Toyota Highlander Hybrid (2021 year). Manual in english - part 2

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off after the hybrid system is on, 
or after a few seconds. There 
may be a malfunction in a sys-
tem if a light does not come on, 
or turn off. Have the vehicle 
inspected by your Toyota dealer.

*5

:In order to confirm operation, the 

BSM outside rear view mirror 
indicators illuminate in the follow-
ing situations:



When the BSM function is 
enabled on 

 of the 

multi-information display, the 
power switch is turned to ON.



When the power switch is in 
ON, the BSM function is 
enabled on 

 of the 

multi-information display.

If the system is functioning cor-
rectly, the BSM outside rear 
view mirror indicators will turn 
off after a few seconds. If the 
BSM outside rear view mirror 
indicators do not illuminate or do 
not turn off, there may be a mal-
function in the system. If this 
occurs, have the vehicle 
inspected by your Toyota dealer.

*6

:This light illuminates on the out-

side rear view mirrors.

*7

:When the outside temperature is 

approximately 37°F (3°C) or 
lower, this indicator will flash for 
approximately 10 seconds, then 
stay on.

*8

:This light illuminates on the cen-

ter panel.

*9

:7-inch display only

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■

Locations of gauges and meters



4.2-inch display



7-inch display

The units used on the meters may differ depending on the target region.

Hybrid System Indicator

Displays hybrid system output or regeneration level (



P.90)

Multi-information display

Presents the driver with a variety of vehicle data (



P.92, 101)

Displays warning messages in case of a malfunction (



P.476)

Gauges and meters

Meter display

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Clock (



P.92)

Speedometer
Fuel gauge

Displays the quantity of fuel remaining in the tank

Odometer and trip meter display (



P.91)

Shift position display (



P.220)

Outside temperature

Displays the outside temperature within the range of -40°F (-40°C) to 122°F 
(50°C). Low outside temperature indicator comes on when the ambient 
temperature is 37°F (3°C) or lower.

Engine coolant temperature gauge

Displays the engine coolant temperature

■

The meters and display illumi-

nate when

The power switch is in ON.

■

Hybrid System Indicator

READY OFF area

Shows that the hybrid system is not 
operating.

Charge area

Shows regeneration

*

 status.

Regenerated energy will be used to 
charge the hybrid battery (traction 
battery).

Hybrid Eco area

Shows that gasoline engine power 
is not being used very often.

The gasoline engine will automati-
cally stop and restart under various 
conditions.

Eco area

Shows that the vehicle is being 
driven in an Eco-friendly manner.
By keeping the indicator needle 
within the Eco area, more 
Eco-friendly driving can be 
achieved.

Power area

Shows that an Eco-friendly driving 
range is being exceeded (during full 
power driving etc.)

*

: When used in this manual, regen-

eration refers to the conversion of 
energy created by the movement 
of the vehicle into electrical 
energy.

■

Outside temperature display

●

In the following situations, the cor-

rect outside temperature may not 

be displayed, or the display may 

take longer than normal to 

change:

• When stopped, or driving at low 

speeds (less than 12 mph [20 

km/h])

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• When the outside temperature 

has changed suddenly (at the 

entrance/exit of a garage, tunnel, 

etc.)

●

When “--” or “E” is displayed, the 

system may be malfunctioning. 

Take your vehicle to your Toyota 

dealer.

■

Liquid crystal display

Small spots or light spots may 

appear on the display. This phenom-

enon is characteristic of liquid crys-

tal displays, and there is no problem 

continuing to use the display.

■

Customization

The meters can be customized on 

 of the multi-information display. 

(



P.99, 109)

■

Display items



Odometer

Displays the total distance the vehi-
cle has been driven.



Trip meter A/trip meter B

Displays the distance the vehicle 
has been driven since the meter 
was last reset. Trip meters A and B 
can be used to record and display 
different distances independently.

■

Changing the display

Each time the “ODO TRIP” 
switch is pressed, the displayed 
item will be changed. When the 
trip meter is displayed, pressing 
and holding the switch will reset 
the trip meter.

WARNING

■

The information display at 

low temperatures

Allow the interior of the vehicle to 

warm up before using the liquid 

crystal information display. At 

extremely low temperatures, the 

information display monitor may 

respond slowly, and display 

changes may be delayed.

For example, there is a lag 

between the driver’s shifting and 

the new gear number appearing 

on the display. This lag could 

cause the driver to downshift 

again, causing rapid and exces-

sive engine braking and possibly 

an accident resulting in death or 

injury.

NOTICE

■

To prevent damage to the 

engine and its components

●

Do not let the indicator needle 

of the tachometer enter the red 

zone, which indicates the maxi-

mum engine speed.

●

The engine may be overheating 

if the engine coolant tempera-

ture gauge is in the red zone 

(H). In this case, immediately 

stop the vehicle in a safe place, 

and check the engine after it 

has cooled completely. 

(



P.504)

Odometer and trip meter 
display

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The brightness of the instrument 
panel lights can be adjusted.

This image is for example only, and 
may differ from the actual vehicle.

1

Darker

2

Brighter

■

Brightness of the meters (day 

mode and night mode)

The brightness of the meters is 

changed between day mode and 

night mode.

●

Day mode: When the surrounding 

area is bright

●

Night mode: When the surround-

ing area is dark

The clocks can be adjusted on 
the audio system screen.
Refer to “NAVIGATION AND 
MULTIMEDIA SYSTEM 
OWNER’S MANUAL”.

■

Display

The multi-information display 
presents the driver with a variety 
of driving-related information.
Warning or suggestion/advice 
pop-up displays are also dis-
played in certain situations.

■

Menu icons

Select a menu icon to display its 
content.

Changing the instrument 
panel light brightness

Adjusting the clock

Multi-information dis-

play (4.2-inch display)

Display and menu icons

Driving information display 
(



P.93)

Driving support system 
information display 
(



P.96)

Audio system-linked dis-
play (



P.96)

Vehicle information dis-
play (



P.96)

Settings display (



P.97)

Warning message display 
(



P.101)

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■

Liquid crystal display

Small spots or light spots may 

appear on the display. This phenom-

enon is characteristic of liquid crys-

tal displays, and there is no problem 

continuing to use the display.

The multi-information display is 
operated using the meter control 
switches.

Scroll screens

*

, change the 

displayed content

*

 and move 

the cursor
Press: Enter/Set

Press and hold: Reset/Dis-
play customizable items
Return to the previous screen
Call sending/receiving and 
history display

Linked with the hands-free system, 
sending or receiving call is dis-
played. For details regarding the 
hands-free system, refer to the 
“NAVIGATION AND MULTIMEDIA 
SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL”.

*

: On screens where the screen can 

be scrolled and the display can 
be switched, a scroll bar or a 
round icon that shows the num-
ber of registered screens is dis-
played.

■

Speedometer display/Driv-
ing range

Speedometer display

Displays the vehicle speed.

Driving range

Displays driving range with remain-
ing fuel. Use the displayed values 
as a reference only.
This distance is computed based 
on your average fuel consumption. 

WARNING

■

Caution for use while driving

●

When operating the multi-infor-

mation display while driving, 

pay extra attention to the safety 

of the area around the vehicle.

●

Do not look continuously at the 

multi-information display while 

driving as you may fail to see 

pedestrians, objects on the 

road, etc. ahead of the vehicle.

■

The information display at 

low temperatures



P.91

Changing the meter dis-
play

Driving information dis-
play (

)

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As a result, the actual distance that 
can be driven may differ from that 
displayed.
When only a small amount of fuel is 
added to the tank, the display may 
not be updated.
When refueling, turn the power 
switch off. If the vehicle is refueled 
without turning the power switch off, 
the display may not be updated.
When “Refuel” is displayed, the 
remaining fuel amount is low and 
the distance that can be driven with 
the remaining fuel cannot be calcu-
lated.
Refuel immediately.

■

Fuel economy

Use the displayed values as a ref-
erence only.

Driving range

Displays driving range with remain-
ing fuel.
This distance is computed based 
on your average fuel consumption. 
As a result, the actual distance that 
can be driven may differ from that 
displayed.
When only a small amount of fuel is 
added to the tank, the display may 
not be updated.
When refueling, turn the power 
switch off. If the vehicle is refueled 
without turning the power switch off, 

the display may not be updated.
When “Refuel” is displayed, the 
remaining fuel amount is low and 
the distance that can be driven with 
the remaining fuel cannot be calcu-
lated.
Refuel immediately.

Current fuel economy

Displays the instantaneous current 
fuel Economy.

Average fuel economy

Displays the average fuel economy 
since the function was reset or the 
average fuel economy after starting 
or refueling.

*1, 2, 3

The average fuel economy dis-
play can be changed in 

. 

(



P.97)

*1

:Use the displayed fuel consump-

tion as a reference only.

*2

:Average fuel economy since the 

function was reset can be reset 
by pressing and holding 

.

*3

:Average fuel economy after 

starting is reset each time the 
engine stops.

■

ECO Accelerator Guid-
ance/Eco score

Displays a reference operation 
range for using the accelerator 
pedal according to driving condi-
tions, and a score result that 
evaluates the current driving 
status.

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ECO Accelerator Guidance
Eco score



ECO Accelerator Guidance

Eco area

Indicates that the vehicle is being 
driven in an Eco-friendly manner.

Power area

Indicates that the Eco-friendly driv-
ing range is being exceeded 
(during full power driving, etc.)

Current accelerator pedal 
operation

Displayed as a green bar when 
within the Eco area.
Eco-friendly acceleration can be 
achieved by keeping the accelera-
tor pedal operation display within 
the range indicated by the blue bar. 
(



P.191)

Zone of Eco acceleration

Displayed as a blue bar, and rep-
resents an estimated suitable 

accelerator pedal operation range 
for the current driving conditions, 
such as starting off or cruising.
This display changes according to 
situation, such as when starting off 
or cruising.



Eco score

The following 3 Eco driving meth-
ods are evaluated in 5 levels: 
Smooth start-off acceleration, driv-
ing without sudden acceleration, 
and smooth stopping. When the 
vehicle is stopped, an Eco score 
out of 100 points will be displayed.

Score result
Eco start status
Eco cruise status
Eco stop status

How to read the bar display

Not yet evaluated
Low

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High

• After the hybrid system is started, 

the Eco score will not be dis-
played until the vehicle speed 
exceeds approximately 12 mph 
(20 km/h).

• The Eco score will be reset each 

time the hybrid system is started.

• When the hybrid system is 

stopped, the total score of the 
current trip will be displayed.

■

The ECO Accelerator Guid-

ance/Eco score will not operate 

when

The ECO Accelerator Guidance/Eco 

score will not operate in the follow-

ing situations:

●

The Hybrid System Indicator is not 

operating.

●

The vehicle is being driven using 

the dynamic radar cruise control 

with full-speed range.

■

Driving support system 
information

Select to display the operational 
status of the following systems:



LTA (Lane Tracing Assist) 
(



P.260)



RSA (Road Sign Assist) (if 
equipped) (



P.283)



Dynamic radar cruise control 
with full-speed range 
(



P.271)

Select to enable selection of an 
audio source or track on the 
meter using the meter control 
switches.

This menu icon can be set to be 
displayed/not displayed in 

.

■

Drive information

2 items that are selected using 
the “Drive Info Items” setting 
(average speed, distance and 
total time) can be displayed ver-
tically.
The displayed information 
changes according to the “Drive 
Info Type” setting (since the sys-
tem was started or between 
resets). (



P.97)

Use the displayed information 
as a reference only.
Following items will be dis-
played.



