How to Set Up the Highlander Auto Start-Stop?
2 Answers
Highlander auto start-stop switch (Auto Restart Stop and Start System switch) is located on the left side of the steering wheel. When the Stop and Start Cancel button is pressed (pressing it again will re-enable the system), the Stop and Start System can be disabled, and the instrument panel will display accordingly. Below is relevant information about the start-stop system: 1. Auto Restart Stop and Start System: Even if the Stop and Start System has been disabled via the Stop and Start Cancel switch, the system will automatically restart when the engine switch is turned off and then restarted. 2. When the engine is stopped by the Stop and Start System, pressing the Stop and Start Cancel switch will restart the engine. From the next vehicle stop (with the Stop and Start System turned off), the engine will not stop; when the Stop and Start System is disabled, pressing the Stop and Start Cancel switch will re-enable the system, but it will not stop the engine. From the next vehicle stop (with the Stop and Start System turned on), the engine will stop. 3. When the vehicle is on a slope, after the engine is stopped by the Stop and Start System, braking force is temporarily maintained until the engine restarts and driving force is generated to prevent the vehicle from rolling back. The maintained braking force is automatically canceled when driving force is generated.
Setting up the Highlander's auto start-stop is quite straightforward, and I'll share based on my driving experience. Usually after starting the vehicle, there's a button with an ECO symbol on the center console—pressing it turns the system on or off. It's enabled by default from the factory, so if you haven't touched it, it's likely already on. After pressing the button, an indicator light on the dashboard shows the status: a green light means it's active. When driving in the city and stopping at red lights, the engine automatically shuts off to save fuel, averaging about 10% in fuel cost savings. I've also noticed that the Highlander's start-stop system is quite smart—it automatically adjusts sensitivity based on driving habits and road conditions, making frequent stops and starts in traffic jams less annoying. If you disable it and want to re-enable later, just press the button to reactivate. During regular maintenance, don't forget to check the battery health—if the battery charge is low, the system might not work. Overall, this feature is a one-button setup, intuitive and quick to master.
