Toyota Highlander (2021 year). Manual in english - part 7

397

6-1. Maintenance and care

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

approximately 5% solution of neu-

tral detergent and water to clean 

the dirt off.

●

Wipe the surface with a dry, soft 

cloth to remove any remaining 

moisture.

●

To remove oily deposits, use alco-

hol wet wipes or a similar product.

WARNING

■

When washing the vehicle

Do not apply water to the inside of 

the engine compartment. Doing 

so may cause the electrical com-

ponents, etc. to catch fire.

■

When cleaning the windshield 

(vehicles with rain-sensing 

windshield wipers)

Set the wiper switch to off.

If the switch is in “AUTO”, the wip-

ers may operate unexpectedly in 

the following situations, and may 

result in hands being caught or 

other serious injuries and cause 

damage to the wiper blades.

Off
AUTO

●

When the upper part of the 

windshield where the raindrop 

sensor is located is touched by 

hand

●

When a wet rag or similar is 

held close to the raindrop sen-

sor

●

If something bumps against the 

windshield

●

If you directly touch the raindrop 

sensor body or if something 

bumps into the raindrop sensor

■

Precautions regarding the 

exhaust pipe

Exhaust gasses cause the 

exhaust pipe to become quite hot.

When washing the vehicle, be 

careful not to touch the pipe until it 

has cooled sufficiently, as touch-

ing a hot exhaust pipe can cause 

burns.

■

Precaution regarding the rear 

bumper with Blind Spot Moni-

tor (if equipped)

If the paint of the rear bumper is 

chipped or scratched, the system 

may malfunction. If this occurs, 

consult your Toyota dealer.

NOTICE

■

To prevent paint deteriora-

tion and corrosion on the 

body and components (alumi-

num wheels, etc.)

●

Wash the vehicle immediately in 

the following cases:

• After driving near the sea coast

• After driving on salted roads

• If coal tar or tree sap is present 

on the paint surface

• If dead insects, insect droppings 

or bird droppings are present on 

the paint surface

• After driving in an area contami-

nated with soot, oily smoke, 

mine dust, iron powder or chem-

ical substances

• If the vehicle becomes heavily 

soiled with dust or mud

• If liquids such as benzene and 

gasoline are spilled on the paint 

surface

398

6-1. Maintenance and care

HIGHLANDER_U

NOTICE

●

If the paint is chipped or 

scratched, have it repaired 

immediately.

●

To prevent the wheels from cor-

roding, remove any dirt and 

store in a place with low humid-

ity when storing the wheels.

■

Cleaning the exterior lights

●

Wash carefully. Do not use 

organic substances or scrub 

with a hard brush.

This may damage the surfaces 

of the lights.

●

Do not apply wax to the sur-

faces of the lights.

Wax may cause damage to the 

lenses.

■

When using an automatic car 

wash (vehicles with 

rain-sensing windshield wip-

ers)

Set the wiper switch to the off 

position.

If the wiper switch is in “AUTO”, 

the wipers may operate and the 

wiper blades may be damaged.

■

When using a high pressure 

car wash

●

When washing the vehicle, do 

not spray the camera or its sur-

rounding area directly with a 

high pressure washer. Shock 

applied from high pressure 

water may cause the device to 

not operate normally.

●

Do not spray water directly on 

the radar which is equipped 

behind the emblem. Otherwise 

it may cause the device to be 

damaged.

●

Do not bring the nozzle tip close 

to boots (rubber or resin manu-

factured cover), connectors or 

the following parts. The parts 

may be damaged if they come 

into contact with high-pressure 

water.

• Traction related parts

• Steering parts

• Suspension parts

• Brake parts

●

Keep the cleaning nozzle at 

least 11.9 in. (30 cm) away from 

the vehicle body. Otherwise 

resin section, such as moldings 

and bumpers, may be deformed 

and damaged.

Also, do not continuously hold the 

nozzle in the same place.

●

Do not spray the lower part of 

the windshield continuously.

If water enters the air conditioning 

system intake located near the 

lower part of the windshield, the 

air conditioning system may not 

operate correctly.

●

Do not wash the underside of 

the vehicle using a high pres-

sure car washer.

399

6-1. Maintenance and care

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U



Remove dirt and dust using a 
vacuum cleaner. Wipe dirty 
surfaces with a cloth damp-
ened with lukewarm water.



If dirt cannot be removed, 
wipe it off with a soft cloth 
dampened with neutral deter-
gent diluted to approximately 
1%.
Wring out any excess water 
from the cloth and thoroughly 
wipe off remaining traces of 
detergent and water.

■

Shampooing the carpets

There are several commercial foam-

ing-type cleaners available. Use a 

sponge or brush to apply the foam. 

Rub in overlapping circles. Do not 

use water. Wipe dirty surfaces and 

let them dry. Excellent results are 

obtained by keeping the carpet as 

dry as possible.

■

Handling the seat belts

Clean with mild soap and lukewarm 

water using a cloth or sponge. Also 

check the belts periodically for 

excessive wear, fraying or cuts.

Cleaning and protect-

ing the vehicle interior

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

Protecting the vehicle 
interior

WARNING

■

Water in the vehicle

●

Do not splash or spill liquid in 

the vehicle.

Doing so may cause electrical 

components, etc. to malfunc-

tion or catch fire.

●

Do not get any of the SRS com-

ponents or wiring in the vehicle 

interior wet.

(



P.34)

An electrical malfunction may 

cause the airbags to deploy or 

not function properly, resulting 

in death or serious injury.

●

Vehicles with wireless charger: 

Do not let the wireless charger 

(



P.376) get wet. Failure to do 

so may cause the charger to 

become hot and cause burns or 

could cause electric shock 

resulting in death or serious 

injury.

■

Cleaning the interior (espe-

cially instrument panel)

Do not use polish wax or polish 

cleaner. The instrument panel 

may reflect off the windshield, 

obstructing the driver’s view and 

leading to an accident, resulting in 

death or serious injury.

NOTICE

■

Cleaning detergents

●

Do not use the following types 

of detergent, as they may dis-

color the vehicle interior or 

cause streaks or damage to 

painted surfaces:

• Non-seat portions: Organic sub-

stances such as benzene or 

gasoline, alkaline or acidic solu-

tions, dye, and bleach

• Seats: Alkaline or acidic solu-

tions, such as thinner, benzene, 

and alcohol

400

6-1. Maintenance and care

HIGHLANDER_U



Remove dirt and dust using a 
vacuum cleaner.



Wipe off any excess dirt and 
dust with a soft cloth damp-
ened with diluted detergent.

Use a diluted water solution of 
approximately 5% neutral wool 
detergent.



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



Wipe the surface with a dry, 
soft cloth to remove any 
remaining moisture. Allow the 
leather to dry in a shaded and 
ventilated area.

■

Caring for leather areas

Toyota recommends cleaning the 

interior of the vehicle at least twice a 

year tomaintain the quality of the 

vehicle’s interior.

NOTICE

●

Do not use polish wax or polish 

cleaner. The instrument panel’s 

or other interior part’s painted 

surface may be damaged.

■

Preventing damage to leather 

surfaces

Observe the following precautions 

to avoid damage to and deteriora-

tion of leather surfaces:

●

Remove any dust or dirt from 

leather surfaces immediately.

●

Do not expose the vehicle to 

direct sunlight for extended peri-

ods of time. Park the vehicle in 

the shade, especially during 

summer.

●

Do not place items made of 

vinyl, plastic, or containing wax 

on the upholstery, as they may 

stick to the leather surface if the 

vehicle interior heats up signifi-

cantly.

■

Water on the floor

Do not wash the vehicle floor with 

water.

Vehicle systems such as the 

audio system may be damaged if 

water comes into contact with 

electrical components such as the 

audio system above or under the 

floor of the vehicle. Water may 

also cause the body to rust.

■

When cleaning the inside of 

the windshield

Do not allow glass cleaner to con-

tact the lens. Also, do not touch 

the lens. (



P.229)

■

Cleaning the inside of the rear 

window

●

Do not use glass cleaner to 

clean the rear window, as this 

may cause damage to the rear 

window defogger heater wires 

or antenna. Use a cloth damp-

ened with lukewarm water to 

gently wipe the window clean. 

Wipe the window in strokes run-

ning parallel to the heater wires 

or antenna.

●

Be careful not to scratch or 

damage the heater wires or 

antenna.

Cleaning the leather areas

401

6-1. Maintenance and care

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U



Remove dirt and dust using a 
vacuum cleaner.



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



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

Cleaning the synthetic 
leather areas

402

6-2. Maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6-2.Maintenance

■

Repair and replacement

It is recommended that genuine 

Toyota parts be used for repairs to 

ensure performance of each sys-

tem. If non-Toyota parts are used in 

replacement or if a repair shop other 

than a Toyota dealer performs 

repairs, confirm the warranty cover-

age.

■

Allow inspection and repairs to 

be performed by a Toyota 

dealer

●

Toyota technicians are 

well-trained specialists and are 

kept up to date with the latest ser-

vice information. They are well 

informed about the operation of all 

systems on your vehicle.

●

Keep a copy of the repair order. It 

proves that the maintenance that 

has been performed is under war-

ranty coverage. If any problem 

should arise while your vehicle is 

under warranty, your Toyota 

dealer will promptly take care of it.

General maintenance should be 
performed on a daily basis. This 
can be done by yourself or by a 
Toyota dealer.

Scheduled maintenance should 
be performed at specified inter-
vals according to the mainte-
nance schedule.

For details about maintenance 
items and schedules, refer to the 
“Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or 
“Owner’s Manual Supplement”.