“Trip”

• “Average Speed”: Displays the 

average vehicle speed since 
hybrid system start

*

• “Distance”: Displays the distance 

driven since hybrid system start

*

• “Total Time”: Displays the elapsed 

time since hybrid system start

*

*

: These items are reset each time 

Driving support system 
information display (

)

Audio system-linked dis-
play (

)

Vehicle information dis-
play (

)

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the engine stops.



“Total”

• “Average Speed”: Displays the 

average vehicle speed since the 
display was reset

*

• “Distance”: Displays the distance 

driven since the display was 
reset

*

• “Total Time”: Displays the elapsed 

time since the display was reset

*

*

: To reset, display the desired item 

and press and hold 

.

■

Energy monitor



P.117

■

Tire pressure



P.426

■

AWD Control (if equipped)

Torque distribution display

Displays the drive status of each 
wheel in 6 steps from 0 to 5.

G-force display

*

Displays the size and direction of 
the G-force applied to the vehicle 
via changes to the position of the 
ball on the display.

Maximum G-force course

*

This item is linked with the G-force 
display and the course of the past 

movement of the ball is displayed. 
Press and hold 

 to reset the 

record.

Wheel spin display

When a tire is spinning, its icon on 
the display changes its color and 
blinks.

*

: This item is displayed only when 

driving mode is set to sport mode.

■

Tire pressure

• It may take a few minutes to dis-

play the tire inflation pressure 

after the power switch is turned to 

ON. It may also take a few min-

utes to display the tire inflation 

pressure after inflation pressure 

has been adjusted.

• “---” may be displayed if the tire 

position information cannot be 

determined due to unfavorable 

radio wave conditions.

• Tire inflation pressure changes 

with temperature. The displayed 

values may also be different from 

the values measured using a tire 

pressure gauge.

■

Changing settings

Use the meter control switches 
on the steering wheel to change 
settings.

1

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch to select 

.

2

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch to select the 
desired item to be custom-
ized.

3

Press or press and hold 

.

Settings display (

)

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The available settings will differ 
depending on if 

 is pressed or 

pressed and held. Follow the 

instructions on the display.

■

Setting items



 LTA (Lane Tracing Assist) 

(



P.260)

Press and hold 

 to change the 

settings of the following items:
• “Lane Center”
Select to enable/disable the lane 
centering function.
• “Sensitivity”
Select to set the warning sensitivity.
• “Sway Warning”
Select to enable/disable the vehicle 
sway warning.
• “Sway Sensitivity”
Select to set the vehicle sway warn-
ing sensitivity.



 PCS (Pre-Collision Sys-

tem) (



P.249)

Press 

 to enable/disable the 

pre-collision system.
• PCS (Pre-Collision System) 

on/off

Select to enable/disable the 
pre-collision system.

Press and hold 

 to change the 

settings of the following item:
• “Sensitivity”
Select to change the pre-collision 
warning timing.



 DRCC (Dynamic Radar 

Cruise Control with full-speed 
range) (



P.271)

Press and hold 

 to change the 

settings of the following items:
• “Curve Speed Reduction” 

(



P.278)

Select to set the curve speed 
reduction function strength.



 BSM (Blind Spot Monitor) 

(



P.286)

Press 

 to enable/disable the 

Blind Spot Monitor function.
• BSM (Blind Spot Monitor) on/off
Select to enable/disable the Blind 
Spot Monitor function.

Press and hold 

 to change the 

settings of the following items:
• “Brightness”
Select to switch the brightness of 
the outside rear view mirror indica-
tors. (



P.286)

• “Sensitivity”
Select to change the alert timing for 
an approaching vehicle.



 RCTA (Rear Cross Traffic 

Alert) (



P.300)

Press 

 to enable/disable the 

Rear Cross Traffic Alert function.
• RCTA (Rear Cross Traffic Alert) 

on/off

Select to enable/disable the Rear 
Cross Traffic Alert function.

Press and hold 

 to change the 

settings of the following item:
• “Volume”
Select to change the volume of the 
RCTA buzzer.

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

 RSA (Road Sign Assist) (if 

equipped) (



P.283)

Press 

 to enable/disable the 

Road Sign Assist.
• RSA (Road Sign Assist) on/off
Select to enable/disable the Road 
Sign Assist.

Press and hold 

 to change the 

settings of the following items:
• “Notification Method”
Select to change each notification 
method used to notify the driver 
when the system recognizes 
excess speed and no-entry sign.
• “Notification Level”
Select to change each notification 
level used to notify the driver when 
the system recognizes a speed limit 
sign.

■

 Vehicle settings

Press and hold 

 to change 

the settings of the following 
items:



 PBD (Power Back Door) 

(



P.135)

• “System Settings”
Select to enable/disable the power 
back door system.
• “Opening Adjustment”
Select the open position when 
power back door is fully open.
• “Volume”
Select to set the volume of the 
buzzer which sounds when the 
power back door system operates.



“TPWS” (Tire Pressure Warn-

ing System) (



P.426)

• “Set Pressure” (tire pressure 

warning system initialization)

Select to initialize the tire pressure 
warning system.
• “Change Wheel” (register tire 

pressure warning system sensor 
ID codes)

Select to register the ID codes of 
the tire pressure sensors to the tire 
pressure warning system.



“Rear Seat Reminder” 
(



P.133)

Select to enable/disable the rear 
seat reminder.



“Scheduled Maintenance” 
(



P.407)

Select to reset the scheduled main-
tenance information (maintenance 
required message and distance 
until maintenance necessary) after 
all maintenance is performed.

■

 Meter settings

Press and hold 

 to change 

the settings of the following 
items:



Language

Select to change the language dis-
played.



Units

Select to change the units of mea-
sure displayed.



 EV indicator (



P.218)

Select to enable/disable the EV 
indicator.



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Select to change the displayed con-
tent of the following:
• Hybrid system indicator
Select to display/not display the 
Eco Accelerator Guidance. (



P.90)

• Fuel economy display
Select to change the average fuel 
consumption display between after 
start/after reset. (



P.94)



Select to display/not display the 
audio system linked display.



Select to change the displayed con-
tent of the following:
• Display contents
Select to display/not display the 
AWD control (if equipped) and 
energy monitor. (



P.97, 117)

• Drive information type
Select to change the drive informa-
tion type display between after 
start/after reset.
• Drive information items
Select to set the first and second 
items of the drive information dis-
play to any of the following: aver-
age vehicle 
speed/distance/elapsed time.



Trip Summary

Select to turn the display of a trip 
summary display.



Pop-up display

Select to enable/disable pop-up 
displays for each relevant system.



Multi-information display off

Displays a blank screen.



Default setting

Select to reset the meter display 
settings to the default setting.

■

Vehicle functions and set-
tings that can be changed



P.530

■

Suspension of the settings dis-

play

●

Some settings cannot be changed 

while driving. When changing set-

tings, park the vehicle in a safe 

place.

●

If a warning message is displayed, 

operation of the settings display 

will be suspended.

■

Pop-up displays

Depending on the pop-up display, 

the currently displayed item in the 

message display area may be tem-

porarily not displayed. The item will 

be displayed after the pop-up dis-

play is no longer displayed.

WARNING

■

Cautions during setting up 

the display

As the hybrid system needs to be 

operating during setting up the 

display, ensure that the vehicle is 

parked in a place with adequate 

ventilation. In a closed area such 

as a garage, exhaust gases 

including harmful carbon monox-

ide (CO) may collect and enter 

the vehicle. This may lead to 

death or a serious health hazard.

NOTICE

■

During setting up the display

To prevent 12-volt battery dis-

charge, ensure that the hybrid 

system is operating while setting 

up the display features.

101

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Select to display warning mes-
sages and measures to be 
taken if a malfunction is 
detected. (



P.476)

Displays suggestions to the 
driver in the following situations. 
To select a response to a dis-
played suggestion, use the 
meter control switches.

■

Suggestion to turn off the 
headlights

If the headlights are left on for a 
certain amount of time after the 
power switch has been turned 
off, if the headlight switch is in 
the “AUTO” position, a sugges-
tion message will be displayed 
asking if you wish to turn the 
headlights off.
To turn the headlights off, select 
“Yes”.

If the driver's door is opened after 
the power switch is turned off, this 
suggestion message will not be dis-
played.

■

Customization

Some functions can be customized. 

(



P.530)

■

Display

The multi-information display 
presents the driver with a variety 
of driving-related information.
Warning or suggestion/advice 
pop-up displays are also dis-
played in certain situations.

■

Menu icons

Select a menu icon to display its 
content.

Warning message display 
(

)

Suggestion function

Multi-information dis-

play (7-inch display)

Display and menu icons

Driving information display 
(



P.102)

Driving support system 
information display 
(



P.105)

Audio system-linked dis-
play (



P.106)

Vehicle information dis-
play (



P.106)

Settings display (



P.107)

Warning message display 
(



P.110)

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■

Liquid crystal display

Small spots or light spots may 

appear on the display. This phenom-

enon is characteristic of liquid crys-

tal displays, and there is no problem 

continuing to use the display.

The multi-information display is 
operated using the meter control 
switches.

Scroll screens

*

, change the 

displayed content

*

 and move 

the cursor
Press: Enter/Set

Press and hold: Reset/Dis-
play customizable items
Return to the previous screen
Call sending/receiving and 
history display

Linked with the hands-free system, 
sending or receiving call is dis-
played. For details regarding the 
hands-free system, refer to the 
“NAVIGATION AND MULTIMEDIA 
SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL”.

*

: On screens where the screen can 

be scrolled and the display can 
be switched, a scroll bar or a 
round icon that shows the num-
ber of registered screens is dis-
played.

■

Fuel economy

Use the displayed values as a ref-
erence only.

Current fuel consumption

Displays the instantaneous current 
fuel consumption.

Average fuel economy (after 
start)

Displays the average fuel con-
sumption since hybrid system 

WARNING

■

Caution for use while driving

●

When operating the multi-infor-

mation display while driving, 

pay extra attention to the safety 

of the area around the vehicle.

●

Do not look continuously at the 

multi-information display while 

driving as you may fail to see 

pedestrians, objects on the 

road, etc. ahead of the vehicle.

■

The information display at 

low temperatures



P.91

Changing the meter dis-
play

Driving information dis-
play (

)

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start.

*1

Driving range

Displays the driving range with 
remaining fuel.
This distance is computed based 
on your average fuel consumption. 
As a result, the actual distance that 
can be driven may differ from that 
displayed.
When only a small amount of fuel is 
added to the tank, the display may 
not be updated.
When refueling, turn the power 
switch off. If the vehicle is refueled 
without turning the power switch off, 
the display may not be updated.
When “Refuel” is displayed, the 
remaining fuel amount is low and 
the distance that can be driven with 
the remaining fuel cannot be calcu-
lated.
Refuel immediately.

Gadget

*2

The following items can be dis-
played by changing the settings for 
gadget content and fuel economy 
type on 

. (



P.107)

• Other
Blank: No item
• Average vehicle speed
After start: Displays average vehi-
cle speed since hybrid system start
After reset: Displays average vehi-
cle speed since the display was 
reset

*3

• Distance
After start: Displays the distance 
driven since vehicle start.
After reset: Displays the distance 
driven since the display was reset

*3

• Elapsed time
After start: Displays elapsed time 
since hybrid system start
After reset: Displays elapsed time 
since the display was reset

*3

Average fuel economy

Displayed item (listed below) can 
be changed on the fuel economy 
type screen of 

. (



P.107)



Total (after reset)

Displays the average fuel con-
sumption since the display was 
reset.

