Toyota 2001 Highlander Owners Manual

2015-09-07

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Important information about this manual
Safety and vehicle damage warnings

Safety symbol

Throughout this manual, you will see safety and vehicle damage warnings. You must follow these warnings carefully to
avoid possible injury or damage.
The types of warnings, what they look like, and how they are
used in this manual are explained as follows:

CAUTION
This is a warning against something which may cause
injury to people if the warning is ignored. You are
informed about what you must or must not do in
order to avoid or reduce the risk to yourself and other
people.

When you see the safety symbol
shown above, it means: “Do not...”;
“Do not do this”; or “Do not let this
happen”.

NOTICE
This is a warning against something which may cause
damage to the vehicle or its equipment if the warning
is ignored. You are informed about what you must or
must not do in order to avoid or reduce the risk of
damage to your vehicle and its equipment.

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Important information about your Toyota

New vehicle warranty

Accessories, spare parts and
modification of your Toyota

Your new vehicle is covered by the following Toyota
limited warranties:

A wide variety of non−genuine spare parts and accessories for Toyota vehicles are currently available in the
market. You should know that Toyota does not warrant
these products and is not responsible for their performance, repair, or replacement, or for any damage they
may cause to, or adverse effect they may have on,
your Toyota vehicle.

D New vehicle warranty
D Emission control systems warranty
D Others
For further information, please refer to the “Owner’s
Warranty Information Booklet” or “Owner’s Manual Supplement”.

This vehicle should not be modified with non−genuine
Toyota products. Modification with non−genuine Toyota
products could affect its performance, safety or durability, and may even violate governmental regulations. In
addition, damage or performance problems resulting from
the modification may not be covered under warranty.

Your responsibility for maintenance
It is the owner’s responsibility to make sure that the
specified maintenance is performed. Section 6 gives details of these maintenance requirements. Also included
in Section 6 is general maintenance. For scheduled
maintenance information, please refer to the “Scheduled
Maintenance Guide” or “Owner’s Manual Supplement”.

iii

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Spark ignition system of your
Toyota

Scrapping of your Toyota
The SRS airbag and seat belt pretensioner devices in
your Toyota contain explosive chemicals. If the vehicle
is scrapped with the airbags and pretensioners left as
they are, this may cause an accident such as fire. Be
sure to have the systems of the SRS airbag and seat
belt pretensioner removed and disposed of by the qualified service shop or by your Toyota dealer before you
dispose of your vehicle.

The spark ignition system in your Toyota meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference−Causing Equipment Standard.

Installation of a mobile
two−way radio system
As the installation of a mobile two−way radio system in
your vehicle could affect electronic systems such as
multiport fuel injection system/sequential multiport fuel
injection system, cruise control system, anti−lock brake
system, traction control system, vehicle skid control system, SRS airbag system and seat belt pretensioner system, be sure to check with your Toyota dealer for precautionary measures or special instructions regarding
installation.

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On−pavement and off−road
driving tips
This vehicle belongs to the utility vehicle class. Utility
vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate than
other types of vehicles. This vehicle will handle and
maneuver differently from an ordinary passenger car because it is designed for off−road use also. In addition,
this vehicle has a higher ground clearance and center of
gravity than that of an ordinary passenger car. This
vehicle design feature causes this type of vehicle to be
more likely to rollover. Failure to operate this vehicle
correctly may result in loss of control, accidents or
vehicle rollover causing death or serious injury. Be sure
to read “Off−road vehicle precautions” on page 178 in
Section 2 and “Off−road driving precautions” on page
196 in Section 3.

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SECTION

1− 1

OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND
CONTROLS
Overview of instruments and controls
Instrument panel overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Instrument cluster overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Indicator symbols on the instrument panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

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Instrument panel overview
1. Side defroster outlets
2. Instrument cluster
3. Garage door opener
4. Center vents
5. Electric moon roof switch and personal
light
6. Auxiliary box
7. Side vents
8. Power door lock switches
9. Power window switches
10. Glove box
11. Auxiliary box or ashtray
12. Automatic transmission selector lever
13. Hood lock release lever
14. Parking brake pedal
15. Window lock switch

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"Vehicles with manual air conditioning controls
1. Headlight, turn signal and front fog
light switches
2. Instrument panel light control knob
3. Wiper and washer switches
4. Emergency flasher switch
5. Clock
6. Front passenger’s seat belt reminder
light
7. Rear window defogger switch
8. Air conditioning controls
9. Car audio
10. Power outlet
11. Snow mode button
12. Seat heater switches
13. Cigarette lighter
14. Ignition switch
15. Cruise control switch
16. Tilt steering lock release lever
17. Traction control system off switch
(two−wheel drive models)
18. Outside rear view mirror defogger and
windshield wiper deicer switch

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19. Theft deterrent system/Engine
immobiliser system indicator light
20. Power rear view mirror control switches

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"Vehicles with automatic air conditioning controls
1. Headlight, turn signal and front fog
light switches
2. Instrument panel light control knob
3. Wiper and washer switches
4. Emergency flasher switch
5. Clock
6. Front passenger’s seat belt reminder
light
7. Air conditioning controls and
multi−information display
8. Rear window defogger switch
9. Car audio
10. Power outlet
11. Snow mode button
12. Seat heater switches
13. Cigarette lighter
14. Ignition switch
15. Cruise control switch
16. Tilt steering lock release lever
17. Traction control system off switch
(two−wheel drive models)
18. Outside rear view mirror defogger and
windshield wiper deicer switches

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19. Theft deterrent system/Engine
immobiliser system indicator light
20. Power rear view mirror control switches

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Instrument cluster overview

1. Tachometer

4. Fuel gauge

7. Trip meter reset knob

2. Service reminder indicators and
indicator lights

5. Low fuel level warning light

8. Odometer and two trip meters

6. Engine coolant temperature gauge

9. Instrument panel light control knob

3. Speedometer

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Indicator symbols on the instrument panel

Brake system warning light∗1

Anti−lock brake system warning light∗1

Driver’s seat belt reminder light∗1

Open door warning light∗1

Front passenger’s seat belt reminder light∗1

Automatic transmission fluid temperature warning
light∗1

Discharge warning light∗1

SRS warning light∗1

Low engine oil pressure warning light∗1

Vehicle skid control system warning light∗1

Malfunction indicator lamp∗1

Traction
light∗1

control

system

off

indicator/warning

Low windshield washer fluid level warning light∗1

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Headlight high beam indicator light
Turn signal indicator lights
Automatic transmission indicator lights
Overdrive−off indicator light
Snow mode indicator light
Slip indicator light
Cruise control indicator light∗2
∗1:

For details, see “Service reminder indicators and warning
buzzers” on page 102 in Section 1−5.

∗2:

If this light flashes, see “Cruise control” on page 122 in
Section 1−6.

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SECTION

1− 2

OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND
CONTROLS
Keys and Doors
Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine immobiliser system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Side doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Back door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Theft deterrent system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel tank cap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electric moon roof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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12
15
16
24
26
28
29
31
32

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Keys (without engine
immobiliser system)

Your vehicle is supplied with two kinds
of keys.
1. Master key—This key works in every
lock.
2. Sub key—This key will not work in the
glove box.
To protect things locked in the glove box
when you have your vehicle parked, leave
the sub key with the attendant.
Since the side doors can be locked without a key, you should always carry a
spare key in case you accidentally lock
your keys inside the vehicle.