Maintenance require-

ments

To ensure safe and econom-
ical driving, day-to-day care 
and regular maintenance 
are essential. It is the 
owner’s responsibility to 
perform regular checks. 
Toyota recommends the fol-
lowing maintenance:

WARNING

■

If your vehicle is not properly 

maintained

Improper maintenance could 

result in serious damage to the 

vehicle and possible death or seri-

ous injury.

■

Handling of the battery

●

Engine exhaust, some of its 

constituents, and a wide variety 

of automobile components con-

tain or emit chemicals known to 

the State of California to cause 

cancer and birth defects and 

other reproductive harm. Work 

in a well ventilated area.

●

Oils, fuels and fluids contained 

in vehicles as well as waste pro-

duced by component wear con-

tain or emit chemicals known to 

the State of California to cause 

cancer and birth defects or 

other reproductive harm. Avoid 

exposure and wash any 

affected area immediately.

●

Battery posts, terminals and 

related accessories contain lead 

and lead compounds which are 

known to cause brain damage. 

Wash your hands after han-

dling. (



P.416)

General maintenance

Scheduled maintenance

403

6-2. Maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

■

Resetting the message indicat-

ing maintenance is required

After the required maintenance is 

preformed according to the mainte-

nance schedule, please reset the 

message.To reset the message, fol-

low the procedures described 

below:



4.2-inch display

1

Press 

 or

 of the meter 

control switch to select 

.

2

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select 

 and 

then press and hold 

 .

3

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select “Scheduled 

Maintenance” and then press 

 .

4

Select “Yes” and press 

.

5

A message will be displayed on 

the multi-information display 

when the reset procedure has 

been completed.



7-inch display

1

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch to select 

.

2

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select 

 and 

then press and hold 

 .

3

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select “Scheduled 

Maintenance” and then press 

 .

4

Select “Yes” and press 

.

5

A message will be displayed on 

the multi-information display 

when the reset procedure has 

been completed.

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

The use of Toyota Repair Manuals 
is recommended.
For details about warranty cover-
age, refer to the separate “Owner’s 
Warranty Information Booklet” or 
“Owner’s Manual Supplement”.

Do-it-yourself mainte-
nance

404

6-2. Maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

General maintenance

Listed below are the general 
maintenance items that 
should be performed at the 
intervals specified in the 
“Owner’s Warranty Informa-
tion Booklet” or “Owner’s 
Manual Supplement/Sched-
uled Maintenance Guide”. It 
is recommended that any 
problem you notice should 
be brought to the attention 
of your Toyota dealer or 
qualified service shop for 
advice.

WARNING

■

If the engine is running

Turn the engine off and ensure 

that there is adequate ventilation 

before performing maintenance 

checks.

Engine compartment

Items

Check points

Battery

Check the connec-
tions. (



P.416)

Brake fluid

Is the brake fluid at 
the correct level? 
(



P.416)

Engine coolant

Is the engine cool-
ant at the correct 
level? (



P.415)

Engine oil

Is the engine oil at 
the correct level? 
(



P.412)

Exhaust sys-
tem

There should not 
be any fumes or 
strange sounds.

Radiator/con-
denser

The radiator and 
condenser should 
be free from for-
eign objects. 
(



P.416)

Washer fluid

Is there sufficient 
washer fluid? 
(



P.418)

Vehicle interior

Items

Check points

Accelerator 
pedal

• The accelerator 

pedal should 
move smoothly 
(without uneven 
pedal effort or 
catching).

Automatic 
transmission 
“Park” mecha-
nism

• When parked on 

a slope and the 
shift lever is in P, 
is the vehicle 
securely 
stopped?

Items

Check points

405

6-2. Maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

Brake pedal

• Does the brake 

pedal move 
smoothly?

• Does the brake 

pedal have 
appropriate 
clearance from 
the floor? 
(



P.504)

• Does the brake 

pedal have the 
correct amount 
of free play? 
(



P.504)

Brakes

• The vehicle 

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

• The brakes 

should work 
effectively.

• The brake pedal 

should not feel 
spongy.

• The brake pedal 

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

Head 
restraints

• Do the head 

restraints move 
smoothly and 
lock securely?

Horn

• Works properly?

Indica-
tors/buzzers

• Do the indica-

tors and buzzers 
function prop-
erly?

Items

Check points

Lights

• Do all the lights 

come on?

• Are the head-

lights aimed cor-
rectly? (



P.440)

Parking brake

• Does the park-

ing brake switch 
operate nor-
mally?

• When parked on 

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

Seat belts

• Do the seat belts 

operate 
smoothly?

• The seat belts 

should not be 
damaged.

Seats

• Do the seat con-

trols operate 
properly?

Steering wheel

• Does the steer-

ing wheel rotate 
smoothly?

• Does the steer-

ing wheel have 
the correct 
amount of free 
play?

• There should not 

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

Items

Check points

406

6-2. Maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

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



When the battery is discon-
nected or discharged

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



When the fuel tank cap is 
loose

Vehicle exterior

Items

Check points

Doors

• Do the doors 

operate 
smoothly?

Engine hood

• Does the engine 

hood lock system 
work properly?

Fluid leaks

• There should not 

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

Tires

• Is the tire infla-

tion pressure 
correct?

• The tires should 

not be damaged 
or excessively 
worn.

• Have the tires 

been rotated 
according to the 
maintenance 
schedule?

• The wheel nuts 

should not be 
loose.

Windshield 
wipers/rear 
window wiper

• The wiper blades 

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

• The wiper blades 

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

Emission inspection 

and maintenance (I/M) 

programs

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

If the malfunction indica-
tor lamp comes on

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

407

6-2. Maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

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

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

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

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

If your vehicle does not 
pass the I/M test

408

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

6-3.Do-it-yourself maintenance

Do-it-yourself service 

precautions

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

Maintenance

Items

Parts and tools

Battery condi-
tion (



P.416)

• Warm water
• Baking soda
• Grease
• Conventional 

wrench (for ter-
minal clamp 
bolts)

Brake fluid 
level (



P.416)

• FMVSS No.116 

DOT 3 or SAE 
J1703 brake fluid

• Rag or paper 

towel

• Funnel (used 

only for adding 
brake fluid)

Engine cool-
ant level 
(



P.415)

• “Toyota Super 

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

• Funnel (used 

only for adding 
coolant)

Engine oil level 
(



P.412)

• “Toyota Genuine 

Motor Oil” or 
equivalent

• Rag or paper 

towel

• Funnel (used 

only for adding 
engine oil)

Fuses 
(



P.438)

• Fuse with same 

amperage rating 
as original

Items

Parts and tools

409

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

Headlight aim 
(



P.440)

• Phillips-head 

screwdriver

Light bulbs 
(



P.441)

• Bulb with same 

number and 
wattage rating as 
original

• Phillips-head 

screwdriver

• Flathead screw-

driver

• Wrench

Radiator and 
condenser 
(



P.416)



Tire inflation 
pressure 
(



P.431)

• Tire pressure 

gauge

• Compressed air 

source

Washer fluid 
(



P.418)

• Water or washer 

fluid containing 
antifreeze (for 
winter use)

• Funnel (used 

only for adding 
water or washer 
fluid)

WARNING

The engine compartment contains 

many mechanisms and fluids that 

may move suddenly, become hot, 

or become electrically energized. 

To avoid death or serious injury, 

observe the following precautions.

■

When working on the engine 

compartment

●

Keep hands, clothing and tools 

away from the moving fan and 

engine drive belt.

Items

Parts and tools

●

Be careful not to touch the 

engine, radiator, exhaust mani-

fold, etc. right after driving as 

they may be hot. Oil and other 

fluids may also be hot.

●

Do not leave anything that may 

burn easily, such as paper and 

rags, in the engine compart-

ment.

●

Do not smoke, cause sparks or 

expose an open flame to fuel or 

the battery. Fuel and battery 

fumes are flammable.

●

Be extremely cautious when 

working on the battery. It con-

tains poisonous and corrosive 

sulfuric acid.

■

When working near the elec-

tric cooling fan or radiator 

grille

Be sure the engine switch is off.

With the engine switch in ON, the 

electric cooling fan may automati-

cally start to run if the air condi-

tioning is on and/or the coolant 

temperature is high. (



P.416)

■

Safety glasses

Wear safety glasses to prevent 

flying or falling material, fluid 

spray, etc. from getting in your 

eyes.

NOTICE

■

If you remove the air cleaner 

filter

Driving with the air cleaner filter 

removed may cause excessive 

engine wear due to dirt in the air.

410

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

1

Pull the hood lock release 
lever.

The hood will pop up slightly.

2

Pull up the auxiliary catch 
lever and lift the hood.

3

Hold the hood open by insert-
ing the support rod into the 
slot.

Hood

Opening the hood

WARNING

■

Pre-driving check

Check that the hood is fully closed 

and locked.

If the hood is not locked properly, 

it may open while the vehicle is in 

motion and cause an accident, 

which may result in death or seri-

ous injury.

■

After installing the support 

rod into the slot

Make sure the rod supports the 

hood securely preventing it from 

falling down onto your head or 

body.

NOTICE

■

When closing the hood

Be sure to return the support rod 

to its clip before closing the hood. 

Closing the hood with the support 

rod not clipped could cause the 

hood to bend.

411

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

■

Front

■

Rear

Positioning a floor 

jack

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

Location of the jack point

412

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

Engine coolant reservoir (



P.415)

Fuse boxes (



P.438)

Engine oil filler cap (



P.413)

Engine oil level dipstick (



P.412)

Battery (



P.416)

Brake fluid reservoir (



P.416)

Washer fluid tank (



P.418)

Electric cooling fan
Condenser (



P.416)

Radiator (



P.416)

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

stick.

