digital Rearview Mirror 
allows the driver to see the 
rear view despite obstruc-
tions, such as the head 
restraints or luggage, ensur-
ing rear visibility. Also, the 
rear seats are not displayed 
and privacy of the passen-
gers is enhanced.

WARNING

Observe the following precau-

tions.

Failure to do so may result in 

death or serious injury.

■

Before using the Digital Rear-

view Mirror

●

Make sure to adjust the mirror 

before driving. (



P.157)

• Change to optical mirror mode 

and adjust the position of the 

Digital Rearview Mirror so that 

the area behind your vehicle 

can be viewed properly.

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Camera indicator

Indicates that the camera is operat-
ing normally.

Icon display area

Displays icons, adjusting gauge, 
etc. (



P.157)

Select button

Press to change the setting of the 
item you want to adjust.

Menu button

Press to display the icon display 
area and select the item you want 
to adjust.

Lever

Operate to change between digital 
mirror mode and optical mirror 
mode.

Operate the lever to change 
between digital mirror mode and 
optical mirror mode.

1

Digital mirror mode

Displays an image of the area 
behind the vehicle.

 will illuminate in this mode.

2

Optical mirror mode

Turns off the display of the Digital 
Rearview Mirror allows it to be used 
as an optical mirror.

■

Digital mirror mode operating 

condition

The engine switch is turned to ON.
When the engine switch is changed 

from ON to OFF or ACC, the image 

will disappear after several seconds.

■

When using the Digital Rear-

view Mirror in digital mirror 

mode

●

If it is difficult to see the displayed 

image due to light reflected off the 

Digital Rearview Mirror, the cam-

era being dirty, or if lights of a 

vehicle behind your vehicle or the 

displayed image are bothering 

you, change to optical mirror 

mode.

●

When the back door is open, the 

Digital Rearview Mirror image may 

not display properly. Before driv-

ing, make sure the back door is 

WARNING

• Change to digital mirror mode 

and adjust the display settings.

●

As the range of the image dis-

played by the Digital Rearview 

Mirror is different from that of 

the optical mirror, make sure to 

check this difference before 

driving.

System components

Changing modes

157

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closed.

●

If the display is difficult to see due 

to reflected light, close the sun-

shade for the moon roof or the 

electronic sunshade for the pan-

oramic moon roof.

●

Any of the following conditions 

may occur when driving in the 

dark, such as at night. None of 

them indicates that a malfunction 

has occurred.

• Colors of objects in the displayed 

image may differ from their actual 

color.

• Depending on the height of the 

lights of the vehicle behind, the 

area around the vehicle may 

appear white and blurry.

• Automatic image adjustment for 

brighter surrounding image may 

cause flickering.

If it is difficult to see the displayed 
image or flickering bothers you, 
change to optical mirror mode.

●

The Digital Rearview Mirror may 

become hot while it is in digital 

mirror mode.

This is not a malfunction.

●

Depending on your physical con-

dition or age, it may take longer 

than usual to focus on the dis-

played image. In this case, 

change to optical mirror mode.

●

Do not let passengers stare at the 

displayed image when the vehicle 

is being driven, as doing so may 

cause motion sickness.

■

When the system malfunctions

If the symbol shown in the illustra-

tion is displayed when using the 

Digital Rearview Mirror in digital mir-

ror mode, the system may be mal-

functioning. The symbol will 

disappear in a few seconds. Oper-

ate the lever, change to optical mir-

ror mode and have the vehicle 

inspected by your Toyota dealer.

■

Adjusting the mirror height

The height of the rear view mir-
ror can be adjusted to suit your 
driving posture.
Change to optical mirror mode, 
adjusting the height of the rear 
view mirror by moving it up and 
down.

■

Display settings (digital mir-
ror mode)

Settings of the display in the dig-
ital mirror mode, on/off operation 
of the automatic anti-glare func-
tion, etc. can be changed.

1

Press the menu button.

Adjusting the mirror

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The icons will be displayed.

2

Press the menu button 
repeatedly and select the 
item you want to adjust.

3

Press 

 or 

 to 

change the setting.

The icons will disappear if a button 

is not operated for approximately 5 

seconds or more.

*

: This is a function for the optical 

mirror mode, however, the setting 
can also be changed while using 
the digital mirror mode.

■

Enabling/disabling the 
automatic anti-glare func-
tion (optical mirror mode)

The automatic anti-glare func-
tion in the optical mirror mode 
can be enabled/disabled. The 
setting can be changed in both 
the digital mirror mode and the 
optical mirror mode.



When using the digital mirror 
mode



P.157



When using the optical mirror 
mode

1

Press the menu button.

The icons will be displayed.

2

Press the menu button 
repeatedly and select 

.

Icons

Settings

Select to adjust the bright-
ness of the display.

Select to adjust the area 
displayed up/down.

Select to adjust the area 
displayed to the left/right.

Select to adjust the angle of 
the displayed image.

Select to zoom in/out the 
displayed image.

Select to enable/disable the 
automatic anti-glare func-
tion.

*

Responding to the bright-
ness of the headlights of 
vehicles behind, the 
reflected light is automati-
cally adjusted.
The automatic anti-glare 
function is enabled each 
time the engine switch is 
changed to ON.

Icons

Settings

159

3-4. Adjusting the steering wheel and mirrors

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER_U

The setting display will be dis-

played.

3

Press 

 or 

 to 

enable (“ON”)/disable 
(“OFF”) the automatic 
anti-glare function.

The icons will disappear if a button 

is not operated for approximately 5 

seconds or more.

■

Adjusting the display (digital 

mirror mode)

●

If the displayed image is adjusted, 

it may appear distorted. This is not 

a malfunction.

●

If the brightness of the Digital 

Rearview Mirror is set too high, it 

may cause eye strain. Adjust the 

Digital Rearview Mirror to an 

appropriate brightness. If your 

eyes become tired, change to 

optical mirror mode.

●

The brightness of the Digital Rear-

view Mirror will change automati-

cally according to the brightness 

of the area in front of your vehicle.

■

To prevent the light sensors 

from malfunctioning

To prevent the light sensors from 

malfunctioning, do not touch or 

cover them.

WARNING

Observe the following precau-

tions.

Failure to do so may result in 

death or serious injury.

■

While driving

●

Do not adjust the position of the 

Digital Rearview Mirror or adjust 

the display settings while driv-

ing.

Stop the vehicle and operate 

the Digital Rearview Mirror con-

trol switches. 

Failure to do so may cause a 

steering wheel operation error, 

resulting in an unexpected acci-

dent.

●

Always pay attention to the 

vehicle’s surroundings.

The size of the vehicles and other 

objects may look different when in 

digital mirror mode and optical 

mirror mode.

When backing up, make sure to 

directly check the safety of the 

area around your vehicle, espe-

cially behind the vehicle.

Additionally, if a vehicle 

approaches from the rear in the 

dark, such as at night, the sur-

rounding area may appear dim.

■

To prevent causes of fire

If the driver continues using the 

Digital Rearview Mirror while 

smoke or odor comes from the 

mirror, it may result in fire. Stop 

using the system immediately and 

contact your Toyota dealer.

160

3-4. Adjusting the steering wheel and mirrors

HIGHLANDER_U

■

Cleaning the mirror surface

If the mirror surface is dirty, the 
image on the display may be dif-
ficult to see.
Clean the mirror surface gently 
using a soft dry cloth.

■

Cleaning the camera

If the camera lens is dirty or cov-
ered with foreign matter, such as 
water droplets, snow, mud, etc., 
the displayed image may not be 
clear. In this case, rinse the 
camera lens with a large quan-
tity of water and then wipe it 
clean with a soft cloth damp-
ened with water.
Dirt on the camera lens can be 
cleaned by operating the dedi-
cated camera cleaning washer. 
(



P.225)

■

The camera

The camera for the Digital Rearview 

Mirror is located as shown.

Cleaning the Digital Rear-
view Mirror

NOTICE

■

To prevent the Digital Rear-

view Mirror from malfunction-

ing

●

Do not use detergents, such as 

thinner, benzine, and alcohol to 

clean the mirror. They may dis-

color, deteriorate or damage the 

mirror surface.

●

Do not smoke, use matches, 

use cigarette lighters or allow 

open flames near the mirror. It 

may damage the mirror or 

cause a fire.

●

Do not remove, disassemble or 

modify the mirror.

■

To prevent the camera from 

malfunctioning

●

Observe the following precau-

tions, otherwise the Digital 

Rearview Mirror may not oper-

ate properly.

• Do not strike or hit the camera 

or subject it to a strong impact, 

as the camera installation posi-

tion and angle may be changed.

• Do not remove, disassemble or 

modify the camera.

• When washing the camera, 

rinse it with a large quantity of 

water and then wipe it clean 

with a soft cloth dampened with 

water.

Do not strongly rub the camera 

lens, as it may be scratched and 

will not be able to transmit a 

clear image.

• Do not allow organic solvent, 

car wax, window cleaner or 

glass coat to adhere to the cam-

era cover. If this happens, wipe 

it off as soon as possible.

161

3-4. Adjusting the steering wheel and mirrors

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER_U

If you notice any of the following symptoms, refer to the following 
table for the likely cause and the solution.
If the symptom is not resolved by the solution, have the vehicle 
inspected by your Toyota dealer.

NOTICE

• Do not apply hot water to the 

camera in cold weather, as the 

sudden change of temperature 

may cause the camera to not 

operate properly.

• When using a high pressure 

washer to wash the vehicle, do 

not directly spray the camera 

and its surrounding area, as 

doing so may cause the camera 

to not operate properly.

●

Do not subject the camera to a 

strong impact as this could 

cause a malfunction.

If this happens, have the vehicle 

inspected by your Toyota dealer 

as soon as possible.

If you notice any symptoms

162

3-4. Adjusting the steering wheel and mirrors

HIGHLANDER_U

Symptom

Likely cause

Solution

The image is diffi-
cult to see.

The mirror surface is dirty.

Clean the mirror surface 
gently, using a soft dry 
cloth.

Sunlight or headlights are 
shining directly into the Dig-
ital Rearview Mirror.

Change to optical mirror 
mode.
(If the light is coming 
through the moon roof or 
panoramic moon roof, 
close the sunshade or 
electronic sunshade.)

