Why is my Toyota Highlander not starting?

Possible Reasons Why Your Toyota Highlander is Not Starting
Based on the information from various sources, there are several potential reasons why your Toyota Highlander may not be starting:
1. Battery Issues: The 12V battery wiring in Toyota Highlanders is prone to corrosion over time due to moisture, leading to electrical connectivity issues that can prevent the vehicle from starting. Additionally, a weak or malfunctioning battery, as well as issues with the intelligent battery system (IBS), can also lead to starting problems.
2. Fuel System Problems: If your Highlander isn’t getting enough fuel, or any fuel at all, it may have a bad fuel filter or a bad fuel pump, which can cause it to crank but not start.
3. Starter Motor Malfunction: Over time, starter motors can wear out and start to malfunction, leading to difficulties in starting the vehicle. If the car turns over very slowly or not at all, the problem could be with the starter.
4. Gear Position: The car won’t start unless the gear is in P (Park). If the gear lever is in D (Drive), R (Reverse), or N (Neutral), the Highlander won’t start.
5. Other Potential Issues: There could be other potential issues such as problems with the alternator, bad weather affecting the vehicle, or a safety feature preventing the car from starting.
Steps to Take
Given these potential reasons, here are some steps you can take to address the issue:
– Contact Your Toyota Dealer: If the problem cannot be repaired or if repair procedures are unknown, it’s recommended to contact your Toyota dealer for inspection and professional assistance.
– Inspect the Battery: Check the condition of the 12V battery and its wiring for corrosion and electrical connectivity issues. If necessary, consult your car owner’s manual for specific replacement procedures.
– Check the Fuel System: If the vehicle isn’t getting enough fuel, consider inspecting the fuel filter and fuel pump for potential issues.
– Examine the Starter Motor: If the car is turning over slowly or not at all, it may indicate a problem with the starter motor. Consider having it inspected and replaced if necessary.
– Ensure Proper Gear Position: Make sure the gear lever is in the P (Park) position before attempting to start the vehicle.
– Consult with a Professional: If you’re unable to diagnose the issue or if the problem persists, it’s advisable to seek assistance from a professional at a dealership or workshop.
By following these steps and considering the potential reasons for the starting issue, you can work towards resolving the problem with your Toyota Highlander.

How long does a starter last on a Toyota Highlander?

In a TikTok video posted by Faye Hadley, she discovered on a 2017 Toyota Highlander owner’s manual that Toyota vehicles equipped with the feature allow 384,000 restarts before the starter motor and relays need replacement.

Why is my Toyota not starting?

Fuses – Not all cars have a fuse that is connected to the starting system, but a simple check of the fuses can rule this cause out quickly. Battery – If the connections on your battery become corroded, there is no longer a connection to the rest of the car. This can keep you from starting.

Is a Toyota Highlander worth the money?

Overview. As three-row family vehicles go, Toyota’s Highlander is among the most practical and easiest to drive. It’s easy to see out of and comfortable for both city driving and long highway trips. High fuel economy for a conventionally powered SUV is another draw.

What is the common problem of Toyota Highlander?

The Toyota Highlander is an above-average SUV, as scored by RepairPal. With a score of 4.0 out of 5.0, it ranks seventh out of 26 SUVs reviewed. Some of the Toyota highlander’s common problems include fuel tank and A/C condenser issues, defective airbags, excessive wind noise, and more.

Why is my car suddenly not starting?

It could be a minor glitch in the battery terminals, a dead battery, a defective ignition switch and so on. Car starting problems are mainly related to the battery, car self-start system or fuel lines. Below are some of the common reasons why your car is not starting upon switching on the ignition.

How do you push start a Toyota Highlander?

To start the engine, make sure you have the Smart Key inside the vehicle and the shifter is in PARK. Then, hold the brake pedal down while you press the ENGINE START/STOP button. To turn the engine off, put it in PARK, then press the ENGINE START/STOP button.

What would cause my car to suddenly not start?

If you have a sudden slower start or your vehicle starts and then dies immediately, that could be a sign your 12-volt battery is dead or dying. You can test the theory by jump-starting the car. If the engine turns over, a dead battery is likely the problem, and you’ll want to get it replaced immediately.

How do I know if my starter is bad?

Signs of a Bad Starter – How to Identify Your Starter is Failing

1. DASH LIGHTS.
2. CLICKING.
3. SLOW CRANKING.
4. SMOKE.
5. OIL-SOAKED STARTER.

What are the signs of a bad starter?

Signs of a Bad Starter

• Whirring, grinding, or clicking sounds when trying to start your car.
• A loud single click while trying to start the vehicle with no engine crank.
• The instrument cluster, headlights, and radio work normally, but nothing happens when you turn the key.

What is the most reliable year for Toyota Highlander?

A: The best years for the Toyota Highlander, according to the above guide, include the 2004, 2005, and 2007 models from the first generation and the 2017-2019 models from the third generation. These years have shown high reliability, minimal complaints, and good owner satisfaction ratings.