■

Checking the engine oil

1

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

Engine compartment

Components

Checking and adding the 
engine oil

413

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

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

2

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

3

Wipe the dipstick clean.

4

Reinsert the dipstick fully.

5

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

Low
Normal
Excessive

The shape of the dipstick may differ 

depending on the type of vehicle or 

engine.

6

Wipe the dipstick and reinsert 
it fully.

■

Checking the oil type and 
preparing the item needed

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



Engine oil selection



P.502



Oil quantity (Low 



 Full)

1.9 qt. (1.8 L, 1.6 Imp. qt.)



Item
Clean funnel

■

Adding engine oil

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

1

Remove the oil filler cap by 
turning it counterclockwise.

2

Add engine oil slowly, check-
ing the dipstick.

3

Install the oil filler cap by 
turning it clockwise.

■

Engine oil consumption

A certain amount of engine oil will 

be consumed while driving. In the 

following situations, oil consump-

tion may increase, and engine oil 

may need to be refilled in between 

oil maintenance intervals.

414

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

●

When the engine is new, for 

example directly after purchasing 

the vehicle or after replacing the 

engine

●

If low quality oil or oil of an inap-

propriate viscosity is used

●

When driving at high engine 

speeds or with a heavy load, 

when towing, or when driving 

while accelerating or decelerating 

frequently

●

When leaving the engine idling for 

a long time, or when driving fre-

quently through heavy traffic

■

If the oil is spilled on the engine 

cover

To prevent the engine cover from 

being damaged, remove any engine 

oil from the engine cover as soon as 

possible using a neutral detergent. 

Do not use an organic solvent such 

as brake cleaner.

■

After changing the engine oil

The engine oil maintenance data 

should be reset. Perform the follow-

ing procedures:



4.2-inch display

1

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch to select 

.

2

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select 

 and 

then press and hold 

 .

3

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

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

.

4

Select “Yes” and press 

.

5

A message will be displayed on 

the multi-information display 

when the reset procedure has 

been completed.



7-inch display

1

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch to select 

.

2

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select 

 and 

then press and hold 

 .

3

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

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

 .

4

Select “Yes” and press 

.

5

A message will be displayed on 

the multi-information display 

when the reset procedure has 

been completed.

WARNING

■

Used engine oil

●

Used engine oil contains poten-

tially harmful contaminants 

which may cause skin disorders 

such as inflammation and skin 

cancer, so care should be taken 

to avoid prolonged and 

repeated contact. To remove 

used engine oil from your skin, 

wash thoroughly with soap and 

water.

●

Dispose of used oil and filters 

only in a safe and acceptable 

manner. Do not dispose of used 

oil and filters in household trash, 

in sewers or onto the ground.

Call your Toyota dealer, service 

station or auto parts store for 

information concerning recy-

cling or disposal.

●

Do not leave used engine oil 

within the reach of children.

NOTICE

■

To prevent serious engine 

damage

Check the oil level on a regular 

basis.

415

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

The coolant level is satisfactory 
if it is between the “FULL” and 
“LOW” lines on the reservoir 
when the engine is cold.

Reservoir cap
“FULL” line
“LOW” line

If the level is on or below the “LOW” 
line, add coolant up to the “FULL” 
line. (



P.495)

■

Coolant selection

Only use “Toyota Super Long Life 

Coolant” or a similar high quality 

ethylene glycol based non-silicate, 

non-amine, non-nitrite, and 

non-borate coolant with long-life 

hybrid organic acid technology.

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

a mixture of 50% coolant and 50% 

deionized water. (Minimum tem-

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

a mixture of 55% coolant and 45% 

deionized water. (Minimum tem-

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

tact your Toyota dealer.

■

If the coolant level drops within 

a short time of replenishing

Visually check the radiator, hoses, 

engine coolant reservoir cap, drain 

cock and water pump.

If you cannot find a leak, have your 

Toyota dealer test the cap and 

check for leaks in the cooling sys-

tem.

NOTICE

■

When replacing the engine oil

●

Be careful not to spill engine oil 

on the vehicle components.

●

Avoid overfilling, or the engine 

could be damaged.

●

Check the oil level on the dip-

stick every time you refill the 

vehicle.

●

Be sure the engine oil filler cap 

is properly tightened.

Checking the coolant

WARNING

■

When the engine is hot

Do not remove the engine coolant 

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

pressure and may spray hot cool-

ant if the cap is removed, causing 

serious injuries, such as burns.

NOTICE

■

When adding coolant

Coolant is neither plain water nor 

straight antifreeze. The correct 

mixture of water and antifreeze 

must be used to provide proper 

lubrication, corrosion protection 

and cooling. Be sure to read the 

antifreeze or coolant label.

■

If you spill coolant

Be sure to wash it off with water to 

prevent it from damaging parts or 

paint.

416

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

Check the radiator and con-
denser and clear away any for-
eign objects. If either of the 
above parts is extremely dirty or 
you are not sure of their condi-
tion, have your vehicle 
inspected by your Toyota dealer.

■

Checking fluid level

The brake fluid level should be 
between the “MAX” and “MIN” 
lines on the tank.

■

Adding fluid

Make sure to check the fluid 
type and prepare the necessary 
item.



Fluid type

SAE J1703 or FMVSS No.116 DOT 
3 brake fluid
SAE J1704 or FMVSS No.116 DOT 
4 brake fluid



Item
Clean funnel

■

Brake fluid can absorb moisture 

from the air

Excess moisture in the brake fluid 

can cause a dangerous loss of brak-

ing efficiency. Use only newly 

opened brake fluid.

Check the battery as follows.

■

Battery exterior

Make sure that the battery termi-
nals are not corroded and that 
there are no loose connections, 
cracks, or loose clamps.

Checking the radiator and 
condenser

WARNING

■

When the engine is hot

Do not touch the radiator or con-

denser as they may be hot and 

cause serious injuries, such as 

burns.

Checking and adding the 
brake fluid

WARNING

■

When filling the reservoir

Take care as brake fluid can harm 

your hands and eyes and damage 

painted surfaces.

If fluid gets on your hands or in 

your eyes, flush the affected area 

with clean water immediately.
If you still experience discomfort, 

see a doctor.

NOTICE

■

If the fluid level is low or high

It is normal for the brake fluid level 

to go down slightly as the brake 

pads wear out or when the fluid 

level in the accumulator is high.

If the reservoir needs frequent 

refilling, there may be a serious 

problem.

Battery

417

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

Terminals
Hold-down clamp

■

Before recharging

When recharging, the battery pro-

duces hydrogen gas which is flam-

mable and explosive. Therefore, 

observe the following precautions 

before recharging:

●

If recharging with the battery 

installed on the vehicle, be sure to 

disconnect the ground cable.

●

Make sure the power switch on 

the charger is off when connecting 

and disconnecting the charger 

cables to the battery.

■

After recharging/reconnecting 

the battery

The engine may not start. Follow the 

procedure below to initialize the sys-

tem.

1

Shift the shift lever to P.

2

Open and close any of the doors.

3

Restart the engine.

●

Unlocking the doors using the 

smart key system may not be pos-

sible immediately after reconnect-

ing the battery. If this happens, 

use the wireless remote control or 

the mechanical key to lock/unlock 

the doors.

●

Start the engine with the engine 

switch in ACC. The engine may 

not start with the engine switch 

turned off. However, the engine 

will operate normally from the sec-

ond attempt.

●

The engine switch mode is 

recorded by the vehicle. If the bat-

tery is disconnected and recon-

nected, the vehicle will return the 

engine switch mode to the status it 

was in before the battery was dis-

connected. Make sure to turn off 

the engine before disconnecting 

the battery. Take extra care when 

connecting the battery if the 

engine switch mode prior to the 

battery being disconnected is 

unknown.

If the system will not start even after 

multiple attempts, contact your Toy-

ota dealer.

WARNING

■

Chemicals in the battery

Batteries contain poisonous and 

corrosive sulfuric acid and may 

produce hydrogen gas which is 

flammable and explosive. To 

reduce the risk of death or serious 

injury, take the following precau-

tions while working on or near the 

battery:

●

Do not cause sparks by touch-

ing the battery terminals with 

tools.

●

Do not smoke or light a match 

near the battery.

●

Avoid contact with eyes, skin 

and clothes.

●

Never inhale or swallow electro-

lyte.

●

Wear protective safety glasses 

when working near the battery.

●

Keep children away from the 

battery.

418

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

If any washer does not work or 
the warning message appears 
on the multi-information display, 
the washer tank may be empty. 
Add washer fluid.

WARNING

■

Where to safely charge the 

battery

Always charge the battery in an 

open area. Do not charge the bat-

tery in a garage or closed room 

where there is insufficient ventila-

tion.

■

How to recharge the battery

Only perform a slow charge (5 A 

or less). The battery may explode 

if charged at a quicker rate.

■

Emergency measures regard-

ing electrolyte

●

If electrolyte gets in your eyes

Flush your eyes with clean 

water for at least 15 minutes 

and get immediate medical 

attention. If possible, continue 

to apply water with a sponge or 

cloth while traveling to the near-

est medical facility.

●

If electrolyte gets on your skin

Wash the affected area thor-

oughly. If you feel pain or burn-

ing, get medical attention 

immediately.

●

If electrolyte gets on your 

clothes

It can soak through clothing on 

to your skin. Immediately take 

off the clothing and follow the 

procedure above if necessary.

●

If you accidentally swallow elec-

trolyte

Drink a large quantity of water 

or milk. Get emergency medical 

attention immediately.

NOTICE

■

When recharging the battery

Never recharge the battery while 

the engine is running. Also, be 

sure all accessories are turned 

off.

