Toyota Highlander Owners Manual: Engine (ignition) switch (vehicles without a smart key system)

Starting the engine

1. Check that the parking brake is set.
2. Check that the shift lever is set in p.
3. Firmly depress the brake pedal.
4. Turn the engine switch to the “start” position and start the engine.

Changing the engine switch positions

1. “Lock”
   the steering wheel is locked and the key can be removed. (The key can be removed only when the shift lever is in p.)
2. “Acc”
   some electrical components such as the power outlet can be used.
3. “On”
   all electrical components can be used.
4. “Start”
   for starting the engine.

Turning the key from “acc” to “lock”

1. Shift the shift lever to p.
2. Push in the key and turn it to the “lock” position.

If the engine does not start

The engine immobilizer system may not have been deactivated. Contact your toyota dealer.

When the steering lock cannot be released

When starting the engine, the engine switch may seem stuck in the “lock” position. To free it, turn the key while turning the steering wheel slightly left and right.

Key reminder function

A buzzer sounds if the driver’s door is opened while the engine switch is in the “lock” or “acc” position to remind you to remove the key.

Warning When starting the engine Always start the engine while sitting in the driver's seat. Do not depress the accelerator pedal while starting the engine under any circumstances. Doing so may cause an accident resulting in death or serious injury. Caution when driving Do not turn the engine switch to the “lock” position while driving. If, in an emergency, you must turn the engine off while the vehicle is moving, turn the engine switch only to the “acc” position to stop the engine. An accident may result if the engine is stopped while driving.

Notice To prevent battery discharge Do not leave the engine switch in the "acc" or "on" position for long periods of time without the engine running. When starting the engine Do not crank the engine for more than 30 seconds at a time. This may overheat the starter and wiring system. Do not race a cold engine. If the engine becomes difficult to start or stalls frequently, have your vehicle checked by your toyota dealer immediately.