In today’s digital world, car manufacturers are continuously improving the way drivers interact with their vehicles. Toyota, a global leader in automotive innovation, offers the Toyota app—an essential tool for drivers seeking greater control, convenience, and connectivity. With features like remote start, lock/unlock, vehicle diagnostics, and even charging schedules for plug-in hybrids, the Toyota app has become a game-changer for Toyota owners. But here’s the burning question: Can you connect two phones to the Toyota app? And if so, what are the benefits, limitations, and best practices?
In this detailed guide, we explore everything you need to know about using multiple phones with the Toyota app, how the sharing system works, and how to effectively manage a multi-user experience with your Toyota vehicle.
Understanding the Toyota App and Its Capabilities
Before diving into the topic of connecting multiple devices, it’s important to understand what the Toyota app does and why it matters. This mobile application, available on both iOS and Android platforms, is designed to integrate with your Toyota’s vehicle systems via a built-in embedded modem or smartphone connectivity (depending on the model).
Key Features of the Toyota App
- Remote Start: Start your vehicle remotely for pre-conditioning your cabin space.
- Door Lock/Unlock: Lock or unlock the vehicle remotely if you’ve forgotten or misplaced your key fob.
- Vehicle Finder: Locate your car in a parked lot using GPS tracking.
- Vehicle Health Reports: Get maintenance alerts and diagnostics directly to your phone.
- Horn and Lights: Trigger flashing lights and horn to locate the car visually or audibly.
- Plug-in Hybrid Charging: Schedule and monitor battery charging for PHEV models.
This suite of features is all managed through a user account linked to the vehicle’s unique VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). The app communicates with the car through a cloud-based system, allowing owners to access real-time services and information seamlessly.
Can You Connect Two Phones to the Toyota App?
The short answer is: Yes, you can connect multiple phones to the Toyota app. Toyota allows more than one phone to be associated with a vehicle through a feature known as “Vehicle Sharing.” This functionality enables multiple users—such as family members, partners, or coworkers—to access the app’s remote features for the same car.
How Vehicle Sharing Works
When you register your vehicle to your Toyota account, you’re designated as the primary user or “Owner.” Toyota allows you to invite additional users via their email addresses. These users can then download the Toyota app, link it to the vehicle, and gain access to the features you grant them—without needing a separate subscription or vehicle registration.
Supported Platforms
The Toyota app supports:
– iOS (iPhone 7 or newer, compatible with iOS 14 and later)
– Android (devices running Android 8.0 or higher)
This means both Android and iOS users can connect to the same Toyota vehicle.
Number of Connected Devices
Toyota doesn’t officially specify a limit to the number of devices or users that can be added to one vehicle. However, based on user reports and system functionality, the app typically allows for up to three users to be shared on a single vehicle at one time.
Setting Up Multiple Phones on the Toyota App
Connecting two or more phones to the Toyota app requires a few simple steps through the app’s user interface. Here’s how the process works:
Step-by-Step Guide to Sharing Access
- Download and Log In: First, the primary user must download the Toyota app and link it to their vehicle.
- Vehicle Registration: Ensure the car is properly registered using the vehicle’s VIN and owner credentials.
- Access Settings: Open the “Settings” menu in the app and select “Vehicle Access” or “Sharing.”
- Invite a User: Enter the email address of the person you want to grant access to. Toyota will send them an invitation to receive app privileges.
- Acceptance and Setup: The new user will receive an email, prompting them to download the Toyota app and complete their account setup before gaining access.
- Admin Console: From the primary account, you can manage permissions—like giving one user full access and another limited access.
Once completed, each connected user will be able to operate remote functions directly from their respective device.
Permissions and Access Levels for Shared Users
One of the most important aspects of multiple-device connectivity is access control. Toyota allows granular control over who can perform what functions.
Varieties of Access Control
| Access Type | Permissions |
|---|---|
| Primary Owner | Full access to all features—remote start, lock/unlock, charging control (if applicable), diagnostics, and share settings. |
| Shared User | Customizable access to specific features controlled by the primary owner. Can be limited to lock/unlock, find vehicle, or horn/lights only. |
Customizing User Privileges
Toyota app users can adjust the permissions for each linked user. For instance:
– A parent can give teen access to location services but not remote start functions.
– A spouse might receive full app access for daily use.
– A mechanic or valet can be given temporary access with restrictions to basic vehicle location and door controls.
This flexibility ensures security while maximizing convenience.
Benefits of Connecting Two Phones to the Toyota App
While it might seem like a luxury feature at first, multi-device connectivity offers practical and strategic benefits for various Toyota users.
Enhanced Convenience for Families
Families who share a vehicle can benefit greatly from multi-device app access. Both parents or caregivers can control the car from their respective devices, check vehicle health, or even start the engine on a cold winter morning.