Washer fluid

WARNING

■

When adding washer fluid

Do not add washer fluid when the 

engine is hot or running as 

washer fluid contains alcohol and 

may catch fire if spilled on the 

engine, etc.

NOTICE

■

Do not use any fluid other 

than washer fluid

Do not use soapy water or engine 

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

the vehicle’s painted surfaces, as 

well as damaging the pump lead-

ing to problems of the washer 

fluid not spraying.

■

Diluting washer fluid

Dilute washer fluid with water as 

necessary.
Refer to the freezing tempera-

tures listed on the label of the 

washer fluid bottle.

419

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

Check if the treadwear indica-
tors are showing on the tires. 
Also check the tires for uneven 
wear, such as excessive wear 
on one side of the tread.
Check the spare tire condition 
and pressure if not rotated.

New tread
Worn tread
Treadwear indicator

The location of treadwear indicators 
is shown by a “TWI” or “

” mark, 

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

■

When to replace your vehicle’s 

tires

Tires should be replaced if:

●

The treadwear indicators are 

showing on a tire.

●

You have tire damage such as 

cuts, splits, cracks deep enough 

to expose the fabric, and bulges 

indicating internal damage.

●

A tire goes flat repeatedly or can-

not be properly repaired due to the 

size or location of a cut or other 

damage.

If you are not sure, consult with your 

Toyota dealer.

■

Tire life

Any tire over 6 years old must be 

checked by a qualified technician 

even if it has seldom or never been 

used or damage is not obvious.

■

Proper storage of the spare tire

As an improperly stored spare tire 

may cause damage to the wire 

cable that holds it, check that the 

spare tire is stored properly on a 

daily basis.

●

If the stored spare tire appears to 

be slanted or rattles while driving, 

the spare tire may not be properly 

stored. Store the spare tire again 

by performing the following tire 

change procedure correctly:

Tires

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

Checking tires

420

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

1

If the spare tire is slanted, the 

hoist assembly may be stuck in 

the wheel opening. If the spare 

tire rattles while driving, it may 

not be fully raised. Lower the 

spare tire to the ground and 

make sure that the hoist assem-

bly is perpendicular to the wheel 

opening.

2

Raise the tire slowly and steadily 

until a click is heard and the jack 

handle skips.

If the spare tire cannot be lowered, 

the wire cable may be severed. 

Have the vehicle inspected at your 

Toyota dealer.

■

Maximum load of tire

Check that the number given by 

dividing the maximum load by 1.10 

of the replacement tire is greater 

than 1/2 of the Gross Axle Weight 

Ratings (GAWR) of either the front 

axle or the rear axle, whichever is 

greater.
For the GAWR, see the Certification 

Label.

For the maximum load of the tire, 

see the load limit at maximum cold 

tire inflation pressure mentioned on 

the sidewall of the tire. (



P.511)

■

Tire types

●

Summer tires

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

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

●

All season tires

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

●

Snow tires

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



P.327)

■

If the tread on snow tires wears 

down below 0.16 in. (4 mm)

The effectiveness of the tires as 

snow tires is lost.

421

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

Rotate the tires in the order 
shown.



Vehicles with a compact 
spare tire

Front



Vehicles with a full-size spare 
tire

Front

To equalize tire wear and extend 
tire life, Toyota recommends that 
tire rotation is carried out at the 
same interval as tire inspection.
Do not fail to initialize the tire pres-

WARNING

■

When inspecting or replacing 

tires

Observe the following precautions 

to prevent accidents.

Failure to do so may cause dam-

age to parts of the drive train as 

well as dangerous handling char-

acteristics, which may lead to an 

accident resulting in death or seri-

ous injury.

●

Do not mix tires of different 

makes, models or tread pat-

terns.

Also, do not mix tires of remark-

ably different treadwear.

●

Do not use tire sizes other than 

those recommended by Toyota.

●

Do not mix differently con-

structed tires (radial, bias-belted 

or bias-ply tires).

●

Do not mix summer, all season 

and snow tires.

●

Do not use tires that have been 

used on another vehicle.

Do not use tires if you do not 

know how they were used previ-

ously.

●

Vehicles with a compact spare 

tire: Do not tow if your vehicle 

has a compact spare tire 

installed.

NOTICE

■

Driving on rough roads

Take particular care when driving 

on roads with loose surfaces or 

potholes.

These conditions may cause 

losses in tire inflation pressure, 

reducing the cushioning ability of 

the tires. In addition, driving on 

rough roads may cause damage 

to the tires themselves, as well as 

the vehicle’s wheels and body.

■

If tire inflation pressure of 

each tire becomes low while 

driving

Do not continue driving, or your 

tires and/or wheels may be 

ruined.

Tire rotation

422

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

sure warning system after tire rota-
tion.

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



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



P.84, 93)

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



4.2-inch display



7-inch display



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



P.462)

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



4.2-inch display



7-inch display

■

Routine tire inflation pressure 

checks

The tire pressure warning system 

does not replace routine tire inflation 

pressure checks. Make sure to 

check tire inflation pressure as part 

of your routine of daily vehicle 

checks.

■

Situations in which the tire 

pressure warning system may 

not operate properly

●

In the following cases, the tire 

pressure warning system may not 

Tire pressure warning 
system

423

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

operate properly.

• If non-genuine Toyota wheels are 

used.

• A tire has been replaced with a 

tire that is not an OE (Original 

Equipment) tire.

• A tire has been replaced with a 

tire that is not of the specified size.

• Tire chains, etc. are equipped.

• An auxiliary-supported run-flat tire 

is equipped.

• If a window tint that affects the 

radio wave signals is installed.

• If there is a lot of snow or ice on 

the vehicle, particularly around the 

wheels or wheel housings.

• If the tire inflation pressure is 

extremely higher than the speci-

fied level.

• If the spare tire is in a location 

subject to poor radio wave signal 
reception.

*

• If wheel without the tire pressure 

warning valve and transmitter is 

used.

• If the ID code on the tire pressure 

warning valves and transmitters is 

not registered in the tire pressure 

warning computer.

*

: Vehicles with full-size spare tire 

only

●

Performance may be affected in 

the following situations.

• Near a TV tower, electric power 

plant, gas station, radio station, 

large display, airport or other facil-

ity that generates strong radio 

waves or electrical noise

• When carrying a portable radio, 

cellular phone, cordless phone or 

other wireless communication 

device

●

If tire position information is not 

correctly displayed due to the 

radio wave conditions, the display 

may be corrected by driving and 

changing the radio wave condi-

tions.

●

When the vehicle is parked, the 

time taken for the warning to start 

or go off could be extended.

●

When tire inflation pressure 

declines rapidly for example when 

a tire has burst, the warning may 

not function.

■

Warning performance of the tire 

pressure warning system

The warning of the tire pressure 

warning system will change in 

accordance with the conditions 

under which it was initialized. For 

this reason, the system may give a 

warning even if the tire pressure 

does not reach a low enough level, 

or if the pressure is higher than the 

pressure that was adjusted to when 

the system was initialized.

424

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

■

Tire pressure warning system certification

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

Installing tire pressure 
warning valves and trans-
mitters

425

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

When new tire pressure warning 
valves and transmitters are 
installed, new ID codes must be 
registered in the tire pressure 
warning computer and the tire 
pressure warning system must 
be initialized. Have tire pressure 
warning valves and transmitter 
ID codes registered by your Toy-
ota dealer. (



P.428)

■

Replacing tires and wheels

If the ID code of the tire pressure 

warning valve and transmitter is not 

registered, the tire pressure warning 

system will not work properly. After 

driving for about 20 minutes, the tire 

pressure warning light blinks for 1 

minute and stays on to indicate a 

system malfunction.

■

The tire pressure warning 
system must be initialized 
in the following circum-
stances:



When the tire inflation pres-
sure is changed such as 
when changing traveling 
speed.



When the tire inflation pres-
sure is changed such as 
when the tire size is changed.



When rotating the tires.



After registering the ID codes. 
(



P.428)

When the tire pressure warning 
system is initialized, the current 
tire inflation pressure is set as 
the benchmark pressure.

NOTICE

■

Repairing or replacing tires, 

wheels, tire pressure warn-

ing valves, transmitters and 

tire valve caps

●

When removing or fitting the 

wheels, tires or the tire pressure 

warning valves and transmit-

ters, contact your Toyota dealer 

as the tire pressure warning 

valves and transmitters may be 

damaged if not handled cor-

rectly.

●

Make sure to install the tire 

valve caps. If the tire valve caps 

are not installed, water could 

enter the tire pressure warning 

valves and the tire pressure 

warning valves could be bound.

●

When replacing tire valve caps, 

do not use tire valve caps other 

than those specified. The cap 

may become stuck.

■

To avoid damage to the tire 

pressure warning valves and 

transmitters

When a tire is repaired with liquid 

sealants, the tire pressure warn-

ing valve and transmitter may not 

operate properly. If a liquid seal-

ant is used, contact your Toyota 

dealer or other qualified service 

shop as soon as possible. Make 

sure to replace the tire pressure 

warning valve and transmitter 

when replacing the tire. (



P.424)

Initializing the tire pres-
sure warning system

426

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

■

How to initialize the tire 
pressure warning system



4.2-inch display

1

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

Initialization cannot be performed 

while the vehicle is moving.

2

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



P.505)

Make sure to adjust the tire pres-

sure to the specified cold tire infla-

tion pressure level. The tire 

pressure warning system will oper-

ate based on this pressure level.

3

Turn the engine switch to 
ON.

4

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch to select 

.

5

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select 

 and 

then press and hold 

.

