FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/Third Generation (2014-2019)/why is my Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019) dashboard warning lights on

why is my Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019) dashboard warning lights on

Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: mediumError Code: P04201-3 hours
3 min read
534 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix dashboard warning lights on Toyota Highlander (2014-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Error Code
P0420
Component
Electrical
Repair Time
1-3 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect the battery before working on electrical systems
  • ⚠Allow the engine to cool before inspecting coolant levels

Symptoms

  • •Multiple warning lights illuminated on the dashboard
  • •Check engine light is on
  • •ABS warning light activated
  • •Traction control light illuminated
  • •Battery warning light present
  • •Oil pressure light is on

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan the vehicle's onboard computer using an OBD-II scanner to retrieve any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
  2. 2Check the vehicle's fluid levels, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid, to ensure they are within acceptable ranges
  3. 3Inspect the battery terminals and connections for corrosion or looseness
  4. 4Examine the vehicle's fuses related to the warning systems for any blown fuses
  5. 5Check the brake system components, including the brake pads and sensors, for wear or malfunction
  6. 6Review the vehicle's service history for any recent repairs or maintenance that could relate to the warning lights

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the engine is off.
  • Gather necessary tools and parts.

2. Address Diagnostic Trouble Codes

  • Connect the OBD-II scanner and note down any DTCs.
  • Research the codes to determine if they indicate a specific issue (e.g., P0420 for catalytic converter efficiency).

3. Fluid Level Check

  • Open the hood and check oil level using the dipstick; add oil if needed.
  • Check the coolant reservoir; refill with the appropriate coolant mixture if low.
  • Inspect the brake fluid reservoir; top up with the recommended brake fluid.

4. Battery and Electrical System Inspection

  • Disconnect the negative battery terminal and clean any corrosion using a wire brush.
  • Reconnect the battery terminal securely.
  • Test the battery voltage using a multimeter; replace the battery if below 12.4 volts.

5. Brake System Inspection

  • Lift the vehicle using a jack and secure with jack stands.
  • Inspect brake pads for wear; replace if they are below the recommended thickness.
  • Check the brake fluid level and top up if necessary.

6. Resetting Warning Lights

  • After addressing any issues, use the OBD-II scanner to clear the trouble codes.
  • Start the engine and observe if the warning lights remain illuminated.

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

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Multimeter
  • Wire brush
  • Jack and jack stands
  • Basic hand tools (sockets, wrenches)

Parts Required

  • Engine oil (if needed)
  • Coolant (if needed)
  • Brake fluid (if needed)
  • Brake pads (if worn)

Additional Information

Error CodeP0420
Component

Electrical

Repair Time

1-3 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

5 items

Parts

4 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. how to fix a leaking sunroof on Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019)

    Learn how to fix a leaking sunroof in a 2014-2019 Toyota Highlander. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic steps, tools required, and repair instructions...

    Component:Body/Interior
    Symptoms
    • •Water pooling in the interior near the sunroof area
    • •Damp or wet headliner material
    • +{count} more
  2. how to fix P0301 code in Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019)

    P0301

    Learn how to diagnose and fix P0301 cylinder 1 misfire in Toyota Highlander (2014-2019). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair inst...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Rough idle
    • +{count} more
  3. why does my Toyota Highlander make a loud clunk when shifting gears

    Learn how to diagnose and fix loud clunking noise during gear shifts in Toyota Highlander. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair in...

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Loud clunking noise during gear shifts
    • •Difficulty shifting between gears
    • +{count} more
  4. what does it mean if my Toyota Highlander shows a C1201 code?

    C1201

    Learn how to diagnose and fix C1201 ABS/VSC issues in Toyota Highlander. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Warning lights illuminated (ABS and/or VSC lights)
    • •Reduced braking efficiency
    • +{count} more
  5. my Toyota Highlander shakes when braking what's causing it

    Learn how to diagnose and fix shaking during braking in Toyota Highlander. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Shaking or vibrating sensation in the steering wheel or brake pedal when braking
    • •Uneven wear on brake pads
    • +{count} more
  6. how to fix rough idle in Toyota Highlander Third Generation (2014-2019)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix rough idle issues in Toyota Highlander (2014-2019). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instr...

    Component:Engine
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Engine vibrations felt through the steering wheel and seats
    • +{count} more

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation