2021 Toyota Highlander Warning Symbols | Instrument Cluster Guide

2021 Toyota Highlander Warning Symbols | Instrument Cluster Guide

The 2021 Toyota Highlander has a lot of warning symbols and signs built into its instrument cluster. These serve as an important guide for drivers to make sure the car runs safely and efficiently. These marks cover a wide range of alerts, from simple status updates to more serious warnings about possible problems or malfunctions in the car’s systems. With its easy-to-understand icons and colour-coded lights, an instrument cluster is a proactive tool that lets drivers know about things like low fuel levels, seatbelt status, or possible system faults that need instant attention. This mutually beneficial relationship between the driver and the vehicle makes the driver more aware, which lets them react quickly to any problems that arise and keeps performance and safety at the highest levels throughout their trip. Understanding and paying attention to these warning signs is important for getting the most out of the Toyota Highlander and making sure that everyone inside is safe and has a good time driving.

2023 – 2024 Toyota Highlander Review, Price, Features, Mileage (Brochure)

Warning lights and indicators

The warning lights and indicators on the instrument cluster, centre panel, and outside rear-view mirrors inform the driver of the status of the vehicle’s various systems.

Warning lights and indicators displayed on the instrument cluster
For explanation, the following illustrations display all warning lights and indicators illuminated.

4.2-inch display
The units used on the meters and some indicators may differ depending on the target region.

7-inch display
The units used on the meters and some indicators may differ depending on the target region.

Warning lights

Warning lights inform the driver of malfunctions in the indicated vehicle’s systems.

Brake system warning light (U.S.A.)
Indicates that:

 

• The brake fluid level is low; or
• The brake system is malfunctioning

Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and contact your Toyota dealer. Continuing to drive the vehicle may be dangerous.

Brake system warning light (red) (Canada)
Indicates that:

 

• The brake fluid level is low; or
• The brake system is malfunctioning

Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and contact your Toyota dealer. Continuing to drive the vehicle may be dangerous.

Brake system warning light (yellow)
Indicates a malfunction in the electric parking brake

 

• Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

High coolant temperature warning light
Indicates that the engine coolant temperature is too high

 

• Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place. Handling method

Charging system warning light
Indicates a malfunction in the vehicle’s charging system

 

• Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and contact your Toyota dealer.

Low engine oil pressure warning light
Indicates that the engine oil pressure is too low

 

• Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and contact your Toyota dealer.

Malfunction indicator lamp (U.S.A.)
Indicates a malfunction in:

 

• The electronic engine control system;
• The electronic throttle control system; or
• The electronic automatic transmission control system

Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and contact your Toyota dealer.

Malfunction indicator lamp (Canada)
Indicates a malfunction in:

 

• The electronic engine control system;
• The electronic throttle control system; or
• The electronic automatic transmission control system

Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and contact your Toyota dealer.

SRS warning light
Indicates a malfunction in:

 

• The SRS airbag system;
• The front passenger occupant classification system; or
• The seat belt pretensioner system

Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

ABS warning light (U.S.A.)
Indicates a malfunction in:

 

• The ABS; or
• The brake assist system

Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

ABS warning light (Canada)
Indicates a malfunction in:

 

• The ABS; or
• The brake assist system

Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

Brake Override System warning light/Drive-Start Control warning light
When a buzzer sounds:

 

• The Brake Override System is malfunctioning;
• Drive-Start Control is operating;
• Drive-Start Control is malfunctioning; or
• Parking Support Brake function (for static objects) (if equipped) is operating

Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-infor-mation display.
When a buzzer does not sound: the Brake Override System is operating
Release the accelerator pedal and depress the brake pedal.

Electric power steering system warning light (red/yellow)
Indicates a malfunction in the EPS (Electric Power Steering) system
Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

Low fuel level warning Light
Indicates that the remaining fuel is approximately 2.7 gal. (10.2 L, 2.2 Imp. gal.) or less

 

Refuel the vehicle.

Driver’s and front passenger’s seat belt reminder light
Warns the driver and/or front passenger to fasten their seat belts
Fasten the seat belt.
If the front passenger’s seat is occupied, the front passenger’s seat belt also needs to be fastened to make the warning light (warning buzzer) turn off.

Rear passengers’ seat belt reminder light
Warns the second and/or third-seat passengers to fasten their seat belts. An indicator corresponding to an unfastened second or third seat seat belt will illuminate.

 

Fasten the seat belt.

