What to Do When the 2021 Highlander Doesn't Respond to USB Drive?
2 Answers
Often, a USB drive or SD card that works on a computer may not function in a car's system due to issues with the vehicle's USB port. For drives larger than 2GB, the FAT32 format is commonly used. Check if the USB drive's format matches the car system's requirements. Sometimes, the issue lies with the media files themselves. Avoid using encrypted USB drives, place songs directly in the root directory without subfolders. Large files may be difficult to read, so it's best to use USB drives with good compatibility.
I own a 2021 Highlander and have also encountered the issue of USB drives not responding, which is usually caused by several common reasons. Unsupported USB format is key—Toyota systems may only recognize FAT32 format, not exFAT or NTFS. Try plugging the USB drive into a computer, reformatting it to FAT32, and then testing it again. Dust or looseness in the USB port may also cause poor contact—gently clean it with a soft brush or compressed air. Another factor is poor compatibility with large-capacity USB drives—those over 32GB are more prone to issues, so try switching to a smaller one, like 16GB. Don’t forget to restart the vehicle’s infotainment system: turn off the engine and then restart it, waiting a few minutes for the system to reset. If it still doesn’t work, check the settings menu to ensure USB functionality is enabled or that there are no permission restrictions. Preventive measures include regularly cleaning the USB port and backing up important files to avoid unexpected issues. Don’t panic when encountering this problem—troubleshoot step by step. If all else fails, visit a 4S dealership and ask a professional technician to update the software or inspect the hardware—this can save time and avoid repeated hassle.
