Which mode should the Highlander use in snowy weather?
3 Answers
The Highlander should use the Snow Mode in snowy weather. Function of Snow Mode: The Highlander's Snow Mode incorporates automated programs to start in second gear, preventing wheel spin on slippery surfaces like ice or snow. This helps drivers control the vehicle more easily in snowy conditions. Regardless of the mode, starting in snow should always be done slowly, with gentle braking for deceleration. Introduction to Snow Mode: To activate Snow Mode in the Highlander, start the vehicle, shift into D (Drive), and press the SNOW button (located near the gear shift). The corresponding icon should light up on the instrument panel. When Snow Mode is engaged, drivers will notice slower acceleration. Even with significant throttle input, the vehicle won't suddenly speed up, and throttle response becomes more controlled. This ensures that the car doesn't slip during snowy starts due to high-speed tire rotation.
I've been driving my Highlander for over four years and always use the Snow Mode during snowy days in the north. This mode is displayed as a snowflake icon on the dashboard. When activated, the transmission automatically upshifts to prevent wheel spin during acceleration, and the ABS responds more sensitively to prevent skidding. The other day when driving my kids to school during heavy snowfall, I could clearly feel the tires gripping better on icy surfaces. Remember to switch to winter tires in advance, and combining them with Snow Mode makes driving even safer. When going downhill, I manually activate the Hill Descent Control to automatically maintain a safe speed. The most important thing when driving in snow is to go slow and leave enough braking distance—these driving modes are just supplementary safety measures.
Last time when skiing in Zhangjiakou, I encountered a blizzard and personally tested the Highlander's snow mode, which proved very effective. This mode adjusts the torque output to be exceptionally smooth, reducing the chances of skidding during sudden acceleration. I usually turn off the ECO mode to make the throttle response more immediate. Keeping a snow shovel and a jump starter in the car is particularly practical, especially in cold weather when scraping ice off the headlights before turning them on is safer for driving. In snowy conditions, the four-wheel-drive system automatically engages, but manually selecting the snow mode allows the system to pre-distribute traction to wheels with better grip, providing extra confidence when driving on icy slopes.