Keys (with engine
immobiliser system)

KEY NUMBER PLATE
Your key number is shown on the plate.
Keep the plate in a safe place such as
your wallet, not in the vehicle.
If you should lose your keys or if you
need additional keys, duplicates can be
made by a Toyota dealer using the key
number.
We recommend you to write down the key
number and keep it in safe place.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

Your vehicle is supplied with two kinds
of keys.
1. Master key (black)—This key works in
every lock. Your Toyota dealer will
need it to make you a new key with
built−in transponder chip.
2. Sub key (gray)—This key will not work
in the glove box.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

A transponder chip for engine immobiliser
system has been filled in the head of the
master and sub keys. These chips are
needed to enable the system to function
correctly, so be careful not to lose these
keys. If you make your own duplicate key,
you will not be able to cancel the system
or start the engine.
To protect things locked in the glove box
when you have your vehicle parked, leave
the sub key with the attendant.
Since the side doors can be locked without a key, you should always carry a
spare key in case you accidentally lock
your keys inside the vehicle.

NOTICE
When using a key containing a transponder chip, observe the following
precautions:
z When starting the engine, do not
use the key with a key ring resting
on the key grip and do not press
the key ring against the key grip.
Otherwise the engine may not start,
or may stop soon after it starts.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

z When starting the engine, do not
use the key with other transponder
keys around (including keys of other vehicles) and do not press other
key plates against the key grip.
Otherwise the engine may not start,
or may stop soon after it starts. If
this happens, remove the key once
and then insert it again after taking
off other transponder keys (including keys of other vehicles) from the
ring or while gripping or covering
them with your hand to start the
engine.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

z Do not cover the key grip with any
material that cuts off electromagnetic waves.
z Do not knock the key hard against
other objects.
z Do not leave the key exposed to
high temperatures for a long period,
such as on the dashboard and hood
under the direct sunlight.
z Do not put the key in water or
wash it in an ultrasonic washer.
z Do not bend the key grip.

z Do not use the key with electromagnetic materials.

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Engine immobiliser system
For your Toyota dealer to make you a
new key with built−in transponder chip,
your dealer will need your key number
and master key. However, there is a limit
to the number of additional keys your
Toyota dealer can make for you.
If you make your own duplicate key,
you will not be able to cancel the system or start the engine.

NOTICE

The engine immobiliser system is a
theft prevention system. When you insert the key in the ignition switch, the
transponder chip in the key’s head
transmits an electronic code to the vehicle. The engine will start, only when
the electronic code in the chip corresponds to the registered ID code for
the vehicle.

The system is automatically set when the
key is removed from the ignition switch.
The indicator light will start flashing to
show the system is set.

Do not modify, remove or disassemble the engine immobiliser system. If any unauthorized changes or
modifications are made, the proper
operation of the system cannot be
guaranteed.

In the following cases, contact your Toyota
dealer.

D The indicator light stays on.
D The indicator light does not start flash-

ing when the key is removed from the
ignition switch.

D The indicator light flashes unsteady.
Inserting the registered key in the ignition
switch automatically cancels the system,
which enables the engine to start. The
indicator light will go off.
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Side doors—
For vehicles sold in U.S.A.
FCC ID: MOZ RI−14BTY
MADE IN JAPAN
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

For vehicles sold in Canada
This device complies with RSS−210 of
Industry Canada. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept
any interference, including interference
that may cause undesired operation of
the device.

LOCKING AND UNLOCKING WITH KEY

CAUTION

Insert the key into the keyhole and turn
it.

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment.

To lock: Turn the key forward.
To unlock: Turn the key backward.
All the side doors and back door lock
simultaneously with either front door. In
the driver’s door lock, turning the key
backward once will unlock the driver’s
door and twice in succession will unlock
all the side doors and back door simultaneously. In the front passenger’s door
lock, turning the key backward once will
unlock all the side doors and back door
simultaneously.
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When the driver’s door is unlocked by
turning a key in either of the front doors,
the interior light comes on for about 15
seconds and then fades out, even if the
door is not opened. (For further information, see “Interior lights” on page 92 and
“Ignition switch light” on page 93 in Section 1−4.)

LOCKING
AND
UNLOCKING
INSIDE LOCK KNOB

WITH

Driver’s side

Move the lock knob.
To lock: Push the knob forward.
To unlock: Pull the knob backward.
Closing the side door with the lock knob
in the lock position will also lock the side
door. Be careful not to lock your keys in
the vehicle.
The side door cannot be locked if you
leave the key in the ignition switch and
the driver’s door is opened.
Passenger’s side
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LOCKING
AND
UNLOCKING
POWER DOOR LOCK SWITCH

WITH

CAUTION

Push the switch.

Before driving, be sure that the doors
are closed and locked, especially
when small children are in the vehicle. Along with the proper use of
seat belts, locking the doors helps
prevent the driver and passengers
from being thrown out from the vehicle during an accident. It also helps
prevent the doors from being opened
unintentionally.

To lock: Push the switch on the front side.
To unlock: Push the switch on the rear
side.
All the side doors and back door lock or
unlock simultaneously.

REAR DOOR CHILD−PROTECTORS
Move the lock lever to the “LOCK”
position as shown on the label.
This feature allows you to lock a rear
door so it can be opened from the outside
only, not from inside. We recommend using this feature whenever small children
are in the vehicle.

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—Wireless remote control
Your vehicle has a wireless remote
control system that can lock or unlock
all the side doors and back door, or
activate the “PANIC” mode from a
distance within approximately 1 m (3
ft.) of the vehicle.
LOCKING AND UNLOCKING THE SIDE
DOORS AND BACK DOOR
To lock and unlock all the side doors
and back door, push the switches of
the transmitter slowly and securely.
Locking operation

To lock: Push the “LOCK” switch. All the
side doors and back door are locked simultaneously. At this time one beep will
be heard, and the turn signal lights flash
once.
Check to see that all the side doors and
back door are securely locked.
If any of the side doors or back door is
not securely closed, locking cannot be
performed by the “LOCK” switch and a
beep will sound continuously for 10 seconds. However, if the key is in the ignition, a beep will not sound.
To stop the buzzer, close all the side
doors and back door securely or push the
“UNLOCK” switch.

Unlocking operation

The buzzer can be disabled. For details,
contact your Toyota dealer.
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

To unlock: Push the “UNLOCK” switch
once to unlock the driver’s door alone.
Pushing the switch twice within 3 seconds
unlocks all the side doors and back door
simultaneously. Each time the “UNLOCK”
switch is pushed, two beeps will be heard,
and the turn signal lights flash twice.
This double switch operation to unlock all
the side doors and back door can be
changed to a single switch operation. For
details, contact your Toyota dealer.
When the driver’s door is unlocked with a
wireless remote control transmitter, the interior light and ignition switch light come
on for about 15 seconds and then fade
out, even if the door is not opened. (For
details, see “Interior lights” on page 92
and “Ignition switch light” on page 93 in
Section 1−4.)
You have 30 seconds to open a door after
using the wireless remote unlock feature.
If a door is not opened by then, all the
side doors and back door will be automatically locked again. At this time one beep
will be heard, and the turn signal lights
flash once.
The timing for the automatic door lock
function can be changed. For details, contact your Toyota dealer.

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If the “LOCK” or “UNLOCK” switch is kept
pressed in, the locking or unlocking operation is not repeated. Release the button
and then push again.
The wireless door locking or unlocking
function can be erased. For details, contact your Toyota dealer.

Check the beep ON/OFF operation by
pushing the transmitter switch after you
finish this procedure. If the beep does not
operate as expected, repeat this procedure from step 1.