• The vehicle is in a dark 

area.

• The vehicle is near a TV 

tower, broadcasting sta-
tion, electric power plant, 
or other location where 
strong radio waves or 
electrical noise may be 
present.

• The temperature around 

the camera is extremely 
high/low.

• The ambient temperature 

is extremely low.

• It is raining or humid.
• Sunlight or headlights are 

shining directly into the 
camera lens.

• The vehicle is under fluo-

rescent lights, sodium 
lights, mercury lights, etc.

• Exhaust gas is obstruct-

ing the camera.

Change to optical mirror 
mode.
(Change back to digital 
mirror mode when the 
conditions have 
improved.)

163

3-4. Adjusting the steering wheel and mirrors

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER_U

The image is diffi-
cult to see.

Foreign matters (such as 
water droplets, snow, mud, 
etc.) is on the camera lens.



Operate the dedicated 
camera cleaning 
washer and clean the 
camera lens. (



P.225)



Change to optical mir-
ror mode.



Rinse the camera with 
a large quantity of 
water, wipe it clean 
with a soft cloth damp-
ened with water, and 
then change back to 
digital mirror mode.

The image is out of 
alignment.

The back door is not fully 
closed.

Fully close the back 
door.

The camera or its surround-
ing area has received a 
strong impact.

Change to optical mirror 
mode and have the vehi-
cle inspected by your 
Toyota dealer.

The display is dim 
and 

 is dis-

played.

The system may be mal-
functioning.

Change to optical mirror 
mode and have the vehi-
cle inspected by your 
Toyota dealer.

 goes off.

Symptom

Likely cause

Solution

164

3-4. Adjusting the steering wheel and mirrors

HIGHLANDER_U

 is displayed.

The Digital Rearview Mirror 
is extremely hot.
(The display will gradually 
become more dim. If the 
temperature continues to 
increase, the Digital Rear-
view Mirror will turn off.)

Reducing the cabin tem-
perature is recom-
mended to reduce the 
temperature of the mir-
ror.
(

 will disappear 

when the mirror 
becomes cool.)

If 

 does not disap-

pear even though the 
mirror is cool, have the 
vehicle inspected by 
your Toyota dealer.

The lever cannot be 
operated properly.

The lever may be malfunc-
tioning.

Change to optical mirror 
mode and have the vehi-
cle inspected by your 
Toyota dealer.
(To change to optical 
mirror mode, press and 
hold the menu button for 
approximately 10 sec-
onds.)

Symptom

Likely cause

Solution

165

3-4. Adjusting the steering wheel and mirrors

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER_U

1

To select a mirror to adjust, 
turn the switch.

Left
Right

2

To adjust the mirror, operate 
the switch.

Up
Right
Down
Left

■

Mirror angle can be adjusted 

when

The engine switch is in ACC or ON.

■

When the mirrors are fogged up

The outside rear view mirrors can 

be cleared using the mirror defog-

gers. Turn on the rear window 

defogger to turn on the outside rear 

view mirror defoggers. (



P.337, 

343)

■

Automatic adjustment of the 

mirror angle (if equipped)

A desired mirror face angle can be 

entered to memory and recalled 

automatically by the driving position 

memory. (



P.147)

■

Linked mirror function when 

reversing (if equipped)

When either “L” or “R” of the mirror 

select switch is selected, the outside 

rear view mirrors will automatically 

angle downwards when the vehicle 

is reversing in order to give a better 

view of the ground.
To disable this function, select nei-

ther “L” nor “R”.
To set the mirror angle used when 

Outside rear view mir-

rors

The rear view mirror’s posi-
tion can be adjusted to 
enable sufficient confirma-
tion of the rear view.

WARNING

■

Important points while driving

Observe the following precautions 

while driving.

Failing to do so may result in loss 

of control of the vehicle and cause 

an accident, resulting in death or 

serious injury.

●

Do not adjust the mirrors while 

driving.

●

Do not drive with the mirrors 

folded.

●

Both the driver and passenger 

side mirrors must be extended 

and properly adjusted before 

driving.

Adjustment procedure

166

3-4. Adjusting the steering wheel and mirrors

HIGHLANDER_U

the vehicle is reversing, adjust the 

mirror angle at a desired position 

with the shift lever in R.
The adjusted angle will be memo-

rized and the mirror will automati-

cally tilt to the memorized angle 

whenever the shift lever is shifted to 

R from next time.
The memorized downward tilt posi-

tion of the mirror is linked to the nor-

mal position (angle adjusted with 

the shift lever in other than R). 

Therefore, if the normal position is 

changed after adjustment, the tilt 

position will also change.
When the normal position is 

changed, readjust the angle in 

reversing.

Push the mirror back in the 
direction of the vehicle’s rear.

WARNING

■

When the mirror defoggers 

are operating

Do not touch the rear view mirror 

surfaces, as they can become 

very hot and burn you.

Folding the mirrors

167

3-5. Opening, closing the windows and moon roof

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER_U

3-5.Opening, closing the windows and moon roof

The power windows can be 
opened and closed using the 
switches.
Operating the switch moves the 
windows as follows:

1

Closing

2

One-touch closing

*

3

Opening

4

One-touch opening

*

*

: To stop the window partway, 

operate the switch in the opposite 
direction.

■

The power windows can be 

operated when

The engine switch is in ON.

■

Operating the power windows 

after turning the engine off

The power windows can be oper-

ated for approximately 45 seconds 

even after the engine switch is 

turned to ACC or turned off. They 

cannot, however, be operated once 

either front door is opened.

■

Jam protection function

If an object becomes jammed 

between the window and the win-

dow frame while the window is clos-

ing, window movement is stopped 

and the window is opened slightly.

■

Catch protection function

If an object becomes caught 

between the door and window while 

the window is opening, window 

movement is stopped.

■

When the window cannot be 

opened or closed

When the jam protection function or 

catch protection function operates 

unusually and the door window can-

not be opened or closed, perform 

the following operations with the 

power window switch of that door.

●

Stop the vehicle. With the engine 

switch in ON, within 4 seconds of 

the jam protection function or 

catch protection function activat-

ing, continuously operate the 

power window switch in the 

one-touch closing direction or 

one-touch opening direction so 

that the door window can be 

opened and closed.

●

If the door window cannot be 

opened and closed even when 

performing the above operations, 

perform the following procedure 

for function initialization.

1

Turn the engine switch to ON.

2

Pull and hold the power window 

switch in the one-touch closing 

direction and completely close 

the door window.

3

Release the power window 

switch for a moment, resume 

pulling the switch in the 

one-touch closing direction, and 

hold it there for approximately 6 

seconds or more.

4

Press and hold the power win-

dow switch in the one-touch 

opening direction. After the door 

window is completely opened, 

continue holding the switch for 

an additional 1 second or more.

5

Release the power window 

switch for a moment, resume 

Power windows

Opening and closing the 
power windows

168

3-5. Opening, closing the windows and moon roof

HIGHLANDER_U

pushing the switch in the 

one-touch opening direction, and 

hold it there for approximately 4 

seconds or more.

6

Pull and hold the power window 

switch in the one-touch closing 

direction again. After the door 

window is completely closed, 

continue holding the switch for a 

further 1 second or more.

If you release the switch while the 

window is moving, start again from 

the beginning.

If the window reverses and cannot 

be fully closed or opened, have the 

vehicle inspected by your Toyota 

dealer.

■

Door lock linked window opera-

tion

●

The power windows can be 

opened and closed using the 
mechanical key.

*

 (



P.489)

●

The power windows can be 

opened using the wireless remote 
control.

*

 (



P.117)

*

: These settings must be custom-

ized at your Toyota dealer.

■

Power windows open warning 

buzzer

A buzzer sounds and a message is 

shown on the multi-information dis-

play when the engine switch is 

turned off and the driver’s door is 

opened with the power windows 

open.

■

Customization

Some functions can be customized. 

(



P.521)

WARNING

Observe the following precau-

tions.

Failing to do so may result in 

death or serious injury.

■

Closing the windows

●

The driver is responsible for all 

the power window operations, 

including the operation for the 

passengers. In order to prevent 

accidental operation, especially 

by a child, do not let a child 

operate the power windows. It is 

possible for children and other 

passengers to have body parts 

caught in the power window. 

Also, when riding with a child, it 

is recommended to use the win-

dow lock switch. (



P.169)

●

Check to make sure that all pas-

sengers do not have any part of 

their body in a position where it 

could be caught when a window 

is being operated.

●

When using the wireless remote 

control or mechanical key and 

operating the power windows, 

operate the power window after 

checking to make sure that 

there is no possibility of any 

passenger having any of their 

body parts caught in the win-

dow. Also do not let a child 

operate window by the wireless 

remote control or mechanical 

key. It is possible for children 

and other passengers to get 

caught in the power window.

●

When exiting the vehicle, turn 

the engine switch off, carry the 

key and exit the vehicle along 

with the child. There may be 

accidental operation, due to 

mischief, etc., that may possibly 

lead to an accident.

169

3-5. Opening, closing the windows and moon roof

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER_U

This function can be used to 
prevent children from acciden-
tally opening or closing a pas-
senger window.
Press the switch.

The indicator 

 will come on and 

the passenger windows will be 
locked.
The passenger windows can still be 
opened and closed using the 
driver’s switch even if the lock 
switch is on.

■

The power windows can be 

operated when

The engine switch is in ON.

■

When the battery is discon-

nected

The window lock switch is disabled. 

If necessary, press the window lock 

switch after reconnecting the bat-

tery.

WARNING

■

Jam protection function

●

Never use any part of your body 

to intentionally activate the jam 

protection function.

●

The jam protection function may 

not work if something gets 

jammed just before the window 

is fully closed. Be careful not to 

get any part of your body 

jammed in the window.

■

Catch protection function

●

Never use any part of your body 

or clothing to intentionally acti-

vate the catch protection func-

tion.

●

The catch protection function 

may not work if something gets 

caught just before the window is 

fully opened. Be careful not to 

get any part of your body or 

clothing caught in the window.