*1, 3



Tank (after refuel)

Displays the average fuel con-
sumption since the vehicle was 
refueled.

*1

When only a small amount of fuel is 
added to the tank, the display may 
not be updated.
When refueling, turn the power 
switch off. If the vehicle is refueled 
without turning the power switch off, 
the display may not be updated.

*1

:Use the displayed fuel consump-

tion as a reference only.

*2

:The default setting is no display.

*3

:This display can be reset by 

pressing and holding 

 while it 

is displayed.

■

ECO Accelerator Guid-
ance/Eco score

Displays a reference operation 
range for using the accelerator 
pedal according to driving condi-
tions, and a score result that 
evaluates the current driving 

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status.

ECO Accelerator Guidance
Eco score



ECO Accelerator Guidance

Eco area

Indicates that the vehicle is being 
driven in an Eco-friendly manner.

Power area

Indicates that the Eco-friendly driv-
ing range is being exceeded 
(during full power driving, etc.)

Current accelerator pedal 
operation

Displayed as a green bar when 
within the Eco area.
Eco-friendly acceleration can be 
achieved by keeping the accelera-
tor pedal operation display within 
the range indicated by the blue bar. 
(



P.191)

Zone of Eco acceleration

Displayed as a blue bar, and rep-
resents an estimated suitable 
accelerator pedal operation range 
for the current driving conditions, 
such as starting off or cruising.
This display changes according to 
situation, such as when starting off 
or cruising.



Eco score

The following 3 Eco driving meth-
ods are evaluated in 5 levels: 
Smooth start-off acceleration, driv-
ing without sudden acceleration, 
and smooth stopping. When the 
vehicle is stopped, an Eco score 
out of 100 points will be displayed.

Eco start status
Eco cruise status
Eco stop status
Score result

How to read the bar display

Not yet evaluated

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Low
High

• After the hybrid system is started, 

the Eco score will not be dis-
played until the vehicle speed 
exceeds approximately 12 mph 
(20 km/h).

• The Eco score will be reset each 

time the hybrid system is started.

• When the hybrid system is 

stopped, the total score of the 
current trip will be displayed.

■

Speedometer display (digi-
tal speed)/Driving range



Speedometer display (digital 
speed)



P.109



Driving range

Displays driving range with remain-
ing fuel. Use the displayed values 
as a reference only.
This distance is computed based 
on your average fuel consumption. 
As a result, the actual distance that 
can be driven may differ from that 
displayed.
When only a small amount of fuel is 
added to the tank, the display may 
not be updated.
When refueling, turn the power 
switch off. If the vehicle is refueled 
without turning the power switch off, 
the display may not be updated.
When “Refuel” is displayed, the 
remaining fuel amount is low and 
the distance that can be driven with 
the remaining fuel cannot be calcu-
lated.
Refuel immediately.

■

The ECO Accelerator Guid-

ance/Eco score will not operate 

when

The ECO Accelerator Guidance/Eco 

score will not operate in the follow-

ing situations:

●

The Hybrid System Indicator is not 

operating.

●

The vehicle is being driven using 

the dynamic radar cruise control 

with full-speed range.

■

Driving support system 
information

Select to display the operational 
status of the following systems:



LTA (Lane Tracing Assist) 
(



P.260)



RSA (Road Sign Assist) (if 
equipped) (



P.283)



Dynamic radar cruise control 
with full-speed range 
(



P.271)

■

Navigation system-linked 
display (if equipped)

Select to display the following 
navigation system-linked infor-
mation:



Route guidance to destination



Compass display (head-
ing-up display)

■

Route guidance to destination 

display

When the route guidance to destina-

tion display is enabled on the 

head-up display, it will not be dis-

Driving support system 
information display (

)

106

2-1. Instrument cluster

HIGHLANDER HV_U

played on the multi-information dis-

play. (



P.114)

Select to enable selection of an 
audio source or track on the 
meter using the meter control 
switches.

This menu icon can be set to be 
displayed/not displayed in 

.

■

Energy monitor



P.117

■

Tire pressure



P.426

■

AWD Control (if equipped)

Torque distribution display

Displays the drive status of each 
wheel in 6 steps from 0 to 5.

G-force display

*

Displays the size and direction of 
the G-force applied to the vehicle 
via changes to the position of the 
ball on the display.

Maximum G-force course

*

This item is linked with the G-force 
display and the course of the past 
movement of the ball is displayed. 
Press and hold 

 to reset the 

record.

Wheel spin display

When a tire is spinning, its icon on 
the display changes its color and 
blinks.

*

: This item is displayed only when 

driving mode is set to sport mode.

■

Safety system status

Enable/Disable the following 
systems:



PCS (Pre-Collision system) 
(



P.249)



Intuitive parking assist (if 
equipped) (



P.292)



BSM (Blind Spot Monitor) 
(



P.286)



RCTA (Rear Cross Traffic 
Alert) (



P.300)

■

Tire pressure

• It may take a few minutes to dis-

play the tire inflation pressure 

after the power switch is turned to 

ON. It may also take a few min-

utes to display the tire inflation 

pressure after inflation pressure 

has been adjusted.

• “---” may be displayed if the tire 

position information cannot be 

determined due to unfavorable 

radio wave conditions.

• Tire inflation pressure changes 

with temperature. The displayed 

values may also be different from 

the values measured using a tire 

pressure gauge.

Audio system-linked dis-
play (

)

Vehicle information dis-
play (

)

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■

Changing settings

Use the meter control switches 
on the steering wheel to change 
settings.

1

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch to select 

.

2

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch to select the 
desired item to be custom-
ized.

3

Press or press and hold 

.

The available settings will differ 
depending on if 

 is pressed or 

pressed and held. Follow the 

instructions on the display.

■

Setting items



 LTA (Lane Tracing Assist) 

(



P.260)

Press and hold 

 to change the 

settings of the following items:
• “Lane Center”
Select to enable/disable the lane 
centering function.
• “Sensitivity”
Select to set the warning sensitivity.
• “Sway Warning”
Select to enable/disable the vehicle 
sway warning.
• “Sway Sensitivity”
Select to set the vehicle sway warn-
ing sensitivity.



 PCS (Pre-Collision Sys-

tem) (



P.249)

Press 

 to enable/disable the 

pre-collision system.
• PCS (Pre-Collision System) 

on/off

Select to enable/disable the 
pre-collision system.

Press and hold 

 to change the 

settings of the following item:
• “Sensitivity”
Select to change the pre-collision 
warning timing.



 DRCC (Dynamic Radar 

Cruise Control with full-speed 
range) (



P.271)

Press and hold 

 to change the 

settings of the following items:
• “Curve Speed Reduction” 

(



P.278)

Select to set the curve speed 
reduction function strength.



 BSM (Blind Spot Monitor) 

(



P.286)

Press 

 to enable/disable the 

Blind Spot Monitor function.
• BSM (Blind Spot Monitor) on/off
Select to enable/disable the Blind 
Spot Monitor function.

Press and hold 

 to change the 

settings of the following items:
• “Brightness”
Select to switch the brightness of 
the outside rear view mirror indica-
tors. (



P.286)

• “Sensitivity”
Select to change the alert timing for 
an approaching vehicle.

Settings display (

)

108

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

 Intuitive parking assist (if 

equipped) (



P.292)

Press 

 to enable/disable the 

Intuitive parking assist.
• Intuitive parking assist on/off
Select to enable/disable the Intui-
tive parking assist.

Press and hold 

 to change the 

settings of the following item:
• “Volume”
Select to set the volume of the 
buzzer which sounds when the 
Intuitive parking assist is operated.



 RCTA (Rear Cross Traffic 

Alert) (



P.300)

Press 

 to enable/disable the 

Rear Cross Traffic Alert function.
• RCTA (Rear Cross Traffic Alert) 

on/off

Select to enable/disable the Rear 
Cross Traffic Alert function.

Press and hold 

 to change the 

settings of the following item:
• “Volume”
Select to change the volume of the 
RCTA buzzer.



 PKSB (Parking Support 

Brake) (if equipped) (



P.305)

Press 

 to enable/disable the 

Parking Support Brake function.



 HUD (Head-up display) (if 

equipped) (



P.112)

Press 

 to enable/disable the 

head-up display.

• HUD (Head-up display) on/off
Select to enable/disable the 
head-up display.

Press and hold 

 to change the 

settings of the following items:
• “HUD Brightness/Position”
Select to adjust the brightness/posi-
tion of the head-up display.
• “HUD Driving Support”
Select to change the displayed 
head-up display driving support 
item.
• “HUD Rotation”
Select to adjust the angle of the 
head-up display.



 RSA (Road Sign Assist) (if 

equipped) (



P.283)

Press 

 to enable/disable the 

Road Sign Assist.
• RSA (Road Sign Assist) on/off
Select to enable/disable the Road 
Sign Assist.

Press and hold 

 to change the 

settings of the following items:
• “Notification Method”
Select to change each notification 
method used to notify the driver 
when the system recognizes 
excess speed and no-entry sign.
• “Notification Level”
Select to change each notification 
level used to notify the driver when 
the system recognizes a speed limit 
sign.

■

 Vehicle settings

Press and hold 

 to change 

109

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the settings of the following 
items:



 PBD (Power Back Door) 

(



P.135)

• “System Settings”
Select to enable/disable the power 
back door system.

• “Kick Sensor”

*

Select to enable/disable the kick 
sensor.
• “Opening Adjustment”
Select the open position when 
power back door is fully open.
• “Volume”
Select to set the volume of the 
buzzer which sounds when the 
power back door system operates.

*

: Vehicles with a hands free power 

back door



“TPWS” (Tire Pressure Warn-
ing System) (



P.426)

• “Set Pressure” (tire pressure 

warning system initialization)

Select to initialize the tire pressure 
warning system.
• “Change Wheel” (register tire 

pressure warning system sensor 
ID codes)

Select to register the ID codes of 
the tire pressure sensors to the tire 
pressure warning system.



“Rear Seat Reminder” 
(



P.133)

Select to enable/disable the rear 
seat reminder.



“Scheduled Maintenance” 
(



P.407)

Select to reset the scheduled main-
tenance information (maintenance 
required message and distance 
until maintenance necessary) after 
all maintenance is performed.

■

 Meter settings

Press and hold 

 to change 

the settings of the following 
items:



Language

Select to change the language dis-
played.



Units

Select to change the units of mea-
sure displayed.



 EV indicator (



P.218)

Select to enable/disable the EV 
indicator.



Speedometer display (digital 
speed)

Select to enable/disable the speed-
ometer display.



Gadget content

Select to turn the display of a gad-
get.



Fuel economy type

Select to change the average fuel 
consumption display and an item to 
be displayed as gadget.



Pop-up display

Select to enable/disable pop-up 
displays for each relevant system.



Multi-information display off

Displays a blank screen.



Default setting

Select to reset the meter display 

110

2-1. Instrument cluster

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settings to the default setting.

■

Vehicle functions and set-
tings that can be changed



P.530

■

Background color of the indica-

tor/shift position display area

The background color of the indica-

tor/shift position display area is 

changed according to the driving 

mode as follows (



P.322):

●

Eco drive mode: Blue

●

Sport mode: Red

■

Suspension of the settings dis-

play

●

Some settings cannot be changed 

while driving. When changing set-

tings, park the vehicle in a safe 

place.

●

If a warning message is displayed, 

operation of the settings display 

will be suspended.

■

Pop-up displays

Depending on the pop-up display, 

the currently displayed item in the 

message display area may be tem-

porarily not displayed. The item will 

be displayed after the pop-up dis-

play is no longer displayed.