SWITCHING BEEP SOUND ON AND OFF
You can switch the beep on and off. (The
beep is on initially and after battery replacement.)
To switch the beep on and off:
With the driver’s door opened—

“PANIC” SWITCH

1. Insert the ignition key and remove it.

Pushing the “PANIC” switch blows the
horn intermittently and flashes the
headlights and tail lights.

2. Within 5 seconds, insert the ignition
key again and turn it to the “ON” position.

The “PANIC” switch is used to deter vehicle theft when you witness anyone attempting to break into or damage your
vehicle.

3. After 10 seconds, push the same
“LOCK”, “UNLOCK” or “PANIC” button
twice within 10 seconds.
Two beep sounds inform you that the
program has been switched on or off.

The alarm will last for one minute. To stop
alarm midway, do the following:

If this procedure is not followed exactly,
the beep will not operate as expected.

D Push the “PANIC” switch once again.
D Unlock any of side door or back door

with the key or wireless remote control
transmitter.

D Turn the ignition key from the “LOCK”
20

to “ON” position.

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The “PANIC” mode does not work when
the ignition key is in the “ON” position.
The alarm function can be disabled. For
details, contact your Toyota dealer.
WIRELESS
TRANSMITTER

REMOTE

CONTROL

The wireless remote control transmitter is
an electronic component. Observe the following instructions in order not to cause
damage to the transmitter.

D Do not leave the transmitter on places

where the temperature becomes high
such as on the dashboard.

D Do not disassemble it.
D Avoid knocking it hard against other
objects or dropping it.

D Avoid putting it in water.
You can use up to 4 wireless remote control transmitters for the same vehicle.
Contact your Toyota dealer for detailed
information.

D The battery may have been consumed.

Check the battery in the transmitter. To
replace the battery, see “REPLACING
TRANSMITTER BATTERY”.

If you lose your transmitter, contact your
Toyota dealer as soon as possible to
avoid the possibility of theft, or an accident. (See “If you lose your wireless remote control transmitter” on page 228 in
Section 4.)
For vehicles sold in U.S.A.
This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

NOTICE:
This equipment has been tested and
found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part
15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation. This equipment
generates, uses and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications. However, there
is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation. If this
equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception,
which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:

If the wireless remote control transmitter
does not actuate the doors or alarm, or
operate from a normal distance:

D Check for closeness to a radio trans-

mitter such as a radio station or an
airport which can interfere with normal
operation of the transmitter.
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D Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.

D Increase the separation between the
equipment and receiver.

D Connect the equipment into an outlet

on a circuit different from that to
which the receiver is connected.

D Consult the dealer or an experienced
radio/TV technician for help.

FCC WARNING:
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment.
For vehicles sold in Canada
Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
(1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept
any interference, including interference
that may cause undesired operation of
the device.

REPLACING TRANSMITTER BATTERY
For replacement, use a CR2016 lithium
battery or equivalent.

CAUTION
Special care should be taken that
small children do not swallow the removed transmitter battery or components.

NOTICE
z During replacing the transmitter
battery, do not push the “LOCK”
and
“UNLOCK”
switches many
times.
z When replacing the transmitter battery, be careful not to lose the components.
z Replace only with the same or
equivalent type recommended by
the manufacturer.
z Dispose of used batteries according
to the local laws.
Replace the transmitter battery by the following procedures:

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

1. Using a coin or equivalent, open the
transmitter case.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

z Be careful not to bend the electrode
of the transmitter battery insertion
and that dust or oils do not adhere
to the transmitter case.
z Close the transmitter case securely.
After replacing battery, check that the
transmitter operates properly. If the transmitter still does not operate properly, contact your Toyota dealer.

2. Remove the discharged transmitter battery.

NOTICE
Do not bend the terminals.

3. Put a new transmitter battery with positive (+) side up.
Close the transmitter case securely.

NOTICE
z Make sure the positive side and
negative side of the transmitter battery should be faced correctly.
z Do not replace the battery with wet
hands. Water may cause unexpected
rust.
z Do not touch or move any components inside of the transmitter, or
it may interfere with proper operation.
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Power windows
CAUTION

D Never try jamming any part of your

body to make the jam protection
function work intentionally.

D The jam protection function may

not work if something gets caught
just before the window is fully
closed.

The windows can be operated with the
switch on each side door.
The power windows work when the ignition
switch is in the “ON” position.
Key off operation: If both front doors are
closed, they work for 43 seconds even
after the ignition switch is turned off. They
stop working when the either front door is
opened.
OPERATING THE DRIVER’S WINDOW
Use the switch on the driver’s door.
Normal operation: The window moves as
long as you hold the switch.

Automatic operation: Push the switch
completely down or pull it completely up,
and then release it. The window will fully
open or close. To stop the window partway, lightly move the switch in the opposite direction and then release it.
Jam protection function: During automatic closing operation, the window stops and
opens half way if something gets caught
between the window and window frame.
If the window receives a strong impact,
this function may work even if nothing is
caught.

To open: Lightly push down the switch.
To close: Lightly pull up the switch.

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Window lock
switch

OPERATING
WINDOWS

THE

PASSENGERS’

Use the switch on each passenger’s
door or the switches on the driver’s
door that control each passenger’s window.
The window moves as long as you hold
the switch.
To open: Push down the switch.
To close: Pull up the switch.
If you push in the window lock switch on
the driver’s door, the passengers’ windows
cannot be operated.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

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Back door
OPERATING THE DRIVER’S WINDOW
FROM OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE

CAUTION

The driver’s window can be operated
with the key inserted in the driver’s
door key cylinder.

To avoid serious personal injury, you
must do the following.

To open: Turn the key fully backward and
hold it.
After the door is unlocked, the window
begins to open. To stop the window partway, release the key.
To close: Turn the key fully forward and
hold it.
After the door is locked, the window begins to close. To stop the window partway,
release the key.
This feature can be disabled. For details,
contact your Toyota dealer.

D Always make sure the heads, hands

and other parts of the bodies of all
occupants are kept completely inside the vehicle before you close
the power windows. If someone’s
neck, head or hands gets caught in
a closing window, it could result in
a serious injury. When anyone
closes the power windows, make
sure that he/she operates the windows safely.

D When small children are in the ve-

hicle, never let them use the power
window switches without supervision. Use the window lock switch to
prevent them from making unexpected use of the switches.

D Never leave small children alone in
the vehicle, especially with the ignition key still inserted. They could
use the power window switches and
get trapped in a window. Unattended children can be involved in
serious accidents.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

LOCKING AND UNLOCKING WITH KEY
Insert the key into the keyhole and turn
it.
To lock: Turn the key clockwise.
To unlock: Turn the key counterclockwise.
To open the back door, pull the lock release lever.
When the driver’s door is unlocked by
turning a key in either of the front doors,
the interior light comes on for about 15
seconds and then fades out, even if the
door is not opened. (For further information, see “Interior lights” on page 92 and
“Ignition switch light” on page 93 in Section 1−4.)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Operating the power door lock switch or
wireless remote control transmitter simultaneously locks or unlocks the back door
(see “Side doors” on page 16 in this section).

CAUTION
Keep the back door closed while driving. This not only keeps the luggage
from being thrown out but also prevents exhaust gases from entering
the vehicle.

When closing the back door, make sure
it is fully closed.
See “Luggage stowage precautions” on
page 189 in Section 2 for precautions to
observe in loading luggage.

