What does it mean when the TRC is turned off in the Highlander?

[DeSerenity]

Turning off the TRC in the Highlander means deactivating the traction control system. If the TRC OFF indicator light on the dashboard illuminates, it indicates that the vehicle's traction control system is currently turned off. TRC is simply Toyota's specific term for the traction control system. Similarly, Mercedes-Benz refers to it as ASR, BMW as DTC, and Cadillac as TCS. Although the names differ, the underlying principles are largely the same. The Highlander is a large-sized SUV in Toyota's lineup, with dimensions of 4785mm in length, 1910mm in width, and 1760mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2790mm. It comes equipped with comprehensive safety features, including a total of seven airbags, placing it at a high configuration level among similar models. These include a driver's knee airbag and side curtain airbags for all three rows of seats.

[LeBella]

When you encounter TRC being turned off in your Highlander, it simply means you've manually deactivated the vehicle's traction control system. TRC stands for Traction Control, which normally automatically applies brakes or limits engine power when wheel slippage occurs to prevent loss of vehicle control. After you press the TRC OFF button near the instrument panel to disable it, the system will no longer intervene with the drive wheels. In this state, if you accelerate on slippery surfaces, the wheels may spin wildly and the rear end could fishtail. I've intentionally turned it off in snowy conditions before - the steering wheel vibrations become particularly noticeable. However, this operation is only suitable for experienced drivers in specific situations, such as climbing muddy slopes or performing drifts. Never disable it for normal city driving, especially during rain or on icy roads. Driving at high speeds with this function disabled is especially dangerous as it significantly increases the risk of skidding, and the system won't assist with directional corrections.

[Marty]

The TRC button in the Highlander is actually designed for special driving scenarios. The most immediate change after turning it off is that the system won't automatically cut power. If your vehicle gets stuck in sand or mud, allowing the wheels to spin freely can actually help dig out of the rut, whereas keeping TRC on might render you powerless. I've seen off-road enthusiasts specifically test this feature on unpaved roads. However, remember that a yellow warning light will illuminate on the dashboard when it's turned off—steering becomes more responsive than usual but also more prone to losing control. Last month, my neighbor turned off TRC while making a turn in a slippery underground parking lot, resulting in the front of the car directly hitting the wall. The system automatically reactivates when you restart the vehicle, or you can press the button again yourself. Just don't mess with this switch on city roads—it's not worth the risk.

[VonTimothy]

Turning off TRC means releasing the electronic system's restraints. I always had to disable this when helping friends tune their race cars. With it off, the vehicle responds more directly, allowing aggressive acceleration with throttle input—ideal for those seeking a speed thrill. But with the Highlander as a family SUV, disabling TRC requires caution. Tire wear accelerates, and fuel consumption spikes. I've checked fault codes in the disabled state—ABS still functions normally. Never attempt this on icy roads; last winter, an owner turned off TRC while climbing a slope and ended up in a ditch. Testing is simple: after disabling, lightly press the throttle on gravel to see if the wheels spin continuously.