Preventing accidental 
operation (window lock 
switch)

170

3-5. Opening, closing the windows and moon roof

HIGHLANDER_U

*

: If equipped

■

Opening and closing

1

Opens the moon roof

*

The moon roof stops slightly before 
the fully open position to reduce 
wind noise. Press the switch again 
to fully open the moon roof.

2

Closes the moon roof

*

*

: Lightly press either side of the 

moon roof switch to stop the 
moon roof partway.

■

Tilting up and down

1

Tilts the moon roof up

*

2

Tilts the moon roof down

*

*

: Lightly press either side of the 

moon roof switch to stop the 
moon roof partway.

■

The moon roof can be operated 

when

The engine switch is in ON.

■

Operating the moon roof after 

turning the engine off

The moon roof can be operated for 

approximately 45 seconds after the 

engine switch is turned to ACC or 

turned off. It cannot, however, be 

operated once either front door is 

opened.

■

Jam protection function

If an object is detected between the 

moon roof and the frame while the 

moon roof is closing or tilting down, 

travel is stopped and the moon roof 

opens slightly.

■

Sunshade

The sunshade can be opened and 

closed manually. However, the sun-

shade will open automatically when 

the moon roof is opened.

■

Door lock linked moon roof 

operation

●

The moon roof can be opened 

and closed using the mechanical 
key.

*

 (



P.489)

●

The moon roof can be opened 
using the wireless remote control.

*

 

(



P.117)

*

: These settings must be custom-

ized at your Toyota dealer.

■

When the moon roof does not 

close normally

Perform the following procedure:

●

If the moon roof closes but then 

re-opens slightly

1

Stop the vehicle.

Moon roof

*

Use the overhead switches 
to open and close the moon 
roof and tilt it up and down.

Operating the moon roof

171

3-5. Opening, closing the windows and moon roof

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER_U

2

Press and hold the “CLOSE” 
switch.

*1

The moon roof will close, reopen 

and pause for approximately 10 sec-
onds.

*2

 Then it will close again, tilt 

up and pause for approximately 1 

second. Finally, it will tilt down, open 

and close.

3

Check to make sure that the 

moon roof is completely closed 

and then release the switch.

●

If the moon roof tilts down but then 

tilts back up

1

Stop the vehicle.

2

Press and hold the “UP” switch

*1

until the moon roof moves into 

the tilt up position and stops.

3

Release the “UP” switch once 

and then press and hold the “UP” 
switch again.

*1

The moon roof will pause for 

approximately 10 seconds in the tilt 
up position.

*2

 Then it will adjust 

slightly and pause for approximately 

1 second. Finally, it will tilt down, 

open and close.

4

Check to make sure that the 

moon roof is completely closed 

and then release the switch.

*1

:If the switch is released at the 

incorrect time, the procedure will 
have to be performed again from 
the beginning.

*2

:If the switch is released after the 

above mentioned 10 second 
pause, automatic operation will 
be disabled. In that case, press 
and hold the “CLOSE” or “UP” 
switch, and the moon roof will tilt 
up and pause for approximately 1 
second. Then it will tilt down, 
open and close. Check to make 
sure that the moon roof is com-
pletely closed and then release 
the switch.

If the moon roof does not fully close 

even after performing the above 

procedure correctly, have the vehi-

cle inspected by your Toyota dealer.

■

Moon roof open warning buzzer

A buzzer sounds and a message is 

shown on the multi-information dis-

play when the engine switch is 

turned off and the driver’s door is 

opened with the moon roof open.

■

Customization

Some functions can be customized. 

(



P.521)

WARNING

Observe the following precau-

tions.

Failing to do so may cause death 

or serious injury.

■

Opening the moon roof

●

Do not allow any passengers to 

put their hands or heads outside 

the vehicle while it is moving.

●

Do not sit on top of the moon 

roof.

■

Opening and closing the 

moon roof

●

The driver is responsible for 

moon roof opening and closing 

operations.

In order to prevent accidental 

operation, especially by a child, 

do not let a child operate the 

moon roof. It is possible for chil-

dren and other passengers to 

have body parts caught in the 

moon roof.

172

3-5. Opening, closing the windows and moon roof

HIGHLANDER_U

WARNING

●

Check to make sure that all pas-

sengers do not have any part of 

their body in a position where it 

could be caught when the moon 

roof is being operated.

●

When using the wireless remote 

control or mechanical key and 

operating the moon roof, oper-

ate the moon roof after checking 

to make sure that there is no 

possibility of any passenger 

having any of their body parts 

caught in the moon roof. Also, 

do not let a child operate moon 

roof by the wireless remote con-

trol or mechanical key. It is pos-

sible for children and other 

passengers to get caught in the 

moon roof.

●

When exiting the vehicle, turn 

the engine switch off, carry the 

key and exit the vehicle along 

with the child. There may be 

accidental operation, due to 

mischief, etc., that may possibly 

lead to an accident.

■

Jam protection function

●

Never use any part of your body 

to intentionally activate the jam 

protection function.

●

The jam protection function may 

not work if something gets 

caught just before the moon 

roof is fully closed. Also, the jam 

protection function is not 

designed to operate while the 

switch is being pressed. Take 

care so that your fingers, etc. do 

not get caught.

173

3-5. Opening, closing the windows and moon roof

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER_U

*

: If equipped

■

Opening and closing the 
electronic sunshade

1

Opens the electronic sun-
shade

*

2

Closes the electronic sun-
shade

*

*

: Lightly press either side of the 

sunshade switch to stop the elec-
tronic sunshade partway.

■

Tilting the panoramic moon 
roof up and down

Tilt up (press)

*

If the panoramic moon roof is open, 
pressing the switch closes it up to 
the tilt-up position.
If the shade is closed past the 
half-open position when the switch 
is pressed, it will open up to the 

half-open position.
To stop operation partway, quickly 
slide and release the switch again.

Tilt down (press and hold)
The panoramic moon roof can 
be tilted down only when it is in 
the tilt-up position.

■

Opening and closing the 
panoramic moon roof

Open (slide backward)

*

To stop operation partway, quickly 
slide and release the switch again.

Close (slide forward)

*

The panoramic moon roof stops 
at the tilt-up position.
Slide and hold the switch again 
to fully close the panoramic 
moon roof.

To stop operation partway, quickly 
slide and release the switch again.

Panoramic moon roof

*

Use the overhead switches 
to operate the panoramic 
moon roof and electronic 
sunshade.

Operating the panoramic 
moon roof

174

3-5. Opening, closing the windows and moon roof

HIGHLANDER_U

■

The panoramic moon roof can 

be operated when

The engine switch is in ON.

■

Operating the panoramic moon 

roof after turning the engine off

The panoramic moon roof and elec-

tronic sunshade can be operated for 

approximately 45 seconds after the 

engine switch is turned to ACC or 

turned off. It cannot, however, be 

operated once either front door is 

opened.

■

Closing the shade when the 

panoramic moon roof is open

1

Slide the shade switch forward.

The shade closes up to its 

half-closed position and then the 

panoramic moon roof closes up to 

the tilt-up position.

2

Slide and hold the shade switch 

again.

The panoramic moon roof closes as 

long as the switch is being held. 

After the panoramic moon roof is 

fully closed, the shade will fully 

close automatically.

■

Jam protection function

If an object is detected between the 

panoramic moon roof and the frame 

in the following situations, travel is 

stopped and the panoramic moon 

roof opens slightly:

●

The panoramic moon roof is clos-

ing or tilting down.

●

The electronic sunshade is clos-

ing.

■

When the panoramic moon roof 

does not close normally

Perform the following procedure:

●

If the panoramic moon roof closes 

but then re-opens slightly

1

Stop the vehicle.

2

Slide the panoramic moon roof 
switch forward and hold it.

*

The panoramic moon roof will close 

then reopen and pause for approxi-

mately 10 seconds. Then it will 

close up to the tilt-up position.

3

Release the switch and then 

slide it forward and hold it again.

The panoramic moon roof will close 

as long as the switch is being held.

4

Check to make sure that the pan-

oramic moon roof is completely 

closed and then release the 

switch.

●

If the panoramic moon roof tilts 

down but then tilts back up

1

Stop the vehicle.

2

Slide the panoramic moon roof 
switch forward and hold it.

*

The panoramic moon roof will tilt 

down then tilt up and pause for 

approximately 10 seconds. Then it 

will close.

3

Check to make sure that the pan-

oramic moon roof is completely 

closed and then release the 

switch.

*

: If the switch is released at the 

incorrect time, the procedure will 
have to be performed again from 
the beginning.

If the panoramic moon roof does not 

fully close even after performing the 

above procedure correctly, have the 

vehicle inspected by your Toyota 

dealer.

■

When the shade does not close 

normally

Perform the following procedure:

1

Stop the vehicle.

2

Close the panoramic moon roof.

175

3-5. Opening, closing the windows and moon roof

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER_U

3

Slide the shade switch forward 
and hold it.

*

The shade will close then reopen 

and pause for approximately 10 sec-

onds. Then it will close.

4

Check to make sure that the 

shade is completely closed and 

then release the switch.

*

: If the switch is released at the 

incorrect time, the procedure will 
have to be performed again from 
the beginning.

If the shade continues to close but 

then reopens slightly even after per-

forming the above procedure cor-

rectly, have the vehicle inspected by 

your Toyota dealer.

■

Panoramic moon roof open 

warning buzzer

A buzzer sounds and a message is 

shown on the multi-information dis-

play when the engine switch is 

turned off and the driver’s door is 

opened with the panoramic moon 

roof open.

WARNING

Observe the following precau-

tions.

Failing to do so may cause death 

or serious injury.

■

Opening and closing the elec-

tronic sunshade

●

Check to make sure that all pas-

sengers do not have any part of 

their body in a position where it 

could be caught when the elec-

tronic sunshade is being oper-

ated.

●

Do not let a child operate the 

electronic sunshade. Closing 

the electronic sunshade on 

someone can cause death or 

serious injury.

■

Opening the panoramic moon 

roof

●

Do not allow any passengers to 

put their hands or heads outside 

the vehicle while it is moving.

●

Do not sit on top of the pan-

oramic moon roof.

