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What are the typical problems with the adaptive cruise control system in the Highlander? - Toyota Highlander
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/Fourth Generation (2020-present)/What are the typical problems with the adaptive cruise control system in the Highlander?

What are the typical problems with the adaptive cruise control system in the Highlander?

Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

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

Problem Statement

Explore typical issues with the adaptive cruise control system in the Toyota Highlander (2020-present), including symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component
adaptive cruise control system

Symptoms

  • •Inconsistent Speed Control
  • •System Warning Light
  • •Inability to Set Speed
  • •False Activation
  • •Object Detection Failures

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5

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

  • •OBD-II scanner
  • •Multimeter
  • •Diagnostic scan tool
  • •Soft cloth
  • •Mild soap solution
  • •Fuse puller or needle-nose pliers
  • •Torque wrench
  • •Alignment tools
  • •Toyota Techstream or equivalent diagnostic tool
  • •Socket set
  • •Screwdriver set

Additional Information

Affected Component
adaptive cruise control system
Difficulty
medium
Severity
medium
Tools Required
11 items

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Back to Generation
Typical Problems with the Adaptive Cruise Control System in the Toyota Highlander (Fourth Generation, 2020-present)

The adaptive cruise control (ACC) system in the Toyota Highlander, like many modern vehicles, can experience a variety of issues. Below are the common symptoms, diagnostic steps, tools required, and repair instructions for troubleshooting the ACC system.

Common Symptoms of ACC Issues
  1. Inconsistent Speed Control: The vehicle may fail to maintain the set speed or accelerate/decelerate erratically.
  2. System Warning Light: The dashboard may display a warning light or message indicating a fault in the ACC system.
  3. Inability to Set Speed: The driver may be unable to engage the ACC at all.
  4. False Activation: The ACC may activate without any input from the driver or disengage unexpectedly.
  5. Object Detection Failures: The system may not detect vehicles or obstacles correctly, leading to inappropriate speed adjustments.
Repair Instructions

1. Cleaning Sensors

If the sensors are dirty or obstructed:

  • Tools Required: Soft cloth, mild soap solution.
  • Gently clean the radar sensor and camera lens with a soft cloth and mild soap solution.
  • Ensure there are no obstructions like snow, ice, or debris.

2. Checking and Replacing Fuses

If DTCs indicate a power issue:

  • Tools Required: Fuse puller or needle-nose pliers, multimeter.
  • Locate the fuse box (refer to the owner’s manual for the specific location).
  • Check the ACC-related fuses for continuity using a multimeter.
  • Replace any blown fuses with the correct amperage rating.

3. Adjusting Sensor Alignment

For misalignment issues:

  • Tools Required: Torque wrench, alignment tools.
  • If the radar sensor or camera is misaligned, adjust it according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Refer to the service manual for detailed alignment procedures.

4. Updating Software

If a software update is indicated:

  • Tools Required: Toyota Techstream or equivalent diagnostic tool.
  • Connect the diagnostic tool and follow the prompts to update the ACC system software. Ensure the vehicle battery is charged during the update process.

5. Component Replacement

If a faulty sensor is diagnosed:

  • Tools Required: Socket set, screwdriver set, torque wrench.
  • Disconnect the vehicle battery.
  • Remove the faulty sensor or camera module (typically located in the front grille or windshield).
  • Install the new sensor, ensuring it is properly aligned and secured.
  • Reconnect the battery and clear any DTCs using the OBD-II scanner.
Conclusion

By following these diagnostic and repair steps, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve common adaptive cruise control issues in the Toyota Highlander (2020-present). If problems persist after these checks, it may require professional diagnostic equipment or expertise from a certified Toyota technician.