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What should I do if my 2020 Toyota Highlander won’t start? - Toyota Highlander
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/Fourth Generation (2020-present)/What should I do if my 2020 Toyota Highlander won’t start?

What should I do if my 2020 Toyota Highlander won’t start?

Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes
2-4 hours
Time
medium
Difficulty
medium
Severity
Navigation
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
4 min read
702 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix starting issues in your 2020 Toyota Highlander with our step-by-step guide.

Affected Component
starting system, battery, fuel system, starter motor
Estimated Time
2-4 hours

Symptoms

  • •Engine Cranks but Won't Start
  • •No Crank
  • •Clicking Noise
  • •Dashboard Lights
  • •No Sounds

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6

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
  • •Jumper cables
  • •OBD-II scanner
  • •Basic hand tools (socket set, screwdrivers)
  • •Battery charger
  • •Fuel pressure gauge
  • •Torque wrench (if applicable)

Additional Information

Affected Component
starting system, battery, fuel system, starter motor
Estimated Time
2-4 hours
Difficulty
medium
Severity
medium
Tools Required
7 items

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Back to Generation

If your 2020 Toyota Highlander won’t start, there could be multiple reasons for this issue, ranging from battery problems to fuel system malfunctions. Below, I will outline a detailed step-by-step approach to diagnose and potentially resolve the problem.

Tools Required
  • Multimeter
  • Jumper cables
  • OBD-II scanner
  • Basic hand tools (socket set, screwdrivers)
  • Battery charger
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • Torque wrench (if applicable)

Step 1: Check Battery Condition

  1. Visual Inspection: Inspect the battery for any corrosion, loose connections, or physical damage.
  2. Voltage Test: Use a multimeter to check the voltage:
    • A healthy battery should read approximately 12.6 volts or higher.
    • If below 12.4 volts, consider charging the battery or jump-starting the vehicle.

Step 2: Perform a Jump Start

  1. Gather Jumper Cables: Ensure you have good quality jumper cables.
  2. Connect Cables:
    • Connect the positive (red) cable to the dead battery's positive terminal.
    • Connect the other end of the positive cable to the positive terminal of the working battery.
    • Connect the negative (black) cable to the working battery's negative terminal.
    • Connect the other end of the negative cable to a metal ground on the dead vehicle (not to the battery).
  3. Start the Donor Vehicle: Allow a few minutes, then try starting your Highlander.

Step 3: Check Fuses

  1. Locate Fuse Box: The fuse box is typically located under the dashboard or in the engine compartment.
  2. Inspect Relevant Fuses: Check the fuses related to the starting system, ignition, and fuel pump. Replace any blown fuses.

Step 4: Check Starter Motor

  1. Listen for Noises: When attempting to start, listen for any clicks indicating the starter is attempting to engage.
  2. Test Starter Voltage: If the engine cranks but does not start, check if voltage is reaching the starter motor:
    • Use a multimeter to measure voltage at the starter while someone turns the key to the start position.
    • If there is no voltage, inspect the ignition switch and relay.

Step 5: Check Fuel System

  1. Listen for Fuel Pump: When the ignition is turned to the ON position (not cranking), listen for the fuel pump priming sound.
  2. Check Fuel Pressure: Connect a fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail to check if there is sufficient pressure (should be around 30-40 psi).
  3. Inspect Fuel Relay and Fuses: Same as above, ensure relays and fuses for the fuel pump are operational.

Step 6: Scan for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

  1. Connect OBD-II Scanner: Plug the scanner into the OBD-II port (usually located beneath the dashboard).
  2. Retrieve Codes: Check for any trouble codes that may point to the issue.
  3. Interpret Codes: Refer to the scanner's manual or online resources to interpret the codes. Address any issues indicated.
Repair Instructions
  1. Battery Replacement: If the battery is low or dead, replace it with a new one.
  2. Starter Replacement: If testing determines the starter is faulty, replace the starter motor following these steps:
    • Disconnect the battery.
    • Remove any covers or components blocking access to the starter.
    • Unplug the starter electrical connectors.
    • Remove the mounting bolts and carefully extract the starter.
    • Install the new starter, reverse the removal steps, and reconnect the battery.
  3. Fuel Pump Replacement: If the fuel pump is faulty:
    • Disconnect the battery.
    • Remove the fuel tank following the manufacturer’s service manual.
    • Replace the pump and reassemble.
  4. Repair Electrical Issues: If fuses or relays are faulty, replace them as necessary.
Conclusion

After following these diagnostic steps, if the vehicle still does not start, it may be time to consult with a professional mechanic for further diagnosis, as the issue could be more complex, involving the ECM (Engine Control Module) or other components.