Tire pressure warning light
When the light comes on after blinking for approximately 1 minute:
Malfunction in the tire pressure warning system

Have the system checked by your Toyota dealer. When the light comes on:
Low tire inflation pressure such as

• Natural causes
• Flat tire

Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place. Handling method

LTA indicator (orange)
Indicates a malfunction in the LTA (Lane Tracing Assist)
Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-infor-mation display.

Stop & Start cancel indicator*3, 4, 5 (if equipped) (flashes)
Indicates a malfunction in the Stop & Start system
(The Stop & Start cancel indicator will come on when the system is cancelled:
Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

Intuitive parking assist OFF indicator*1, 4, 6 (if equipped) (flashes)
Indicates a malfunction in the intuitive parking assist function

 

• Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

This indicates that the system is temporarily unavailable, possibly due to a sensor being dirty or covered with ice, etc.

• Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-infor-mation display.

RCTA OFF indicator*2, 4 (if equipped) (flashes)
When a buzzer sounds:
Indicates a malfunction in the RCTA (Rear Cross Traffic Alert) function

• Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

When a buzzer does not sound:
Indicates that the rear bumper around the radar sensor is covered with dirt, etc.

• Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-infor-mation display.

PKSB OFF indicator*1, 4, 6 (if equipped) (flashes)
When a buzzer sounds:
Indicates a malfunction in the PKSB (Parking Support Brake) system

• Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

When a buzzer does not sound:
This indicates that the system is temporarily unavailable, possibly due to a sensor being dirty or covered with ice, etc.

• Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-infor-mation display.

PCS warning light (flashes or illuminates)
When a buzzer sounds simultaneously:
Indicates a malfunction has occurred in the PCS (Pre-Colli-sion System).

• Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

When a buzzer does not sound:
The PCS (Pre-Collision System) has become temporarily unavailable, corrective action may be necessary.
Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-infor-mation display.
If the PCS (Pre-Collision System) or VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) system is disabled, the PCS warning light will illuminate.

Slip indicator
When the warning light is illuminated: Indicates a malfunction in the:

 

• The VSC system;
• The TRAC system;
• The Trailer Sway Control; or
• The hill-start assist control system;

Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.
When the warning light flashes:
Indicates that the VSC, TRAC, or Trailer Sway Control system is operating

Parking brake indicator*1 (flashes) (U.S.A.)
It is possible that the parking brake is not fully engaged or released

 

• Operate the parking brake switch once again.

This light comes on when the parking brake is not released. If the light turns off after the parking brake is fully released, the system is operating normally.

Parking brake indicator (flashes) (Canada)
It is possible that the parking brake is not fully engaged or released

 

• Operate the parking brake switch once again.

This light comes on when the parking brake is not released. If the light turns off after the parking brake is fully released, the system is operating normally.

Brake hold operated indicator (flashes)
Indicates a malfunction in the brake hold system

 

• Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

1. These lights turn on when the engine switch is turned ON to indicate that a system check is being performed. They will turn off after the engine is started, or after a few seconds. There may be a malfunction in a system if a light does not come on, or turn off. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer.
2. This light illuminates the multi-information display.
3. 7-inch display only: This light illuminates the multi-information display.
4. This light comes on when the system is turned off.
5. 4.2-inch display only: These lights turn on when the engine switch is turned to ON to indicate that a system check is being performed. They will turn off after the engine is started, or after a few seconds. There may be a malfunction in a system if a light does not come on, or turn off. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer.
6. 7-inch display only

WARNING

If a safety system warning light does not come on
Should a safety system light such as the ABS and SRS warning lights not come on when you start the engine, this could mean that these systems are not available to help protect you in an accident, which could result in death or serious injury. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately if this occurs.

Indicators

The indicators inform the driver of the operating state of the vehicle’s various systems.

Turn signal indicator

 

1. Right turn
2. Lane change to the right (move the lever partway and release it)
   The right-hand signals will flash 3 times.
3. Lane change to the left (move the lever partway and release it)
   The left-hand signals will flash 3 times.
4. Left turn

Headlight indicator (U.S.A.)
The headlights can be operated manually or automatically.
Operating instructions
Operating the switch
turns on the lights as follows:
U.S.A.
Canada

1. The headlights, daytime running lights, and all the lights listed below turn on and off automatically.
   (When the engine switch is in ON.)
2. The side marker, parking, tail, license plate, instrument panel lights, and daytime running lights
3. The headlights and all lights listed above (except daytime running lights) turn on.
4. (U.S.A.) Off

Tail light indicator (Canada)
The headlights can be operated manually or automatically.
Operating instructions
Operating the switch
turns on the lights as follows:
U.S.A.
Canada

1. The headlights, daytime running lights, and all the lights listed below turn on and off automatically.
   (When the engine switch is in ON.)
2. The side marker, parking, tail, license plate, instrument panel lights, and daytime running lights
3. The headlights and all lights listed above (except daytime running lights) turn on.
4. (U.S.A.) Off

Headlight high beam indicator

1. With the headlights on, push the lever away from you to turn on the high beams.
   Pull the lever toward you to the centre position to turn the high beams off.
2. Pull the lever toward you and release it to flash the high beams once.

