What causes the Toyota Highlander AWD to fail to start?
2 Answers
Toyota Highlander AWD failure to start may be due to the following reasons: 1. Check if the Highlander's battery has power: A drained battery due to reasons like leaving headlights on for a long time or an expired battery life (generally recommended to replace the battery every 2 years). 2. Check if there is fuel: If the fuel gauge shows below the red line, the car naturally won't start. Also, pay attention to the quality of the fuel. 3. Lack of antifreeze: Some car owners add water or poor-quality antifreeze, which can cause the entire cooling system to freeze in extremely cold winter conditions, leading to a frozen and cracked engine, rendering the car's water pump inoperable, preventing the car from starting, and damaging other engine components. 4. Wrong gear position: When starting the Highlander, the gear must be in P (Park) or N (Neutral). If it's in R (Reverse) or D (Drive), the car will not start.
I've been driving a Toyota Highlander AWD for several years and have encountered similar issues. The most common reason for not starting is a dead battery, especially since the AWD system consumes more power. If you use the car frequently in winter or often forget to turn off electrical devices, the battery might wear out prematurely. Check if the terminals are loose or corroded; if they get hot when touched, it indicates poor contact. Listen to the sound when starting—if there's no response at all, it's likely a faulty starter or a blown fuse. I recommend using a voltmeter to check the battery voltage first. If it's below 12V, try jump-starting. If that doesn't work, replace the battery. Generally, a battery lasts about three years, so replacing it on time saves money and hassle. Don't force it, as you might damage the wiring, which is more troublesome. Remember, AWD models have more complex electronic systems, but the core starting issue is often the battery. Regular maintenance and checks can prevent unexpected breakdowns and delays.
