Have you ever wished you could start your car from the comfort of your home, especially on those chilly winter mornings when the thought of stepping into a freezing vehicle sends shivers down your spine? Well, with the advancements in automotive technology, that wish can now become a reality. The remote start feature in the 2021 Toyota Highlander allows you to start your engine from a distance, eliminating the need to brave the cold. However, as with any powerful tool, caution must be exercised to avoid potential dangers. Join us as we uncover the steps, regulations, and troubleshooting tips for using this convenient feature in your Toyota Highlander, ensuring a safe and hassle-free experience.
How To Remote Start 2021 Toyota Highlander
To remote start the 2021 Toyota Highlander, press and release the LOCK button twice, then hold the LOCK button for three seconds. The engine will run for 10 minutes and automatically shut off. You can stop the engine by pressing the UNLOCK button or holding the LOCK button for two seconds. The remote start feature also activates the HVAC controls. Additionally, the engine can be remotely started using the Toyota app with the Remote Connect feature. However, certain conditions may prevent remote start from working, such as low fuel, open doors, the transmission not in park mode, low battery, or a service engine light on. It’s important to check local regulations before using the remote start feature.
Key Points:
- Press and release LOCK button twice, then hold for three seconds to remote start.
- Engine runs for 10 minutes and shuts off automatically.
- Stop engine by pressing UNLOCK button or holding LOCK button for two seconds.
- Remote start also activates HVAC controls.
- Can be started using the Toyota app with Remote Connect feature.
- Check local regulations before using remote start.
Sources
https://support.toyota.com/s/article/How-do-I-start-the-ve-7424?language=en_US
https://www.wheelsjoint.com/how-to-remote-start-toyota-highlander-with-key-fob-or-mobile-device/
https://getjerry.com/driving/how-to-remote-start-your-toyota-highlander
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=687ikXoqRN4
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💡 Pro Tips:
1. Always double-check that your vehicle is parked in a well-ventilated area before using the remote start feature. This is crucial to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
2. If you want to activate the remote start feature, simply press the LOCK button on your key fob twice and then hold the LOCK button for three seconds. This will start the engine remotely, allowing you to cool or preheat the interior before entering the vehicle.
3. Keep in mind that the engine will only run for 10 minutes when using the remote start feature. After this time, it will automatically shut off. If you need to extend the running time, you’ll need to manually start the engine.
4. Opening any door while the engine is running through remote start will cause the engine to turn off. This is a safety feature to prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle.
5. In addition to starting the engine, the remote start feature also activates the HVAC controls. This means that you can set the desired temperature for the interior before getting inside the vehicle.
Park In a Well-Ventilated Area
When utilizing the remote start feature on the 2021 Toyota Highlander, it is crucial to ensure that the vehicle is parked in a well-ventilated area. This precautionary measure aims to prevent the build-up of carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas that can be harmful or even fatal if inhaled in high concentrations. By parking your Highlander in an area with sufficient airflow, you can safely enjoy the convenience of remote starting your vehicle without any potential risks or health hazards.
Press And Hold the Lock Button
To initiate the remote start on your 2021 Toyota Highlander, follow a simple and straightforward procedure. Start by pressing and releasing the LOCK button on your key fob twice, and then hold the LOCK button for three seconds until the engine kicks into action. This intuitive method allows you to conveniently start your vehicle’s engine from a distance, allowing it to cool or heat the interior, depending on your desired preference.
Engine Runs For 10 Minutes
When activated, the remote start feature on the 2021 Toyota Highlander automatically starts the engine, allowing it to run for a predetermined period. In this case, the engine continues to operate for a duration of 10 minutes. This timeframe allows sufficient time to cool the car’s interior during hot summer days or preheat it on chilly winter mornings. It is crucial to note that the engine will automatically shut off after the 10-minute interval to conserve fuel and ensure the safety of your vehicle.
Opening a Door Shuts Off the Engine
One important aspect to keep in mind when using the remote start feature on your 2021 Toyota Highlander is that opening any door while the engine is running will cause it to shut off immediately. This safety measure prevents any accidental engagement of the vehicle’s controls while unattended. Hence, to maintain the engine’s operation, it is essential to refrain from unlocking or opening any doors during the remote start sequence.
Use the Unlock Button To Stop
In instances where you need to stop the engine during a remote start session, the 2021 Toyota Highlander allows for convenient control using the key fob. Simply press the UNLOCK button, and the engine will promptly cease its operation. Alternatively, holding the LOCK button for two seconds accomplishes the same outcome. These user-friendly commands provide flexibility and ease of use when bringing the remote start sequence to an end.
Remote Start Activates HVAC
Besides the benefit of starting the engine remotely, the Highlander’s remote start feature also activates the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) controls. This means that not only can you enjoy a preheated or cooled interior, but you can also customize the climate settings to ensure optimal comfort upon entering your vehicle. The Highlander’s dedication to providing a comprehensive remote start experience elevates overall convenience and enhances the driving experience.
Toyota App For Remote Start
For users who prefer a more streamlined and technologically advanced experience, the 2021 Toyota Highlander offers the option of utilizing the Toyota app with the Remote Connect feature to remotely start the engine. Through this innovative solution, you can start your Highlander from virtually anywhere using your smartphone. This added convenience ensures that you can initiate the remote start process even when you are not in close proximity to your vehicle.
Possible Reasons For Engine Not Starting
While remote start provides immense convenience, there are certain conditions that may prevent it from functioning correctly. If your engine fails to start remotely, there are various potential reasons for this occurrence. These include having a low fuel level, doors that are not fully closed, the transmission not being in park mode, a low battery in the key fob, or an illuminated service engine light indicating a potential issue with the vehicle. Ensuring that these factors are addressed before attempting remote start will help guarantee a seamless experience.
Check State Laws Before Using
Before utilizing the remote start feature on your 2021 Toyota Highlander, it is essential to be aware of state laws and regulations that may govern its use. Different regions may have specific restrictions or guidelines concerning remote start functionality. Therefore, it is crucial to check your local regulations to ensure that you are operating your vehicle within the legal boundaries. Adhering to these laws promotes responsible and safe usage of the remote start feature on your Highlander.
As a seasoned mechanic and proud owner of three successful car workshops, I’ve dedicated my life to helping people just like you overcome their everyday automotive challenges. I created this website as a labor of love, with a simple mission: to make car maintenance and repairs more accessible and approachable for the “average joe.”