Select to display warning mes-
sages and measures to be 
taken if a malfunction is 
detected. (



P.476)

Displays suggestions to the 
driver in the following situations. 
To select a response to a dis-
played suggestion, use the 
meter control switches.

■

Suggestion to turn off the 
headlights

If the headlights are left on for a 
certain amount of time after the 
power switch has been turned 
off, if the headlight switch is in 
the “AUTO” position, a sugges-
tion message will be displayed 
asking if you wish to turn the 
headlights off.
To turn the headlights off, select 
“Yes”.

If the driver's door is opened after 
the power switch is turned off, this 
suggestion message will not be dis-
played.

WARNING

■

Cautions during setting up 

the display

As the hybrid system needs to be 

operating during setting up the 

display, ensure that the vehicle is 

parked in a place with adequate 

ventilation. In a closed area such 

as a garage, exhaust gases 

including harmful carbon monox-

ide (CO) may collect and enter 

the vehicle. This may lead to 

death or a serious health hazard.

NOTICE

■

During setting up the display

To prevent 12-volt battery dis-

charge, ensure that the hybrid 

system is operating while setting 

up the display features.

Warning message display 
(

)

Suggestion function

111

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■

Customization

Some functions can be customized. 

(



P.530)

112

2-1. Instrument cluster

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*

: If equipped

Illustrations used in this text are intended as examples, and may differ from 
the image that is actually displayed by the head-up display.

Shift position display (



P.220)

Speed limit/RSA (Road Sign Assist) display area

Displays the following items:
• Speed limit of the current road (linked to the navigation system) (U.S.A. 

only)

• RSA (Road Sign Assist) display (if equipped) (



P.283)

Vehicle speed display area
Hybrid System Indicator/Tachometer/Outside temperature 
(



P.115)

Navigation system-linked display area (if equipped) (



P.115)

Displays the following items, which are linked to the navigation system:
• Route guidance to destination
• Street name
• Compass (heading-up display)

Head-up display

*

The head-up display is linked to the meters and navigation 
system (if equipped) and projects a variety of information in 
front of the driver, such as the current vehicle speed and route 
guidance to a set destination.

System components

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Driving assist system status display area (



P.116)

Message display area (



P.116)

The following pop-up displays will be displayed in certain situations:
• Warning/message
• Hands-free system status
• Audio system operation status

■

Head-up display will operate 

when

The power switch is in ON.

■

When using the head-up dis-

play

The head-up display may seem 

dark or hard to see when viewed 

through sunglasses, especially 

polarized sunglasses. Adjust the 

brightness of the head-up display or 

remove your sunglasses.

■

Outside temperature display

If the outside temperature becomes 

approximately 37°F (3°C) or lower, 

the low outside temperature indica-

tor will flash for 10 seconds then the 

low outside temperature indicator 

and outside temperature display will 

turn off. The low outside tempera-

ture indicator will operate again if 

the outside temperature becomes 

approximately 41°F (5°C) or more 

and then decreases to 37°F (3°C) or 

lower.

WARNING

■

Before using the head-up dis-

play

●

Check that the position and 

brightness of the head-up dis-

play image does not interfere 

with safe driving. Incorrect 

adjustment of the image’s posi-

tion or brightness may obstruct 

the driver’s view and lead to an 

accident, resulting in death or 

serious injury.

●

Do not continuously look at the 

head-up display while driving as 

you may fail to see pedestrians, 

objects on the road, etc. ahead 

of the vehicle.

NOTICE

■

To prevent damage to compo-

nents

●

Do not place any drinks near 

the head-up display projector. If 

the projector gets wet, electrical 

malfunctions may result.

●

Do not place anything on or put 

stickers onto the head-up dis-

play projector. Doing so could 

interrupt head-up display indica-

tions.

●

Do not touch the inside of the 

head-up display projector or 

thrust sharp edges or the like 

into the projector. Doing so 

could cause mechanical mal-

functions.

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■

Changing settings of the 
head-up display

Select 

 on the multi-informa-

tion display (



P.530) and then 

.

■

Enabling/disabling the 
head-up display

Press 

 to enable/disable the 

head-up display.

■

Changing the head-up dis-
play settings

Press and hold 

 to display the 

following settings.



“HUD Brightness/Position”

Select to adjust the brightness and 
vertical position of the head-up dis-
play.



“HUD Driving Support”

• Tachometer Settings
Blank/Hybrid System/Tachometer
Select to change the display to 
blank (no display)/Hybrid System 
Indicator/tachometer.
Select to enable/disable the follow-
ing items:
• Navigation (if equipped)
• Driving Assist
• Compass (if equipped)
• Audio



“HUD Rotation”

Select to adjust the angle of the 
head-up display.

Press the 

 or 

 switch to 

adjust the angle of the head-up dis-
play.

■

Enabling/disabling of the 

head-up display

If the head-up display is disabled, it 

will remain disabled when the power 

switch is turned off then back to ON.

■

Display brightness

The brightness of the head-up dis-
play can be adjusted on 

 of the 

multi-information display. Also, it is 

automatically adjusted according to 

the ambient brightness.

■

Automatic adjustment of the 

head-up display position (vehi-

cles with driving position mem-

ory)

A desired head-up display position 

can be entered to memory and 

recalled automatically by the driving 

position memory system. (



P.159)

■

When the 12-volt battery is dis-

connected

The customize settings of the 

head-up display will be reset.

■

Customization

Some functions can be customized. 

(



P.530)

Using the head-up display

WARNING

■

Caution for changing settings 

of the head-up display

As the hybrid system needs to be 

operating while changing the set-

tings of the head-up display, 

ensure that the vehicle is parked 

in a place with adequate ventila-

tion. In a closed area such as a 

garage, exhaust gases including 

harmful carbon monoxide (CO) 

may collect and enter the vehicle. 

This may lead to death or a seri-

ous health hazard.

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■

Hybrid System Indicator

Charge area
Hybrid Eco area
Eco area
Power area

Displayed content is the same as 
that displayed on the meter (Hybrid 
System Indicator). For details, refer 
to P.90.

■

Tachometer

Displays the engine speed in 
revolutions per minute.

■

Outside temperature

Displayed in the following situa-
tions:



When the power switch is 
turned to ON (Displayed for 

approximately 10 seconds)



When the low outside tem-
perature indicator is flashing

Displayed content is the same 
as that displayed on the 
multi-information display. For 
details, refer to the explanation 
of the outside temperature dis-
play on the multi-information 
display. (



P.90)

Displays the following naviga-
tion system linked items:
(Refer to “NAVIGATION AND 
MULTIMEDIA SYSTEM 
OWNER’S MANUAL”.)

■

Route guidance to destina-
tion

Displayed when the navigation 
system is performing route guid-
ance. When approaching an 
intersection, an arrow indicating 
the suggested direction of travel 
will be displayed.

■

Street name

Depending on the situation, the 
names of the streets of an 
approaching intersection will be 
displayed.

■

Compass (heading-up dis-
play)

Displays the direction of travel.

NOTICE

■

When changing the settings 

of the head-up display

To prevent 12-volt battery dis-

charge, ensure that the hybrid 

system is operating while the 

changing the settings of the 

head-up display.

Hybrid System Indica-
tor/Tachometer/Outside 
temperature

Navigation system-linked 
display area (if equipped)

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■

Street name display (vehicles 

with a navigation system)

Depending on the situation, such as 

when no information is available in 

map data, etc., the street names of 

an intersection may not be dis-

played.

Displays the operational status 
of the following systems:



LTA (Lane Tracing Assist) 
(



P.260)



Dynamic radar cruise control 
with full-speed range 
(



P.271)



PCS (Pre-Collision System) 
(



P.249)



Parking Support Brake func-
tion (for static objects) (if 
equipped) (



P.312)



Intuitive parking assist (if 
equipped) (



P.292)



Drive-Start Control (



P.191)



Brake Override System 
(



P.191)

Displayed content is the same as 
that displayed on the multi-informa-
tion display. For details, refer to the 
explanations of each system.

Displays the following 
multi-information display linked 
icons and a message:

: Master warning icon

Displayed when a warning mes-
sage is displayed on the multi-infor-
mation display. (



P.476)

: Information icon

Displayed when a sugges-
tion/advice pop-up display is dis-
played on the multi-information 
display. (



P.101, 110)

Depending on the situation, the 
following will be displayed:

■

Warning/Message

Depending on the situation, a 
warning message or other mes-
sage will be displayed.



Warning messages

Certain warning messages can be 
displayed.



Pop-up displays

When the driving assist system 
operates, some of the information 
displayed on the multi-information 
display will be displayed on the 
head-up display as a pop-up dis-
play.

■

Hands-free system status

Displayed when the hands-free 
system is operated.
(Refer to “NAVIGATION AND 
MULTIMEDIA SYSTEM 
OWNER’S MANUAL”.)

■

Audio system operation 
status

Displayed when the audio sys-

Driving assist system sta-
tus display area

/

 icons

Message display area

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tem is operated.
(Refer to “NAVIGATION AND 
MULTIMEDIA SYSTEM 
OWNER’S MANUAL”.)

■

Pop-up displays

Depending on the pop-up display, 

the currently displayed item in the 

message display area may be tem-

porarily not displayed. The item will 

be displayed after the pop-up dis-

play is no longer displayed.

Audio system screen
Multi-information display
Meter control switches

■

Audio system screen



Audio or Audio Plus (vehicles 
without Data Communication 
Module)

1

Press the “MENU” button.

2

Select “Info” on the “Menu” 
screen.

Energy monitor/con-

sumption screen

The state of the hybrid sys-
tem can be viewed on the 
multi-information display 
and audio system display.

Vehicles with a 12.3-inch 
display: The energy monitor 
or consumption screen can 
be displayed and operated 
on the Toyota multi-opera-
tion touch.

System components

Energy monitor

118

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HIGHLANDER HV_U

If a screen other than “Energy Mon-

itor” is displayed, select “Energy”.



Audio Plus (vehicles with 
Data Communication Mod-
ule) or Premium Audio

1

Press the “MENU” button.

2

Select “Info” on the “Menu” 
screen.

3

Select “ECO” on the “Infor-
mation” screen.

If a screen other than “Energy Mon-

itor” is displayed, select “Energy”.



12.3-inch display

1

Select 

 Toyota multi-oper-

ation touch (



P.340).

2

Select “Energy”.

The screen position can also be 

changed by select a desired infor-

mation in full screen.

When the vehicle is powered by the electric motor (traction motor) (Exam-
ple: 8-inch display)

2WD/AWD models

AWD models only

When the vehicle is powered by both the gasoline engine and the electric 
motor (traction motor) (Example: 8-inch display)

2WD/AWD models

AWD models only

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When the vehicle is powered by the gasoline engine (Example: 8-inch dis-
play)

2WD/AWD models

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When the vehicle is charging the hybrid battery (traction battery) (Example: 
8-inch display)

2WD/AWD models

AWD models only

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These images are examples only, 
and may vary slightly from actual 
conditions.



Hybrid battery (traction bat-
tery) status (Example: 8-inch 
display)

Low
High

These images are examples only, 
and may vary slightly from actual 
conditions.

■

Multi-information display



4.2-inch display

1

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch to select 

.

2

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch to select the 
energy monitor display.



7-inch display

1

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch to select 

.

2

Press 

 or 

 of the meter 

control switch to select the 
energy monitor display.

