How to Turn Off the Yaris ECO Mode?
2 Answers
Yaris ECO is an acronym formed from the initials of the three English words Ecology, Conservation, and Optimization, representing a vehicle fuel-saving mode. When the ECO indicator light on the dashboard illuminates, it indicates that the vehicle's economy mode is activated. This mode primarily involves a comprehensive judgment and analysis of factors affecting fuel consumption during vehicle movement, such as automatic transmission gear position, engine speed, vehicle speed, braking, and transmission oil temperature. The ECU control unit calculates the optimal fuel quantity to be supplied to the engine for operation, effectively reducing fuel consumption compared to normal driving modes. Activating this mode can minimize unnecessary fuel consumption. Generally, it can be divided into two types: passive ECO driving mode and active ECO driving mode. The passive ECO driving mode mainly serves a reminder and guidance function. The active ECO driving mode usually features a button. Once activated, a series of driving-related settings will change. For example, the throttle opening corresponding to the same accelerator pedal depth becomes smaller (the accelerator becomes less responsive), the transmission shift logic prioritizes economy (earlier upshifts), and some vehicles may also adjust the air conditioning output power simultaneously. The ECO button is typically located on the left side of the vehicle, marked with the letters ECO. Some buttons are green in color, making them easily identifiable. Activating ECO is most effective in urban congested traffic conditions. In such scenarios, strong power is not required, and the frequent stop-and-go driving leads to higher fuel consumption. Enabling ECO mode not only reduces fuel consumption but also enhances driving comfort. In a few situations, it is unnecessary to activate ECO: When the vehicle is traveling at high speeds (up to 100 km/h), even if ECO is turned on, the vehicle's computer will prioritize speed, and the ECO mode will automatically deactivate. When high torque output is needed, such as when climbing a hill, the engine computer will prioritize ensuring and delivering sufficient power to drive the vehicle, and the ECO mode will automatically deactivate.
I’ve driven the Yaris quite a few times, and turning off the ECO mode can definitely enhance the driving experience. The key is to locate the small button labeled 'ECO' on the right side of the steering wheel or in the center console area—press it until the light goes off to deactivate. If there’s no button, access the 'Settings' or 'Driving Mode' menu on the car’s display and switch to standard or sport mode. Once off, the throttle response becomes much sharper, acceleration feels more aggressive, and city driving gains extra punch. However, fuel consumption will slightly increase—my tests show a 1-2% bump, though the difference is minimal, and highway driving is barely affected. I recommend easing into starts to adapt, regularly checking engine conditions, and avoiding aggressive throttle inputs just for the sake of power—safety always comes first.
