Experiencing the ease of remotely starting your Toyota Highlander, especially on a sweltering summer day or a frigid winter morning, is a luxury many owners appreciate. This feature ensures your vehicle is at a comfortable temperature before you even step inside. However, what do you do when your key fob is missing, damaged, or the battery is dead, and you need to start your Highlander remotely? While the key fob method is the most straightforward, there are alternative ways to get your Toyota Highlander running, even without it. This guide will walk you through the primary method and explore options available when your key fob is not accessible.
Utilizing the Toyota App to Remote Start Your Highlander
In today’s connected world, smartphone applications offer a convenient solution for vehicle control, and Toyota is no exception. The Toyota Remote Connect app provides a digital interface to manage various vehicle functions, including remote start. This is a particularly useful method if you don’t have your physical key fob on hand.
To use this method, ensure your Toyota Highlander is equipped with the Remote Connect service and that you have an active subscription. Here’s how to start your Highlander using the app:
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Download and Install the App: If you haven’t already, download the Toyota Remote Connect app from either the App Store for iOS devices or the Google Play Store for Android devices.
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Account Setup and Vehicle Linking: Open the app and follow the prompts to create an account or log in if you are an existing user. You will need to link your Toyota Highlander to your account. This typically involves entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which can be found on your dashboard or your vehicle registration documents. Follow the in-app instructions to complete the vehicle linking process.
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Navigate to Remote Start: Once your vehicle is linked and your account is active, navigate through the app’s menu to find the remote start function. The interface may vary slightly depending on the app version, but it is usually found under a “Vehicle Controls” or similar section.
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Initiate Remote Start: Tap the remote start button within the app. You may need to hold the button down for a few seconds to initiate the process. Ensure your vehicle is in park and all doors are securely closed before attempting to remote start.
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Confirmation: After initiating the remote start, the app will send a signal to your Toyota Highlander. You should receive a confirmation within the app once the engine has successfully started. Additionally, you may observe your vehicle’s lights flashing or hear the engine starting as visual and auditory confirmations.
An example of a Toyota Highlander key fob which is typically used for remote starting.
Starting with Your Toyota Highlander Key Fob: A Quick Review
While this article focuses on starting your Toyota Highlander without a key fob, it’s worth quickly revisiting the standard method using the fob itself for context and comparison. This method remains the most common and readily accessible for most drivers when the key fob is functional.
Here’s how to remote start using your Toyota Highlander key fob:
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Vehicle Readiness: Ensure all doors, hood, and trunk are properly closed. The vehicle must be in “Park” and the parking brake engaged for the remote start to function.
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Lock Button Sequence: Press the “Lock” button on your key fob three times. Press the first two times quickly and normally. On the third press, hold the button down for approximately three seconds.
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Confirmation Signals: After holding the lock button on the third press, observe your Toyota Highlander for confirmation signals. Typically, the vehicle’s lights will flash, and you will hear the engine start. These are indicators that the remote start command has been successfully executed.
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Entering and Driving: Once the engine is running, you can enter your Highlander. To fully engage the vehicle for driving, you will typically need to insert the key into the ignition or press the start button inside the vehicle, depending on your Highlander’s model and features.
Exploring Aftermarket Remote Start Systems
If you frequently find yourself needing to remote start your Toyota Highlander without relying on the factory key fob or smartphone app, an aftermarket remote start system can be a viable alternative. These systems offer various features and can be customized to your specific needs.
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Installation and Options: Aftermarket systems are installed by professional automotive technicians and can offer extended range, smartphone integration (independent of Toyota’s app), and even two-way communication, confirming successful starts.
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Considerations: When considering an aftermarket system, ensure it is compatible with your Toyota Highlander’s model and year. Choose reputable brands and installers to guarantee proper functionality and avoid potential issues with your vehicle’s electrical system. These systems usually come with their own dedicated remote controls, offering another physical method to start your vehicle remotely.
While losing or having a malfunctioning key fob can be inconvenient, knowing alternative methods to start your Toyota Highlander remotely provides peace of mind. Whether utilizing the Toyota Remote Connect app or considering an aftermarket system, you have options to maintain the convenience and comfort of remote start functionality. For more detailed information on your Toyota Highlander, consider exploring comprehensive resources like Haynes Repair Manuals for Toyota Highlander for in-depth guides on maintenance and operation. You can also find more helpful tips and tutorials for your vehicle to keep it running smoothly. Trust Haynes for your automotive information needs.