When closing the back door, use the
inside strap for easier reach to the
back door.
To close the back door, lower it and press
down on it. After closing the back door,
try pulling it up to make sure it is securely closed.
See “Luggage stowage precautions” on
page 189 in Section 2 for precautions in
loading luggage.

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Hood

To open the hood:
1. Pull the hood lock release lever. The
hood will spring up slightly.

2. In front of the vehicle, pull up the
auxiliary catch lever and lift the
hood.

CAUTION
Before driving, be sure that the hood
is closed and securely locked. Otherwise, the hood may open unexpectedly while driving and an accident may
occur.

3. Hold the hood open by inserting the
support rod into the slot.
Before closing the hood, check to see that
you have not forgotten any tools, rags,
etc. and return the support rod to its
clip—this prevents rattles. Then lower the
hood and make sure it locks into place.
If necessary, press down gently on the
front edge to lock it.

CAUTION
After inserting the support rod into
the slot, make sure the rod supports
the hood securely from falling down
on to your head or body.

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Theft deterrent system
NOTICE
Be sure to return the
its clip before closing
ing the hood with the
could cause the hood

support rod to
the hood. Clossupport rod up
to bend.

To deter the vehicle theft, the system
is designed to give an alarm if any of
the side doors, back door or hood is
forcibly unlocked or the battery terminal is disconnected and then reconnected when the system is set.
The alarm blows the horn intermittently
and flashes the headlights, tail lights, turn
signal lights and interior lights. If any of
the side doors and back door is unlocked
forcibly, all the side doors and back door
will be automatically locked.

SETTING THE SYSTEM
1. Turn the ignition key to the “LOCK”
position and remove it.
The indicator light will start flashing when
the key is removed from the ignition
switch. (See “Engine immobiliser system”
on page 15 for details.)
2. Have all passengers get out of the
vehicle.
3. Close and lock all the side doors, back
door and hood.
The indicator light will come on when all
the side doors, back door and hood are
closed and locked.

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The system will automatically be set after
30 seconds. When the system is set, the
indicator light will start flashing again.

After one minute, the alarm will automatically stop and the indicator light will start
flashing again.

4. After making sure the indicator light
starts flashing, you may leave the vehicle.

Reactivating the alarm

Never leave anyone in the vehicle when
you set the system, because unlocking
from the inside will activate the system.

The alarm will activate again under the
same
circumstances
described
in
“Activating the system”.

WHEN THE SYSTEM IS SET
Activating the system
The system will give the alarm under the
following conditions:

D If any of the side doors and back door
is unlocked or the hood is forcibly
opened without the key or wireless remote control transmitter.

Once set, the system automatically resets
the alarm after the alarm stops.

Stopping the alarm
The alarm will be stopped by the following
conditions:

D Turn the ignition key from the “LOCK”
to “ON” position.

D Unlock any of the side doors or back

door with the key or wireless remote
control transmitter.

D If the battery terminal is disconnected

CANCELLING THE SYSTEM

D Hotwire the ignition.

The system will be cancelled
above mentioned 2 ways.

and then reconnected.

The indicator light will come on when the
system is activating.
If any of the side doors and back door is
unlocked without the key or wireless remote control transmitter, all the side doors
and back door will be automatically locked
again.

the

If the tail lights come on for 2 seconds,
the theft deterrent system has been
alarmed. Check to see if there is any
abnormality on your vehicle.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

TESTING THE SYSTEM
1. Open all the windows.
2. Set the system as described above.
The side doors and back door should
be locked with the key or wireless remote control transmitter. Be sure to
wait until the indicator light starts flashing.
3. Unlock any door from the inside. The
system should activate the alarm.
4. Stopping the alarm as described above.
5. Repeat this operation for the other
doors and hood. When testing on the
hood, also check that the system is
activated when the battery terminal is
disconnected and then reconnected.
If the system does not work properly,
have it checked by your Toyota dealer.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Fuel tank cap

This indicates that the fuel filler door
is on the left side of your vehicle.

1. To open the fuel filler door, pull the
lever up.
When refueling, turn off the engine.

CAUTION

D Do not smoke, cause sparks or al-

low open flames when refueling.
The fumes are flammable.

D When opening the cap, do not re-

move the cap quickly. In hot weather, fuel under pressure could cause
injury by spraying out of the filler
neck if the cap is suddenly removed.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

2. To remove the fuel tank cap, turn
the cap slowly counterclockwise,
then pause slightly before removing
it. After removing the cap, hang it
on the cap hanger.
It is not unusual to hear a slight swoosh
when the cap is opened. When installing,
turn the cap clockwise till you hear a
click.
If the cap is not tightened securely, the
malfunction indicator lamp comes on.
Make sure the cap is tightened securely.
The indicator lamp goes off after driving
several times. If the indicator lamp does
not go off, contact your Toyota dealer as
soon as possible.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Electric moon roof
To operate the moon roof, use the
switch beside the personal light.

CAUTION

The moon roof works when the ignition
switch is in the “ON” position. However,
if both front doors are closed, it works for
43 seconds even after the ignition switch
is turned off. It stops working when either
front door is opened.

D Make sure the cap is tightened se-

curely to prevent fuel spillage in
case of an accident.

D Use only a genuine Toyota fuel tank

cap for replacement. It is designed
to regulate fuel tank pressure.

Sun shade operation—
The sun shade can be opened or closed
by hand.
Sliding operation—
Sliding operation

To open: Push the switch on the “SLIDE
OPEN” side.
The roof will open and stop at the three−
quarters closed position. When you push
the switch again, the moon roof will open
fully. To stop the roof partway, push the
switch on either the “SLIDE OPEN” or
“TILT UP” side while the roof is moving.
As driving with the moon roof opened fully
will cause wind throbs, we recommend
you to drive with the moon roof at the
three−quarters closed from the fully
opened position.

Tilting operation

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

The sun shade will be opened together
with the roof.
To close: Push the switch on the “TILT
UP” side.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

The roof will fully close. To stop the roof
partway, push the switch on either the
“SLIDE OPEN” or “TILT UP” side.
Tilting operation—
To tilt up: Push the switch on the “TILT
UP” side.
To lower: Push the switch on the “SLIDE
OPEN” side.
You may stop the moon roof at any desired position. The roof will move while
the switch is being pushed and stop when
released except to slide open.
Jam protection function (closing operation only): During closing operation, the
moon roof stops and opens half way if
something gets caught between the moon
roof and frame.
If an impact is given to the moon roof,
this function may work without anything
caught.

CAUTION
To avoid serious personal injury, you
must do the following.

D Never sit on top of the vehicle
around the roof opening.

D While the vehicle is moving, always

keep the heads, hands and other
parts of the bodies of all occupants
away from the roof opening. Otherwise, they could be seriously injured if the vehicle stops suddenly
or if the vehicle is involved in an
accident.

D Always make sure nobody places

his/her head, hands and other parts
of the body in the roof opening before you close the roof. If someone’s neck, head or hands gets
caught in the closing roof, it could
result in a serious injury. When
anyone close the roof, first make
sure it is safe to do so.

D Never leave small children alone in
the vehicle, especially with the ignition key still inserted. They could
use the moon roof switches and get
trapped in the roof opening. Unattended children can be involved in
serious accidents.

