FAULTBASE
Error CodesASKCars
© 2026 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
What electrical issues are commonly reported in the 2021 Toyota Highlander? - Toyota Highlander
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/Fourth Generation (2020-present)/What electrical issues are commonly reported in the 2021 Toyota Highlander?

What electrical issues are commonly reported in the 2021 Toyota Highlander?

Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

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

Problem Statement

Explore common electrical issues in the 2021 Toyota Highlander, including symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair solutions.

Affected Component
Electrical System

Symptoms

  • •Battery Drain
  • •Malfunctioning Infotainment System
  • •Warning Lights on Dashboard
  • •Power Window Malfunctions
  • •Unresponsive Key Fob

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6
  7. 7
  8. 8
  9. 9
  10. 10
  11. 11
  12. 12
  13. 13
  14. 14
  15. 15
  16. 16
  17. 17

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

  • •Multimeter
  • •Battery Tester
  • •Basic Hand Tools
  • •OBD-II Scanner
  • •Window Switch Tester (if available)
  • •Key Fob Tester (optional)
  • •Replacement Battery for Key Fob

Additional Information

Affected Component
Electrical System
Difficulty
medium
Severity
medium
Tools Required
7 items

Related Faults

Loading...

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
Common Electrical Issues in the 2021 Toyota Highlander

The 2021 Toyota Highlander, part of the fourth generation (XU70), has been reported to have several electrical issues. Below, we explore these issues, including symptoms, diagnostic steps, and potential repair solutions.

Common Symptoms of Electrical Issues

  1. Battery Drain

    • Symptoms: The vehicle fails to start after sitting for a period of time, dim dashboard lights, and frequent need for jump-starting.

  2. Malfunctioning Infotainment System

    • Symptoms: Screen freezes, loss of audio, Bluetooth connectivity issues, or random reboots of the infotainment system.

  3. Warning Lights on Dashboard

    • Symptoms: Persistent illumination of warning lights such as check engine light, battery light, or ABS warning light without any apparent cause.

  4. Power Window Malfunctions

    • Symptoms: Windows that fail to respond to controls, intermittent operation, or complete failure to close/open.

  5. Unresponsive Key Fob

    • Symptoms: Key fob not functioning, difficulty unlocking/locking doors, or engine not starting.

1. Battery Drain

  • Tools Required: Multimeter, battery tester, basic hand tools.
  • Steps:
    1. Check Battery Voltage: Use a multimeter to measure the battery voltage. A healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts.
    2. Load Test the Battery: If the voltage is low, perform a load test using a battery tester to check the health of the battery.
    3. Check for Parasitic Draw: With the car off, disconnect the negative battery terminal and place the multimeter in series to measure the current draw. A draw over 50mA typically indicates a problem.
    4. Identify the Source: Pull fuses one at a time to locate which circuit is causing excessive draw.

2. Infotainment System Malfunctions

  • Tools Required: OBD-II scanner, basic hand tools.
  • Steps:
    1. Scan for Error Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any trouble codes related to the infotainment system.
    2. Software Update: Check for any available software updates from Toyota and apply them if necessary.
    3. Hard Reset: Perform a hard reset of the infotainment system by disconnecting the battery for a few minutes.
    4. Inspect Wiring: Remove the head unit and check all wiring connections for any signs of damage or loose connections.

3. Warning Lights on Dashboard

  • Tools Required: OBD-II scanner.
  • Steps:
    1. Scan for Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve codes and identify the system that is causing the warning light to illuminate.
    2. Visual Inspection: Inspect the engine bay and under the dashboard for any loose connections or damaged wiring.
    3. Address Specific Codes: Follow the manufacturer’s repair guidelines for the specific codes retrieved to address the issue.

4. Power Window Malfunctions

  • Tools Required: Multimeter, basic hand tools, window switch tester (if available).
  • Steps:
    1. Test Power Window Switch: Use a multimeter to check for power at the window switch when pressed.
    2. Inspect Window Motor: If the switch is working, remove the door panel and check the window motor for voltage when the switch is activated.
    3. Check Wiring: Inspect the wiring harness for breaks or shorts, especially in the door jam area.
    4. Replace Components: If the motor or switch is faulty, replace the respective components.

5. Unresponsive Key Fob

  • Tools Required: Key fob tester (optional), replacement battery for key fob.
  • Steps:
    1. Check Battery: Open the key fob and inspect/replace the battery.
    2. Reprogram Key Fob: If the battery replacement does not help, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to reprogram the key fob.
    3. Inspect Receiver Module: If issues persist, check the receiver module for proper operation or signs of damage.
Repair Instructions

Battery Drain Repair

  • If a parasitic draw is identified, trace the circuit and repair any damaged components or wiring. If the battery is faulty, replace it with a new one of the same specifications.

Infotainment System Repair

  • After identifying issues with the infotainment system, replace any faulty components or update software. If hardware issues persist, consider replacing the head unit.

Warning Light Repair

  • Based on the diagnostic codes, repair or replace the faulty components as indicated by the trouble codes retrieved.

Power Window Repair

  • Replace faulty window motors or switches as diagnosed. Ensure all connections are secure when reassembling.

Key Fob Repair

  • After replacing the battery and reprogramming, if issues persist, consider replacing the key fob or the receiver module if the problem lies within the vehicle.
Conclusion

Addressing electrical issues in the 2021 Toyota Highlander requires a systematic approach to diagnostics and repair. By following these steps, technicians can effectively troubleshoot and resolve common electrical problems, ensuring the vehicle operates reliably and safely.