Co-Ownership and Shared Responsibilities
For couples or group owners sharing a Toyota vehicle, multi-access eliminates the hassle of sharing a single phone or key fob. Everyone can access the vehicle remotely and manage maintenance alerts or service reminders through their own device.
Business Fleet Management
Toyota app sharing also has potential for small businesses or corporate fleets. Company vehicle managers can grant access to drivers or administrators, allowing them to remotely manage a set of vehicles all through their personal smartphones.
Temporary Access Control
If you’re lending your car to a friend or letting your vehicle be parked by valets, temporary app sharing offers a better way to grant controlled access without compromising security.
Common Issues and Limitations
Although connecting two phones to the Toyota app is designed to be seamless, there are occasional issues and limitations users might encounter:
Requirement for Email Registration
Each user must have a registered email address linked to a valid Toyota Connect account. This can be an issue if one user does not have a compatible smartphone or is not tech-savvy.
Internet and Signal Coverage
The app relies on both your mobile internet and the vehicle’s internal modem. If either has signal issues or poor network connectivity, app functions may be slow or unresponsive.
Apple vs. Android Compatibility
While Toyota supports both iOS and Android, there may be minor differences in performance or user interface experience between operating systems. These differences are negligible but might affect user preference.
Dependency on In-vehicle Equipment
Some Toyota models—especially older ones—may not support full Toyota app functionality. Only vehicles equipped with embedded modems (e.g., those with Toyota SmartConnect) or newer systems like Toyota Connected Services will allow for complete multi-user access.
Eligibility and Availability by Model Year
Not all Toyota vehicles support the full Toyota app and multi-phone syncing features. Eligibility largely depends on:
- Vehicle Model: Features may vary by model (e.g., Camry, Corolla, Prius, RAV4, etc.)
- Trim Level: Higher trims tend to have more built-in connectivity features.
- Model Year: Toyota app support generally starts with 2017 models, with robust features available in 2020 and newer.
Toyota App Compatibility Overview
| Model Year | Embedded Modem Available | Multiuser App Support |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 and Older | Limited or None | No |
| 2017–2019 | Some Limited Models | Limited |
| 2020 and Newer | Standard on Most Models | Full Support with Sharing |
To confirm whether your Toyota model is compatible with multi-device connectivity, visit Toyota’s official website or contact your local Toyota dealership.
Best Practices for Managing Shared Access
To ensure a smooth user experience and maintain security, follow these recommended strategies:
Keep Your List Up to Date
When someone no longer needs access—like a roommate, babysitter, or employee—remove them from your shared list immediately in the app’s access settings.
Assign Clear Roles
Take advantage of the permission settings to give full access only to people who need all features. Limit functions for others to avoid misuse or accidental activations.
Use Unique Email Addresses
Each shared user must use a unique email address for setup. Sharing a single login between multiple people is not supported and can lead to security or access issues.
Regularly Check App Updates
Toyota occasionally releases updates to improve app functionality and fix bugs. Keeping your app updated ensures better user experience for all devices linked to the car.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you run into issues while adding a secondary user or trying to control the vehicle from multiple devices, consider these troubleshooting tips:
- Log Out and Back In: Try logging out from the app on a device, then logging in again.
- Check App Permissions: Verify that the app has permission for location, camera, and notifications.
- Verify Email Invitations: Sometimes invites might go to spam—check the email inbox carefully.
- Restart the App: Fully close the Toyota app and reopen it to refresh the connection.
- Reset Sharing Permissions: If a user is no longer responding, consider revoking access and re-inviting them.
Future Developments and Expectations
Toyota is committed to expanding its digital ecosystem. With advancements in vehicle-to-phone connectivity, cloud-based vehicle management, and integration with smart home systems like Alexa and Google Home, the Toyota app is expected to evolve significantly.
We may soon see:
– Third-party device compatibility with wearable devices.
– Vehicle access without smartphones, like through digital keys via NFC or face recognition.
– Improved access control with customizable, temporary or scheduled permissions.
Toyota’s continued innovation suggests even more robust multi-device access in the years ahead.
Conclusion: Embracing a Smarter Way to Connect
To answer the central question directly: Yes, you can connect two phones (and even more devices) to the Toyota app through its vehicle sharing feature. This is particularly useful for families, co-owners, or business users who share a vehicle but want independent access.
Thanks to the Toyota app’s flexible permissions system, each user can be granted the precise level of access needed, while the primary owner retains admin control. As long as your Toyota model supports embedded connectivity features, you’re all set to take full advantage of this modern convenience.
By understanding the setup process, managing user permissions, and being aware of limitations, you can enjoy enhanced usability and better manage your vehicle from anywhere, using any compatible device. The Toyota app is more than an accessory—it’s a gateway to making car ownership more connected, intuitive, and family-friendly.
