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What are the common problems with the Toyota Safety Sense features in the 2020 Highlander? - Toyota Highlander
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/Fourth Generation (2020-present)/What are the common problems with the Toyota Safety Sense features in the 2020 Highlander?

What are the common problems with the Toyota Safety Sense features in the 2020 Highlander?

Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes
medium
Difficulty
medium
Severity
Navigation
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
4 min read
660 words

Problem Statement

Explore common issues, symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions for Toyota Safety Sense features in the 2020 Highlander.

Affected Component
Toyota Safety Sense features

Symptoms

  • •Warning lights on the dashboard (usually the pre-collision warning light)
  • •System failure alerts on the Multi-Information Display (MID)
  • •Inconsistent activation of the pre-collision brake assist
  • •Lane Departure Alert (LDA) light illuminated on the dashboard
  • •Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) system not providing steering assistance
  • •System not detecting lane markings
  • •Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) disengages unexpectedly
  • •Difficulty maintaining set speed or distance from other vehicles
  • •ACC warning lights illuminated
  • •Automatic High Beams not activating/deactivating correctly in low light
  • •Warning indicators for the automatic high beams on the dashboard

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • ✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • ✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • ✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • •Basic hand tools
  • •OBD-II scanner
  • •Calibration tools (if available)

Additional Information

Affected Component
Toyota Safety Sense features
Difficulty
medium
Severity
medium
Tools Required
3 items

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Common Problems with Toyota Safety Sense Features in the 2020 Highlander

Toyota's Safety Sense features in the 2020 Highlander, which include pre-collision systems, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams, are generally reliable, but some users have reported issues. Below is an outline of common problems, symptoms, diagnostic steps, tools required, and potential repair instructions.

Common Problems
1. Pre-Collision System Malfunction

Symptoms:

  • Warning lights on the dashboard (usually the pre-collision warning light).
  • System failure alerts on the Multi-Information Display (MID).
  • Inconsistent activation of the pre-collision brake assist.
2. Lane Departure Alert Failure

Symptoms:

  • Lane Departure Alert (LDA) light illuminated on the dashboard.
  • Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) system not providing steering assistance.
  • System not detecting lane markings.
3. Adaptive Cruise Control Issues

Symptoms:

  • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) disengages unexpectedly.
  • Difficulty maintaining set speed or distance from other vehicles.
  • ACC warning lights illuminated.
4. Automatic High Beam Problems

Symptoms:

  • Automatic High Beams not activating/deactivating correctly in low light.
  • Warning indicators for the automatic high beams on the dashboard.
Step 1: Visual Inspection
  • Tools Required: Basic hand tools, OBD-II scanner.
  • Check for any visible damage to cameras, sensors, and wiring harnesses located around the windshield and front grille.
  • Inspect the windshield for cracks or obstructions that could affect sensor readings.
Step 2: Scan for Trouble Codes
  • Tools Required: OBD-II scanner.
  • Connect the scanner to the OBD-II port.
  • Retrieve any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to the Safety Sense features.
  • Note codes for further investigation.
Step 3: Sensor Calibration
  • Tools Required: Calibration tools (if available), access to a dealer or advanced diagnostic equipment.
  • If DTCs indicate misalignment or calibration issues, follow the manufacturer's instructions for recalibrating sensors.
Step 4: Test Drive
  • Tools Required: None.
  • Conduct a test drive to observe if the issues are replicated.
  • Pay attention to the behavior of each Safety Sense feature.
Repair Instructions
Repair for Pre-Collision System Malfunction

  1. Inspect and Clean Sensors:

    • Locate the forward-facing camera and radar sensor.
    • Clean any dirt or debris that may obstruct the sensors.

  2. Reset System:

    • Disconnect the negative battery terminal for 10 minutes to reset the system.
    • Reconnect the battery and check if the issue persists.

  3. Replace Faulty Sensors:

    • If issues continue, replace the camera or radar sensor as indicated by DTCs.
Repair for Lane Departure Alert Failure

  1. Check Lane Marking Detection:

    • Ensure that the camera view is not obstructed. Clean as necessary.
    • Use a calibration target to ensure proper alignment.

  2. Update Software:

    • Check for any software updates from Toyota that may address LDA issues.

  3. Replace Camera:

    • If the camera is faulty, replace according to manufacturer specifications.
Repair for Adaptive Cruise Control Issues

  1. Inspect Wiring to Radar Sensor:

    • Check for frayed wires or poor connections to the radar sensor.

  2. Reprogram/Reset ACC System:

    • If no physical issues are found, follow the service manual to reset or reprogram the ACC system.

  3. Replace Radar Sensor:

    • If the sensor is faulty, follow procedure for replacement.
Repair for Automatic High Beam Problems

  1. Inspect Sensor Functionality:

    • Ensure the camera is clean and unobstructed.
    • Check the vehicle settings to ensure automatic high beams are enabled.

  2. Reprogram/Reset System:

    • Perform a reset of the automatic high beam system.

  3. Replace Faulty Components:

    • If the system does not respond, replace the necessary components as identified in diagnostic steps.
Conclusion

The Toyota Safety Sense features in the 2020 Highlander can encounter several issues. By following the outlined diagnostic steps and repair instructions, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the problems. Always refer to the vehicle's service manual for specific procedures and specifications. If issues persist, consider seeking assistance from a certified Toyota technician.