What is the AWD light on my Toyota Sienna?

Understanding the AWD Light on Toyota Sienna
The AWD light on a Toyota Sienna serves as an indicator for potential issues with the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. When the 4WD CONTROL ECU senses a problem with various inputs, it illuminates the AWD warning dash light, indicating a potential problem with the system that should not be ignored.
Potential Causes and Actions
If the AWD light turns on, it could indicate a problem with the AWD system, and it is recommended not to ignore it. The manual advises visiting a Toyota dealer to address the issue. Additionally, it may be related to specific service checklist items, such as the re-torque of the propeller shaft and drive shaft for the AWD, which are recommended at certain mileage intervals.
AWD System in Toyota Sienna
The Toyota Sienna is offered with both front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) options. Choosing the AWD option involves selecting the “LE” or higher trims and typically comes with an additional cost compared to the FWD models.
In summary, the AWD light on a Toyota Sienna indicates a potential issue with the AWD system, and it is advisable to have the vehicle inspected by a Toyota dealer to address the problem.
If you have any further questions or need additional information, feel free to ask!

What would cause the AWD light to come on?

This light will usually come on when the car is first started or after the car is shifted into reverse, and it will stay on until the car is shifted into a forward gear. However, if the light stays on continuously, it means that there is a problem with the AWD system that needs to be fixed.

How do you reset an AWD light?

I had the AWD light displayed for a while after chasing a different issue. Disconnect the negative battery cable for about a minute then reconnect it. This will clear any codes.

Why is AWD flashing on my dashboard?

All-Wheel Drive warning light (CVT models)
This light flashes if the vehicle is driven with tires of differing diameters fitted on the wheels or with an excessively low air pressure in any of the tires. Continuing to drive with the AWD warning light flashing can damage the powertrain.

Is it safe to drive with AWD light on while driving?

If only AWD is on and still drives and shifts good, then it is okay to drive; at this time, the AWD system is offline when you get home at 27k, but it is still under warranty; take it to the dealer and have them scan the AWD module for fault code to see what is failing in the system.

What does the AWD indicator mean?

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Warning Light: This light looks like the axle of a vehicle with four tires and corresponding connection points. If you see it light up, there may be a problem with your AWD system.

What does AWD mean on Toyota Sienna?

AWD w/ Active Torque Control:
Found in America’s sole all-wheel drive passenger minivan, the 2022 Toyota Sienna AWD. All Wheel Drive with Active Torque Control is also available starting on the 2021 Sienna LE, SE, XLE and Limited models.

What problem can AWD warning lights have?

A blinking AWD light means the rear differential is too hot. If the light comes on without blinking it means there’s a problem in the AWD system. Sometimes the AWD light will illuminate when other power train faults are present such as emission system faults.

How do you turn on AWD on a Toyota Sienna?

How to Turn on AWD?

1. Make sure you’re going 25 MPH or less; systems won’t activate above these speeds.
2. Look for the chassis symbol to the left of your steering column.
3. When you see this symbol, press it.
4. Once activated, confirm that it’s activated by looking at your instrument panel.

Is Toyota AWD always on?

If your vehicle has full-time AWD, it’s always engaged in this mode. However, part-time AWD reacts to driving conditions and your vehicle’s behavior, only sending torque to the wheels when necessary. The purpose of this configuration is to maximize fuel efficiency.

How do you diagnose AWD problems?

All-Wheel-Drive Problems: Down & Dirty

1. You can hear a grinding at highway speeds.
2. You have a transfer case over-temp warning on the dash.
3. You might experience blinking lights in the drive selector area (model specific)
4. You might hear & feel a bang-bang-bang sensation under hard acceleration.