Toyota Highlander Remote Start: The Full Rundown

in Model Info and Features
White Toyota Highlander

Toyota Highlander by Dinkun Chen - CC-BY-SA-4.0

The Toyota Highlander is a popular three-row SUV, complete with space, comfort, and a modern design everyone will love. Like other vehicles, Toyota has kept up with the times and attempted to add the latest technology to their cars. One of these additions is remote start. You might wonder - what is the Toyota Highlander remote start? How does that even work?

If you’re interested in learning more about remote start in the Toyota Highlander, you’ve come to the right place. The more you know about this exciting feature, the easier it will be to determine if it’s something you want in a vehicle. Read on to learn more about what remote start is, how available it is in the Highlander, and other valuable remote start information. 

What Is Remote Start?

Toyota Highlander remote start, and remote start, is a unique technology that first appeared in 2003 when GM introduced the system. It permits the driver to start their vehicle from a specific range with an app or a key fob without them in the car.

Once remote started, the vehicle typically runs around 10-15 minutes. If the key isn’t in the car by that point, it will turn off to conserve energy. 


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Highlander Remote Start Availability 

Remote start began to slowly invade every manufacturer in the United States after its introduction, and that include Toyota. They have adopted remote start availability in many of their models and the Toyota Highlander is included in that pack.

Starting the car with a remote start in the Highlander isn’t where it ends. With the remote capabilities, you can also start and locate your Toyota, as well as check in with family and friends if they happen to be borrowing your vehicle. 

More and more Toyota selections are being retrofitted with the remote start features. It instills confidence and ease in drivers and allows simple connection through an app. It’s likely more Toyota models will contain remote start capabilities in the coming years.

How To Activate Remote Start

You have two options to deal with remote start on your Toyota Highlander. It’s very simple to bring your vehicle to life from a distance with the Highlander.

Here’s how to activate remote start on the fob:

  • Press and release the fob twice within two seconds
  • Hold down the lock button for three seconds
  • Wait for the turn signals to flash

This start will last for about ten minutes.

Here’s the process for the app:

  • Enable the option on the app
  • Press and hold the start engine on the app
  • Wait for the turn signals to flash

Again, you get ten minutes after the vehicle is started remotely. 

It’s up to you to determine which options are best for you. It’s always good to have more than one option, so it’s a good idea to make an account on the application just in case you don’t have access to the key fob and need to remote start your vehicle. 


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Pros and Cons of Remote Start

With the Toyota Highlander remote start and any remote start, it’s critical to consider the pros and cons of the process. Some people might enjoy the addition of a remote start feature, while others think it’s a waste of time and resources to create it.

Let’s talk more about the good and bad that come with remote start access on your Toyota Highlander. The more you know about it, the easier it will be to determine if it’s the right choice for your driving needs.

Pros 

Many good things come with remote start in a Toyota Highlander. Not only is it an impressive piece of technology, but it will also make your life much easier if you use it right.

Here are a few pros that come with remote start:

  • Convenience: It’s convenient to start your car ahead of time, especially if you’re busy or your hands are full.
  • Weather acclimation: If it’s hot, you can cool down your car. If it’s cool, you can heat it.

These will make your experience a good one. 

Overall, the addition of remote start is a good one. Still, it’s critical to consider the cons in case there is something that makes you say an automatic no to the feature.


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Cons

With any technology, there are disadvantages to consider. Remote start in the Toyota Highlander is no different.

Here are a few cons with remote start:

  • Cost: Most remote-start cars cost more than the basic models.
  • Pollution: With a running car comes more pollution to the atmosphere. 
  • Legal challenges: It’s illegal in some areas for a car to remain idle - which applies to remote-start vehicles. 

Consider these before investing in the addition.

Environmental benefits and cost are not the first consideration in remote start. If these matter to you, perform your research before buying one.

Final Thoughts

Toyota Highlander remote start is a valuable addition to any vehicle. It allows you to start your Toyota Highlander from a distance away, permitting easy access to the system and peace of mind with your vehicle. 

We hope this information was helpful! With any new piece of technology, it can be overwhelming to determine if it’s right for you. Luckily, remote start is a simple addition that is designed to make your life easier rather than the other way around. Toyota is one of the leaders in adding remote start to their designs.

Toyota Highlander Remote Start FAQs:

Does Toyota have a remote start?

Toyota is one of the manufacturers that has taken full advantage of the remote start features. A few models that have remote start include the Camry, Venza, Highlander, Yaris, RAV4, Sequoia, Tundra, and Sienna.

How do I activate my Toyota remote start?

The easiest way to access remote start in your Toyota is to use the app. You must add your account, and then you can use the remote start feature right from your phone. In some cars, the fob permits remote start.

How do I know if my car has a remote start?

Usually, the key fob or car application will have a designation for remote start if your vehicle has it. If it doesn’t, you will have trouble locating the feature. Your manual should also reveal this information.



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