When there is no energy flow (Example: 8-inch display)

2WD/AWD models

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When the vehicle is powered by the electric motor (traction motor) (Exam-
ple: 7-inch display)

2WD/AWD models

AWD models only

When the vehicle is powered by both the gasoline engine and the electric 
motor (traction motor) (Example: 7-inch display)

2WD/AWD models

AWD models only

When the vehicle is powered by the gasoline engine (Example: 7-inch dis-
play)

2WD/AWD models

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When the vehicle is charging the hybrid battery (traction battery) (Example: 
7-inch display)

2WD/AWD models

AWD models only

When there is no energy flow (Example: 7-inch display)

2WD/AWD models

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These images are examples only, and may vary slightly from actual condi-
tions.



Hybrid battery (traction bat-
tery) status (Example: 7-inch 
display)

Low
High

These images are examples only, 
and may vary slightly from actual 
conditions.

■

Trip information



Audio or Audio Plus (vehicles 
without Data Communication 
Module)

1

Press the “MENU” button.

2

Select “Info” on the “Menu” 
screen.

If a screen other than “Trip Informa-

tion” is displayed, select “Trip Infor-

mation”.



Audio Plus (vehicles with 
Data Communication Mod-
ule) or Premium Audio

1

Press the “MENU” button.

2

Select “Info” on the “Menu” 
screen.

3

Select “ECO” on the “Infor-
mation” screen.

If a screen other than “Trip Informa-

tion” is displayed, select “Trip Infor-

mation”.



12.3-inch display

1

Select 

 Toyota multi-oper-

ation touch (



P.340).

2

Select “TripInfo.”.

The screen position can also be 

changed by select a desired infor-

mation in full screen.

Resetting the consumption 
data
Fuel consumption in the past 
15 minutes
Current fuel consumption
Regenerated energy in the 
past 15 minutes

One symbol indicates 50 Wh. Up to 
5 symbols are shown.

Average vehicle speed since 
the hybrid system was 
started.
Elapsed time since the hybrid 
system was started.
Cruising range

Consumption

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The average fuel consumption 
history is divided by color into 
past averages and the average 
fuel consumption since the last 
updated. Use the displayed 
average fuel consumption as a 
reference.

The image is an example only, and 
may vary slightly from actual condi-
tions.

■

History



Audio or Audio Plus (vehicles 
without Data Communication 
Module)

1

Press the “MENU” button.

2

Select “Info” on the “Menu” 
screen.

If a screen other than “History” is 

displayed, select “History”.



Audio Plus (vehicles with 
Data Communication Mod-
ule) or Premium Audio

1

Press the “MENU” button.

2

Select “Info” on the “Menu” 
screen.

3

Select “ECO” on the “Infor-
mation” screen.

If a screen other than “History” is 

displayed, select “History”.



12.3-inch display

1

Select 

 Toyota multi-oper-

ation touch (



P.340).

2

Select “History”.

The screen position can also be 

changed by select a desired infor-

mation in full screen.

Best recorded fuel consump-
tion
Latest fuel consumption
Previous fuel consumption 
record
Resetting the history data
Updating the latest fuel con-
sumption data

The average fuel consumption 
history is divided by color into 
past averages and the average 
fuel consumption since the last 
updated. Use the displayed 
average fuel consumption as a 
reference.

The image is an example only, and 
may vary slightly from actual condi-
tions.

■

Updating the history data

Update the latest fuel consumption 

by selecting “Update” to measure 

the current fuel consumption again.

■

Resetting the data

The fuel consumption data can be 

deleted by selecting “Clear”.

■

Cruising range

Displays the estimated maximum 

distance that can be driven with the 

quantity of fuel remaining.
This distance is computed based on 

126

2-1. Instrument cluster

HIGHLANDER HV_U

your average fuel consumption. 

As a result, the actual distance that 

can be driven may differ from that 

displayed.

Display the vehicle information 
on the Toyota multi-operation 
touch (



P.340), and then select 

the button to display the desired 
screen. 
The image is an example only, 
and may vary slightly from 
actual conditions.

Energy monitor
Trip information
History

■

Energy monitor

Displays the hybrid system 
operation and energy recovery 
states.
Displayed content is the same 
as that displayed on the 
multi-information display. 
(



P.93, 102)

■

Trip information

Displays the average fuel con-
sumption and regenerated 
energy for the past 10 minutes 
in 1 minute intervals, as well as 
the cruising range.

Use the displayed average fuel 
consumption as a reference.

■

History

Displays the average fuel con-
sumption and highest fuel con-
sumption.

Use the displayed average fuel 
consumption as a reference.

Using the Toyota 
multi-operation touch 
(vehicles with a 12.3-inch 
display)

127

3

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER HV_U

Before driving

.

3-1. Key information

Keys ............................

128

3-2. Opening, closing and 

locking the doors

Side doors...................

131

Back door....................

135

Smart key system .......

146

3-3. Adjusting the seats

Front seats ..................

153

Rear seats...................

154

Driving position memory

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

159

Head restraints............

162

3-4. Adjusting the steering 

wheel and mirrors

Steering wheel ............

165

Inside rear view mirror

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

166

Digital Rearview Mirror

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

167

Outside rear view mirrors

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

177

3-5. Opening, closing the win-

dows and moon roof

Power windows ...........

179

Moon roof....................

182

Panoramic moon roof..

185

128

3-1. Key information

HIGHLANDER HV_U

3-1.Key information

The following keys are provided 
with the vehicle.

Electronic keys

• Operating the smart key system 

(



P.146)

• Operating the wireless remote 

control function (



P.129)

Mechanical keys
Key number plate

■

When riding in an aircraft

When bringing an electronic key 

onto an aircraft, make sure you do 

not press any buttons on the elec-

tronic key while inside the aircraft 

cabin. If you are carrying an elec-

tronic key in your bag, etc., ensure 

that the buttons are not likely to be 

pressed accidentally. Pressing a 

button may cause the electronic key 

to emit radio waves that could inter-

fere with the operation of the air-

craft.

■

Electronic key battery depletion

●

The standard battery life is 1 to 2 

years.

●

If the battery becomes low, an 

alarm will sound in the cabin when 

the hybrid system is stopped.

●

To reduce key battery depletion 

when the electronic key is to not 

be used for long periods of time, 

set the electronic key to the bat-

tery-saving mode. (



P.147)

●

As the electronic key always 

receives radio waves, the battery 

will become depleted even if the 

electronic key is not used. The fol-

lowing symptoms indicate that the 

electronic key battery may be 

depleted. Replace the battery 

when necessary.

• The smart key system or the wire-

less remote control does not oper-

ate.

• The detection area becomes 

smaller.

• The LED indicator on the key sur-

face does not turn on.

●

To avoid serious deterioration, do 

not leave the electronic key within 

3 ft. (1 m) of the following electri-

cal appliances that produce a 

magnetic field:

• TVs

• Personal computers

• Cellular phones, cordless phones 

and battery chargers

• Recharging cellular phones or 

cordless phones

• Table lamps

• Induction cookers

■

Replacing the battery



P.444

■

Confirmation of the registered 

key number

The number of keys already regis-

tered to the vehicle can be con-

firmed. Ask your Toyota dealer for 

details.

■

If “A New Key has been Regis-

tered Contact Your Dealer for 

Details” is shown on the 

multi-information display

This message will be displayed 

each time the driver’s door is 

opened when the doors are 

unlocked from the outside for 

approximately 10 days after a new 

electronic key has been registered.

Keys

The keys

129

3-1. Key information

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER HV_U

If this message is displayed but you 

have not had a new electronic key 

registered, ask your Toyota dealer to 

check if an unknown electronic key 

(other than those in your posses-

sion) has been registered.

The electronic keys are 
equipped with the following 
wireless remote control:

Locks the doors (



P.131)

Unlocks the doors (



P.131)

Opens the windows

*1

 and 

moon roof

*1, 2

 (



P.131)

Opens and closes the power 
back door (



P.137)

Sounds the alarm

*1

:These settings must be custom-

ized at your Toyota dealer.

NOTICE

■

To prevent key damage

●

Do not drop the keys, subject 

them to strong shocks or bend 

them.

●

Do not expose the keys to high 

temperatures for long periods of 

time.

●

Do not get the keys wet or wash 

them in an ultrasonic washer, 

etc.

●

Do not attach metallic or mag-

netic materials to the keys or 

place the keys close to such 

materials.

●

Do not disassemble the keys.

●

Do not attach a sticker or any-

thing else to the surface of the 

electronic key.

●

Do not place the keys near 

objects that produce magnetic 

fields, such as TVs, audio sys-

tems and induction cookers.

●

Do not place the keys near 

medical electrical equipment 

such as low-frequency therapy 

equipment or microwave ther-

apy equipment, and do not 

receive medical attention with 

the keys on your person.

■

Carrying the electronic key 

on your person

Carry the electronic key 3.9 in. 

(10 cm) or more away from elec-

tric appliances that are turned on. 

Radio waves emitted from electric 

appliances within 3.9 in. (10 cm) 

of the electronic key may interfere 

with the key, causing the key to 

not function properly.

■

In case of a smart key system 

malfunction or other 

key-related problems



P.496

■

When an electronic key is lost



P.495

Wireless remote control

130

3-1. Key information

HIGHLANDER HV_U

*2

:If equipped

■

Theft deterrent panic mode

When 

 is pressed for longer 

than about one second, an alarm 

will sound intermittently and the 

vehicle lights will flash to deter any 

person from trying to break into or 

damage your vehicle.
To stop the alarm, press any button 

on the electronic key.

To take out the mechanical key, 
slide the release button and take 
the key out.

The mechanical key can only be 
inserted in one direction, as the key 
only has grooves on one side. If the 
key cannot be inserted in a lock cyl-
inder, turn it over and re-attempt to 
insert it.
After using the mechanical key, 
store it in the electronic key. Carry 
the mechanical key together with 
the electronic key. If the electronic 
key battery is depleted or the entry 
function does not operate properly, 
you will need the mechanical key. 
(



P.496)

■

When required to leave the 

vehicle’s key with a parking 

attendant

Lock the glove box as circum-

stances demand. (



P.366)

Remove the mechanical key for 

your own use and provide the atten-

dant with the electronic key only.

■

If you lose your mechanical 

keys



P.495

■

If a wrong key is used

The key cylinder rotates freely, iso-

lated from the internal mechanism.

Using the mechanical key

131

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER HV_U

3-2.Opening, closing and locking the doors

■

Smart key system

Carry the electronic key to 
enable this function.

1

Grip the driver’s door handle 
to unlock the door. Holding 
the driver’s door handle for 
approximately 2 seconds 
unlocks all the doors. Grip 
the front passenger’s door 
handle to unlock all the 
doors.

*

Make sure to touch the sensor on 
the back of the handle.
The doors cannot be unlocked for 3 
seconds after the doors are locked.

*

: The door unlock settings can be 

changed. (



P.131, 530)

2

Touch the lock sensor (the 
indentation on the upper part 

of the front door handle) to 
lock all the doors.

Check that the door is securely 
locked.

■

Wireless remote control

1

Locks all the doors

Check that the door is securely 
locked.

2

Unlocks all the doors

Pressing the button unlocks the 
driver’s door. Pressing the button 
again within 5 seconds unlocks the 
other doors.
Press and hold to open the win-
dows

*1

 and moon roof

*1, 2

*1

:This setting must be customized 

at your Toyota dealer.

*2

:If equipped

■

Switching the door unlock func-

tion

It is possible to set which doors the 

entry function unlocks using the 

wireless remote control.

1

Turn the power switch off.

2

When the indicator light on the 

key surface is not on, press and 
hold 

, 

 or 

 for 

approximately 5 seconds while 
pressing and holding 

.