You can flash the high beams with the headlights on or off.

Automatic High Beam indicator
The Automatic High Beam uses a camera sensor located behind the upper portion of the windshield to assess the brightness of the lights of vehicles ahead, streetlights, etc. and automatically turns the high beams on or off as necessary.

Front fog light indicator*1 (if equipped)
The fog lights secure excellent visibility in difficult driving conditions, such as in rain and fog.

PCS warning light
The pre-collision system can be
enabled/disabled on the multi-information display.
The system is automatically enabled each time the engine switch is turned ON.
If the system is disabled, the PCS warning light will turn on and a message will be displayed on the multi-information display.

Cruise control indicator
When constant speed control mode is selected, your vehicle will maintain a set speed without controlling the vehicle-to-vehicle distance. Select this mode only when vehicle-to-vehicle distance control mode does not function correctly due to a dirty radar, etc.

1. With the cruise control off, press and hold the cruise control main switch for 1.5 seconds or more.

Immediately after the switch is pressed, the dynamic radar cruise control indicator will come on. Afterwards, it switches to the cruise control indicator.
Switching to constant speed control mode is only possible when operating the switch with the cruise con-

Dynamic radar cruise control indicator
In vehicle-to-vehicle distance control mode, the vehicle automatically accelerates, decelerates, and stops to match the speed changes of the preceding vehicle even if the accelerator pedal is not depressed. In constant speed control mode, the vehicle runs at a fixed speed.

Cruise control “SET” indicator
In vehicle-to-vehicle distance control mode, the vehicle automatically accelerates, decelerates, and stops to match the speed changes of the preceding vehicle even if the accelerator pedal is not depressed. In constant speed control mode, the vehicle runs at a fixed speed.
Use the dynamic radar cruise control with full-speed range on free-ways and highways.

1. Vehicle-to-vehicle distance switch
2. “+RES” switch
3. Cruise control main switch Cancel switch
4. “-SET” switch

LTA indicator (white)
The illumination condition of the indicator informs the driver of the system operation status.
Illuminated in white: The LTA system is operating.
Illuminated in green: Steering wheel assistance of the steering assist

LTA indicator (green)
The illumination condition of the indicator informs the driver of the system operation status.
Illuminated in white: The LTA system is operating.
Illuminated in green: Steering wheel assistance of the steering assist

LTA indicator (orange) (flashes)
The illumination condition of the indicator informs the driver of the system operation status.
Illuminated in white: The LTA system is operating.
Illuminated in green: Steering wheel assistance of the steering assist

RCTA OFF indicator*2, 3 (if equipped)
The RCTA function uses the BSM rear-side radar sensors installed behind the rear bumper. This function is intended to assist the driver in checking areas that are not easily visible when backing up.

PKSB OFF indicator
The Parking Support Brake can be enabled/disabled on the multi-information display. All of the Parking Support Brake functions (static objects and
rear-crossing vehicles) are enabled/disabled simultaneously.
Use the meter control switches to enable/disable the parking support brake.

Stop & Start indicator (if equipped)
The Stop & Start system stops and starts the engine according to the brake pedal or shift lever operation when the vehicle is stopped, such as at a stoplight, intersection, etc., to improve fuel economy and reduce noise pollution caused by the engine idling.

Stop & Start cancel indicator (if equipped)
The Stop & Start system stops and starts the engine according to the brake pedal or shift lever operation when the vehicle is stopped, such as at a stoplight, intersection, etc., to improve fuel economy and reduce noise pollution caused by the engine idling.

Slip indicator* (flashes)
Automatically switches from front-wheel drive to all-wheel drive (AWD) according to the driving conditions, helping to ensure reliable handling and stability. Examples of conditions where the system will switch to AWD are when cornering, going uphill, starting or accelerating, and when the road surface is slippery due to snow, rain, etc.
Also, when the vehicle is cornering, the drive torque distribution between the front and rear wheels and between the rear left and right wheels is precisely controlled to improve drivability and stability.