6

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select “TPWS” 
and then press 

.

7

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select “Set 
Pressure” and then press 
and hold 

.



7-inch display

1

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

Initialization cannot be performed 

while the vehicle is moving.

2

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



P.505)

Make sure to adjust the tire pres-

sure to the specified cold tire infla-

tion pressure level. The tire 

pressure warning system will oper-

ate based on this pressure level.

3

Turn the engine switch to 
ON.

4

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch to select 

.

5

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select 

 and 

then press and hold 

.

6

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select “TPWS” 
and then press 

.

7

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select “Set 
Pressure” and then press 
and hold 

.

“Setting Tire Pressure Warning 
System” will be displayed on the 
multi-information display and the 
tire pressure warning light will 
blink 3 times.
When the message disappears, 
initialization is complete.
A message is displayed on the 
multi-information display. Also, 
“--” is displayed for inflation 
pressure of each tire on the 
multi-information display while 

427

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

the tire pressure warning sys-
tem determines the position.
Drive the vehicle at approxi-
mately 25 mph (40 km/h) or 
more for approximately 10 to 30 
minutes until the inflation pres-
sure of each tire is displayed on 
the multi-information display.
When initialization is complete, 
the inflation pressure of each 
tire will be displayed on the 
multi-information display.
Even if the vehicle is not driven 
at approximately 25 mph (40 
km/h) or more, initialization can 
be completed by driving for a 
long time. However, if initializa-
tion does not complete after 
driving for 1 hour or more, park 
the vehicle in a safe place for 
approximately 20 minutes and 
then drive the vehicle again.

■

Initializing the tire pressure 

warning system

Initialize the system with the tire 

inflation pressure adjusted to the 

specified level.

■

Initialization procedure

●

Make sure to carry out initializa-

tion after adjusting the tire inflation 

pressure.

Also, make sure the tires are cold 

before carrying out initialization or 

tire inflation pressure adjustment.

●

If you have accidentally turned the 

engine switch off during initializa-

tion, it is not necessary to restart 

the initialization again as initializa-

tion will restart automatically when 

the engine switch has been turned 

to ON for the next time.

●

If you accidentally restart the ini-

tialization when initialization is not 

necessary, adjust the tire inflation 

pressure to the specified level 

when the tires are cold, and con-

duct initialization again.

●

While the position of each tire is 

being determined and the inflation 

pressures are not being displayed 

on the multi-information display, if 

the inflation pressure of a tire 

drops, the tire pressure warning 

light will come on.

■

When initialization of the tire 

pressure warning system has 

failed

Initialization may take longer to 

complete if the vehicle is driven on 

an unpaved road. When performing 

initialization, drive on a paved road if 

possible. Depending on the driving 

environment and condition of the 

tires, initialization will be completed 

in approximately 10 to 30 minutes. If 

initialization is not complete after 

driving approximately 10 to 30 min-

utes, continue driving for a while.
If the inflation pressure of each tire 

is not displayed after driving for 

approximately 1 hour, perform the 

following procedure.

●

Park the vehicle in a safe place for 

approximately 20 minutes. Then 

drive straight (with occasional left 

and right turns) at approximately 

25 mph (40 km/h) or more for 

approximately 10 to 30 minutes.

However, in the following situations, 

the tire inflation pressure will not be 

recorded and the system will not 

operate properly. Perform initializa-

tion again.

●

If the vehicle is reversed during 

initialization, the data up to that 

point is reset, so perform the ini-

tialization procedure again from 

the beginning.

●

When operating the tire pressure 

warning reset switch, the tire pres-

sure warning light does not blink 3 

times.

428

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

●

After performing initialization, the 

tire pressure warning light blinks 

for 1 minute then stays on while 

driving.

If the inflation pressure of each tire 

is still not displayed, have the vehi-

cle inspected by your Toyota dealer.

Every tire pressure warning 
valve and transmitter has a 
unique ID code. When replacing 
a tire pressure warning valve 
and transmitter, it is necessary 
to register the ID code. When 
registering the ID codes, per-
form the following procedure.



4.2-inch display

1

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

Initialization cannot be performed 

while the vehicle is moving.

2

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



P.505)

Make sure to adjust the tire pres-

sure to the specified cold tire infla-

tion pressure level. The tire 

pressure warning system will oper-

ate based on this pressure level.

3

Turn the engine switch to 
ON.

4

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch to select 

.

5

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select 

 and 

then press and hold 

.

6

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select “TPWS” 
and then press 

.

7

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select 
“Change Wheel” and then 
press 

 until the tire pres-

sure warning light starts 
slowly blinking 3 times.

The change wheel set mode is acti-

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

on the multi-information display. 

When registration is being per-

formed, the tire pressure warning 

light will blink for approximately 1 

minute then illuminate and “--” will 

be displayed for the inflation pres-

sure of each tire on the multi-infor-

mation display.

8

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

When registration is completed, the 

tire pressure warning light will go off 

and the inflation pressure of each 

tire will be displayed on the 

multi-information display.

WARNING

■

When initializing the tire pres-

sure warning system

Do not initializing tire inflation 

pressure without first adjusting 

the tire inflation pressure to the 

specified level. Otherwise, the tire 

pressure warning light may not 

come on even if the tire inflation 

pressure is low, or it may come on 

when the tire inflation pressure is 

actually normal.

Registering ID codes

429

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

Even if the vehicle is not driven at 

approximately 25 mph (40 km/h) or 

more, registration can be com-

pleted by driving for a long time. 

However, if registration does not 

complete after driving for 1 hour or 

more, perform the procedure again 

from the beginning.

9

Initialize the tire pressure 
warning system. (



P.426)



7-inch display

1

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

Initialization cannot be performed 

while the vehicle is moving.

2

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



P.505)

Make sure to adjust the tire pres-

sure to the specified cold tire infla-

tion pressure level. The tire 

pressure warning system will oper-

ate based on this pressure level.

3

Turn the engine switch to 
ON.

4

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch to select 

.

5

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select 

 and 

then press and hold 

.

6

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select “TPWS” 
and then press 

.

7

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch, select 
“Change Wheel” and then 

press 

 until the tire pres-

sure warning light starts 
slowly blinking 3 times.

The change wheel set mode is acti-

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

on the multi-information display. 

When registration is being per-

formed, the tire pressure warning 

light will blink for approximately 1 

minute then illuminate and “--” will 

be displayed for the inflation pres-

sure of each tire on the multi-infor-

mation display.

8

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

When registration is completed, the 

tire pressure warning light will go off 

and the inflation pressure of each 

tire will be displayed on the 

multi-information display.
Even if the vehicle is not driven at 

approximately 25 mph (40 km/h) or 

more, registration can be com-

pleted by driving for a long time. 

However, if registration does not 

complete after driving for 1 hour or 

more, perform the procedure again 

from the beginning.

9

Initialize the tire pressure 
warning system. (



P.426)

■

When registering ID codes

●

ID code registration is performed 

while driving at a vehicle speed of 

approximately 25 mph (40 km/h) 

or more.

●

Before performing ID code regis-

tration, make sure that no wheels 

with tire pressure warning valve 

and transmitters installed are near 

the vehicle.

●

Make sure to initialize the tire 

pressure warning system after 

430

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

registering the ID codes. If the 

system is initialized before regis-

tering the ID codes, the initialized 

values will be invalid.

●

ID codes can be registered by 

yourself, but depending on the 

driving conditions and driving 

environment, registration may 

take some time to complete.

■

Canceling ID code registration

●

To cancel ID code registration 

after it has been started, turn the 

engine switch off before driving 

the vehicle. If the vehicle is driven 

after ID code registration is 

started, to cancel registration, per-

form the ID code registration start 

procedure again and turn the 

engine switch off before driving.

●

If ID code registration has been 

canceled, the tire pressure warn-

ing light will blink for approxi-

mately 1 minute when the engine 

switch is turned to ON and then 

illuminate. The tire pressure warn-

ing system will be operational 

when the tire pressure warning 

light turns off.

●

If the warning light does not turn 

off even after several minutes 

have elapsed, ID code registration 

may not have been canceled cor-

rectly. To cancel registration, per-

form the ID code registration start 

procedure again and then turn the 

engine switch off before driving.

■

If ID codes are not registered 

properly

In the following situations, ID code 

registration may take longer than 

usual to be completed or may not be 

possible. Normally, registration com-

pletes within approximately 30 min-

utes.

●

Vehicle is not parked for approxi-

mately 20 minutes or more before 

driving

●

Vehicle is not driven at approxi-

mately 25 mph (40 km/h) or more

●

Vehicle is driven on unpaved 

roads

●

Vehicle is driven near other vehi-

cles and system cannot recog-

nize tire pressure warning valve 

and transmitters of your vehicle 

over those of other vehicles

Wheel with tire pressure warning 

valve and transmitter installed is 

inside or near the vehicle
If registration does not complete 

after driving for 1 hour or more, per-

form the ID code registration proce-

dure again from the beginning.

●

If the vehicle is reversed during 

registration, the data up to that 

point is reset, so perform the reg-

istration procedure again from the 

beginning.

●

In the following situations, ID code 

registration will not be started or 

was not completed properly and 

the system will not operate prop-

erly. Perform the ID code registra-

tion procedure again.

• If, when attempting to start ID 

code registration, the tire pressure 

warning light does not blink slowly 

3 times.

• If, when the vehicle has been 

driven for about 20 minutes after 

performing ID code registration, 

the tire pressure warning light 

blinks for approximately 1 minute 

and then illuminates.

If the ID codes cannot be registered 

even when performing the above 

procedure, contact your Toyota 

dealer.

431

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

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



P.505)

Tire valve
Tire pressure gauge

1

Remove the tire valve cap.