The setting changes each time an 

operation is performed, as shown 

below. (When changing the setting 

Side doors

The vehicle can be locked 
and unlocked using the 
entry function, wireless 
remote control or door lock 
switches.

Unlocking and locking the 
doors from the outside

132

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

HIGHLANDER HV_U

continuously, release the buttons, 

wait for at least 5 seconds, and 

repeat step 

2

.)

For vehicles with an alarm: To pre-

vent unintended triggering of the 

alarm, unlock the doors using the 

wireless remote control and open 

and close a door once after the set-

tings have been changed. (If a door 

is not opened within 60 seconds 
after 

 is pressed, the doors will 

be locked again and the alarm will 

automatically be set.)
In case that the alarm is triggered, 

immediately stop the alarm. (



P.81)

■

Impact detection door lock 

release system

In the event that the vehicle is sub-

ject to a strong impact, all the doors 

are unlocked. Depending on the 

force of the impact or the type of 

accident, however, the system may 

not operate.

■

Operation signals

A buzzer sounds and the emer-

gency flashers flash to indicate that 

the doors have been 

locked/unlocked. (Locked: Once; 

Unlocked: Twice)
A buzzer sounds to indicate that the 
windows and the moon roof

*

 or pan-

oramic moon roof

*

 are operating.

*

: If equipped

■

Security feature

If a door is not opened within 

approximately 60 seconds after the 

vehicle is unlocked, the security fea-

ture automatically locks the vehicle 

again.

■

When the door cannot be 

locked by the lock sensor on 

the surface of the front door 

handle

If the door will not lock even when 

the topside sensor area is touched, 

try touching both the topside and 

underside sensor areas at the same 

time.
When gloves are being worn, 

remove the gloves.

■

Door lock buzzer

If an attempt to lock the doors using 

the smart key system is made when 

a door is not fully closed, a buzzer 

will sound continuously for 5 sec-

onds. Fully close the door to stop 

the buzzer, and lock the doors 

again.

■

Setting the alarm (if equipped)

Locking the doors will set the alarm 

system. (



P.81)

Multi-informa-

tion display/Beep

Unlocking func-

tion

Exterior: Beeps 3 

times

Interior: Pings 

once

Holding the 
driver’s door 
handle unlocks 
only the driver’s 
door.

Holding the front 
passenger’s 
door handle 
unlocks all the 
doors.

Exterior: Beeps 

twice

Interior: Pings 

once

Holding either 
front door handle 
unlocks all the 
doors.

133

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER HV_U

■

Conditions affecting the opera-

tion of the smart key system or 

wireless remote control



P.147

■

If the smart key system or the 

wireless remote control does 

not operate properly

Use the mechanical key to lock and 

unlock the doors. (



P.496)

Replace the key battery with a new 

one if it is depleted. (



P.444)

■

If the 12-volt battery is dis-

charged

The doors cannot be locked and 

unlocked using the smart key sys-

tem or wireless remote control. Lock 

or unlock the doors using the 

mechanical key. (



P.496)

■

Rear seat reminder function

In order to remind you not to forget 

luggage, etc. in the rear seat, when 

the power switch is turned off after 

any of the following conditions are 

met, a buzzer will sound and a mes-

sage will be displayed on the 

multi-information display for approx-

imately 6 seconds.

●

The hybrid system is started 

within 10 minutes after opening 

and closing a rear door.

●

A rear door has been opened and 

closed after the hybrid system 

was started.

However, if a rear door is opened 

and then closed within approxi-

mately 2 seconds, the rear seat 

reminder function may not operate.
The rear seat reminder function 

determines that luggage, etc. has 

been placed in a rear seat based on 

opening and closing of a rear door. 

Therefore, depending on the situa-

tion, the rear seat reminder function 

may not operate and you may still 

forget luggage, etc. in the rear seat, 

or it may operate unnecessarily.
The rear seat reminder function can 

be enabled/disabled. (



P.530)

■

Customization

Some functions can be customized. 

(



P.530)

WARNING

■

To prevent an accident

Observe the following precautions 

while driving the vehicle. Failure 

to do so may result in a door 

opening and an occupant falling 

out, resulting in death or serious 

injury.

●

Ensure that all doors are prop-

erly closed and locked.

●

Do not pull the inside handle of 

the doors while driving.

Be especially careful for the front 

doors, as the doors may be 

opened even if the inside lock but-

tons are in locked position.

●

Set the rear door child-protector 

locks when children are seated 

in the rear seats.

■

When opening or closing a 

door

Check the surroundings of the 

vehicle such as whether the vehi-

cle is on an incline, whether there 

is enough space for a door to 

open and whether a strong wind 

is blowing. When opening or clos-

ing the door, hold the door handle 

tightly to prepare for any unpre-

dictable movement.

134

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

HIGHLANDER HV_U

■

Door lock switches

1

Locks all the doors

2

Unlocks all the doors

■

Inside lock buttons

1

Locks the door

2

Unlocks the door

The front doors can be opened by 
pulling the inside handle even if the 
lock buttons are in the lock position.

■

Locking the front doors from 

the outside without a key

1

Move the inside lock button to 

the lock position.

2

Close the door.

The door cannot be locked if the 

power switch is in ACC or ON, or 

the electronic key is left inside the 

vehicle.
The key may not be detected cor-

rectly and the door may be locked.

■

Open door warning buzzer

If a door or the hood is not fully 

closed, a buzzer will sound when 

the vehicle speed reaches 3 mph (5 

km/h).
The open door(s) or hood is dis-

played on the multi-information dis-

play.

The door cannot be opened 
from inside the vehicle when the 
lock is set.

1

Unlock

2

Lock

These locks can be set to prevent 
children from opening the rear 
doors. Push down on each rear 
door switch to lock both rear doors.

The following functions can be 
set or canceled:

For instructions on customizing, 
refer to P.530.

Unlocking and locking the 
doors from the inside

Rear door child-protector 
lock

Automatic door locking 
and unlocking systems

135

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER HV_U

Function

Operation

Speed linked 
door locking 
function

All doors are auto-
matically locked 
when vehicle 
speed is approxi-
mately 12 mph (20 
km/h) or higher.

Shift position 
linked door 
locking func-
tion

All doors are auto-
matically locked 
when shifting the 
shift lever out of P.

Shift position 
linked door 
unlocking 
function

All doors are auto-
matically unlocked 
when shifting the 
shift lever to P.

Driver’s door 
linked door 
unlocking 
function

All doors are auto-
matically unlocked 
when driver’s door 
is opened.

Back door

The back door can be 
locked/unlocked and 
opened/closed by the fol-
lowing procedures.

WARNING

Observe the following precau-

tions. Failure to do so may result 

in death or serious injury.

■

Before driving the vehicle

Before driving the vehicle, make 

sure that the back door is fully 

closed. If the back door is not fully 

closed, it may open unexpectedly 

while driving, causing an acci-

dent.

■

Caution while driving

●

Keep the back door closed 

while driving.

If the back door is left open, it may 

hit near-by objects while driving or 

luggage may be unexpectedly 

thrown out, causing an accident.
In addition, exhaust gases may 

enter the vehicle, causing death 

or a serious health hazard. Make 

sure to close the back door before 

driving.

●

Never let anyone sit in the lug-

gage compartment. In the event 

of sudden braking, sudden 

swerving or a collision, they are 

susceptible to death or serious 

injury.

■

When children are in the vehi-

cle

●

Do not allow children to play in 

the luggage compartment.

If a child is accidentally locked in 

the luggage compartment, they 

could have heat exhaustion or 

other injuries.

136

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

HIGHLANDER HV_U

■

Smart key system

Carry the electronic key to 
enable this function.

WARNING

●

Do not allow a child to open or 

close the back door.

Doing so may cause the back 

door to move unexpectedly, or 

cause the child’s hands, arms, 

head, or neck to be caught by the 

closing back door.

■

Operating the back door

Observe the following precau-

tions. Failure to do so may cause 

parts of the body to be caught, 

resulting in death or serious injury.

●

Remove any heavy loads, such 

as snow and ice, from the back 

door before opening it. Failure 

to do so may cause the back 

door to suddenly shut again 

after it is opened.

●

When opening or closing the 

back door, thoroughly check to 

make sure the surrounding area 

is safe.

●

If anyone is in the vicinity, make 

sure they are safe and let them 

know that the back door is 

about to open or close.

●

Use caution when opening or 

closing the back door in windy 

weather as it may move 

abruptly in strong wind.

●

The back door may suddenly 

shut if it is not opened fully while 

on a steep incline. Make sure 

that the back door is secured 

before using the luggage com-

partment.

●

When closing the back door, 

take extra care to prevent your 

fingers, etc., from being caught.

●

When closing the back door, 

make sure to press it lightly on 

its outer surface. If the back 

door handle is used to fully 

close the back door, it may 

result in hands or arms being 

caught.

●

Do not pull on the back door 

spindle (



P.143) to close the 

power back door, and do not 

hang on the back door spindle.

Doing so may cause hands to be 

caught or the back door spindle to 

break, causing an accident.

●

If a heavy object is attached to 

the back door, it may suddenly 

shut again after being opened, 

causing someone’s hands, 

arms, head or neck to be caught 

and injured. Do not attach any 

accessories other than genuine 

Toyota parts to the back door.

Unlocking and locking the 
back door from the out-
side

137

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER HV_U

1

Unlocks all the doors

The doors cannot be unlocked for 3 
seconds after the doors are locked.

2

Locks all the doors

Check that the door is securely 
locked.

■

Wireless remote control



P.131

■

Operation signals



P.132

■

Door lock switches



P.134

■

Opening/closing the back 
door using the wireless 
remote control

Press and hold the switch.

Pressing the switch while the back 
door is opening/closing will stop the 
operation. Pressing and holding the 
switch again will operate the back 
door in the opposite direction.

■

Opening/closing the back 
door using the power back 
door switch on the instru-
ment panel

Press and hold the switch.

Unlock the back door before oper-
ating.
Pressing the switch while the back 
door is opening/closing will stop the 
operation. Pressing and holding the 
switch again will operate the back 
door in the opposite direction.

■

Opening the back door 
using the back door opener 
switch

When the back door is 
unlocked: Press the back door 
opener switch.
When the back door is locked: 
While carrying the electronic key 
on your person, press the back 
door opener switch.

Unlocking and locking the 
back door from the inside

Opening/closing the back 
door

138

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

HIGHLANDER HV_U

Pressing the switch while the back 
door is opening/closing will stop the 
operation. Pressing the switch 
again will open the back door.

■

Opening/closing the back 
door using the power back 
door switch on the back 
door

Press the switch.

Pressing the switch while the back 
door is opening/closing will stop the 
operation. Pressing the switch 
again will operate the back door in 
the opposite direction.

■

Closing the back door 
using the back door handle

Lower the back door using the 
back door handle, then a buzzer 
sounds and the back door auto-
matically closes.

■

Opening/closing the back 
door using the kick sensor 
(vehicles with a Hands Free 
Power Back Door)



Vehicles without tow hitch

The Hands Free Power Back 
Door enables automatic opening 
and closing of the power back 
door by putting your foot near 
the lower center part of the rear 
bumper and moving it away 
from the rear bumper.



Vehicles with tow hitch

The Hands Free Power Back 
Door enables automatic opening 
and closing of the power back 
door by putting your foot near 
the lower left side of the rear 
bumper and moving it away 
from the rear bumper.
The center of the Hands Free 
Power Back Door sensor is indi-
cated by the 

 mark.