■

Opening and closing the pan-

oramic moon roof

●

The driver is responsible for 

panoramic moon roof opening 

and closing operations. In order 

to prevent accidental operation, 

especially by a child, do not let a 

child operate the panoramic 

moon roof. It is possible for chil-

dren and other passengers to 

have body parts caught in the 

panoramic moon roof.

176

3-5. Opening, closing the windows and moon roof

HIGHLANDER_U

WARNING

●

Check to make sure that all pas-

sengers do not have any part of 

their body in a position where it 

could be caught when the pan-

oramic moon roof is being oper-

ated.

●

When exiting the vehicle, turn 

the engine switch off, carry the 

key and exit the vehicle along 

with the child. There may be 

accidental operation, due to 

mischief, etc., that may possibly 

lead to an accident.

■

Jam protection function

●

Never use any part of your body 

to intentionally activate the jam 

protection function.

●

The jam protection function may 

not work if something gets 

caught just before the pan-

oramic moon roof or electronic 

sunshade is fully closed. Also, 

the jam protection function is 

not designed to operate while 

the switch is being pressed. 

Take care so that your fingers, 

etc. do not get caught.

■

To prevent burns or injuries

Do not touch the area between 

the underside of the panoramic 

moon roof and the electronic sun-

shade. Your hand may get caught 

and you could injure yourself. 

Also, if the vehicle is left in direct 

sunlight for a long time, the under-

side of the panoramic moon roof 

could become very hot and could 

cause burns.

NOTICE

■

To prevent damage to the 

panoramic moon roof

●

Before opening the panoramic 

moon roof, make sure that there 

are no foreign objects, such as 

stones or ice, around the open-

ing.

●

Do not hit the surface or edge of 

the panoramic moon roof with 

hard objects.

■

After the vehicle has been 

washed or rained on

Before opening the panoramic 

moon roof, wipe any water off the 

panoramic moon roof. Otherwise, 

water may enter the cabin when 

the panoramic moon roof is 

opened.

177

4

4

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iv

ing

HIGHLANDER_U

Driving

.

4-1. Before driving

Driving the vehicle.......

179

Cargo and luggage .....

186

Vehicle load limits .......

189

Trailer towing...............

190

Dinghy towing .............

201

4-2. Driving procedures

Engine (ignition) switch

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

202

Automatic transmission

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

206

Turn signal lever..........

210

Parking brake..............

211

Brake Hold ..................

214

4-3. Operating the lights and 

wipers

Headlight switch..........

216

Automatic High Beam .

219

Fog light switch ...........

222

Windshield wipers and 

washer.......................

222

Rear windshield wiper and 

washer.......................

225

4-4. Refueling

Opening the fuel tank cap

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

227

4-5. Using the driving support 

systems

Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 +

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

229

PCS (Pre-Collision System)

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

235

LTA (Lane Tracing Assist)

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

246

Dynamic radar cruise con-

trol with full-speed range

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

257

RSA (Road Sign Assist)

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

269

Stop & Start system ....

272

BSM (Blind Spot Monitor)

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

278

Intuitive parking assist.

284

RCTA (Rear Cross Traffic 

Alert) function ............

292

PKSB (Parking Support 

Brake)........................

297

Parking Support Brake func-

tion (static objects) ....

304

Parking Support Brake func-

tion (rear-crossing vehi-
cles)...........................

310

Driving mode select switch

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

314

Multi-terrain Select ......

315

Snow mode switch ......

318

Downhill assist control sys-

tem ............................

319

Driving assist systems

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

321

4-6. Driving tips

Winter driving tips........

327

178

 

HIGHLANDER_U

Utility vehicle precautions

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

330

179

4-1. Before driving

4

Dr

iv

ing

HIGHLANDER_U

4-1.Before driving

■

Starting the engine



P.202

■

Driving

1

With the brake pedal 
depressed, shift the shift 
lever to D. (



P.206)

2

Release the parking brake. 
(



P.211)

If the parking brake is in automatic 

mode, the parking brake is 

released automatically when shift-

ing the shift lever to any position 

other than P. (



P.211)

3

Gradually release the brake 
pedal and gently depress the 
accelerator pedal to acceler-
ate the vehicle.

■

Stopping

1

With the shift lever in D, 
depress the brake pedal.

Vehicles with a Stop & Start system: 

If the Stop & Start system is 

enabled, depressing the brake 

pedal will stop the engine.

2

If necessary, set the parking 
brake. (



P.211)

If the vehicle is to be stopped for an 

extended period of time, shift the 

shift lever to P or N. (



P.206)

■

Parking the vehicle

1

With the shift lever in D, 
depress the brake pedal.

2

Set the parking brake 
(



P.211), and shift the shift 

lever to P (



P.206).

3

Press the engine switch to 
stop the engine.

4

Lock the door, making sure 
that you have the electronic 
key on your person.

If parking on a hill, block the wheels 

as needed.

■

Starting off on a steep 
uphill

1

With the brake pedal 
depressed, shift the shift 
lever to D. (



P.207)

2

Pull the parking brake switch 
and parking brake is set man-
ually. (



P.211)

3

Release the brake pedal and 
gently depress the accelera-
tor pedal to accelerate the 
vehicle.

4

Push the parking brake 
switch and parking brake is 
released manually.

■

When starting off on a uphill

The hill-start assist control will acti-

vate. (



P.321)

■

Driving in the rain

●

Drive carefully when it is raining, 

because visibility will be reduced, 

the windows may become 

fogged-up, and the road will be 

slippery.

●

Drive carefully when it starts to 

Driving the vehicle

The following procedures 
should be observed to 
ensure safe driving:

Driving procedure

180

4-1. Before driving

HIGHLANDER_U

rain, because the road surface will 

be especially slippery.

●

Refrain from high speeds when 

driving on an expressway in the 

rain, because there may be a 

layer of water between the tires 

and the road surface, preventing 

the steering and brakes from 

operating properly.

■

Engine speed while driving

In the following conditions, the 

engine speed may become high 

while driving. This is due to auto-

matic up-shifting control or 

down-shifting implementation to 

meet driving conditions. It does not 

indicate sudden acceleration.

●

The vehicle is judged to be driving 

uphill or downhill

●

When the accelerator pedal is 

released

●

When the brake pedal is 

depressed while sport mode is 

selected

■

Restraining the engine output 

(Brake Override System)

●

When the accelerator and brake 

pedals are depressed at the same 

time, the engine output may be 

restrained.

●

A warning message is displayed 

on the multi-information display 

and head-up display (if equipped) 

while the system is operating.

■

Restraining sudden start 

(Drive-Start Control)

●

When the following unusual oper-

ation is performed, the engine out-

put may be restrained.

• When the shift lever is shifted from 

R to D, D to R, N to R, P to D, or P 

to R (D includes M) with the accel-

erator pedal depressed, a warning 

message appears on the 

multi-information display and 

head-up display (if equipped). If a 

warning message is shown on the 

multi-information display and 

head-up display (if equipped), 

read the message and follow the 

instructions.

• When the accelerator pedal is 

depressed too much while the 

vehicle is in reverse.

●

While Drive-Start Control is being 

activated, your vehicle may have 

trouble escaping from the mud or 

fresh snow. In such case, deacti-

vate TRAC (



P.322) to cancel 

Drive-Start Control so that the 

vehicle may become able to 

escape from the mud or fresh 

snow.

●

AWD models: Drive-Start Control 

does not work when Mud & Sand 

or Rock & Dirt mode is selected 

for Multi-terrain Select.

■

Breaking in your new Toyota

To extend the life of the vehicle, 

observing the following precautions 

is recommended:

●

For the first 200 miles (300 km):

Avoid sudden stops.

●

For the first 500 miles (800 km):

Do not tow a trailer.

●

For the first 600 miles (1000 km):

• Do not drive at extremely high 

speeds.

• Avoid sudden acceleration.

• Do not drive continuously in low 

gears.

• Do not drive at a constant speed 

for extended periods.

■

Operating your vehicle in a for-

eign country

Comply with the relevant vehicle 

registration laws and confirm the 

availability of the correct fuel. 

(



P.501)

■

Eco-friendly driving



P.86, 95

181

4-1. Before driving

4

Dr

iv

ing

HIGHLANDER_U

WARNING

Observe the following precau-

tions.

Failure to do so may result in 

death or serious injury.

■

When starting the vehicle

Always keep your foot on the 

brake pedal while stopped with 

the engine running. This prevents 

the vehicle from creeping.

■

When driving the vehicle

●

Do not drive if you are unfamil-

iar with the location of the brake 

and accelerator pedals to avoid 

depressing the wrong pedal.

• Accidentally depressing the 

accelerator pedal instead of the 

brake pedal will result in sudden 

acceleration that may lead to an 

accident.

• When backing up, you may twist 

your body around, leading to a 

difficulty in operating the pedals. 

Make sure to operate the pedals 

properly.

• Make sure to keep a correct 

driving posture even when mov-

ing the vehicle only slightly. This 

allows you to depress the brake 

and accelerator pedals properly.

• Depress the brake pedal using 

your right foot. Depressing the 

brake pedal using your left foot 

may delay response in an emer-

gency, resulting in an accident.

●

Do not drive the vehicle over or 

stop the vehicle near flammable 

materials.

The exhaust system and 

exhaust gases can be 

extremely hot. These hot parts 

may cause a fire if there is any 

flammable material nearby.

●

During normal driving, do not 

turn off the engine. Turning the 

engine off while driving will not 

cause loss of steering or brak-

ing control, but the power assist 

to these systems will be lost. 

This will make it more difficult to 

steer and brake, so you should 

pull over and stop the vehicle as 

soon as it is safe to do so.

However, in the event of an 

emergency, such as if it 

becomes impossible to stop the 

vehicle in the normal way: 



P.450

●

Use engine braking (downshift) 

to maintain a safe speed when 

driving down a steep hill.

Using the brakes continuously 

may cause the brakes to over-

heat and lose effectiveness. 

(



P.206)

●

Do not adjust the positions of 

the steering wheel, the seat, or 

the inside or outside rear view 

mirrors while driving.

Doing so may result in a loss of 

vehicle control.

●

Always check that all passen-

gers’ arms, heads or other parts 

of their body are not outside the 

vehicle.

●

AWD models: This is not an 

AWD vehicle designed for 

off-road driving. Proceed with all 

due caution if it becomes 

unavoidable to drive off-road.