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SECTION

1− 3

OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND
CONTROLS
Seats, Seat belts, Steering wheel and Mirrors
Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Head restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Armrests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seat heaters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Seat belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SRS driver and front passenger airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SRS side airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Child restraint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tilt steering wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Outside rear view mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Anti−glare inside rear view mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sun visors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

36
36
41
43
44
44
45
53
61
66
82
83
84
85

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Front seats—
—Front seat precautions
Seats

(on vehicles with SRS side airbags)

While the vehicle is being driven, all vehicle occupants should have the seatback
upright, sit well back in the seat and properly wear the seat belts provided.

CAUTION

D Do not drive the vehicle unless the
occupants are properly seated. Do
not allow sitting on top of a
folded−down seatback, or in the
luggage compartment or cargo area.
Persons not properly seated and/or
properly restrained by seat belts
can be severely injured in the event
of emergency braking or a collision.

D During driving, do not allow pas-

sengers to stand up or move
around between seats. Severe injuries can occur in the event of emergency braking or a collision.

CAUTION
The SRS side airbags are installed in
the driver and front passenger seats.
Observe the following precautions.

D Do not lean against the front door

when the vehicle is in use. The side
airbag inflates with considerable
speed and force; you may be killed
or seriously injured.

D Do not use accessories for the

seats which cover the parts where
the side airbags inflate. Such accessories may prevent the side airbags
from activating correctly, causing
death or serious injury.

D Do not modify or replace the seats

or upholstery of the front seats
with the side airbags. Such changes
may disable the system or cause
the side airbags to inflate accidentally, resulting in death or serious
injury. Consult your Toyota dealer if
you insist on modifications of this
kind.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

—Seat adjustment
precautions
Adjust the driver’s seat so that the foot
pedals, steering wheel and instrument
panel controls are within easy reach of
the driver.

CAUTION

D Adjustments should not be made
while the vehicle is moving, as the
seat may unexpectedly move and
cause the driver to lose control of
the vehicle.

D When adjusting the seat, be careful
that the seat does not hit a passenger or luggage.

D After adjusting the seat position,

try sliding it forward and backward
to make sure it is locked in position.

D After adjusting the seatback, exert

body pressure to make sure it is
locked in position.

D Do not put objects under the seats.

The objects may interfere with the
seat−lock mechanism or unexpectedly push up the seat position adjusting lever; the seat may suddenly
move, causing the driver to lose
control of the vehicle.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Adjusting front seats
(manual seat)
1. SEAT POSITION ADJUSTING LEVER

D While adjusting the seat, do not put

Hold the center of the lever and pull it
up. Then slide the seat to the desired
position with slight body pressure and
release the lever.

your hands under the seat or near
the moving parts. You may catch
and injure your hands or fingers.

2. SEAT CUSHION ANGLE ADJUSTING
KNOBS
Turn the knob either way.
3. SEATBACK
LEVER

ANGLE

ADJUSTING

Lean forward and pull the lever up.
Then lean back to the desired angle
and release the lever.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Adjusting front seats
(power seat)
1. SEAT POSITION AND SEAT CUSHION
ANGLE/HEIGHT ADJUSTING SWITCH

CAUTION

Move the control switch in the desired
direction.

To reduce the risk of sliding under
the lap belt during a collision, avoid
reclining the seatback any more than
needed. The seat belts provide maximum protection in a frontal or rear
collision when the driver and the passenger are sitting up straight and
well back in the seats. If you are
reclined, the lap belt may slide past
your hips and apply restraint forces
directly to the abdomen. Therefore, in
the event of a frontal collision, the
risk of personal injury may increase
with increasing recline of the seatback.

Releasing the switch will stop the seat at
that position.
Do not place anything under the front
seats. It might interfere with the seat−lock
mechanism.
2. SEATBACK
SWITCH

ANGLE

ADJUSTING

Move the control switch in the desired
direction.
Releasing the switch will stop the seatback at that position.

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Flattening seatbacks
(manual seat)
CAUTION
To reduce the risk of sliding under
the lap belt during a collision, avoid
reclining the seatback any more than
needed. The seat belts provide maximum protection in frontal or rear collision when the driver and the passenger are sitting up straight and
well back in the seats. If you are
reclined, the lap belt may slide past
your hips and apply restraint forces
directly to the abdomen. Therefore, in
the event of a frontal collision, the
risk of personal injury may increase
with increasing recline of the seatback.
3. SEAT
LUMBAR
ADJUSTING SWITCH

1. Remove the head restraint. Hold the
center of the lever and pull it up.
Then slide the seat further forward
than the front−most lock position.

SUPPORT

Push the switch on either way.

2. Pull the seatback angle adjusting lever to unlock and push down the
seatback.
When returning the seatback upright, be
careful not to make yourself hit by the
seatback which will bound with considerable spring force.
After returning the seat to its original
position, be certain to replace the head
restraint.

The amount of lumbar support will change
as long as the switch is pushed.

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Flattening seatbacks
(power seat)
CAUTION

D Do not allow passengers to ride on
the flattened seat while driving; use
the seat in the normal position.

D After putting back the seat, try
pushing the seat and seatback forward and rearward to make sure it
is secured in place. Be certain to
replace head restraint.

1. Remove the head restraint. Push the
seat position adjusting switch forward to slide the seat further forward than the front−most lock position.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

2. Move the seatback angle adjusting
switch backward to flatten the seatback.
After returning the seat to its original
position, be certain to replace the head
restraint.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Rear seats—
—Rear seat precautions
CAUTION

CAUTION

D Do not allow passengers to ride on

D Adjustment should not be made

the flattened seat while driving; use
the seat in the normal position.

D After putting back the seat, try
pushing the seat and seatback forward and rearward to make sure it
is secured in place. Be certain to
replace head restraint.

—Adjusting rear seats

while the vehicle is moving.

D When adjusting the seatback, be
careful not to hit the seat against
a passenger or luggage.

D After adjusting the seatback, push

back your body to make sure it is
locked in position.

D When returning the seatback to the
upright position, observe the following precautions in order to prevent
personal injury in a collision or
sudden stop:

Make sure the seatback is securely
locked by pushing forward and rearward on the top of the seatback.
Failure to do so will prevent the
seat belt from operating properly.
Make sure the seat belts are not
twisted or caught in the seatback
and are arranged in their proper
position and are ready to use.

SEATBACK ANGLE ADJUSTING LEVER
Pull the lever up. Then lean back to the
desired angle and release the lever.

CAUTION

D Adjustments should not be made
while the vehicle is moving.

Folding rear seatbacks will enlarge the
luggage compartment. See “Luggage stowage precautions” on page 189 in Section
2 for precautions in loading luggage.
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Fold−down rear seats
D To reduce the risk of sliding under

the lap belt during a collision,
avoid reclining the seatback any
more than needed. The seat belts
provide maximum protection in a
frontal or rear collision when the
passengers are sitting up straight
and well back in the seats. If you
are reclined, the lap belt may slide
past your hips and apply restraint
forces directly to the abdomen.
Therefore, in the event of a frontal
collision, the risk of personal injury
may increase with increasing recline
of the seatback.

D After adjusting the seatback, push

back your body to make sure it is
locked in position.

BEFORE FOLD−DOWN REAR SEAT
1. Stow the rear seat belt buckles as
shown above the illustration.

This prevents the shoulder belt from being
damaged.

CAUTION

NOTICE

The seat belt must be removed from
the hangers when they are in use.

Do not fold the seatback forward
while the luggage cover is set.

2. Make sure the outer seat belts
passes through the hangers when
folding the rear seat.

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Head restraints
CAUTION
When returning the seatback to the
upright position, observe the following precautions in order to prevent
personal injury in a collision or sudden stop:

D Make sure the seatback is securely

locked by pushing forward and rearward on the top of the seatback.
Failure to do so will prevent the
seat belt from operating properly.

