As a Toyota Highlander owner, you’re likely familiar with the vehicle’s impressive features and capabilities. One feature that many drivers find particularly useful is remote start, which allows you to start your vehicle from a distance, ensuring it’s comfortable and ready to go when you are. But can you remote start your Toyota Highlander? In this article, we’ll delve into the details of remote start technology, its benefits, and how it applies to the Toyota Highlander.
Understanding Remote Start Technology
Remote start technology, also known as remote engine start or remote vehicle start, is a feature that allows you to start your vehicle’s engine from a distance using a remote control or mobile app. This feature is typically available on vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission and can be activated using a remote key fob, smartphone app, or other device. When you initiate the remote start feature, the vehicle’s engine will start, and the heating or cooling system will activate, ensuring a comfortable cabin temperature.
Benefits of Remote Start
The benefits of remote start technology are numerous. For one, it provides convenience and comfort, allowing you to start your vehicle and adjust the temperature to your liking before you even get in. This is especially useful on cold winter mornings or hot summer days. Additionally, remote start can help to:
- Improve safety by allowing you to start your vehicle in a secure location, reducing the risk of carjacking or other crimes
- Reduce wear and tear on your vehicle’s engine and other components by warming up the engine before driving
- Enhance accessibility for drivers with mobility issues, making it easier to enter and exit the vehicle
How Remote Start Works
Remote start technology uses a combination of hardware and software components to function. The system typically includes:
- A remote key fob or mobile app that sends a signal to the vehicle’s computer
- A receiver module that receives the signal and activates the vehicle’s engine
- A computer module that controls the vehicle’s systems, including the engine, heating and cooling, and security features
When you initiate the remote start feature, the remote key fob or mobile app sends a signal to the receiver module, which then activates the vehicle’s engine and other systems. The computer module ensures that all systems are functioning properly and that the vehicle is secure.
Remote Start on the Toyota Highlander
So, can you remote start your Toyota Highlander? The answer is yes, but it depends on the model year and trim level of your vehicle. The Toyota Highlander has offered remote start as a standard or optional feature on certain trim levels since 2014.
Model Year and Trim Level
To determine if your Toyota Highlander is equipped with remote start, you’ll need to check the specifications for your model year and trim level. Here are some general guidelines:
- 2014-2016 Toyota Highlander: Remote start was available as an optional feature on the XLE, Limited, and Platinum trim levels
- 2017-2019 Toyota Highlander: Remote start was available as a standard feature on the Limited and Platinum trim levels, and as an optional feature on the XLE trim level
- 2020 and later Toyota Highlander: Remote start is available as a standard feature on the Limited and Platinum trim levels, and as an optional feature on the L and LE trim levels
Using Remote Start on Your Toyota Highlander
If your Toyota Highlander is equipped with remote start, you can use the feature to start your vehicle from a distance. Here’s how:
- Make sure your vehicle is in a well-ventilated area, away from any flammable materials
- Ensure that the vehicle’s transmission is in park (automatic) or neutral (manual)
- Press the remote start button on your key fob or mobile app
- The vehicle’s engine will start, and the heating or cooling system will activate
- The vehicle’s lights will flash to indicate that the remote start feature has been activated
Important Safety Considerations
While remote start can be a convenient and useful feature, it’s essential to use it responsibly and safely. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind:
- Always start your vehicle in a well-ventilated area to avoid carbon monoxide buildup
- Never start your vehicle in an enclosed space, such as a garage or parking structure
- Keep the remote key fob or mobile app out of reach of children to avoid accidental activation
- Always check your surroundings before starting your vehicle to ensure it’s safe to do so
Conclusion
Remote start is a convenient and useful feature that can enhance your driving experience and provide added comfort and safety. If you’re a Toyota Highlander owner, you may be able to use remote start on your vehicle, depending on the model year and trim level. By understanding how remote start works and using it responsibly, you can enjoy the benefits of this feature and make your driving experience more enjoyable. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take necessary safety precautions when using remote start on your Toyota Highlander.
| Model Year | Trim Level | Remote Start Availability |
|---|---|---|
| 2014-2016 | XLE, Limited, Platinum | Optional |
| 2017-2019 | Limited, Platinum | Standard |
| 2017-2019 | XLE | Optional |
| 2020 and later | Limited, Platinum | Standard |
| 2020 and later | L, LE | Optional |
By referencing the table above, you can determine the availability of remote start on your Toyota Highlander based on the model year and trim level. Always consult your owner’s manual or contact a Toyota dealership for more information on using remote start on your vehicle.
Can I remote start my Toyota Highlander using the Toyota app?