●

Do not drive across a river or 

through other bodies of water.

This may cause electric/elec-

tronic components to short cir-

cuit, damage the engine or 

cause other serious damage to 

the vehicle.

182

4-1. Before driving

HIGHLANDER_U

WARNING

●

Do not drive in excess of the 

speed limit. Even if the legal 

speed limit permits it, do not 

drive over 85 mph (140 km/h) 

unless your vehicle has 

high-speed capability tires. Driv-

ing over 85 mph (140 km/h) 

may result in tire failure, loss of 

control and possible injury. Be 

sure to consult a tire dealer to 

determine whether the tires on 

your vehicle are high-speed 

capability tires or not before 

driving at such speeds.

■

When driving on slippery 

road surfaces

●

Sudden braking, acceleration 

and steering may cause tire 

slippage and reduce your ability 

to control the vehicle.

●

Sudden acceleration, engine 

braking due to shifting, or 

changes in engine speed could 

cause the vehicle to skid.

●

After driving through a puddle, 

lightly depress the brake pedal 

to make sure that the brakes 

are functioning properly. Wet 

brake pads may prevent the 

brakes from functioning prop-

erly. If the brakes on only one 

side are wet and not functioning 

properly, steering control may 

be affected.

■

When shifting the shift lever

●

Do not let the vehicle roll back-

ward while the shift lever is in a 

driving position, or roll forward 

while the shift lever is in R.

Doing so may cause the engine 

to stall or lead to poor brake and 

steering performance, resulting 

in an accident or damage to the 

vehicle.

●

Do not shift the shift lever to P 

while the vehicle is moving.

Doing so can damage the trans-

mission and may result in a loss 

of vehicle control.

●

Do not shift the shift lever to R 

while the vehicle is moving for-

ward.

Doing so can damage the trans-

mission and may result in a loss 

of vehicle control.

●

Do not shift the shift lever to a 

driving position while the vehicle 

is moving backward.

Doing so can damage the trans-

mission and may result in a loss 

of vehicle control.

●

Shifting the shift lever to N while 

the vehicle is moving will disen-

gage the engine. Engine brak-

ing is not available when N is 

selected.

●

Be careful not to shift the shift 

lever with the accelerator pedal 

depressed. Shifting the shift 

lever to any position other than 

P or N may lead to unexpected 

rapid acceleration of the vehicle 

that may cause an accident and 

result in death or serious injury.

■

If you hear a squealing or 

scraping noise (brake pad 

wear limit indicators)

Have the brake pads checked and 

replaced by your Toyota dealer as 

soon as possible.

Rotor damage may result if the 

pads are not replaced when 

needed.
It is dangerous to drive the vehicle 

when the wear limits of the brake 

pads and/or those of the brake 

discs are exceeded.

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WARNING

■

When the vehicle is stopped

●

Do not race the engine.

If the shift lever is in any posi-

tion other than P or N, the vehi-

cle may accelerate suddenly 

and unexpectedly, causing an 

accident.

●

In order to prevent accidents 

due to the vehicle rolling away, 

always keep depressing the 

brake pedal while the engine is 

running, and apply the parking 

brake as necessary.

●

If the vehicle is stopped on an 

incline, in order to prevent acci-

dents caused by the vehicle roll-

ing forward or backward, always 

depress the brake pedal and 

securely apply the parking 

brake as needed.

●

Avoid revving or racing the 

engine.

Running the engine at high 

speed while the vehicle is 

stopped may cause the exhaust 

system to overheat, which could 

result in a fire if combustible 

material is nearby.

■

When the vehicle is parked

●

Do not leave glasses, cigarette 

lighters, spray cans, or soft 

drink cans in the vehicle when it 

is in the sun.

Doing so may result in the fol-

lowing:

• Gas may leak from a cigarette 

lighter or spray can, and may 

lead to a fire.

• The temperature inside the 

vehicle may cause the plastic 

lenses and plastic material of 

glasses to deform or crack.

• Soft drink cans may fracture, 

causing the contents to spray 

over the interior of the vehicle, 

and may also cause a short cir-

cuit in the vehicle’s electrical 

components.

●

Do not leave cigarette lighters in 

the vehicle. If a cigarette lighter 

is in a place such as the glove 

box or on the floor, it may be lit 

accidentally when luggage is 

loaded or the seat is adjusted, 

causing a fire.

●

Do not attach adhesive discs to 

the windshield or windows. Do 

not place containers such as air 

fresheners on the instrument 

panel or dashboard. Adhesive 

discs or containers may act as 

lenses, causing a fire in the 

vehicle.

●

Do not leave a door or window 

open if the curved glass is 

coated with a metallized film 

such as a silver-colored one. 

Reflected sunlight may cause 

the glass to act as a lens, caus-

ing a fire.

●

Always apply the parking brake, 

shift the shift lever to P, stop the 

engine and lock the vehicle.

Do not leave the vehicle unat-

tended while the engine is run-

ning.

If the vehicle is parked with the 

shift lever in P but the parking 

brake is not set, the vehicle may 

start to move, possibly leading 

to an accident.

●

Do not touch the exhaust pipes 

while the engine is running or 

immediately after turning the 

engine off.

Doing so may cause burns.

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WARNING

■

When taking a nap in the vehi-

cle

Always turn the engine off. Other-

wise, if you accidentally move the 

shift lever or depress the acceler-

ator pedal, this could cause an 

accident or fire due to engine 

overheating. Additionally, if the 

vehicle is parked in a poorly venti-

lated area, exhaust gases may 

collect and enter the vehicle, lead-

ing to death or a serious health 

hazard.

■

When braking

●

When the brakes are wet, drive 

more cautiously.

Braking distance increases 

when the brakes are wet, and 

this may cause one side of the 

vehicle to brake differently than 

the other side. Also, the parking 

brake may not securely hold the 

vehicle.

●

If the brake booster device does 

not operate, do not follow other 

vehicles closely and avoid hills 

or sharp turns that require brak-

ing.

In this case, braking is still pos-

sible, but the brake pedal 

should be depressed more 

firmly than usual. Also, the brak-

ing distance will increase. Have 

your brakes fixed immediately.

●

Do not pump the brake pedal if 

the engine stalls.

Each push on the brake pedal 

uses up the reserve for the 

power-assisted brakes.

●

The brake system consists of 2 

individual hydraulic systems; if 

one of the systems fails, the 

other will still operate. In this 

case, the brake pedal should be 

depressed more firmly than 

usual and the braking distance 

will increase. Have your brakes 

fixed immediately.

■

If the vehicle becomes stuck 

(AWD models)

Do not spin the wheels exces-

sively when any of the tires is up 

in the air, or the vehicle is stuck in 

sand, mud, etc. This may damage 

the driveline components or pro-

pel the vehicle forward or back-

ward, causing an accident.

NOTICE

■

When driving the vehicle

●

Do not depress the accelerator 

and brake pedals at the same 

time during driving, as this may 

restrain the engine output.

●

Do not use the accelerator 

pedal or depress the accelera-

tor and brake pedals at the 

same time to hold the vehicle on 

a hill.

■

When parking the vehicle

Always set the parking brake and 

shift the shift lever to P. Failure to 

do so may cause the vehicle to 

move or the vehicle may acceler-

ate suddenly if the accelerator 

pedal is accidentally depressed.

■

Avoiding damage to vehicle 

parts

●

Do not turn the steering wheel 

fully in either direction and hold 

it there for an extended period 

of time.

Doing so may damage the 

power steering motor.

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NOTICE

●

When driving over bumps on 

the road, drive as slowly as pos-

sible to avoid damaging the 

wheels, underside of the vehi-

cle, etc.

■

If you get a flat tire while driv-

ing

A flat or damaged tire may cause 

the following situations. Hold the 

steering wheel firmly and gradu-

ally depress the brake pedal to 

slow down the vehicle.

●

It may be difficult to control your 

vehicle.

●

The vehicle will make abnormal 

sounds or vibrations.

●

The vehicle will lean abnor-

mally.

Information on what to do in case 

of a flat tire (



P.472)

■

When encountering flooded 

roads

Do not drive on a road that has 

flooded after heavy rain etc. 

Doing so may cause the following 

serious damage to the vehicle:

●

Engine stalling

●

Short in electrical components

●

Engine damage caused by 

water immersion

In the event that you drive on a 

flooded road and the vehicle is 

flooded, be sure to have your Toy-

ota dealer check the following:

●

Brake function

●

Changes in quantity and quality 

of oil and fluid used for the 

engine, transaxle, transfer 

(AWD models), rear differential 

(AWD models), etc.

●

Lubricant condition for the pro-

peller shaft (AWD models), 

bearings and suspension joints 

(where possible), and the func-

tion of all joints, bearings, etc.

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Cargo capacity depends on the 
total weight of the occupants.
(Cargo capacity) = (Total load 
capacity) — (Total weight of 
occupants)
Steps for Determining Correct 
Load Limit —
(1) Locate the statement “The 
combined weight of occupants 
and cargo should never exceed 
XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your 
vehicle’s placard.
(2) Determine the combined 
weight of the driver and passen-
gers that will be riding in your 
vehicle.
(3) Subtract the combined 
weight of the driver and passen-
gers from XXX kg or XXX lbs.
(4) The resulting figure equals 
the available amount of cargo 
and luggage load capacity.
For example, if the “XXX” 
amount equals 1400 lbs. and 
there will be five 150 lb passen-
gers in your vehicle, the amount 
of available cargo and luggage 
load capacity is 650 lbs. (1400 − 

750 (5 



 150) = 650 lbs.)

(5) Determine the combined 
weight of luggage and cargo 
being loaded on the vehicle. 
That weight may not safely 
exceed the available cargo and 
luggage load capacity calcu-
lated in Step 4.
(6) If your vehicle will be towing 
a trailer, load from your trailer 
will be transferred to your vehi-
cle. Consult this manual to 
determine how this reduces the 
available cargo and luggage 
load capacity of your vehicle. 
(



P.189)

Cargo capacity
Total load capacity (vehicle 
capacity weight) (



P.500)

When 2 people with the com-
bined weight of A lb. (kg) are rid-
ing in your vehicle, which has a 
total load capacity (vehicle 
capacity weight) of B lb. (kg), 
the available amount of cargo 
and luggage load capacity will 

Cargo and luggage

Take notice of the following 
information about storage 
precautions, cargo capacity 
and load.