FOLD−DOWN REAR SEATS
Pull the lock release lever and fold
down the seatback.

D Make sure the seat belts are not

twisted or caught in the seatback
and are arranged in their proper
position and are ready to use.

Front

NOTICE
Do not fold the seatback forward
while the luggage cover is set.
Folding down the rear seats will enlarge
the luggage compartment. See “Luggage
stowage precautions” on page 189 in Section 2 for precautions in loading luggage.

Rear
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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Armrests

Seat heaters

To use the armrest, pull it down as
shown above.

To turn on the seat heater, push the
switch.

For your safety and comfort, adjust the
head restraint before driving.
To raise: Pull it up.
To lower: Push it down while pressing the
lock release button.
Front head restraints only—On some models, you can also move the front head
restraint forward or backward. If such adjustment is desired, pull or push the head
restraint.
Rear center head restraint—When an occupant sits on the rear center seat, always pull up the rear center head restraint to the lock position.
The head restraint is most effective when
it is close to your head. Therefore, using
a cushion on the seatback is not recommended.

CAUTION

NOTICE
To prevent damage to the armrest,
avoid putting heavy loads on it.

D Adjust the center of the head re-

straint so that it is closest to the
top of your ears.

D After adjusting the head restraint,
make sure it is locked in position.

D Do not drive with the head restraints removed.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

The key must be in the “ON” position.
Push the switch once again to turn the
seat heater off.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Seat belts—
—Seat belt precautions
CAUTION
Occupants must use caution when operating the seat heater because it
may make them feel too hot or cause
burns at low temperatures (erythema,
varicella). Use extra caution for;

D Babies, small children, elderly per-

sons, sick persons or handicapped
persons

D Persons who have delicate skin
D Persons who are exhausted
D Persons who have taken alcohol or

z Do not put unevenly weighed objects on the seat and do not stick
sharp objects (needles, nails, etc.)
into the seat.

Toyota strongly urges that the driver and
passengers in the vehicle be properly restrained at all times with the seat belts
provided. Failure to do so could increase
the chance of injury and/or the severity of
injury in accidents.

z When cleaning the seats, do not
use organic substances (paint thinner, benzine, alcohol, gasoline,
etc.). They may damage the heater
and seat surface.

Child. Use a child restraint system appropriate for the child until the child becomes large enough to properly wear the
vehicle’s seat belts. See “Child restraint”
on page 66 for details.

z To prevent the battery from being
discharged, turn the switch on
when the engine is running.

If a child is too large for a child restraint
system, the child should sit in the rear
seat and must be restrained using the
vehicle’s seat belt. According to accident
statistics, the child is safer when properly
restrained in the rear seat than in the
front seat.

NOTICE

drugs which induce sleep (sleeping
drug, cold remedy, etc.)

To prevent the seat from overheating,
do not use the seat heater with a
blanket, cushion, or other insulating
objects which cover the seat.

If a child must sit in the front seat, the
seat belts should be worn properly. If an
accident occurs and seat belts are not
worn properly, the force of the rapid inflation of the airbag may cause death or
serious injury to the child.

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Do not allow the child to stand up or
kneel on either rear or front seats. An
unrestrained child could suffer serious injury or death during emergency braking or
a collision. Also, do not let the child sit
on your lap. It does not provide sufficient
restraint.
Pregnant woman. Toyota recommends the
use of a seat belt. Ask your doctor for
specific recommendations. The lap belt
should be worn securely and as low as
possible over the hips and not on the
waist.
Injured person. Toyota recommends the
use of a seat belt. Depending on the injury, first check with your doctor for specific
recommendations.

CAUTION
Persons should ride in their seats
properly wearing their seat belts
whenever the vehicle is moving.
Otherwise, they are much more likely
to suffer serious bodily injury or
death in the event of sudden braking
or a collision.
When using the seat belts, observe
the following:

D Use the belt for only one person at

a time. Do not use a single belt for
two or more people—even children.

D Avoid reclining the seatbacks too
much. The seat belts provide maximum protection when the seatbacks
are in the upright position. (Refer
to the seat adjustment instructions.)

D Be careful not to damage the belt

webbing or hardware. Take care that
they do not get caught or pinched
in the seat or side doors.

D Inspect the belt system periodically.

Check for cuts, fraying, and loose
parts. Damaged parts should be replaced. Do not disassemble or
modify the system.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

D Keep the belts clean and dry. If

they need cleaning, use a mild soap
solution or lukewarm water. Never
use bleach, dye, or abrasive cleaners—they may severely weaken the
belts. (See “Cleaning the interior”
on page 233 in Section 5.)

D Replace the belt assembly (includ-

ing bolts) if it has been used in a
severe impact. The entire assembly
should be replaced even if damage
is not obvious.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Front and rear seat belts
If the seat belt cannot be pulled out of the
retractor, firmly pull the belt and release
it. You will then be able to smoothly pull
the belt out of the retractor.
When a passenger’s shoulder belt is completely extended and is then retracted
even slightly, the belt is locked in that
position and cannot be extended. This feature is used to hold the child restraint
system securely. (For details, see “Child
restraint” on page 66 in this section.) To
free the belt again, fully retract the belt
and then pull the belt out once more.
Adjust the seat as needed (front seats
only) and sit up straight and well back
in the seat. To fasten your belt, pull it
out of the retractor and insert the tab
into the buckle.

CAUTION

Seat belts with an adjustable shoulder
anchor—

D After inserting the tab, make sure

Adjust the shoulder anchor position to
your size.

You will hear a click when the tab locks
into the buckle.

D Do not insert coins, clips, etc. in

The seat belt length automatically adjusts
to your size and the seat position.
The retractor will lock the belt during a
sudden stop or on impact. It also may
lock if you lean forward too quickly. A
slow, easy motion will allow the belt to
extend, and you can move around freely.

the tab and buckle are locked and
that the belt is not twisted.

the buckle as this may prevent you
from properly latching the tab and
buckle.

D If the seat belt does not function

To raise: Slide the anchor up.
To lower: Push in the lock release button
and slide the anchor down.
After adjustment, make sure the anchor is
locked in position.

normally, immediately contact your
Toyota dealer. Do not use the seat
until the seat belt is fixed. It cannot
protect an adult occupant or your
child from injury.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

CAUTION
Always make sure the shoulder belt
is positioned across the center of
your shoulder. The belt should be
kept away from your neck, but not
falling off your shoulder. Failure to
do so could reduce the amount of
protection in an accident and cause
serious injuries in a collision.

CAUTION
Take up
slack
Too high

shoulder belt under your arm.

the

Position the lap belt as low as
on your hips—not on your waist,
just it to a snug fit by pulling the
portion upward through the latch

loose−fitting belts could cause serious injuries due to sliding under
the lap belt during a collision or
other unintended result. Keep the
lap belt positioned as low on hips
as possible.

D For your safety, do not place the

Keep as low on
hips as possible

Adjust the position
shoulder belts.

D Both high−positioned lap belts and

lap and
possible
then adshoulder
plate.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Stowing rear seat belt
buckles

—Seat belt extender
If your seat belt
curely because it
personalized seat
able from your
charge.

cannot be fastened seis not long enough, a
belt extender is availToyota dealer free of

Please contact your local Toyota dealer so
that the dealer can order the proper required length for the extender. Bring the
heaviest coat you expect to wear for proper measurement and selection of length.
Additional ordering information is available
at your Toyota dealer.
To release the belt, press the buckle−release button and allow the belt to retract.
If the belt does not retract smoothly, pull
it out and check for kinks or twists. Then
make sure it remains untwisted as it retracts.

