Have you ever wished you could start your car from the comfort of your home, especially on those chilly mornings? Well, if you’re a proud owner of a Toyota Highlander from 2018 or later, your wish can come true! With the latest technology advancements, remote starting your Toyota Highlander has never been easier. Whether you prefer the convenience of the key fob or the simplicity of the Toyota app, you can have your engine purring before you even step foot outside. In this article, we’ll explore the ins and outs of remote starting your Highlander, including tips and tricks, important reminders, and even potential insurance savings. So buckle up and get ready to learn how to make your daily commute a breeze!
How To Remote Start Toyota Highlander
To remote start a Toyota Highlander, you can use the LOCK button on the key fob or the Toyota app. Press and hold the LOCK button on the key fob twice for three seconds to start the vehicle. Alternatively, if your Highlander has the Remote Connect feature, you can use the Toyota app to remote start the car. Simply install the app, add the Highlander, and follow the prompts to activate remote services. Once set up, press and hold the START ENGINE button on the Toyota app to remotely start the vehicle. The engine will run for 10 minutes before automatically shutting off, and you can turn it off early by pressing the UNLOCK button on the key fob. Remember to check that all doors and the hood are closed, the gas tank is not empty, the battery is charged, and there are no check engine lights before attempting to remote start. It’s worth noting that remote start options are only available for automatic transmission Highlanders, and installing an aftermarket remote start kit may void your warranty.
Key Points:
- Remote start can be done using the LOCK button on the key fob or the Toyota app.
- Press the LOCK button twice and hold it down for three seconds to remote start using the key fob.
- The engine will run for 10 minutes before automatically shutting off.
- Must be within 80 feet of the car to remote start it.
- Remote starting also activates the climate control with the previous temperature setting.
- If Highlander has Remote Connect feature, remote start can be done through the Toyota app.
Sources
https://support.toyota.com/s/article/How-do-I-start-the-ve-7424?language=en_US
https://getjerry.com/driving/how-to-remote-start-your-toyota-highlander
https://www.wheelsjoint.com/how-to-remote-start-toyota-highlander-with-key-fob-or-mobile-device/
https://www.caranddriver.com/car-accessories/a38333276/remote-start-for-toyota-highlander/
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💡 Pro Tips:
1. If you want to extend the duration of the remote start, you can press the LOCK button twice and hold it down for longer than three seconds. This will keep the engine running for an additional ten minutes.
2. To activate the climate control during remote start, make sure that the temperature settings were previously adjusted to your desired level before turning off the car. This will ensure that the climate control system automatically applies the same settings when the car starts remotely.
3. If your Toyota Highlander is equipped with the Remote Connect feature, you can take advantage of additional remote start capabilities through the Toyota app. Simply download the app, add your Highlander, and follow the prompts to activate the remote services.
4. To turn off the engine before the ten-minute automatic shut-off period, you can simply press the UNLOCK button on your key fob. This will stop the engine from running remotely and save fuel.
5. Keep in mind that remote start options are only available for Toyota Highlanders with automatic transmissions. Manual transmission vehicles do not have this feature as it is not compatible with the mechanics of manual transmissions.
Key Fob Remote Start Method
Toyota Highlanders from 2018 and later models are equipped with remote start functionality, allowing drivers to conveniently start their vehicles remotely. One of the methods to initiate remote start is by using the key fob. To activate this feature, simply press the LOCK button on the key fob twice and hold it down for three seconds. It is important to note that this method is only applicable to automatic transmission Highlanders.
When the remote start is successfully engaged, the Highlander’s engine will run for a duration of 10 minutes. After the 10-minute mark, the engine will automatically shut off. This ensures that the car doesn’t run unnecessarily for an extended period.
Toyota App Remote Start Method
Another convenient way to remote start your Toyota Highlander is through the Toyota app. If your Highlander is equipped with the Remote Connect feature, you can easily initiate a remote start using this method. To begin, you need to install the Toyota app on your smartphone and add your Highlander to the app. Follow the prompts to activate the remote services.