2

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

3

Read the pressure using the 
gauge gradations.

4

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

5

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

6

Put the tire valve cap back 
on.

■

Tire inflation pressure check 

interval

You should check tire inflation pres-

sure every two weeks, or at least 

once a month. Do not forget to 

check the spare.

■

Effects of incorrect tire inflation 

pressure

Driving with incorrect tire inflation 

pressure may result in the following:

●

Reduced fuel economy

●

Reduced driving comfort and poor 

handling

●

Reduced tire life due to wear

●

Reduced safety

●

Damage to the drive train

If a tire needs frequent inflating, 

have it checked by your Toyota 

dealer.

■

Instructions for checking tire 

inflation pressure

When checking tire inflation pres-

Tire inflation pressure

Checking the specified 
tire inflation pressure

Inspection and adjust-
ment procedure

432

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

sure, observe the following:

●

Check only when the tires are 

cold.

If your vehicle has been parked for 

at least 3 hours or has not been 

driven for more than 1 mile or 1.5 

km, you will get an accurate cold 

tire inflation pressure reading.

●

Always use a tire pressure gauge.

It is difficult to judge if a tire is 

properly inflated based only on its 

appearance.

●

It is normal for the tire inflation 

pressure to be higher after driving 

as heat is generated in the tire. Do 

not reduce tire inflation pressure 

after driving.

●

Never exceed the vehicle capacity 

weight.

Passengers and luggage weight 

should be placed so that the vehi-

cle is balanced.

WARNING

■

Proper inflation is critical to 

save tire performance

Keep your tires properly inflated.

If the tires are not properly 

inflated, the following conditions 

may occur which could lead to an 

accident resulting in death or seri-

ous injury:

●

Excessive wear

●

Uneven wear

●

Poor handling

●

Possibility of blowouts resulting 

from overheated tires

●

Air leaking from between tire 

and wheel

●

Wheel deformation and/or tire 

damage

●

Greater possibility of tire dam-

age while driving (due to road 

hazards, expansion joints, 

sharp edges in the road, etc.)

NOTICE

■

When inspecting and adjust-

ing tire inflation pressure

Be sure to put the tire valve caps 

back on.

If a valve cap is not installed, dirt 

or moisture may get into the valve 

and cause an air leak, resulting in 

decreased tire inflation pressure.

433

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

When replacing wheels, care 
should be taken to ensure that 
they are equivalent to those 
removed in load capacity, diam-
eter, rim width and inset

*

.

Replacement wheels are avail-
able at your Toyota dealer.

*

: Conventionally referred to as off-

set.

Toyota does not recommend 
using the following:



Wheels of different sizes or 
types



Used wheels



Bent wheels that have been 
straightened

■

When replacing wheels

The wheels of your vehicle are 

equipped with tire pressure warning 

valves and transmitters that allow 

the tire pressure warning system to 

provide advance warning in the 

event of a loss in tire inflation pres-

sure. Whenever wheels are 

replaced, tire pressure warning 

valves and transmitters must be 

installed. (



P.424)

Wheels

If a wheel is bent, cracked or 
heavily corroded, it should 
be replaced. Otherwise, the 
tire may separate from the 
wheel or cause a loss of 
handling control.

Wheel selection

WARNING

■

When replacing wheels

●

Do not use wheels that are a dif-

ferent size from those recom-

mended in the Owner’s Manual, 

as this may result in a loss of 

handling control.

●

Never use an inner tube in a 

leaking wheel which is designed 

for a tubeless tire.

Doing so may result in an acci-

dent, causing death or serious 

injury.

■

When installing the wheel 

nuts

Never use oil or grease on the 

wheel bolts or wheel nuts.

Oil and grease may cause the 

wheel nuts to be excessively tight-

ened, leading to bolt or disc wheel 

damage. In addition, the oil or 

grease can cause the wheel nuts 

to loosen and the wheel may fall 

off, causing an accident and 

resulting in death or serious injury. 

Remove any oil or grease from 

the wheel bolts or wheel nuts.

■

Use of defective wheels pro-

hibited

Do not use cracked or deformed 

wheels. Doing so could cause the 

tire to leak air during driving, pos-

sibly causing an accident.

NOTICE

■

Replacing tire pressure warn-

ing valves and transmitters

●

Because tire repair or replace-

ment may affect the tire pres-

sure warning valves and 

transmitters, make sure to have 

tires serviced by your Toyota 

dealer or other qualified service 

shop. In addition, make sure to 

purchase your tire pressure 

warning valves and transmit-

ters at your Toyota dealer.

434

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U



Use only Toyota wheel nuts 
and wrenches designed for 
use with your aluminum 
wheels.



When rotating, repairing or 
changing your tires, check 
that the wheel nuts are still 
tight after driving 1000 miles 
(1600 km).



Be careful not to damage the 
aluminum wheels when using 
tire chains.



Use only Toyota genuine bal-
ance weights or equivalent 
and a plastic or rubber ham-
mer when balancing your 
wheels.

1

Turn the engine switch off.

2

Open the glove box. Slide off 
the damper.

3

Push in the glove box on the 
vehicle’s outer side to discon-
nect the claws. Then pull out 
the glove box and disconnect 
the lower claws.

4

Unlock the filter cover ( ), 
pull the filter cover out of the 

NOTICE

●

Ensure that only genuine Toyota 

wheels are used on your vehi-

cle.

Tire pressure warning valves 

and transmitters may not work 

properly with non-genuine 

wheels.

Aluminum wheel precau-
tions

Air conditioning filter

The air conditioning filter 
must be changed regularly 
to maintain air conditioning 
efficiency.

Removing the air condi-
tioning filter

435

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

claws ( ), and remove the 
filter cover.

5

Remove the filter case.

6

Remove the air conditioning 
filter from the filter case and 
replace it with a new one.

The “

UP” marks shown on the 

filter and the filter case should be 

pointing up.

■

Checking interval

Inspect and replace the air condi-

tioning filter according to the mainte-

nance schedule. In dusty areas or 

areas with heavy traffic flow, early 

replacement may be required. (For 

scheduled maintenance information, 

please refer to the “Owner’s Manual 

Supplement” or “Scheduled Mainte-

nance Guide”.)

■

If air flow from the vents 

decreases dramatically

The filter may be clogged. Check 

the filter and replace if necessary.

NOTICE

■

When using the air condition-

ing system

Make sure that a filter is always 

installed.

Using the air conditioning system 

without a filter may cause damage 

to the system.

436

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

■

If the electronic key battery is 

depleted

The following symptoms may occur:

●

The smart key system and wire-

less remote control will not func-

tion properly.

●

The operational range will be 

reduced.



Flathead screwdriver



Small flathead screwdriver



Lithium battery CR2032

■

Use a CR2032 lithium battery

●

Batteries can be purchased at 

your Toyota dealer, local electrical 

appliance shops or camera stores.

●

Replace only with the same or 

equivalent type recommended by 

the manufacturer.

●

Dispose of used batteries accord-

ing to the local laws.

1

Release the lock and remove 
the mechanical key.

2

Remove the key cover.

To prevent damage to the key, 

cover the tip of the flathead screw-

driver with a rag.

3

Remove the depleted battery.

When removing the cover, the elec-

tronic key module may stick to the 

cover and the battery may not be 

visible. In this case, remove the 

electronic key module in order to 

remove the battery.
When removing the battery, use a 

screwdriver of an appropriate size. 

Insert a new battery with the “+” ter-

Electronic key battery

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

You will need the follow-
ing items:

Replacing the battery

437

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

minal facing up.

WARNING

■

Battery precautions

Observe the following precau-

tions. Failure to do so may result 

in death or serious injury.

●

Do not swallow the battery. 

Doing so may cause chemical 

burns.

●

A coin battery or button battery 

is used in the electronic key. If a 

battery is swallowed, it may 

cause severe chemical burns in 

as little as 2 hours and may 

result in death or serious injury.

●

Keep away new and removed 

batteries from children.

●

If the cover cannot be firmly 

closed, stop using the electronic 

key and stow the key in the 

place where children cannot 

reach, and then contact your 

Toyota dealer.

●

If you accidentally swallow a 

battery or put a battery into a 

part of your body, get emer-

gency medical attention imme-

diately.

■

To prevent battery explosion 

or leakage of flammable liq-

uid or gas

●

Replace the battery with a new 

battery of the same type. If a 

wrong type of battery is used, it 

may explode.

●

Do not expose batteries to 

extremely low pressure due to 

high altitude or extremely high 

temperatures.

●

Do not burn, break or cut a bat-

tery.

NOTICE

■

For normal operation after 

replacing the battery

Observe the following precautions 

to prevent accidents:

●

Always work with dry hands.

Moisture may cause the battery 

to rust.

●

Do not touch or move any other 

component inside the remote 

control.

●

Do not bend either of the battery 

terminals.

438

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

1

Turn the engine switch off.

2

Open the fuse box cover.



Engine compartment: type A 
fuse box (if equipped)

Push the tab in and lift the lid off.



Engine compartment: type B 
fuse box

Push the tab in and lift the lid off.



Under the driver’s side instru-
ment panel

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

3

Remove the fuse.

Only type A fuse can be removed 

using the pullout tool.

4

Check if the fuse is blown.

Replace the blown fuse with a new 

fuse of an appropriate amperage 

rating. The amperage rating can be 

found on the fuse box lid.



Type A

Checking and replac-

ing fuses

If any of the electrical com-
ponents do not operate, a 
fuse may have blown. If this 
happens, check and replace 
the fuses as necessary.