VSC OFF indicator
If the vehicle gets stuck in mud, dirt, or snow, the TRAC system may reduce power from the engine to the wheels. Pressing the switch to turn the system off may make it easier for you to rock the vehicle to free it. To turn the TRAC system off, quickly press and release the switch. The “Traction Control Turned OFF” will be shown on the multi-information display.

Smart key system indicator*
Performing the following operations when carrying the electronic key on your person starts the engine or changes engine switch modes.

1. Check that the parking brake is set.
2. Check that the shift lever is in P.
3. Firmly depress the brake pedal.
   and a message will be displayed on the multi-information display.
   If it is not displayed, the engine cannot be started.
4. Press the engine switch shortly and firmly.

Parking brake indicator (U.S.A.)
The parking brake can be set or released automatically or manually. In automatic mode, the parking brake can be set or released automatically according to the shift lever operation. Also, even in automatic mode, the parking brake can be set or released manually.

Parking brake indicator (Canada)
The parking brake can be set or released automatically or manually. In automatic mode, the parking brake can be set or released automatically according to the shift lever operation. Also, even in automatic mode, the parking brake can be set or released manually.

Brake hold standby indicator
The brake hold system keeps the brake applied when the shift lever is in D, M, or N with the system on and the brake pedal has been depressed to stop the vehicle. The system releases the brake when the accelerator pedal is depressed with the shift lever in D or M to allow a smooth start-off.

Brake hold operated indicator
The brake hold system keeps the brake applied when the shift lever is in D, M, or N with the system on and the brake pedal has been depressed to stop the vehicle. The system releases the brake when the accelerator pedal is depressed with the shift lever in D or M to allow a smooth start-off.

Snow mode indicator
Snow mode can be selected to suit the conditions when driving on slippery road surfaces, such as on snow.
Press the snow mode switch.
When the switch is pressed, the system switches to snow mode and the snow mode indicator illuminates the multi-information display.
When the switch is pressed again, the snow mode indicator turns off.

Downhill assist control system indicator*1, 9 (if equipped)
The downhill assist control system helps to prevent excessive speed on steep downhill slopes.
The system will operate when the vehicle is travelling under 18 mph (30 km/h).

Eco Driving Indicator Light
During Eco-friendly acceleration (Eco-driving), the Eco-driving Indicator Light will turn on. When the acceleration exceeds the Zone of Eco driving, or when the vehicle is stopped, the light turns off.

Low outside temperature indicator
Displays the outside temperature within the range of -40°F (-40°C) to 122°F (50°C). The low outside temperature indicator comes on when the ambient temperature is 37°F (3°C) or lower.

Security indicator
The alarm uses light and sound to give an alert when an intrusion is detected. The alarm is triggered in the following situations when the alarm is set:

• A locked door is unlocked or opened in any way other than using the entry function, wireless remote control, or mechanical key. (The doors will lock again automatically.)
• The hood is opened.

PASS AIR BAG ON/OFF” indicator
Your vehicle is equipped with a front-passenger occupant classification system. This system detects the conditions of the front passenger seat and activates or deactivates the front passenger airbag and seat cushion airbag.

Drive mode indicators

Eco-drive mode indicator
Helps the driver accelerate in an eco-friendly manner and improve fuel economy through moderate throttle characteristics and by controlling the operation of the air conditioning system (heating/cooling).
When Eco drive mode is selected, the Eco drive mode indicator comes on.

Sport mode indicator
Controls the transmission and engine to provide quick, powerful acceleration. This mode also changes the steering feel, making it suitable for when the agile driving response is desired, such as when driving on roads with many curves.
When Sport mode is selected, the Sport mode indicator comes on.

Mud & sand mode indicator
Suitable for driving on roads with increased driving resistance such as sandy roads, muddy roads, etc.

 

Rock & dirt mode indicator
Suitable for driving in bumpy road conditions, such as on unpaved forest roads.