Once set up, initiating a remote start is as simple as pressing and holding the START ENGINE button on the Toyota app. Similar to the key fob method, the engine will run for 10 minutes before automatically shutting off. In case you wish to stop the engine before the designated duration, you can press the UNLOCK button on the key fob to manually turn it off.
Duration Of Remote Start
Regardless of whether you use the key fob or the Toyota app, the remote start feature on the Toyota Highlander allows the engine to run for a duration of 10 minutes. This timeframe has been predetermined by Toyota to optimize fuel efficiency and minimize any potential risks associated with the extended operation of the vehicle.
Range And Proximity For Remote Start
To effectively use the remote start feature, you must be within a range of 80 feet from your Toyota Highlander. This ensures that the signal from the key fob or the Toyota app can reach the vehicle’s system and activate the remote start function. It is essential to be mindful of this range limitation to prevent any inconvenience or frustration when attempting to start your vehicle remotely.
Climate Control Activation
When remote starting your Toyota Highlander, the climate control system will be activated as well. This means that the vehicle will automatically adjust the interior temperature based on the previous temperature setting. You can step into a comfortably heated or cooled car, depending on your preferred settings. This feature ensures that you have a pleasant driving experience before even stepping foot inside your Highlander.
Remote Start With Remote Connect Feature
If your Toyota Highlander is equipped with Remote Connect, you can enjoy an even more seamless remote start experience. By utilizing the Toyota app, you can initiate a remote start from virtually anywhere. This feature provides an added level of convenience and flexibility as you can start your car remotely without being in proximity to it. Simply follow the previously mentioned steps to install the Toyota app, add your Highlander, and access the remote services.
Aftermarket Remote Start And Warranty Impact
While aftermarket remote start kits may be available for those who desire this feature in their Toyota Highlander, it is crucial to be cautious about potential warranty implications. Installing an aftermarket remote start kit can potentially void your vehicle’s warranty. It is recommended to consult with your dealership or authorized service center before considering any modifications.
Keyless Entry And Start Button Features
Starting from 2021, Toyota Highlanders come equipped with keyless entry and a start button. This additional feature further enhances the convenience and accessibility of starting your vehicle. With this capability, you can simply press the start button and enjoy a hassle-free start-up process.
Troubleshooting Tips
In the event that you encounter issues with your Toyota Highlander’s remote start functionality, there are a few troubleshooting tips that may help resolve the problem. First, ensure that all doors and the hood of the vehicle are properly closed. Also, check the gas tank and ensure that the vehicle has sufficient fuel to start. Additionally, it is important to verify that the vehicle’s battery is in good condition as a weak or depleted battery can affect the remote start function. Lastly, if the check engine light is illuminated, it is recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a certified technician to identify and address any underlying issues.
Tips For Remote Start Users
For users who frequently utilize the remote start feature on their Toyota Highlander, there are a few tips to enhance the overall experience. Firstly, it is advisable to activate the anti-theft feature on your vehicle to ensure the safety and security of your Highlander while it is remotely started. It is also recommended to utilize the auto mode on the climate control system to maintain comfort throughout the remote start period. Lastly, remember that the engine will automatically shut off after 10 minutes to conserve fuel. If you require the engine to run for a longer duration, you will need to manually restart it.
In addition to the Toyota Highlander, various other Toyota models offer remote start functionality. These include vehicles such as the Toyota Camry, Toyota RAV4, and Toyota Sienna, among others. To determine if your specific Toyota model has remote start capabilities, refer to the owner’s manual for detailed instructions.
It is worth noting that certain insurance providers, such as Allstate, may offer discounts on auto insurance premiums for vehicles equipped with remote start features. By minimizing the risks associated with cold weather starts, remote start functionality can potentially contribute to a safer and more secure driving experience.
In conclusion, the remote start feature in the Toyota Highlander provides a convenient way to warm up or cool down your vehicle before entering it. Whether using the key fob or the Toyota app, you can easily initiate a remote start with just a few simple steps. By understanding the range, duration, climate control activation, and troubleshooting tips, you can fully utilize and enjoy this feature in your Toyota 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.”