Checking and replacing 
fuses

439

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

Normal fuse
Blown fuse



Type B

Normal fuse
Blown fuse



Type C

Normal fuse
Blown fuse

■

After a fuse is replaced

●

If the lights do not turn on even 

after the fuse has been replaced, 

a bulb may need replacement. 

(



P.441)

●

If the replaced fuse blows again, 

have the vehicle inspected by 

your Toyota dealer.

■

If there is an overload in a cir-

cuit

The fuses are designed to blow, pro-

tecting the wiring harness from 

damage.

■

When replacing light bulbs

Toyota recommends that you use 

genuine Toyota products designed 

for this vehicle. Because certain 

bulbs are connected to circuits 

designed to prevent overload, 

non-genuine parts or parts not 

designed for this vehicle may be 

unusable.

WARNING

■

To prevent system break-

downs and vehicle fire

Observe the following precau-

tions.

Failure to do so may cause dam-

age to the vehicle, and possibly a 

fire or injury.

●

Never use a fuse of a higher 

amperage rating than that indi-

cated, or use any other object in 

place of a fuse.

●

Always use a genuine Toyota 

fuse or equivalent.

Never replace a fuse with a 

wire, even as a temporary fix.

●

Do not modify the fuses or fuse 

boxes.

NOTICE

■

Before replacing fuses

Have the cause of electrical over-

load determined and repaired by 

your Toyota dealer as soon as 

possible.

440

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

Adjustment bolt A
Adjustment bolt B



Make sure the vehicle has a 
full tank of gasoline and the 
area around the headlight is 
not deformed.



Park the vehicle on level 
ground.



Make sure the tire inflation 
pressure is at the specified 
level.



Have someone sit in the 
driver’s seat.



Bounce the vehicle several 
times.

1

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

Remember the turning direction 

and the number of turns.

2

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

1

.

If the headlight cannot be adjusted 

using this procedure, take the vehi-

cle to your Toyota dealer to adjust 

the headlight aim.

Headlight aim

Vertical movement adjust-
ing bolts

Before checking the head-
light aim

Adjusting the headlight 
aim

441

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

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



P.507)



P.526



Front (type A)

Front turn signal lights/park-

ing lights
Front side marker lights



Front (type B)

Front turn signal lights
Front side marker lights



Front (type C)

Front turn signal lights/park-
ing lights
Front side marker lights



Rear

Rear turn signal lights

Light bulbs

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

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

Preparing for light bulb 
replacement

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

Bulb locations

442

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

Back-up lights
License plate lights

■

Lights that need to be 
replaced by your Toyota 
dealer



Headlight low beams



Headlight high beams



Daytime running lights (types 
A and C)



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



Front fog lights (if equipped)



Side turn signal lights



Tail lights/stop lights



Rear side marker lights



Tail lights



High mounted stoplight



Outer foot lights (if equipped)

■

LED lights

The lights other than the following 

lights each consist of a number of 

LEDs. If any of the LEDs burn out, 

take your vehicle to your Toyota 

dealer to have the light replaced.

●

Front turn signal lights/parking 

lights (types A and C)

●

Front turn signal lights (type B)

●

Front side marker lights

●

Rear turn signal lights

●

Back-up lights

●

License plate lights

■

Condensation build-up on the 

inside of the lens

Temporary condensation build-up 

on the inside of the light lens does 

not indicate a malfunction. Contact 

your Toyota dealer for more informa-

tion in the following situations:

●

Large drops of water have built up 

on the inside of the lens.

●

Water has built up inside the light.

■

When replacing light bulbs



P.439

■

Front turn signal 
lights/parking lights (types 
A and C) and front turn sig-
nal lights (type B)

1

Turn the bulb base counter-
clockwise and remove it.

2

Remove the light bulb.

3

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

After installing the bulb base, wig-

gle it lightly to make sure it is 

Replacing light bulbs

443

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

securely installed and turn the lights 

and turn signal lights on to visually 

check that there is no light leaking 

from between the bulb base and 

light unit.

■

Front side marker lights

1

Turn the bulb base counter-
clockwise and remove it.

2

Remove the light bulb.

3

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

After installing the bulb base, wig-

gle it lightly to make sure it is 

securely installed and turn the lights 

on to visually check that there is no 

light leaking from between the bulb 

base and light unit.

■

Rear turn signal lights

1

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

To prevent damage to the vehicle, 

wrap the tip of the flathead screw-

driver with tape, etc.

2

Remove the securing 2 
screws and light unit.

Remove the light unit by pulling it 

straight back from the rear of the 

444

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

vehicle.

3

Disconnect the wire harness.

4

Turn the bulb base counter-
clockwise and remove it.

5

Remove the light bulb.

6

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

After installing the bulb base, wig-

gle it lightly to make sure it is 

securely installed and turn on the 

turn signal lights to visually check 

that there is no light leaking from 

between the bulb base and light 

unit.

7

Install the light unit.

Align the 2 guides and push the 

light unit toward the front of the 

vehicle to install it.

445

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

8

Install the 2 screws.

9

Install the cover.

■

Back-up lights

1

Open the back door and 
remove the cover.

Using a flathead screwdriver, 

remove the cover.
To prevent damage to the vehicle, 

wrap the tip of the flathead screw-

driver with tape, etc.

2

Turn the bulb base counter-
clockwise and remove it.

3

Remove the light bulb.

4

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

After installing the bulb base, wig-

gle it lightly to make sure it is 

securely installed and turn on the 

back-up lights to visually check that 

there is no light leaking from 

between the bulb base and light 

unit.

5

Install the cover.

446

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

Align the tabs of the cover with the 

grooves and install the cover.

■

License plate lights

1

Remove the cover.

Using a flathead screwdriver, 

remove the cover.
To prevent damage to the vehicle, 

wrap the tip of the flathead screw-

driver with tape, etc.

2

Remove the lens.

Lens
Hook

1

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

2

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

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

447

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

6

Maintena

nce
 a

nd ca

re

HIGHLANDER_U

3

Remove the light bulb.

4

Install a new light bulb.

5

Install the lens.

Hooks

1

Fit the lens into either the 

right or left hooks.

2

Push the lens into place.

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

6

Install the cover.

WARNING

■

To prevent injury

Before performing any light bulb 

replacement procedure, be sure 

to turn the engine switch off. Fail-

ure to do so may result in burns 

from hot components or a part of 

your body may get caught on an 

operating component, possibly 

causing serious injury.

■

Replacing light bulbs

●

Turn off the lights. Do not 

attempt to replace the bulb 

immediately after turning off the 

lights.The bulbs become very 

hot and may cause burns.

448

6-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance

HIGHLANDER_U

WARNING

●

Do not touch the glass portion 

of the light bulb with bare 

hands. When it is unavoidable 

to hold the glass portion, use 

and hold with a clean dry cloth 

to avoid getting moisture and 

oils on the bulb. Also, if the bulb 

is scratched or dropped, it may 

blow out or crack.

●

Fully install light bulbs and any 

parts used to secure them. Fail-

ure to do so may result in heat 

damage, fire, or water entering 

the light unit. This may damage 

the lights or cause condensa-

tion to build up on the lens.

●

Do not attempt to repair or dis-

assemble light bulbs, connec-

tors, electric circuits or 

component parts.

Doing so may result in death or 

serious injury due to electric 

shock.

■

To prevent damage or fire

●

Make sure bulbs are fully 

seated and locked.

●

Check the wattage of the bulb 

before installing to prevent heat 

damage.

449

7

7

Whe

n tr

ouble

 ar

ises

HIGHLANDER_U

When trouble arises

.

7-1. Essential information

Emergency flashers ....

450

If your vehicle has to be 

stopped in an emergency

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

450

If the vehicle is trapped in 

rising water................

451

7-2. Steps to take in an emer-

gency

If your vehicle needs to be 

towed.........................

453

If you think something is 

wrong ........................

456

Fuel pump shut off system

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

457

If a warning light turns on or 

a warning buzzer sounds

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

458

If a warning message is dis-

played........................

468

If you have a flat tire....

472

If the engine will not start

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

486

If you lose your keys ...

487

If the fuel filler door cannot 

be opened .................

488

If the electronic key does 

not operate properly ..

489

If the vehicle battery is dis-

charged .....................

491

If your vehicle overheats

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

495

If the vehicle becomes stuck

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

497

450

7-1. Essential information

HIGHLANDER_U

7-1.Essential information

Press the switch.

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

■

Emergency flashers

●

If the emergency flashers are 

used for a long time while the 

engine is not operating, the bat-

tery may discharge.

●

If any of the SRS airbags deploy 

(inflate) or in the event of a strong 

rear impact, the emergency flash-

ers will turn on automatically. 

The emergency flashers will turn 

off automatically after operating 

for approximately 20 minutes. To 

manually turn the emergency 

flashers off, press the switch 

twice. 

(The emergency flashers may not 

turn on automatically depending 

on the force of the impact and 

conditions of the collision.)

1

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

Do not pump the brake pedal 

repeatedly as this will increase the 

effort required to slow the vehicle.

2

Shift the shift lever to N.



If the shift lever is shifted to N

3

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

4

Stop the engine.



If the shift lever cannot be 
shifted to N

3

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

4

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

Emergency flashers

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

Operating instructions

If your vehicle has to 

be stopped in an emer-

gency

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

Stopping the vehicle

451

7-1. Essential information

7

W

he

n 

tro

ub

le

 ar

is

es

HIGHLANDER_U

more, or press it briefly 3 
times or more in succession.

5

Stop the vehicle in a safe 
place by the road.



Remove the seat belt first.



If the door can be opened, 
open the door and exit the 
vehicle.



If the door can not be opened, 
open the window using the 
power window switch and exit 
the vehicle through the win-
dow.