1

While carrying an electronic 
key, stand within the smart 
key system operation range, 
approximately 13.8 to 21.7 in. 
(35 to 55 cm) from the rear 
bumper.

139

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER HV_U



Vehicles without tow hitch

Kick sensor
Hands Free Power Back 
Door operation detection 
area
Smart key system operation 
detection area (



P.146)



Vehicles with tow hitch

Kick sensor
Hands Free Power Back 
Door operation detection 
area
Smart key system operation 
detection area (



P.146)

2

Perform a kick operation by 
moving your foot to within 
approximately 3.9 in. (10 cm) 
of the rear bumper and then 
pulling it back.

• Perform the entire kick opera-

tion within 1 second.

• The back door will not start 

operating while a foot is 
detected under the rear 
bumper.

• Operate the Hands Free 

Power Back Door without 
contacting the rear bumper 
with your foot.

• If another electronic key is in 

the cabin or luggage compart-
ment, it may take slightly lon-
ger than normal for the 
operation to occur.

Kick sensor
Hands Free Power Back 
Door operation detection 
area

3

When the kick sensor detects 
that your foot is pulled back, 
a buzzer will sound and the 
back door will automatically 
fully open/close.

If kick operation is performed while 

the back door is opening/closing, 

the back door will stop the opera-

tion. Perform a kick operation again 

will operate the back door in the 

opposite direction.

■

Back door closer

In the event that the back door is left 

slightly open, the back door closer 

140

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

HIGHLANDER HV_U

will automatically close it to the fully 

closed position.

●

The back door closer can function 

when the power switch is in any 

mode.

●

The back door can be opened 

using the back door opener switch 

even if the back door closer is 

operating.

■

Power back door operating con-

ditions

If the following conditions are met, 

the power back door can be opened 

and closed automatically.

●

When the power back door sys-

tem is enabled. (



P.530)

●

When the power switch is in ON, 

one of the following conditions 

must be met in addition to the 

above conditions:

• The parking brake is engaged.

• The brake pedal is depressed.

• The shift lever is in P.

■

Operation of the power back 

door

●

When the power back door begins 

to operate, the emergency flash-

ers will flash twice and a buzzer 

will sound.

●

When the power back door is dis-

abled, the power back door will 

not operate but can be opened 

and closed manually.

●

When the power back door is 

opening/closing, if the power back 

door becomes obstructed, opera-

tion will stop.

■

Jam protection function

Sensors are installed on the right 

and left sides of the power back 

door. When the door is automati-

cally closing and the sensors are 

pushed due to an object being 

clamped, etc., the jam protection 

function operates.
From that position the door auto-

matically moves a little in the oppo-

site direction and then the function 

stops.

■

Back door reserve lock function

This function reserves the locking of 

the power back door when the 

power back door is open. If the fol-

lowing operations are performed, all 

of the doors except the power back 

door will lock and then the power 

back door will lock when it is com-

pletely closed.

1

Close all of the doors, except the 

back door.

2

Perform an automatic closing 

operation of the power back door 

and lock the doors using the 

wireless remote control 

(



P.131) or smart key system 

(



P.131) while the power back 

door is closing.

A buzzer sounds and the emer-

gency flashers flash to indicate that 

all the doors have been closed and 

locked.

●

If the electronic key is placed 

inside the vehicle after starting a 

close operation via the door 

reserve lock function, the elec-

tronic key may become locked 

inside the vehicle.

●

If the back door does not fully 

close due to the operation of the 

jam protection function, etc., while 

the back door is automatically 

closing after a door reserve lock 

operation is performed, the door 

reserve lock function is canceled 

and all the doors will unlock.

●

Before leaving the vehicle, make 

sure that all the doors are closed 

and locked.

141

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER HV_U

■

Kick sensor operating condi-

tions (vehicles with a Hands 

Free Power Back Door)

●

When the kick sensor operation 

setting is turned on (



P.530) and 

the power switch is turned off.

●

When an electronic key is carried 

within the operation detection 

area.

■

Situations in which the Hands 

Free Power Back Door may not 

operate properly (if equipped)

In the following situations, the 

Hands Free Power Back Door may 

not operate properly:

●

When a foot remains under the 

rear bumper.

●

If the rear bumper is strongly hit 

with a foot or is touched for a 

while.

If the rear bumper has been touched 

for a while, wait for a short time 

before attempting to operate the 

Hands Free Power Back Door 

again.

●

When standing excessively close 

to the rear bumper.

●

When an external radio wave 

source interferes with the commu-

nication between the electronic 

key and the vehicle. (



P.147)

●

When the vehicle is parked near 

an electrical noise source which 

affects the sensitivity of the Hands 

Free Power Back Door, such as a 

pay parking spot, gas station, 

electrically heated road, or fluo-

rescent light.

●

When the vehicle is near a TV 

tower, electric power plant, radio 

station, large display, airport or 

other facility that generates strong 

radio waves or electrical noise.

●

When a large amount of water is 

applied to the rear bumper, such 

as when the vehicle is being 

washed or in heavy rain.

●

When mud, snow, ice, etc. is 

attached to the rear bumper.

●

When the vehicle has been 

parked for a while near objects 

that may move and contact the 

rear bumper, such as plants.

●

When an accessory is installed to 

the rear bumper.

If an accessory has been installed, 

turn the kick sensor operation set-

ting off. (



P.530)

■

Preventing unintentional opera-

tion of the Hands Free Power 

Back Door (if equipped)

When an electronic key is in the 

operation detection area, the Hands 

Free Power Back Door may operate 

unintentionally, so be careful in the 

following situations:

●

When a large amount of water is 

applied to the rear bumper, such 

as when the vehicle is being 

washed or in heavy rain.

●

When dirt is wiped off the rear 

bumper.

●

When a small animal or small 

object, such as a ball, moves 

under the rear bumper.

●

When an object is moved from 

under the rear bumper.

●

If someone is swinging their legs 

while sitting on the rear bumper.

●

If the legs or another part of some-

one’s body contacts the rear 

bumper while passing by the vehi-

cle.

●

When the vehicle is parked near 

an electrical noise source which 

affects the sensitivity of the Hands 

Free Power Back Door, such as a 

pay parking spot, gas station, 

electrically heated road, or fluo-

rescent light.

●

When the vehicle is near a TV 

tower, electric power plant, radio 

station, large display, airport or 

other facility that generates strong 

radio waves or electrical noise.

●

When the vehicle is parked in a 

place where objects such as 

plants are near the rear bumper.

142

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

HIGHLANDER HV_U

●

When luggage, etc. is set in or 

removed from the luggage com-

partment from outside of the vehi-

cle.

●

If accessories or a vehicle cover is 

installed/removed near the rear 

bumper.

●

When snow attached to the inner 

side of the rear bumper melts.

To prevent unintentional operation, 

turn the kick sensor operation set-

ting off. (



P.530)

■

When reconnecting the 12-volt 

battery

To enable the power back door to 

operate properly, close the back 

door manually.

■

Customization

Some functions can be customized. 

(



P.530)

WARNING

■

Back door closer

●

In the event that the back door 

is left slightly open, the back 

door closer will automatically 

close it to the fully closed posi-

tion. It takes several seconds 

before the back door closer 

begins to operate. Be careful 

not to get fingers caught or any-

thing else in the back door, as 

this may cause bone fractures 

or other serious injuries.

●

Use caution when using the 

back door closer as it still oper-

ates when the power back door 

system is disabled.

■

Power back door

Observe the following precautions 

when operating the power back 

door. Failure to do so may cause 

death or serious injury.

●

Check the safety of the sur-

rounding area to make sure 

there are no obstacles or any-

thing that could cause any of 

your belongings to get caught.

●

If anyone is in the vicinity, make 

sure they are safe and let them 

know that the back door is 

about to open or close.

●

If the power back door system is 

disabled while the power back 

door is operating, the back door 

will stop operating. The back 

door must then be operated 

manually. Take extra care in this 

situation, as the back door may 

open or close suddenly.

●

If the operating conditions of the 

power back door (



P.140) are 

no longer met, a buzzer may 

sound and the back door may 

stop opening or closing. The 

back door must then be oper-

ated manually. Take extra care 

on an incline in this situation, as 

the back door may move sud-

denly.

●

On an incline, the back door 

may suddenly shut after it 

opens. Make sure the back door 

is fully open and secure.

●

In the following situations, the 

power back door may detect an 

abnormality and automatic 

operation may be stopped. In 

this case, the back door must 

then be operated manually. 

Take extra care in this situation, 

as the stopped back door may 

suddenly open or close, causing 

an accident.

• When the back door contacts an 

obstacle

143

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

3

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ing

HIGHLANDER HV_U

WARNING

• When the 12-volt battery volt-

age suddenly drops, such as 

when the power switch is turned 

to ON or the hybrid system is 

started during automatic opera-

tion

●

If a heavy object is attached to 

the back door, the back door 

may not operate, causing a mal-

function, or the back door may 

suddenly shut again after being 

opened, causing someone’s 

hands, arms, head or neck to be 

caught and injured. Do not 

attach any accessories other 

than genuine Toyota parts to the 

back door.

■

Jam protection function

Observe the following precau-

tions. Failure to do so may cause 

death or serious injury.

●

Never use any part of your body 

to intentionally activate the jam 

protection function.

●

The jam protection function may 

not work if something gets 

caught just before the back door 

fully closes. Be careful not to 

get fingers caught or anything 

else.

●

The jam protection function may 

not work depending on the 

shape of the object that is 

caught. Be careful not to catch 

fingers or anything else.

■

Hands Free Power Back Door 

(if equipped)

Observe the following precautions 

when operating the Hands Free 

Power Back Door. Failure to do so 

may cause death or serious injury.

●

Check the safety of the sur-

rounding area to make sure 

there are no obstacles or any-

thing that could cause any of 

your belongings to get caught.

●

Exhaust gasses cause the 

exhaust pipes to become quite 

hot. When operating the Hands 

Free Power Back Door, be care-

ful not to touch the exhaust 

pipe.

●

Do not operate the Hands Free 

Power Back Door if there is little 

space under the rear bumper.

NOTICE

■

Back door spindles

The back door is equipped with 

spindles that hold the back door in 

place.
Observe the following precau-

tions. Failure to do so may cause 

damage to the back door spindle, 

resulting in malfunction.

●

Do not attach any foreign 

objects, such as stickers, plastic 

sheets, or adhesives to the 

spindle rod.

●

Do not attach any accessories 

other than genuine Toyota parts 

to the back door.

●

Do not place your hand on the 

spindle or apply lateral forces to 

it.

144

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

HIGHLANDER HV_U

NOTICE

■

To prevent back door closer 

malfunction

Do not apply excessive force to 

the back door while the back door 

closer is operating. Applying 

excessive force may cause the 

back door closer to malfunction.

■

To prevent malfunction of the 

power back door

●

Make sure that there is no ice 

between the back door and 

frame that would prevent move-

ment of the back door. Operat-

ing the power back door when 

excessive load is present on the 

back door may cause a mal-

function.

●

Do not apply excessive force to 

the power back door while the 

back door is operating.

●

Take care not to damage the 

sensors (installed on the right 

and left edges of the power 

back door) with a knife or other 

sharp object. If a sensor is dis-

connected, the power back door 

will not close automatically.

■

Hands Free Power Back Door 

precautions (if equipped)

The kick sensor is located behind 

lower center part of the rear 

bumper. Observe the following to 

ensure that the Hands Free 

Power Back Door function oper-

ates properly:

●

Keep the lower center part of 

the rear bumper clean at all 

times.

