Have you ever felt frustrated with your Toyota Highlander’s auto shut off feature? You’re not alone. While this innovative technology aims to reduce emissions and save fuel, it can also lead to potential crashes and inconvenience. But fear not! In this guide, we will walk you through the simple steps on how to turn off the auto shut off feature in your Toyota Highlander. Say goodbye to those unexpected stalls and hello to a more controllable and comfortable driving experience. So, buckle up and join us as we uncover the secret to taking back control of your Highlander’s auto shut off feature.
How To Turn Off Auto Shut Off Toyota Highlander
To turn off the auto shut off feature in a Toyota Highlander, simply press the “A” button on the dash labeled with a circle around it. This will disable the feature and illuminate an indicator on the instrument panel. While there is no permanent option to disable the feature, it can be temporarily turned off by pressing the “disable” or “off” button. The auto shut off feature is designed to conserve fuel and reduce pollutants, resulting in fuel savings of up to 5%. However, it is important to note that the 2020 Toyota Highlander SUVs are being recalled due to potential crashes if the auto shut off feature stalls while driving. Toyota dealers will upgrade the engine management software to fix the issue.
Key Points:
- Press “A” button to turn off auto shut off feature
- Indicator will illuminate on instrument panel
- Temporary “disable” or “off” button available
- Designed to save fuel and reduce pollutants
- 2020 Toyota Highlander SUVs recalled due to stalling issue
- Dealers will upgrade engine management software to fix the problem.
Sources
https://www.toyotanation.com/threads/disable-the-auto-engine-stop-start-function-how.1662788/
https://gearshifters.org/toyota/how-to-turn-off-auto-shut-off-toyota-highlander/
https://vehq.com/disable-auto-start-stop-in-a-toyota-highlander/
https://www.wheelsjoint.com/how-to-disable-auto-start-stop-on-toyota-highlander/
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💡 Pro Tips:
1. If you’re unable to permanently disable the auto shut off feature on your Toyota Highlander, you can try using the air conditioning as a workaround. Turning on the air conditioning can sometimes prevent the engine from automatically shutting off.
2. It’s important to note that the fuel savings and emissions reduction from the auto shut off feature will vary depending on your driving style and the time spent at idle. If you frequently find yourself in heavy traffic or frequently stopping for long periods of time, you may see more significant benefits.
3. Start-stop systems, like the auto shut off feature on the Toyota Highlander, are designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce pollution. However, it’s worth mentioning that these systems may not function under certain conditions, such as when the engine is still cold or when the battery is low.
4. If your Toyota Highlander is experiencing any issues related to the auto shut off feature, such as stalling while driving, it’s important to take it to a Toyota dealer for a software upgrade. This recall is necessary to address the potential safety concerns associated with the feature.
5. Keep in mind that the lifespan of batteries used in start-stop systems may be shorter than conventional lead-acid batteries. If you’re in need of a replacement battery for your Toyota Highlander, consider opting for long-lasting stop/start batteries from reputable brands such as Delkor and ACDelco.
The Toyota Highlander is a popular SUV that comes with a range of innovative features aimed at improving fuel efficiency and reducing pollution. One such feature is the auto start and stop technology, which automatically shuts off the engine when the car is at a stop, saving fuel and reducing emissions. However, there may be situations where you would prefer to turn off this feature. In this article, we will explore how to turn off auto shut off on a Toyota Highlander and maximize fuel efficiency.
Turning Off Auto Shut Off
To turn off the auto start and stop feature on your Toyota Highlander, you need to locate a button on the dash labeled with the letter “A” in a circle. This button is specifically designed to disable the auto shut off feature. Simply press the button, and the feature will be turned off. To indicate that the feature is disabled, an indicator icon will illuminate on the instrument panel.
Disabling The Auto Start And Stop Feature
The auto start and stop feature on the Toyota Highlander can be temporarily disabled by pressing either the “disable” or “off” button. This will turn off the feature for the current drive, but it will be re-enabled when you start the car again. Unfortunately, there is currently no permanent option to disable the auto shut off feature. It is important to note that this feature is designed to conserve fuel and reduce pollutants, so consider the potential impact on fuel efficiency before disabling it completely.
Temporary Disable Option
As mentioned earlier, the auto start and stop feature can be temporarily disabled by pressing the “disable” or “off” button. This option allows you to turn off the feature for the current drive, but it will be reactivated when you start the car again. Some drivers prefer to use this option when they are in heavy traffic or other situations where frequent stops and starts occur. However, it is essential to remember that the auto start and stop feature is designed to save fuel and reduce emissions, so consider the benefits before using this option.
Fuel And Pollution Reduction Benefits
The auto start and stop feature on the Toyota Highlander can provide significant fuel savings. According to tests conducted by AAA, this technology can result in fuel savings of up to 5%. By automatically shutting off the engine when the car is at a stop, the Highlander can conserve fuel and reduce pollutants, contributing to a more environmentally friendly driving experience. These benefits are particularly noticeable in stop-and-go traffic situations where the car remains stationary for extended periods.
Battery And Starter Motor Impact
There is no significant impact on battery or starter motor life due to the use of the auto start and stop feature in the Toyota Highlander. The system is designed to minimize wear on these components and ensure reliable functionality. However, it is worth noting that the lifespan of stop/start batteries, which are specifically designed for this technology, may be shorter than conventional lead-acid batteries. If you are concerned about battery life, it is recommended to choose reputable brands such as Delkor and ACDelco, known for their long-lasting stop/start batteries.
Toyota Highlander Recall
In the year 2020, Toyota Highlander SUVs were subject to a recall due to potential issues with the auto start and stop feature. If this feature stalls while driving, it could lead to potential crashes. As a result, Toyota dealers are conducting a recall campaign to address this issue. The engine management software will be upgraded to ensure the proper functioning of the auto start and stop feature, providing drivers with peace of mind and ensuring their safety.
Upgrade For Engine Management Software
The upgrade for the engine management software is a crucial step in addressing the recall issue for the Toyota Highlander. By updating the software, Toyota aims to resolve any potential problems with the auto start and stop feature. This upgrade ensures that the feature functions as intended, providing drivers with the benefits of improved fuel efficiency and reduced pollution. If you own a Toyota Highlander, it is advisable to contact your nearest Toyota dealer to schedule the software upgrade to ensure your vehicle’s optimal performance.
In summary, the auto start and stop feature on the Toyota Highlander is designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce pollution. To disable this feature, simply press the “A” button on the dash. While there is no permanent option to disable it, the temporary disable button enables drivers to turn off the feature for the current drive. This technology has the potential to save fuel and reduce emissions, but it is important to consider the benefits and impact on fuel efficiency before turning it off. Additionally, the battery and starter motor life are not significantly affected by this feature, but it is recommended to choose reputable brands for long-lasting stop/start batteries. Lastly, if you own a 2020 Toyota Highlander, make sure to check if your vehicle is subject to the recall and schedule the necessary upgrade for the engine management software to ensure your safety.
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.”