The rear seat belt buckles
stowed when not in use.

can

Seat belt buckles must be stowed before
you fold the seat back. (See “—Fold−down
rear seats” on page 42 in this section.)

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

CAUTION

When using the seat belt extender,
observe the following precautions.
Failure to follow these instructions
could result in less effectiveness of
the seat belt restraint system in case
of vehicle accident, increasing the
chance of personal injury.

D After inserting the tab, make sure

the tab and buckle are locked and
that the seat belt extender is not
twisted.

D Do not insert coins, clips, etc. in

the buckle as this may prevent you
from properly latching the tab and
buckle.

D Never use the seat belt extender if

you can fasten the seat belt without
it.

D Remember that the extender pro-

vided for you may not be safe when
used on a different vehicle, or for
another person or at a different
seating position than the one originally intended for.

D If the seat belt does not function
To connect the extender to the seat
belt, insert the tab into the seat belt
buckle so that the “PRESS” signs on
the buckle−release buttons of the extender and the seat belt are both facing
outward as shown.
You will hear a click when the tab locks
into the buckle.
When releasing the seat belt, press on
the buckle−release button on the extender,
not on the seat belt. This helps prevent
damage to the vehicle interior and extender itself.
When not in use, remove the extender
and store in the vehicle for future use.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

normally, immediately contact your
Toyota dealer. Do not use the seat
until the seat belt is fixed. It cannot
protect an adult occupant or your
child from injury.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Front seat belt pretensioners

The driver and front passenger’s seat
belt pretensioners are designed to be
activated in response to a severe frontal impact.
When the airbag sensor detects the shock
of a severe frontal impact, the front seat
belts are quickly drawn back in by the
retractors so that the belts snugly restrain
the front seat occupants.
The front seat belt pretensioners are activated even with no passenger in the front
seat.
Collisions occurring at certain speeds and
angles may cause the front seat belt pretensioners and SRS airbags not to operate
all together.

This indicator comes on when the ignition key is turned to the “ON” position.
It goes off after about 6 seconds. This
means the front seat belt pretensioners
are operating properly.

The front seat belt pretensioner system
mainly consists of the following components and their locations are shown in the
illustration.

This warning light system monitors the
airbag sensor assembly, front airbag sensors, side airbag sensors, front seat belt
pretensioner assemblies, inflators, warning
light, interconnecting wiring and power
sources. (For details, see “Service reminder indicators and warning buzzers” on
page 102 in Section 1−5.)

2. SRS warning light

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

1. Front airbag sensors
3. Front seat belt pretensioner assemblies
4. Airbag sensor assembly
The front seat belt pretensioners are controlled by the airbag sensor assembly. The
airbag sensor assembly consists of a safing sensor and airbag sensor.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

When the front seat belt pretensioners are
activated, an operating noise may be
heard and a small amount of smoke−like
gas may be released. This gas is harmless and does not indicate that a fire is
occurring.
Once the front seat belt pretensioners
have been activated, the seat belt retractors remain locked.

CAUTION
Do not modify, remove, strike or open
the front seat belt pretensioner assemblies, airbag sensor or surrounding area or wiring. Doing any of
these may cause sudden operation of
the front seat belt pretensioners or
disable the system, which could result in death or serious injury.
Failure to follow these instructions
can result in death or serious injuries.

NOTICE
Do not perform any of the following
changes without
consulting your
Toyota dealer. Such changes can
interfere with proper operation of the
front seat belt pretensioners in some
cases.
z Installation of electronic devices
such as a mobile two−way radio,
cassette tape player or compact
disc player
z Repairs on or near the front seat
belt retractor assemblies
z Modification of the suspension system
z Modification of the front end structure
z Attachment of a grille guard (bull
bar, kangaroo bar, etc.), snowplow,
winches or any other equipment to
the front end
z Repairs made on or near the front
fenders, front end structure or console

This front seat belt pretensioner system
has a service reminder indicator to inform
the driver of operating problems. If any of
the following conditions occurs, this
indicates a malfunction of the airbags or
pretensioners. Contact your Toyota dealer
as soon as possible to service the
vehicle.

D The light does not come on when the
ignition key is turned to the “ON” position, or the light remains on.

D The light comes on or flashes while
driving.

D If either front seat belt does not retract

or cannot be pulled out due to a malfunction or activation of the relevant
front seat belt pretensioner.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

SRS driver and front
passenger airbags
Your vehicle is equipped with a crash
sensing and diagnostic module, which will
record the use of the seat belt restraint
system by the driver and front passenger
when the SRS airbags are inflated.

CAUTION
The driver or front passenger who is
too close to the steering wheel or
dashboard during airbag deployment
can be killed or seriously injured.
Toyota strongly recommends that:
In the following cases, contact your Toyota
dealer as soon as possible:

D The front part of the vehicle (shaded

in the illustration) was involved in an
accident that was not severe enough to
cause the front seat belt pretensioners
to operate.

D Either front seat belt pretensioner as-

sembly
or
surrounding
area
is
scratched, cracked, or otherwise damaged.

The SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) front airbags are designed to provide further protection for the driver
and front passenger in addition to the
primary safety protection provided by
the seat belts.
In response to a severe frontal impact,
the SRS front airbags work together with
the seat belts to help reduce injury by
inflating. The SRS front airbags help to
reduce injuries mainly to the driver’s or
front passenger’s head or chest caused by
directly hitting the steering wheel or dashboard. The front passenger airbag is activated even with no passenger in the front
seat.

D The driver sit as far back as pos-

sible from the steering wheel while
still maintaining control of the vehicle.

D The front passenger sit as far back
as possible from the dashboard.

D All vehicle occupants be properly
restrained using the available seat
belts.

Be sure to wear your seat belt properly.
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

However, this threshold velocity will be
considerably higher if the vehicle strikes
an object, such as a parked vehicle or
sign pole, which can move or deform on
impact, or if it is involved in an underride
collision (e.g. a collision in which the nose
of the vehicle “underrides”, or goes under,
the bed of a truck, etc.).
It is possible that in some collisions at the
lower zone of airbag sensor detection and
activation the SRS airbags and front seat
belt pretensioners will not operate all together.
This indicator comes on when the ignition key is turned to the “ON” position.
It goes off after about 6 seconds. This
means the SRS front airbags are operating properly.

The SRS front airbag system is designed to activate in response to a severe frontal impact within the shaded
area between the arrows in the illustration.

The SRS front airbags will deploy if the
severity of the impact is above the designed threshold level, comparable to an
approximate 25 km/h (15 mph) collision
when impacting straight into a fixed barrier
that does not move or deform.

If the severity of the impact is below the
above threshold level, the SRS front airbags may not deploy.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

For the safety of all occupants, always
wear your seat belts properly.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Collision from the rear

Hitting a curb,
edge of pavement
or hard material

Falling into or
jumping over a
deep hole

Collision from the side
Vehicle rollover

The SRS front airbags are not designed
to inflate if the vehicle is involved in a
side or rear collision, if it rolls over, or
if it is involved in a low−speed frontal
collision.

Landing hard or vehicle falling

The SRS front airbags may deploy if a
serious impact occurs to the underside
of your vehicle. Some examples are
shown in the illustration.