If the lower center part of the rear 

bumper is dirty or covered with 

snow, the kick sensor may not 

operate. In this situation, clean off 

the dirt or snow, move the vehicle 

from the current position and then 

check if the kick sensor operates. 

If it does not operate, have the 

vehicle inspected by your Toyota 

dealer.

●

Do not apply coatings that have 

a rain clearing (hydrophilic) 

effect, or other coatings, to the 

lower center part of the rear 

bumper.

●

Do not park the vehicle near 

objects that may move and con-

tact the lower center part of the 

rear bumper, such as grass or 

trees.

If the vehicle has been parked for 

a while near objects that may 

move and contact the lower cen-

ter part of the rear bumper, such 

as grass or trees, the kick sensor 

may not operate. In this situation, 

move the vehicle from the current 

position and then check if the kick 

sensor operates. If it does not 

operate, have the vehicle 

inspected by your Toyota dealer.

●

Do not subject the kick sensor 

or its surrounding area to a 

strong impact.

If the kick sensor or its surround-

ing area has been subjected to a 

strong impact, the kick sensor 

may not operate properly.
If the kick sensor does not oper-

ate in the following situations, 

have the vehicle inspected by 

your Toyota dealer.
• The kick sensor or its surround-

ing area has been subjected to 

a strong impact.

145

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER HV_U

The open position of the power 
back door can be adjusted.

1

Stop the power back door at 
the desired position. 
(



P.137)

2

Press and hold the power 
back door switch on the back 
door for approximately 2 sec-
onds.

• When setting is complete, a 

buzzer will sound 4 times.

• The next time the power back 

door is opened, it will stop at 
that position.

■

Returning the power back door 

opening position to the default 

setting

Press and hold the power back door 

switch on the back door for approxi-

mately 7 seconds.
A buzzer will sound 4 times, pause, 
and then sound 2 more times. The 
next time the power back door is 
opened, it will stop at the default 
position.

■

When setting the open position 

of the back door by the 

multi-information display

The open position of the power back 

door can be adjusted using the 

multi-information display. (



P.530)

When opened, the power back door 

will open to the last position set 

using the power back door switch on 

the back door or on the multi-infor-

mation display.

NOTICE

• The lower center part of the rear 

bumper is scratched or dam-

aged.

●

Do not disassemble the rear 

bumper.

●

Do not attach stickers to the 

rear bumper.

●

Do not paint the rear bumper.

●

If a heavy object is attached to 

the power back door, disable 

the kick sensor.

Adjusting the open posi-
tion of the back door

146

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

HIGHLANDER HV_U

■

Antenna location

Antennas outside the cabin
Antennas inside the cabin
Antenna outside the luggage 
compartment

■

Effective range (areas within 

which the electronic key is 

detected)

When locking or unlocking the 
doors

The system can be operated when 
the electronic key is within about 2.3 
ft. (0.7 m) of an outside front door 
handle and back door. (Only the 
doors detecting the key can be 
operated.)

When starting the hybrid system 
or changing power switch 
modes

The system can be operated when 
the electronic key is inside the vehi-
cle.

■

Alarms and warning messages

A combination of exterior and inte-

rior alarms as well as warning mes-

sages shown on the 

multi-information display are used to 

prevent theft of the vehicle and acci-

dents resulting from erroneous 

operation. Take appropriate mea-

sures in response to any warning 

message on the multi-information 

display. (



P.476)

When only an alarm sounds, cir-

cumstances and correction proce-

dures are as follows.

●

When an exterior alarm sounds 

once for 5 seconds

Smart key system

The following operations 
can be performed simply by 
carrying the electronic key 
on your person, for example 
in your pocket. The driver 
should always carry the 
electronic key.



Locks and unlocks the 
doors (



P.131)



Locks and unlocks the back 
door (



P.136)



Starts and stops the hybrid 
system (



P.213)

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3

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HIGHLANDER HV_U

●

When an interior alarm sounds 

continuously

■

Battery-saving function

The battery-saving function will be 

activated in order to prevent the 

electronic key battery and the 

12-volt battery from being dis-

charged while the vehicle is not 

operated for a long time.

●

In the following situations, the 

smart key system may take some 

time to unlock the doors.

• The electronic key has been left in 

an area of approximately 6 ft. (2 

m) of the outside of the vehicle for 

10 minutes or longer.

• The smart key system has not 

been used for 5 days or longer.

●

If the smart key system has not 

been used for 14 days or longer, 

the doors cannot be unlocked at 

any doors except the driver’s door. 

In this case, take hold of the 

driver’s door handle, or use the 

wireless remote control or the 

mechanical key, to unlock the 

doors.

■

Turning an electronic key to 

battery-saving mode

When battery-saving mode is set, 

battery depletion is minimized by 

stopping the electronic key from 

receiving radio waves.

Press 

 twice while pressing and 

holding 

. Confirm that the elec-

tronic key indicator flashes 4 times.
While the battery-saving mode is 

set, the smart key system cannot be 

used. To cancel the function, press 

any of the electronic key buttons.

■

Conditions affecting operation

The smart key system uses weak 

radio waves. In the following situa-

tions, the communication between 

the electronic key and the vehicle 

may be affected, preventing the 

smart key system, wireless remote 

control and immobilizer system from 

operating properly. (Ways of cop-

ing:



P.496)

●

When the electronic key battery is 

depleted

●

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 the electronic key is in con-

tact with, or is covered by the fol-

lowing metallic objects

• Cards to which aluminum foil is 

attached

• Cigarette boxes that have alumi-

num foil inside

Situation

Correction 

procedure

An attempt was 
made to lock the 
vehicle while a door 
was open.

Close all of 
the doors 
and lock the 
doors again.

Situation

Correction 

procedure

The power switch 
was turned to ACC 
while the driver’s 
door was open (or 
the driver’s door was 
opened while the 
power switch was in 
ACC).

Turn the 
power 
switch off 
and close 
the driver’s 
door.

The power switch 
was turned off while 
the driver’s door was 
open.

Close the 
driver’s 
door.

148

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

HIGHLANDER HV_U

• Metallic wallets or bags

• Coins

• Hand warmers made of metal

• Media such as CDs and DVDs

●

When other wireless keys (that 

emit radio waves) are being used 

nearby

●

When carrying the electronic key 

together with the following devices 

that emit radio waves

• Portable radio, cellular phone, 

cordless phone or other wireless 

communication devices

• Another electronic key or a wire-

less key that emits radio waves

• Personal computers or personal 

digital assistants (PDAs)

• Digital audio players

• Portable game systems

●

If window tint with a metallic con-

tent or metallic objects are 

attached to the rear window

●

When the electronic key is placed 

near a battery charger or elec-

tronic devices

●

When the vehicle is parked in a 

pay parking spot where radio 

waves are emitted

■

Note for the entry function

●

Even when the electronic key is 

within the effective range (detec-

tion areas), the system may not 

operate properly in the following 

cases:

• The electronic key is too close to 

the window or outside door han-

dle, near the ground, or in a high 

place when the doors are locked 

or unlocked.

• The electronic key is on the instru-

ment panel, luggage compart-

ment, floor, or in the door pockets 

or glove box when the hybrid sys-

tem is started or power switch 

modes are changed.

●

Do not leave the electronic key on 

top of the instrument panel or near 

the door pockets when exiting the 

vehicle. Depending on the radio 

wave reception conditions, it may 

be detected by the antenna out-

side the cabin and the door will 

become lockable from the outside, 

possibly trapping the electronic 

key inside the vehicle.

●

As long as the electronic key is 

within the effective range, the 

doors may be locked or unlocked 

by anyone. However, only the 

doors detecting the electronic key 

can be used to unlock the vehicle.

●

Even if the electronic key is not 

inside the vehicle, it may be possi-

ble to start the hybrid system if the 

electronic key is near the window.

●

The doors may unlock or lock if a 

large amount of water splashes on 

the door handle, such as in the 

rain or in a car wash when the 

electronic key is within the effec-

tive range. (The doors will auto-

matically be locked after 

approximately 60 seconds if the 

doors are not opened and closed.)

●

If the wireless remote control is 

used to lock the doors when the 

electronic key is near the vehicle, 

there is a possibility that the door 

may not be unlocked by the entry 

function. (Use the wireless remote 

control to unlock the doors.)

●

Touching the door lock or unlock 

sensor while wearing gloves may 

prevent lock or unlock operation.

●

When the lock operation is per-

formed using the lock sensor, rec-

ognition signals will be shown up 

to two consecutive times. After 

this, no recognition signals will be 

given.

●

If the door handle becomes wet 

while the electronic key is within 

the effective range, the door may 

lock and unlock repeatedly. In that 

case, follow the following correc-

tion procedures to wash the vehi-

cle:

• Place the electronic key in a loca-

tion 6 ft. (2 m) or more away from 

the vehicle. (Take care to ensure 

that the key is not stolen.)

• Set the electronic key to bat-

149

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3

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HIGHLANDER HV_U

tery-saving mode to disable the 

smart key system. (



P.147)

●

If the electronic key is inside the 

vehicle and a door handle 

becomes wet during a car wash, a 

message may be shown on the 

multi-information display and a 

buzzer will sound outside the vehi-

cle. To turn off the alarm, lock all 

the doors.

●

The lock sensor may not work 

properly if it comes into contact 

with ice, snow, mud, etc. Clean 

the lock sensor and attempt to 

operate it again, or use the lock 

sensor on the lower part of the 

door handle.

●

A sudden handle operation or a 

handle operation immediately 

after entering the effective range 

may prevent the doors from being 

unlocked. Touch the door unlock 

sensor and check that the doors 

are unlocked before pulling the 

door handle again.

●

If there is another electronic key in 

the detection area, it may take 

slightly longer to unlock the doors 

after the door handle is gripped.

■

When the vehicle is not driven 

for extended periods

●

To prevent theft of the vehicle, do 

not leave the electronic key within 

6 ft. (2 m) of the vehicle.

●

The smart key system can be 

deactivated in advance. (



P.530)

●

Setting the electronic key to bat-

tery-saving mode helps to reduce 

key battery depletion. (



P.147)

■

To operate the system properly

Make sure to carry the electronic 

key when operating the system. Do 

not get the electronic key too close 

to the vehicle when operating the 

system from the outside of the vehi-

cle.
Depending on the position and hold-

ing condition of the electronic key, 

the key may not be detected cor-

rectly and the system may not oper-

ate properly. (The alarm may go off 

accidentally, or the door lock pre-

vention may not operate.)

■

If the smart key system does 

not operate properly

If the doors cannot be 

locked/unlocked using the smart key 

system, lock/unlock the doors by 

performing any of the following:

●

Bring the electronic key close to 

either front door handle and oper-

ate the entry function.

●

Operate the wireless remote con-

trol.

If the doors cannot be 

locked/unlocked using the above 

methods, use the mechanical key. 

(



P.496)

If the hybrid system cannot be 

started using the smart key system, 

refer to P.497.

■

Customization

Some functions can be customized. 

(



P.530)

■

If the smart key system has 

been deactivated in a custom-

ized setting

●

Locking and unlocking the doors: 

Use the wireless remote control or 

mechanical key. (



P.131, 496)

●

Starting the hybrid system and 

changing power switch modes: 



P.497

●

Stopping the hybrid system: 



P.215

150

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

HIGHLANDER HV_U

■

Certification for the smart key system



For vehicles sold in the U.S.A.

151

3-2. Opening, closing and locking the doors

3

Before driv

ing

HIGHLANDER HV_U



For vehicles sold in Canada