 

1. 7-inch display only: This light illuminates the multi-information display.
2. This light illuminates the multi-information display.
3. This light comes on when the system is turned off.
4. These lights turn on when the engine switch is turned ON to indicate that a system check is being performed. They will turn off after the engine is started, or after a few seconds. There may be a malfunction in a system if a light does not come on, or turn off. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer.
5. To confirm the operation, the BSM outside rear view mirror indicators illuminate in the following situations:
   1. When the BSM function is enabled on the
      multi-information display, the engine switch is turned to ON.
   2.  When the engine switch is ON, the BSM function is enabled on the multi-information display. If the system is functioning correctly, the BSM outside rear-view mirror indicators will turn off after a few seconds. If the BSM outside rear-view mirror indicators do not illuminate or do not turn off, there may be a malfunction in the system. If this occurs, have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer.
6. This light illuminates the outside rear-view mirrors.
7. When the outside temperature is approximately 37°F (3°C) or lower, this indicator will flash for approximately 10 seconds, and then stay on.
8. This light illuminates the centre panel.
9. 4.2-inch display only: These lights turn on when the engine switch is turned to ON to indicate that a system check is being performed. They will turn off after the engine is started, or after a few seconds. There may be a malfunction in a system if a light does not come on, or turn off. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer.
10. 7-inch display only

2023 – 2024 Toyota Highlander Review, Price, Features, Mileage (Brochure)

Gauges and meters

Meter display

• Locations of gauges and meters
  • 4.2-inch display
  • 7-inch display

The units used on the meters may differ depending on the target region.

• Tachometer
  Displays the engine speed in revolutions per minute
• Multi-information display
  Presents the driver with a variety of vehicle data Displays warning messages in case of a malfunction
• Clock
• Speedometer
• Fuel gauge
  Displays the quantity of fuel remaining in the tank
• The odometer and trip meter display
• SAhift position display
• Outside temperature
  Displays the outside temperature within the range of -40°F (-40°C) to 122°F (50°C). The low outside temperature indicator comes on when the ambient temperature is 37°F (3°C) or lower.
• Engine coolant temperature gauge
  Displays the engine coolant temperature

The meters and display illuminate when
The engine switch is ON.

Outside temperature display

• In the following situations, the correct outside temperature may not be displayed, or the display may take longer than normal to change:
  • When stopped, or driving at low speeds (less than 12 mph [20 km/h])
  • When the outside temperature has changed suddenly (at the entrance/exit of a garage, tunnel, etc.)
• When “–” or “E” is displayed, the system may be malfunctioning. Take your vehicle to your Toyota dealer.

Liquid crystal display
Small spots or light spots may appear on the display. This phenomenon is characteristic of liquid crystal displays, and there is no problem continuing to use the display.

Customization
The meters can be customized on the multi-information display.

WARNING

The information displayed at low temperatures
Allow the interior of the vehicle to warm up before using the liquid crystal information display. At extremely low temperatures, the information display monitor may respond slowly, and display changes may be delayed.
For example, there is a lag between the driver’s shifting and the new gear number appearing on the display. This lag could cause the driver to downshift again, causing rapid and excessive engine braking and possibly an accident resulting in death or injury.

NOTICE

To prevent damage to the engine and its components
Do not let the indicator needle of the tachometer enter the red zone, which indicates the maximum engine speed.

NOTICE

• The engine may be overheating if the engine coolant temperature gauge is in the red zone (H). In this case, immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place, and check the engine after it has cooled completely.

The odometer and trip meter display

Display items

• Odometer
  Displays the total distance the vehicle has been driven.
• Trip meter A/trip meter B
  Displays the distance the vehicle has been driven since the meter was last reset. Trip meters A and B can be used to record and display different distances independently.
• The distance until the next engine oil change
  Displays the distance the vehicle can be driven until an oil change is necessary.

Changing the display
Each time the “ODO TRIP” switch is pressed, the displayed item will be changed. When the trip meter is displayed, pressing and holding the switch will reset the trip meter.

Pop-up display
In some situations, the following will be temporarily displayed:
The distance until the next engine oil change
Displays the distance until the next engine oil change. This display will be displayed in the following situations:

• When the engine switch is turned to ON.
• When a warning message indicating that oil maintenance should be performed soon or is required is displayed.

Changing the instrument panel light brightness
The brightness of the instrument panel lights can be adjusted.

This image is for example only and may differ from the actual vehicle.

1. Darker
2. Brighter

Brightness of the meters (day mode and night mode)
The brightness of the meters is changed between day mode and night mode.

• Day mode: When the surrounding area is bright
• Night mode: When the surrounding area is dark

Adjusting the clock
The clocks can be adjusted on the audio system screen.
Refer to “NAVIGATION AND MULTIMEDIA SYSTEM OWNER’S MANUAL”.

FAQs

Useful Links

View Full PDF: Toyota Highlander 2021 User Manual | Auto User Guide

2023 – 2024 Toyota Highlander Review, Price, Features, Mileage (Brochure)

2021 Toyota Highlander Display Screen Messages Guide