Capacity and distribution

Calculation formula for 
your vehicle

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be C lb. (kg) as follows:

B

*2

 lb. (kg) - A

*1

 lb. (kg) = C

*3

 lb. 

(kg)

*1

:A =Weight of people

*2

:B =Total load capacity

*3

:C =Available cargo and luggage 

load

In this condition, if 3 more passen-
gers with the combined weight of D 
lb. (kg) get on, the available cargo 
and luggage load will be reduced E 
lb. (kg) as follows:

C lb. (kg) - D

*4

 lb. (kg) = E

*5

 lb. 

(kg)

*4

:D =Additional weight of people

*5

:E =Available cargo and luggage 

load

As shown in the example above, 
if the number of occupants 
increases, the cargo and lug-
gage load will be reduced by an 
amount that equals the 
increased weight due to the 
additional occupants. In other 
words, if an increase in the num-
ber of occupants causes an 
excess of the total load capacity 
(combined weight of occupants 
plus cargo and luggage load), 
you must reduce the cargo and 
luggage on your vehicle.

WARNING

■

Things that must not be car-

ried in the luggage compart-

ment

The following things may cause a 

fire if loaded in the luggage com-

partment:

●

Receptacles containing gaso-

line

●

Aerosol cans

■

Storage precautions

Observe the following precau-

tions.

Failure to do so may prevent the 

pedals from being depressed 

properly, may block the driver’s 

vision, or may result in items hit-

ting the driver or passengers, pos-

sibly causing an accident.

●

Stow cargo and luggage in the 

luggage compartment when-

ever possible.

●

Do not stack cargo and luggage 

in the luggage compartment 

higher than the seatbacks.

●

When you fold down the rear 

seats, long items should not be 

placed directly behind the front 

seats.

●

Never allow anyone to ride in 

the luggage compartment. It is 

not designed for passengers. 

They should ride in their seats 

with their seat belts properly 

fastened.

●

Do not place cargo or luggage 

in or on the following locations.

• At the feet of the driver

• On the front passenger or rear 

seats (when stacking items)

• On the luggage cover

• On the instrument panel

• On the dashboard

●

Secure all items in the occupant 

compartment.

■

Capacity and distribution

●

Do not exceed the maximum 

axle weight rating or the total 

vehicle weight rating.

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WARNING

●

Even if the total load of occu-

pant’s weight and the cargo 

load is less than the total load 

capacity, do not apply the load 

unevenly. Improper loading may 

cause deterioration of steering 

or braking control which may 

cause death or serious injury.

■

When using a roof luggage 

carrier (vehicles with roof 

rails)

Observe the following precau-

tions: 

●

Place the cargo so that its 

weight is distributed evenly 

between the front and rear 

axles.

●

If loading long or wide cargo, 

never exceed the vehicle overall 

length or width. (



P.500)

●

Before driving, make sure the 

cargo is securely fastened on 

the roof luggage carrier.

●

Loading cargo on the roof lug-

gage carrier will make the cen-

ter of gravity of the vehicle 

higher. Avoid high speeds, sud-

den starts, sharp turns, sudden 

braking or abrupt maneuvers, 

otherwise it may result in loss of 

control or vehicle rollover due to 

failure to operate this vehicle 

correctly and result in death or 

serious injury.

●

If driving for a long distance, on 

rough roads, or at high speeds, 

stop the vehicle now and then 

during the trip to make sure the 

cargo remains in its place.

●

Do not exceed 165 lb. (75 kg) 

cargo weight on the roof lug-

gage carrier.

NOTICE

■

When loading cargo

Be careful not to scratch the sur-

face of the moon roof or pan-

oramic moon roof.

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■

Total load capacity and seating 

capacity

These details are also described on 

the tire and loading information 

label. (



P.431)

Vehicle load limits

Vehicle load limits include 
total load capacity, seating 
capacity, trailer weight rat-
ing and cargo capacity.



Total load capacity (vehicle 
capacity weight): 



P.500

Total load capacity means the 
combined weight of occupants, 
cargo and luggage.



Seating capacity: 



P.500

Seating capacity means the max-
imum number of occupants 
whose estimated average weight 
is 150 lb. (68 kg) per person.



TWR (Trailer Weight Rat-
ing): 



P.195, 500

TWR means the maximum gross 
trailer weight (trailer weight plus 
its cargo weight) that your vehicle 
is able to tow.



Cargo capacity

Cargo capacity may increase or 
decrease depending on the 
weight and the number of occu-
pants.

WARNING

■

Overloading the vehicle

Do not overload the vehicle.

It may not only cause damage to 

the tires, but also degrade steer-

ing and braking ability, resulting in 

an accident.

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■

Matching trailer ball height to 

trailer coupler height

No matter which class of tow hitch 

applies, for a more safe trailer 

hookup, the trailer ball setup must 

be the proper height for the coupler 

on the trailer.

Coupler
Trailer ball

■

Before towing

Check that the following conditions 

are met:

●

Ensure that your vehicle’s tires 

are properly inflated. (



P.505)

●

Trailer tires are inflated according 

to the trailer manufacturer’s rec-

ommendation.

Trailer towing

Your vehicle is designed pri-
marily as a passen-
ger-and-load-carrying 
vehicle. Towing a trailer can 
have an adverse impact on 
handling, performance, 
braking, durability, and fuel 
consumption. For your 
safety and the safety of oth-
ers, you must not overload 
your vehicle or trailer. You 
must also ensure that you 
are using appropriate tow-
ing equipment, that the tow-
ing equipment has been 
installed correctly and used 
properly, and that you 
employ the requisite driv-
ing habits.

Vehicle-trailer stability and 
braking performance are 
affected by trailer stability, 
brake performance and set-
ting, trailer brakes, the hitch 
and hitch systems (if 
equipped).

To tow a trailer safely, use 
extreme care and drive the 
vehicle in accordance with 
your trailer’s characteris-
tics and operating condi-
tions.

Toyota warranties do not 
apply to damage or mal-
function caused by towing a 
trailer for commercial pur-
poses.

Contact your Toyota dealer 
for further information 
about additional require-
ments such as a towing kit, 
etc.

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●

All trailer lights work as required 

by law.

●

All lights work each time you con-

nect them.

●

The trailer ball is set at the proper 

height for the coupler on the 

trailer.

●

The trailer is level when it is 

hitched.

Do not drive if the trailer is not 

level, and check for improper 

tongue weight, overloading, worn 

suspension, or other possible 

causes.

●

The trailer cargo is securely 

loaded.

●

The rear view mirrors conform to 

all applicable federal, state/provin-

cial or local regulations. If they do 

not, install rear view mirrors 

appropriate for towing purposes.

■

Break-in schedule

If your vehicle is new or equipped 

with any new power train compo-

nents (such as an engine, transaxle, 

transfer [AWD models], rear differ-

ential [AWD models] or wheel bear-

ing), Toyota recommends that you 

do not tow a trailer until the vehicle 

has been driven for over 500 miles 

(800 km).
After the vehicle has been driven for 

over 500 miles (800 km), you can 

start towing. However, for the next 

500 miles (800 km), drive the vehi-

cle at a speed of less than 50 mph 

(80 km/h) when towing a trailer, and 

avoid full throttle acceleration.

■

Maintenance

●

If you tow a trailer, your vehicle 

will require more frequent mainte-

nance due to the additional load. 

(See “Scheduled Maintenance 

Guide” or “Owner’s Manual Sup-

plement”.)

●

Retighten the fixing bolts of the 

towing ball and bracket after 

approximately 600 miles (1000 

km) of trailer towing.

■

If trailer sway occurs

One or more factors (crosswinds, 

passing vehicles, rough roads, etc.) 

can adversely affect handling of 

your vehicle and trailer, causing 

instability.

●

If trailer swaying occurs:

• Firmly grip the steering wheel. 

Steer straight ahead.

Do not try to control trailer sway-

ing by turning the steering wheel.

• Begin releasing the accelerator 

pedal immediately but very gradu-

ally to reduce speed.

Do not increase speed. Do not 

apply vehicle brakes.

If you make no extreme correction 

with the steering or brakes, your 

vehicle and trailer should stabilize. 

(if enabled, Trailer Sway Control can 

also help to stabilize the vehicle and 

trailer.)

●

After the trailer swaying has 

stopped:

• Stop in a safe place. Get all occu-

pants out of the vehicle.

• Check the tires of the vehicle and 

the trailer.

• Check the load in the trailer.

Make sure the load has not 

shifted.

Make sure the tongue weight is 

appropriate, if possible.

• Check the load in the vehicle.

Make sure the vehicle is not over-

loaded after occupants get in.

If you cannot find any problems, the 

speed at which trailer swaying 

occurred is beyond the limit of your 

particular vehicle-trailer combina-

tion. Drive at a lower speed to pre-

vent instability. Remember that 

swaying of the towing vehicle-trailer 

increases as speed increases.

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4-1. Before driving

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WARNING

■

Trailer towing precautions

To tow a trailer safely, use 

extreme care and drive the vehi-

cle in accordance with the trailer’s 

characteristics and operating con-

ditions. Failure to do so could 

cause an accident resulting in 

death or serious injury. Vehicle 

stability and braking performance 

are affected by trailer stability, 

brake setting and performance, 

and the hitch. Your vehicle will 

handle differently when towing a 

trailer.

■

To avoid accident or injury

●

Do not exceed the TWR, 

unbraked TWR, GCWR, GVWR 

or GAWR.

●

If the gross trailer weight is over 

2000 lb. (900 kg), a sway con-

trol device with sufficient capac-

ity is required.

●

If the gross trailer weight is over 

5000 lb. (2200 kg), a weight dis-

tributing hitch with sufficient 

capacity is required.

●

Adjust the tongue weight within 

the appropriate range. Place 

heavier loads as close to the 

trailer axle as possible.