If the window can not be 
opened using the power win-
dow switch, remain calm, wait 
until the water level inside the 
vehicle rises to the point that 
the water pressure inside of 
the vehicle equals the water 
pressure outside of the vehi-
cle, and then open the door 
and exit the vehicle.

WARNING

■

If the engine has to be turned 

off while driving

Power assist for the brakes and 

steering wheel will be lost, making 

the brake pedal harder to depress 

and the steering wheel heavier to 

turn. Decelerate as much as pos-

sible before turning off the engine.

If the vehicle is 

trapped in rising water

In the event the vehicle is 
submerged in water, remain 
calm and perform the fol-
lowing.

452

7-1. Essential information

HIGHLANDER_U

■

How to distinguish laminated 

glass

When looking from the cross-sec-

tional view point, laminated glass is 

two sheets of glass pasted together.

Laminated glass
Tempered glass

WARNING

■

Using an emergency ham-
mer

*1

 for emergency escape

The rear side windows and rear 

window of this vehicle can be 

shattered by an emergency ham-
mer

*1

 used for emergency 

escape, however, since the wind-
shield and front side windows

*2

 

are laminated glass they can not 

be shattered by an emergency 
hammer

*1

.

*1

:Contact your Toyota dealer or 

aftermarket accessory manu-
facturer for further information 
about an emergency hammer.

*2

:Vehicles with laminated glass

■

Escaping the vehicle from the 

window

There are cases where escaping 

the vehicle from the window is not 

possible due to seating position, 

passenger body type, etc.

When using an emergency ham-

mer, consider your seat location 

and the size of the window open-

ing to ensure that the opening is 

accessible and large enough to 

escape.

453

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

7

W

he

n 

tro

ub

le

 ar

is

es

HIGHLANDER_U

7-2.Steps to take in an emergency

If your vehicle needs 

to be towed

If towing is necessary, we 
recommend having your 
vehicle towed by your Toy-
ota dealer or commercial 
towing service, using a 
wheel-lift type truck or flat-
bed truck.

Use a safety chain system 
for all towing, and abide by 
all state/provincial and local 
laws.

If towing your vehicle with a 
wheel-lift type truck from 
the front, the vehicle’s rear 
wheels and axles must be in 
good conditions. (



P.455)

If they are damaged, use a 
towing dolly or flatbed 
truck.

WARNING

Observe the following precau-

tions.

Failure to do so may result in 

death or serious injury.

■

When towing the vehicle



2WD models

Be sure to transport the vehicle 

with the front wheels raised or 

with all four wheels raised off the 

ground. If the vehicle is towed 

with the front wheels contacting 

the ground, the drivetrain and 

related parts may be damaged.



AWD models

Be sure to transport the vehicle 

with all four wheels raised off the 

ground. If the vehicle is towed 

with the tires contacting the 

ground, the drivetrain or related 

parts may be damaged, the vehi-

cle may fly off the truck.

454

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

HIGHLANDER_U

The following may indicate a 
problem with your transmission. 
Contact your Toyota dealer or 
commercial towing service 
before towing.



The engine is running but the 
vehicle does not move.



The vehicle makes an abnor-
mal sound.

WARNING

■

While towing

●

When towing using cables or 

chains, avoid sudden starts, etc. 

which place excessive stress on 

the towing eyelets, cables or 

chains. The towing eyelets, 

cables or chains may become 

damaged, broken debris may hit 

people, and cause serious dam-

age.

●

Do not turn the engine switch 

off.

There is a possibility that the 

steering wheel is locked and 

cannot be operated.

NOTICE

■

To prevent damage to the 

vehicle when towing using a 

wheel-lift type truck

●

Do not tow the vehicle from the 

rear when the engine switch is 

off. The steering lock mecha-

nism is not strong enough to 

hold the front wheels straight.

●

When raising the vehicle, 

ensure adequate ground clear-

ance for towing at the opposite 

end of the raised vehicle. With-

out adequate clearance, the 

vehicle could be damaged while 

being towed.

■

To prevent damage to the 

vehicle when towing with a 

sling-type truck

Do not tow with a sling-type truck, 

either from the front or rear.

■

To prevent damage to the 

vehicle during emergency 

towing

Do not secure cables or chains to 

the suspension components.

■

When towing a vehicle 

equipped with a Stop & Start 

system (if equipped)

If it is necessary to tow the vehicle 

with all 4 wheels on the ground, 

perform the following procedure 

before towing the vehicle, in order 

to protect the system.

Turn the engine switch off and 

then start the engine or turn the 

engine switch to ON.

■

Recreational towing (behind 

motor home, etc.)

Never dinghy tow your vehicle to 

prevent causing serious damage 

to the Dynamic Torque Control 

AWD system (AWD models) or 

Dynamic Torque Vectoring AWD 

system (AWD models) and trans-

mission. (



P.201)   

Situations when it is nec-
essary to contact dealers 
before towing

455

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

7

W

he

n 

tro

ub

le

 ar

is

es

HIGHLANDER_U



From the front (2WD models)

Release the parking brake.

Turn automatic mode off. (



P.212)



From the front (AWD models)

Use a towing dolly under the 
rear wheels.



From the rear

Use a towing dolly under the 
front wheels.

When using a flat-bed truck to 
transport the vehicle, use tire 
strapping belts. Refer to the 
owner's manual of the flat-bed 
truck for the tire strapping 
method.
In order to suppress vehicle 
movement during transporta-
tion, set the parking brake and 
turn the engine switch off.

A driver must be in the vehicle to 
steer and operate the brakes. 
The vehicle’s wheels, drive train, 
axles, steering and brakes must 

Towing with a wheel-lift 
type truck

NOTICE

■

Towing with a sling-type truck

Do not tow with a sling-type truck 

to prevent body damage.



2WD models



AWD models

Using a flatbed truck

Emergency towing

456

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

HIGHLANDER_U

be in good condition.



Fluid leaks under the vehicle
(Water dripping from the air 
conditioning after use is nor-
mal.)



Flat-looking tires or uneven 
tire wear



Engine coolant temperature 
gauge needle continually 
points higher than normal



Changes in exhaust sound



Excessive tire squeal when 
cornering



Strange noises related to the 
suspension system



Pinging or other noises 
related to the engine



Engine missing, stumbling or 
running roughly



Appreciable loss of power



Vehicle pulls heavily to one 

If you think something 

is wrong

If you notice any of the fol-
lowing symptoms, your 
vehicle probably needs 
adjustment or repair. Con-
tact your Toyota dealer as 
soon as possible.

Visible symptoms

Audible symptoms

Operational symptoms

457

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

7

W

he

n 

tro

ub

le

 ar

is

es

HIGHLANDER_U

side when braking



Vehicle pulls heavily to one 
side when driving on a level 
road



Loss of brake effectiveness, 
spongy feeling, pedal almost 
touches the floor

Follow the procedure below to 
restart the engine after the sys-
tem is activated.

1

Turn the engine switch to 
ACC or turn it OFF.

2

Restart the engine.

Fuel pump shut off 

system

To minimize the risk of fuel 
leakage when the engine 
stalls or when an airbag 
inflates upon collision, the 
fuel pump shut off system 
stops the supply of fuel to 
the engine.

Restarting the engine

NOTICE

■

Before starting the engine

Inspect the ground under the 

vehicle.

If you find that fuel has leaked 

onto the ground, the fuel system 

has been damaged and is in need 

of repair. Do not restart the 

engine.

458

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

HIGHLANDER_U

■

Brake system warning light

■

Brake system warning light

■

High coolant temperature warning light

*

 (warning buzzer)

*

: This light illuminates on the multi-information display.

If a warning light turns on or a warning buzzer 

sounds

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

Actions to the warning lights or warning buzzers

Warning light

Details/Actions

(U.S.A.)

or

(red)

(Canada)

Indicates that:



The brake fluid level is low; or



The brake system is malfunctioning



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

Warning light

Details/Actions

(yellow)

Indicates a malfunction in the electric parking brake



Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer 
immediately.

Warning light

Details/Actions

Indicates that the engine coolant temperature is too high



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



P.495)

459

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

7

Whe

n tr

ouble

 ar

ises

HIGHLANDER_U

■

Charging system warning light

■

Low engine oil pressure warning light

*

 (warning buzzer)

*

: This light illuminates on the multi-information display.

■

Malfunction indicator lamp

■

SRS warning light

Warning light

Details/Actions

Indicates a malfunction in the vehicle’s charging system



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

Warning light

Details/Actions

Indicates that the engine oil pressure is too low



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

Warning light

Details/Actions

(U.S.A.)

or

(Canada)

Indicates a malfunction in:



The electronic engine control system;



The electronic throttle control system; or



The electronic automatic transmission control system



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

Warning light

Details/Actions

Indicates a malfunction in:



The SRS airbag system;



The front passenger occupant classification system; or



The seat belt pretensioner system



Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer 
immediately.

460

7-2. Steps to take in an emergency

HIGHLANDER_U

■

ABS warning light

■

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

*

 (warning buzzer)

*

: This light illuminates on the multi-information display.

■

Electric power steering system warning light (warning 
buzzer)

Warning light

Details/Actions

(U.S.A.)

or

(Canada)

Indicates a malfunction in:



The ABS; or



The brake assist system



Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer 
immediately.

Warning light

Details/Actions

When a buzzer sounds:



Brake Override System is malfunctioning;



Drive-Start Control is operating;



Drive-Start Control is malfunctioning; or



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



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

When a buzzer does not sound:
Brake Override System is operating



Release the accelerator pedal and depress the brake 
pedal.

Warning light

Details/Actions

(red/yellow)

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



Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer 
immediately.