The Toyota app, also known as the Toyota Remote Connect app, allows users to remote start their vehicles, including the Toyota Highlander, from a distance. However, this feature requires a subscription to the Remote Connect service, which is available for certain Toyota models, including the Highlander. The app also provides various other features, such as locking and unlocking doors, checking vehicle status, and locating the vehicle.
To use the remote start feature through the Toyota app, ensure that your Highlander is equipped with the necessary hardware, such as a remote start system and a compatible infotainment system. You can check your vehicle’s specifications or consult with a Toyota dealer to confirm compatibility. Additionally, make sure you have a stable internet connection and that your app is updated to the latest version. Once you have met these requirements, you can follow the in-app instructions to remote start your Highlander, and the vehicle will be ready for you when you arrive.
Do all Toyota Highlander models come with remote start capability?
Not all Toyota Highlander models come with remote start capability. The availability of remote start depends on the model year, trim level, and optional features chosen. Generally, higher trim levels, such as the Limited or Platinum, are more likely to have remote start as a standard or optional feature. For example, the 2020 Toyota Highlander Limited and Platinum trims come with a remote start system, while the lower trims, such as the L and LE, do not.
If your Toyota Highlander does not come with a factory-installed remote start system, you may be able to add it as an aftermarket feature. However, this can be more complex and may require professional installation. It is essential to consult with a Toyota dealer or a reputable automotive electronics specialist to determine the best option for your vehicle. They can assess your Highlander’s compatibility and provide guidance on the installation process, ensuring that any aftermarket remote start system is integrated safely and correctly.
How do I remote start my Toyota Highlander using the key fob?
To remote start your Toyota Highlander using the key fob, ensure that your vehicle is equipped with a remote start system and that the feature is enabled. Typically, the remote start button on the key fob is marked with a circular arrow icon. Press and hold this button for a few seconds until the vehicle’s parking lights flash, indicating that the remote start sequence has begun. The engine will then start, and the vehicle will be ready for you to drive.
The remote start process using the key fob may vary depending on your Toyota Highlander’s model year and trim level. It is recommended to consult your owner’s manual or contact a Toyota dealer for specific instructions on how to remote start your vehicle. Additionally, ensure that you are in a safe and well-ventilated area when remote starting your vehicle, as the exhaust fumes can be harmful. It is also important to note that the remote start feature may have a time limit, after which the engine will automatically shut off, so be sure to check your vehicle’s settings and adjust as needed.
Can I remote start my Toyota Highlander if it has a push-button start system?
If your Toyota Highlander has a push-button start system, you can still remote start the vehicle, but the process might be slightly different. In this case, you will need to use the Toyota Remote Connect app or the remote start feature on your key fob, if equipped. The push-button start system does not directly impact the remote start capability, but it may require you to follow specific steps to enable the feature.
When remote starting a Toyota Highlander with a push-button start system, ensure that the vehicle is in park and that the parking brake is engaged. You can then use the remote start feature on your key fob or through the Toyota app to start the engine. The vehicle’s systems, including the climate control and radio, may also be activated to a preset state. It is essential to consult your owner’s manual or contact a Toyota dealer to understand the specific remote start procedures for your vehicle, as the process may vary depending on the model year and trim level.
How far away can I be from my Toyota Highlander to remote start it?
The distance from which you can remote start your Toyota Highlander depends on the strength of the signal between the key fob or the Toyota Remote Connect app and the vehicle’s remote start system. Typically, the range for remote start using the key fob is around 80 to 100 feet, although this can vary depending on the surroundings and any obstacles that may interfere with the signal.
When using the Toyota Remote Connect app, the range is essentially limitless, as long as you have a stable internet connection and the app is connected to your vehicle. This means you can remote start your Toyota Highlander from anywhere, whether you are at home, in the office, or on the go. However, keep in mind that the remote start feature may have certain limitations, such as a time limit or requirements for the vehicle to be in a specific state (e.g., parked and locked), so be sure to check your vehicle’s settings and the app’s instructions for more information.
Is it safe to remote start my Toyota Highlander in an enclosed space?
It is not recommended to remote start your Toyota Highlander in an enclosed space, such as a garage or a parking structure, due to the risk of carbon monoxide buildup. When the engine is running in an enclosed space, the exhaust fumes can accumulate and become hazardous to your health. Remote starting your vehicle in a well-ventilated area is essential to prevent this risk.
Before remote starting your Toyota Highlander, ensure that it is parked in a safe and well-ventilated location, away from any enclosed spaces or flammable materials. Additionally, be aware of any local regulations or guidelines regarding remote starting vehicles in certain areas. If you must remote start your vehicle in a garage, consider installing a carbon monoxide detector or ensuring that the garage is well-ventilated to minimize the risk. Always prioritize your safety and the safety of those around you when using the remote start feature.