●

Do not exceed 65 mph (104 

km/h), the posted towing speed 

limit or the speed limit for your 

trailer as set forth in your trailer 

owner’s manual, whichever is 

lowest. Slow down sufficiently 

before making a turn, in cross 

winds, on wet or slippery sur-

face, etc. to help avoid an acci-

dent. If you experience a 

vehicle-trailer instability from 

reducing a certain speed, slow 

down and make sure you keep 

your vehicle speed under the 

speed of which you experience 

the instability.

●

Do not make jerky, abrupt or 

sharp turns.

●

Do not apply the brakes sud-

denly as you may skid, resulting 

in jackknifing and loss of vehicle 

control. This is especially true 

on wet or slippery surfaces.

●

Do not exceed the trailer hitch 

assembly weight, gross vehicle 

weight, gross axle weight and 

trailer tongue weight capacities.

●

Do not use the following sys-

tems when trailer towing.

• Dynamic radar cruise control 

with full-speed range

• LTA (Lane Tracing Assist)

• PCS (Pre-Collision System)

• BSM (Blind Spot Monitor) (if 

equipped)

●

Slow down and downshift 

before descending steep or long 

downhill grades. Do not make 

sudden downshifts while 

descending steep or long down-

hill grades.

●

Vehicle-trailer instability is more 

likely on steep long downhills. 

Before descending steep or 

long downhill grades, slow 

down and downshift. Do not 

make sudden downshifts when 

descending steep or long down-

hill grades. Avoid holding the 

brake pedal down too long or 

applying the brakes too fre-

quently. This could cause the 

brakes to overheat and result in 

reduced braking efficiency.

●

Vehicles with a compact spare 

tire: Do not tow a trailer when 

the compact spare tire is 

installed on your vehicle.

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■

GCWR (Gross Combination 
Weight Rating)

The maximum allowable gross 
combination weight. The gross 
combination weight is the sum 
of the total vehicle weight 
(including the occupants, cargo 
and any optional equipment 
installed on the vehicle) and the 
weight of the trailer being towed 
(including the cargo in the 
trailer).

■

GVWR (Gross Vehicle 
Weight Rating)

The maximum allowable gross 
vehicle weight. The gross vehi-
cle weight is the total weight of 
the vehicle. When towing a 
trailer, it is the sum of the vehicle 
weight (including the occu-
pants, cargo and any optional 
equipment installed on the vehi-
cle) and the tongue weight.

■

GAWR (Gross Axle Weight 
Rating)

The maximum allowable gross 
axle weight. The gross axle 
weight is the load placed on 
each axle (front and rear).

WARNING

■

When towing a trailer

Toyota recommends trailers with 

brakes that conform to any appli-

cable federal and state/provincial 

regulations.

●

If the gross trailer weight 

exceeds unbraked TWR, trailer 

brakes are required. Toyota rec-

ommends trailers with brakes 

that conform to all applicable 

federal and state/provincial reg-

ulations.

●

Never tap into your vehicle’s 

hydraulic system, as this will 

lower the vehicle’s braking 

effectiveness.

●

Never tow a trailer without using 

a safety chain securely attached 

to both the trailer and the vehi-

cle. If damage occurs to the 

coupling unit or hitch ball, there 

is danger of the trailer wander-

ing into another lane.

Towing related terms

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Front GAWR
Rear GAWR

■

TWR (Trailer Weight Rating)

The maximum allowable gross 
trailer weight. The gross trailer 
weight is the sum of the trailer 
weight and the weight of the 
cargo in the trailer.
TWR is calculated assuming 
base vehicle with one driver, 
one front passenger, towing 
package (if available), hitch and 
hitch systems (if required).

Additional optional equipment, pas-
sengers and cargo in the vehicle 
will reduce the trailer weight rating 
so as not to exceed GCWR, GVWR 
and GAWR.
If the gross trailer weight exceeds 
3000 lb. (1360 kg), it is recom-
mended to use a trailer with 2 or 
more axles.

With brakes

■

Unbraked TWR (Unbraked 
Trailer Weight Rating)

The trailer weight rating for tow-
ing a trailer without a trailer ser-
vice brake system.

Without brakes

■

Tongue Weight

The load placed on the trailer 
hitch ball. (



P.195)

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

The gross trailer weight must 
never exceed 5000 lb. (2200 
kg).



The gross combination weight 
must never exceed the follow-
ing:

• 2WD models: 10830 lb. (4845 kg)
• AWD models: 10935 lb. (4890 kg)



The gross vehicle weight 
must never exceed the 
GVWR indicated on the Certi-
fication Label. (



P.500)



The gross axle weight on 
each axle must never exceed 
the GAWR indicated on the 
Certification Label. (



P.500)



If the gross trailer weight is 
over the unbraked TWR, 
trailer service brakes are 
required.



If the gross trailer weight is 
over 2000 lb. (900 kg), a sway 
control device with sufficient 
capacity is required.



If the gross trailer weight is 
over 5000 lb. (2200 kg), a 
weight distributing hitch with 
sufficient capacity is required.

Confirm that the gross trailer 
weight, gross combination 
weight, gross vehicle weight, 
gross axle weight and tongue 

weight are all within the limits.

■

GCWR

*

2WD models: 10830 lb. (4845 
kg)
AWD models: 10935 lb. (4890 
kg)

■

TWR

*

5000 lb. (2200 kg)

■

Unbraked TWR

*

1000 lb. (450 kg)

*

: These models meet the tow-vehi-

cle trailering requirement of SAE 
International per SAE J2807.



A recommended tongue 
weight varies in accordance 
with the types of trailers or 
towing as described below.



To ensure the recommended 
values shown below, the 
trailer must be loaded by 
referring to the following 
instructions.

• Tongue Weight
The gross trailer weight should be 
distributed so that the tongue 
weight is 9% to 11%.
(Tongue weight/Gross trailer weight 
x 100 = 9% to 11%)

Weight limits

GCWR, TWR and 
Unbraked TWR

Trailer Tongue Weight

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Gross trailer weight
Tongue weight

If using a weight distributing hitch 
when towing, return the front axle to 
the same weight as before the 
trailer connection.
If front axle weight cannot be mea-
sured directly, measure the front 
fender height above the front axle 
before connection. Adjust weight 
distributing hitch torque until front 
fender is returned to the same 
height as before connection.
The gross trailer weight, gross axle 
weight and tongue weight can be 
measured with platform scales 
found at a highway weighing sta-
tion, building supply company, 
trucking company, junk yard, etc.

Trailer hitch assemblies have 
different weight capacities. Toy-
ota recommends the use of Toy-
ota hitch/bracket for your 
vehicle. For details, contact your 
Toyota dealer.



If you wish to install a trailer 
hitch, contact your Toyota 
dealer.



Use only a hitch that con-

forms to the gross trailer 
weight requirement of your 
vehicle.



Follow the directions supplied 
by the hitch manufacturer.



Lubricate the hitch ball with a 
light coating of grease.



Remove the hitch ball when-
ever you are not towing a 
trailer. Remove the trailer 
hitch if you do not need it. 
After removing the hitch, seal 
any mounting hole in the vehi-
cle body to prevent entry of 
any substances into the vehi-
cle.

Hitch

WARNING

■

Hitch

Trailer hitch assemblies have dif-

ferent weight capacities estab-

lished by the hitch manufacturer. 

Even though the vehicle may be 

physically capable of towing a 

higher weight, the operator must 

determine the maximum weight 

rating of the particular hitch 

assembly and never exceed the 

maximum weight rating specified 

for the trailer-hitch. Exceeding the 

maximum weight rating set by the 

trailer-hitch manufacturer can 

cause an accident resulting in 

death or serious personal injuries.

NOTICE

■

When installing a trailer hitch

Use only the position recom-

mended by your Toyota dealer. 

Do not install the trailer hitch on 

the bumper; this may cause body 

damage.

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Use the correct trailer ball for 
your application.

Trailer ball load rating

Matches or exceeds the gross 
trailer weight rating of the trailer.

Ball diameter

Matches the size of the trailer cou-
pler. Most couplers are stamped 
with the required trailer ball size.

Shank length

Protrudes beyond the bottom of the 
lock washer and nut at least 2 
threads.

Shank diameter

Matches the ball mount hole diame-
ter size.

Weight carrying ball position: 
50.7 in. (1289 mm)

Use the wire harness stored in 
the rear end under body.

Please consult your dealer 
when installing trailer lights, as 
incorrect installation may cause 
damage to the vehicle’s lights. 
Please take care to comply with 
your state’s laws when install-
ing trailer lights.

■

Auto current cut-off function

In case of over current, the auto 

cut-off function stops the power 

flowing to the trailer lights to prevent 

damage to the vehicle’s electrical 

system.

Selecting trailer ball

Trailer class

Typical trailer ball 

size

IV

2 5/16 in.

II and III

2 in.

I

1 7/8 in.

Positions for towing hitch 
ball

Connecting trailer lights

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This function is activated when the 

rated current of any of the following 

trailer light circuit components is 

exceeded:

●

Tail lights: maximum 4.5 A

●

Stop/turn signal light (right): maxi-

mum 7.8 A

●

Stop/turn signal light (left): maxi-

mum 4.5 A

■

When the auto current cut func-

tion is activated

If a trailer light does not come on 

due to the activation of the auto cur-

rent cut function, the light system 

will need to be reset.
Follow the reset procedure shown 

below.

●

If a tail light does not come on, 

turn off the headlight switch.

●

If the right-side stop/turn signal 

light does not come on, put the 

turn signal in the off position or 

remove foot from the brake pedal.

●

If the left-side stop/turn signal light 

does not come on, put the turn 

signal in the off position or remove 

foot from the brake pedal.

If the emergency flashers do not 

operate, press the emergency 

flasher switch to turn them off.
After the light system is reset, oper-

ate the light switches again to see if 

the lights operate normally.
If the lights do not operate normally, 

have the vehicle inspected by your 

Toyota dealer.

Your vehicle will handle differ-
ently when towing a trailer. Help 
to avoid an accident, death or 
serious injury, keep the following 
in mind when towing:



Speed limits for towing a 
trailer vary by state or prov-
ince. Do not exceed the 
posted towing speed limit.