If you’re interested in Toyota’s digital services, make sure to stay updated on future upgrades and features. The future of vehicle interaction is here, and it’s smarter than ever.
Can I connect two phones to the Toyota App simultaneously?
Yes, the Toyota App allows for multiple phones to be connected to a single vehicle, but there are limitations based on the type of account and vehicle system. Typically, up to five different devices can be registered with a single Toyota account, and multiple accounts can be linked to the same vehicle. However, not all features can be used simultaneously by different users. For example, remote start, door lock control, or climate settings might be restricted to one user at a time, depending on the vehicle’s configuration.
To ensure both users have the best experience, it’s recommended that both devices download the Toyota App and log into the same Toyota account associated with the vehicle. If you’re using a shared vehicle, creating a shared account or coordinating access may be necessary. Some vehicles with the latest Toyota Connected Services may allow for more seamless user switching between devices.
How do I connect a second phone to the Toyota App for the same vehicle?
To connect a second phone, the user should first download the Toyota App from their device’s app store. Once installed, the second user should sign in using the same Toyota account linked to the vehicle. If the vehicle was previously registered under that account, it should appear automatically in the app. The user can then confirm access and begin using available features like remote locking, vehicle status checks, and service scheduling.
If the second phone uses a different Toyota account, the primary account holder must first add the vehicle to their app, enable Shared Vehicle Access in the settings, and invite the secondary account via email. The secondary user will receive a notification and must accept the invitation within the app. This process ensures both users can interact with the vehicle through the Toyota App without disconnecting the other person’s device.
Can two users control Toyota Connected Services features at the same time?
While multiple phones can be connected to the Toyota App for the same vehicle, the ability to control certain Toyota Connected Services features simultaneously is limited. For instance, if one user is using the remote start function, another user may not be able to override that command until the session is complete. Commands like locking or unlocking doors typically register the most recent input, which means simultaneous controls might not always work as expected.
It’s also important to note that real-time monitoring features like vehicle location or battery status (in hybrid or electric models) can be accessed by multiple users at once without interference. However, active commands—especially those that affect vehicle operation—need to be executed one at a time. Toyota has designed the system to avoid conflicting instructions, which helps preserve vehicle security and system stability.
What features of the Toyota App can I access when two phones are connected?
When two phones are connected to the Toyota App, users can access a wide range of features depending on the vehicle model and trim. These include remote locking and unlocking, vehicle status and diagnostics, location tracking, climate control (if equipped), and scheduled maintenance reminders. Some vehicles also support remote start functionality, which is available through compatible models equipped with Toyota Connected Services.
However, access to certain premium features like SmartPath or drive recorder video might be limited to the primary account or the one physically in the vehicle. Both users can view vehicle health reports and service schedules, but only the primary user may be able to book dealer appointments directly from the app. It’s also possible that real-time vehicle control commands are reserved for the most recently authenticated user to prevent conflicts and ensure safe usage.
Is there a limit to how many phones can be connected to the Toyota App for one vehicle?
Toyota allows up to five devices to be registered to a single Toyota account linked to a vehicle. This means that even though multiple phones can be connected, they must all be using the same Toyota account. If multiple users prefer to use their own accounts, the vehicle owner can enable Shared Vehicle Access, which allows up to four additional accounts to interact with the vehicle through the app.
This shared access feature enables multiple users to enjoy key Toyota App services without all being signed into the same account. However, not all features may be available to every device at the same time. Additionally, some functions may only be available to the user who last interacted with the vehicle via the app, depending on system security and communication protocols in place.
Do both phones need internet access to use the Toyota App features simultaneously?
Yes, both phones must have active internet connectivity—either via Wi-Fi or mobile data—in order to access and interact with the Toyota App and its features simultaneously. The app communicates with Toyota’s servers, which then relay commands to the vehicle via embedded connectivity. If one phone loses internet access, it may not be able to send new commands or receive real-time updates from the vehicle.
Moreover, the vehicle itself must be equipped with Toyota Connected Services and have an active data plan. Without the vehicle’s connectivity working properly, even phones with internet access won’t be able to interact with it through the app. Internet connection stability is especially important for time-sensitive features like remote start, live vehicle tracking, and emergency assistance notifications.
Can I switch between phones easily without disconnecting the other phone from the Toyota App?
Yes, you can switch between phones connected to the Toyota App without disconnecting the other device. Once both devices are registered under the same account or through Shared Vehicle Access, they both retain vehicle access indefinitely unless manually removed. This means that users can alternate control without needing to re-pair or re-authenticate each time they switch devices.
However, for certain actions like initiating a remote start or locking the vehicle doors, the system typically honors the most recent command received. This helps maintain consistency and prevents accidental or conflicting operations. Switching phones is seamless for monitoring and informational features, but active control functions should be coordinated between users to avoid confusion or command overlaps.