Toyota recommends that the 
vehicle-trailer speed limit is 65 
mph (104 km/h) on a flat, 
straight, dry road. Do not 
exceed this limit, the posted 
towing speed limit or the 
speed limit for your trailer as 
set forth in your trailer owner’s 
manual, whichever is lowest. 
Instability of the towing vehi-
cle-trailer combination (trailer 
sway) increases as speed 
increases. Exceeding speed 
limits may cause loss of con-
trol.



Before starting out, check the 
trailer lights, tires and the 
vehicle-trailer connections. 
Recheck after driving a short 
distance.



Practice turning, stopping and 
reversing with the trailer 
attached in an area away 
from traffic until you become 
accustomed to the feel of the 
vehicle-trailer combination.



Reversing with a trailer 
attached is difficult and 

NOTICE

■

Do not directly splice trailer 

lights

Do not directly splice trailer lights. 

Directly splicing trailer lights may 

damage your vehicle’s electrical 

system and cause a malfunction.

Trailer towing tips

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requires practice. Grip the 
bottom of the steering wheel 
and move your hand to the 
left to move the trailer to the 
left. Move your hand to the 
right to move the trailer to 
right. (This is generally oppo-
site to reversing without a 
trailer attached.) Avoid sharp 
or prolonged turning. Have 
someone guide you when 
reversing to reduce the risk of 
an accident.



As stopping distance is 
increased when towing a 
trailer, vehicle-to vehicle dis-
tance should be increased. 
For each 10 mph (16 km/h) of 
speed, allow at least one 
vehicle and trailer length.



Avoid sudden braking as you 
may skid, resulting in the 
trailer jackknifing and a loss of 
vehicle control. This is espe-
cially true on wet or slippery 
surfaces.



Avoid jerky starts or sudden 
acceleration.



Avoid jerky steering and 
sharp turns, and slow down 
before making turn.



Note that when making a turn, 
the trailer wheels will be 
closer than the vehicle wheels 
to the inside of the turn. Com-
pensate by making a wider 
than normal turning radius.



Slow down before making a 

turn, in cross winds, on wet or 
slippery surfaces, etc. 
Increasing vehicle speed can 
destabilize the trailer.



Take care when passing other 
vehicles. Passing requires 
considerable distance. After 
passing a vehicle, do not for-
get the length of your trailer, 
and be sure you have plenty 
of room before changing 
lanes.



To maintain engine braking 
efficiency and charging sys-
tem performance when using 
engine braking, do not put the 
transmission in D. If in the M 
mode, the transmission shift 
range position must be in 6 or 
lower. (



P.206)



Instability happens more fre-
quently when descending 
steep or long downhill grades. 
Before descending, slow 
down and downshift. Do not 
make sudden downshifts 
while descending steep or 
long downhill grades.



Avoid holding the brake pedal 
down too long or applying the 
brakes too frequently. This 
could cause the brakes to 
overheat and result in 
reduced braking efficiency.



Due to the added load of the 
trailer, your vehicle’s engine 
may overheat on hot days (at 
temperatures over 85°F 
[30°C]) when driving up a long 

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or steep grade. If the engine 
coolant temperature gauge 
indicates overheating, imme-
diately turn off the air condi-
tioning (if in use), pull your 
vehicle off the road and stop 
in a safe spot. (



P.495)



Always place wheel blocks 
under both the vehicle’s and 
the trailer’s wheels when 
parking. Put the transmission 
in P and apply the parking 
brake. Avoid parking on a 
slope, but if unavoidable, do 
so only after performing the 
following:

1

Apply the brakes and keep 
them applied.

2

Have someone place wheel 
blocks under both the vehi-
cle’s and trailer’s wheels.

3

When the wheel blocks are in 
place, release the brakes 
slowly until the blocks absorb 
the load.

4

Shift into P and apply the 
parking brake.

5

Turn off the engine.



When restarting after parking 
on a slope:

1

With the transmission in P, 
start the engine. Be sure to 
keep the brake pedal 
depressed.

2

Shift into a forward gear. If 
reversing, shift into R.

3

If the parking brake is in man-
ual mode, release the park-
ing brake. (



P.211)

4

Release the brake pedal, and 
slowly pull or back away from 
the wheel blocks. Stop and 
apply the brakes.

5

Have someone retrieve the 
blocks.

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Dinghy towing

Your vehicle is not designed 
to be dinghy towed (with 4 
wheels on the ground) 
behind a motor home.

NOTICE

■

To avoid serious damage to 

your vehicle

Do not tow your vehicle with the 4 

wheels on the ground.

■

To prevent causing serious 

damage to the transmission 

and AWD system

2WD models: Never tow this vehi-

cle from the rear with the front 

wheels on the ground.
This may cause serious damage 

to the transmission.

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.

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4-2.Driving procedures

1

Check that the parking brake 
is set.

2

Check that the shift lever is in 
P.

3

Firmly depress the brake 
pedal.

 and a message will be dis-

played on the multi-information dis-

play.
If it is not displayed, the engine 

cannot be started.

4

Press the engine switch 
shortly and firmly.

When operating the engine switch, 

one short, firm press is enough. It is 

not necessary to press and hold the 

switch.
The engine will crank until it starts 

or for up to 30 seconds, whichever 

is less.
Continue depressing the brake 

pedal until the engine is completely 

started.
The engine can be started from any 

engine switch mode.

■

If the engine does not start

●

The engine immobilizer system 

may not have been deactivated. 

(



P.71) 

Contact your Toyota dealer.

●

If a message related to start-up is 

shown on the multi-information 

display, read the message and fol-

low the instructions.

■

If the battery is discharged

The engine cannot be started using 

the smart key system. Refer to 

P.491to restart the engine.

■

Electronic key battery depletion



P.114

■

Conditions affecting operation



P.135

■

Note for the entry function



P.135

■

Steering lock function

●

After turning the engine switch off 

and opening and closing the 

doors, the steering wheel will be 

locked due to the steering lock 

function. Operating the engine 

switch again automatically can-

cels the steering lock.

●

When the steering lock cannot be 

released, “Push Engine Switch 

while Turning Steering Wheel in 

Either Direction” will be displayed 

on the multi-information display.

Check that the shift lever is in P. 

Press the engine switch shortly 

and firmly while turning the steer-

Engine (ignition) 

switch

Performing the following 
operations when carrying 
the electronic key on your 
person starts the engine or 
changes engine switch 
modes.

Starting the engine

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ing wheel left and right.

●

To prevent the steering lock motor 

from overheating, operation of the 

motor may be suspended if the 

engine is turned on and off repeat-

edly in a short period of time. In 

this case, refrain from operating 

the engine switch. After about 10 

seconds, the steering lock motor 

will resume functioning.

■

Electronic key battery



P.436

■

Operation of the engine switch

●

If the switch is not pressed shortly 

and firmly, the engine switch 

mode may not change or the 

engine may not start.

●

If attempting to restart the engine 

immediately after turning the 

engine switch off, the engine may 

not start in some cases. After turn-

ing the engine switch off, please 

wait a few seconds before restart-

ing the engine.

■

Customization

If the smart key system has been 

deactivated in a customized setting, 

refer to P.489.

1

Stop the vehicle completely.

2

Set the parking brake 
(



P.211), and shift the shift 

lever to P.

Check the parking brake indicator 

is illuminated.

3

Press the engine switch.

The engine will stop, and the meter 

display will be extinguished.

4

Release the brake pedal and 
check that “ACCESSORY” or 
“IGNITION ON” is not shown 

WARNING

■

When starting the engine

Always start the engine while sit-

ting in the driver’s seat. Do not 

depress the accelerator pedal 

while starting the engine under 

any circumstances. 

Doing so may cause an accident 

resulting in death or serious injury.

■

Caution while driving

If engine failure occurs while the 

vehicle is moving, do not lock or 

open the doors until the vehicle 

reaches a safe and complete 

stop. Activation of the steering 

lock in this circumstance may lead 

to an accident, resulting in death 

or serious injury.

NOTICE

■

When starting the engine

●

Do not race a cold engine.

●

If the engine becomes difficult to 

start or stalls frequently, have 

your vehicle checked by your 

Toyota dealer immediately.

■

Symptoms indicating a mal-

function with the engine 

switch

If the engine switch seems to be 

operating somewhat differently 

than usual, such as the switch 

sticking slightly, there may be a 

malfunction. Contact your Toyota 

dealer immediately.

Stopping the engine

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4-2. Driving procedures

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on the multi-information dis-
play.

■

Automatic engine shut off fea-

ture

●

The vehicle is equipped with a 

feature that automatically shuts off 

the engine when the shift lever is 

in P with the engine running for an 

extended period.

●

The engine will automatically shut 

off after approximately 1 hour if it 

has been left running while the 

shift lever is in P.

●

The timer for the automatic engine 

shut off feature will reset if the 

brake pedal is depressed or if the 

shift lever is in a position other 

than P.

●

After the vehicle is parked, if the 

door is locked with the door lock 

switch (



P.120) from the inside or 

the mechanical key from the out-

side, the automatic engine shut off 

feature will be disabled. The timer 

for the automatic engine shut off 

feature will be re-enabled if the 

driver’s door is opened.

WARNING

■

Stopping the engine in an 

emergency

●

If you want to stop the engine in 

an emergency while driving the 

vehicle, press and hold the 

engine switch for more than 2 

seconds, or press it briefly 3 

times or more in succession. 

(



P.450)

However, do not touch the 

engine switch while driving 

except in an emergency. Turn-

ing the engine off while driving 

will not cause loss of steering or 

braking control, but the power 

assist to these systems will be 

lost. This will make it more diffi-

cult to steer and brake, so you 

should pull over and stop the 

vehicle as soon as it is safe to 

do so.

●

If the engine switch is operated 

while the vehicle is running, a 

warning message will be shown 

on the multi-information display 

and a buzzer sounds.

●

To restart the engine after per-

forming an emergency shut-

down, shift the shift lever to N 

and then press the engine 

switch.

■

When parking

Exhaust gases include harmful 

carbon monoxide (CO), which is 

colorless and odorless. Observe 

the following precautions.
Failure to do so may cause 

exhaust gases to enter the vehicle 

and may lead to an accident 

caused by light-headedness, or 

may lead to death or a serious 

health hazard.

●

If the vehicle is in a poorly venti-

lated area or a closed area, 

such as a garage, stop the 

engine.