The SRS airbag system consists mainly of
the following components, and their locations are shown in the illustration.
1. Front airbag sensors
2. SRS warning light
3. Airbag module for front passenger
(airbag and inflator)
4. Airbag sensor assembly
5. Airbag module for driver
(airbag and inflator)
The airbag sensor assembly consists of a
safing sensor and airbag sensor.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

In a severe frontal impact, the sensors
detect deceleration and the system triggers the airbag inflators. Then a chemical
reaction in the inflators quickly fills the
airbags with non−toxic gas to help restrain
the forward motion of the occupants.

A crash severe enough to inflate the airbags may break the windshield as the
vehicle buckles. In vehicles with a passenger airbag the windshield may also be
damaged by absorbing some of the force
of the inflating airbag.

When the airbags inflate, they produce a
fairly loud noise and release some smoke
and residue along with non−toxic gas. This
does not indicate a fire. This gas is normally harmless; however, for those who
have delicate skin, it may cause a minor
skin irritation. Be sure to wash off any
residue as soon as possible to prevent
any potential skin irritation.
Deployment of the airbags happens in a
fraction of a second, so the airbags must
inflate with considerable force. While the
system is designed to reduce serious injuries, it may also cause minor burns or
abrasions and swelling.
Parts of the airbag module (steering wheel
hub, dashboard) may be hot for several
minutes, but the airbags themselves will
not be hot. The airbags are designed to
inflate only once.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

CAUTION

D The SRS airbag system is designed

only as a supplement to the primary protection of the driver side and
front passenger side seat belt systems. The front seat occupants can
be killed or seriously injured by the
inflating airbags if they do not wear
the available seat belts properly.
During sudden braking just before
a collision, an unrestrained driver
or front passenger can move forward into direct contact with or
close proximity to the airbag which
may then deploy during the collision. To ensure maximum protection
in an accident, the driver and all
passengers in the vehicle must
wear their seat belts properly. Wearing a seat belt properly during an
accident reduces the chances of
death or serious injury or being
thrown out of the vehicle. For
instructions and precautions concerning the seat belt system, see
“Seat belts” on page 45 in this section.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

D Improperly seated and/or restrained

infants and children can be killed
or seriously injured by the deploying front airbags. An infant or child
who is too small to use a seat belt
should be properly secured using a
child
restraint
system.
Toyota
strongly recommends that all infants and children be placed in the
rear seat of the vehicle and properly restrained. The rear seat is the
safest for infants and children. For
instructions concerning the installation of a child restraint system, see
“Child restraint” on page 66 in this
section.

Move seat
fully back

D Never put a rear−facing child re-

straint system on the front passenger seat because the force of the
rapid inflation of the front passenger airbag can cause death or serious injury to the child.

D A forward−facing child restraint sys-

tem should be allowed to be put on
the front passenger seat only when
it is unavoidable. Always move the
seat as far back as possible, because the force of the deploying
front passenger airbag could cause
death or serious injury to the child.

D On vehicles with side airbags, do

not allow the child to lean against
the front door or around the front
door even if the child is seated in
the child restraint system. It is dangerous if the side airbags inflate,
because the impact could cause
death or serious injury to the child.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

D For

instructions concerning the
installation of a child restraint system, see “Child restraint” on page
66 in this section.

D Do not sit on the edge of the seat

or lean over the dashboard when
the vehicle is in use. The front airbags
inflate
with
considerable
speed and force; you may be killed
or seriously injured. Sit up straight
and well back in the seat, and always use your seat belt properly.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

D Do not allow a child to stand up,

or to kneel on the front passenger
seat. The front airbag inflates with
considerable speed and force; the
child may be killed or seriously injured.

D Do not hold a child on your lap or

in your arms. Use a child restraint
system in the rear seat. For instructions concerning the installation of
a child restraint system, see “Child
restraint” on page 66 in this section.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

D Do not modify or remove any wir-

ing. Do not modify, remove, strike
or open any components, such as
the steering wheel pad, steering
wheel, column cover, front passenger airbag cover, front passenger
airbag or airbag sensor assembly.
Doing any of these may cause sudden SRS front airbag inflation or
disable the system, which could result in death or serious injury.

Failure to follow these instructions
can result in death or serious injury.

D Do not put objects or your pets on

NOTICE
Do not perform any of the following
changes without
consulting your
Toyota dealer. Such changes can
interfere with proper operation of the
SRS front airbag system in some
cases.
z Installation of electronic devices
such as a mobile two−way radio,
cassette tape player or compact
disc player
z Modification of the suspension system
z Modification of the front end structure

or in front of the dashboard or
steering wheel pad that houses the
front airbag system. They might restrict inflation or cause death or
serious injury as they are projected
rearward by the force of the deploying airbags. Likewise, the driver
and front passenger should not
hold things in their arms or on
their knees.

z Attachment of a grille guard (bull
bar, kangaroo bar, etc.), snowplow,
winches or any other equipment to
the front end
z Repairs made on or near the front
fenders, front end structure, console, steering column, steering
wheel or dashboard near the front
passenger airbag

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

NOTICE
Do not disconnect the battery cables
before contacting your Toyota dealer.

This SRS front airbag system has a
service reminder indicator to inform the
driver of operating problems. If either of
the following conditions occurs, this indicates a malfunction of the airbags. Contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible to service the vehicle.

D The light does not come on when the
ignition key is turned to the “ON” position, or the light remains on.

D The light comes on while driving.

In the following cases, contact your Toyota
dealer as soon as possible:

D The SRS front airbags have been inflated.

D The front part of the vehicle (shaded

in the illustration) was involved in an
accident that was not severe enough to
cause the SRS front airbags to inflate.

D The pad section of the steering wheel

or
front passenger
airbag cover
(shaded in the illustration) is scratched,
cracked, or otherwise damaged.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

SRS side airbags
Your vehicle is equipped with a crash
sensing and diagnostic module, which will
record the use of the seat belt restraint
system by the driver and front passenger
when the SRS side airbags are inflated.

CAUTION
SRS side airbags inflate with considerable force. To avoid potential death
or serious injury when they inflate,
the driver and front passenger must:
The SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) side airbags are designed to provide further protection for the driver
and front passenger in addition to the
primary safety protection provided by
the seat belts.

D Wear their seat belts properly.
D Remain properly seated with their
back upright and against the seat at
all times.

This indicator comes on when the ignition key is turned to the “ON” position.
It goes off after about 6 seconds. This
means the SRS side airbags are operating properly.
This warning light system monitors the
airbag sensor assembly, front airbag sensors, side airbag sensor, front seat belt
pretensioner assemblies, inflators, warning
light, interconnecting wiring and power
sources. (For details, see “Service reminder indicators and warning buzzers” on
page 102 in Section 1−5.)

In response to a severe side impact, the
SRS side airbags work together with the
seat belts to help reduce injury by inflating. The SRS side airbags help to reduce
injuries mainly to the driver’s or front passenger’s chest. The SRS side airbag on
the passenger seat is activated even with
no passenger in the front seat.
Be sure to wear your seat belt properly.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Collision from the rear

Collision from the front
Vehicle rollover

The SRS side airbag system may not
activate if the vehicle is subjected to a
collision from the side at certain
angles, or a collision to the side of the
vehicle body other than the passenger
compartment as shown in the illustration.

The SRS side airbags are not designed
to inflate if the vehicle is involved in a
front or rear collision, if it rolls over,
or if it is involved in a low−speed side
collision.

1. SRS warning light
2. Side airbag modules
(airbag and inflator)

The SRS side airbags are designed to
inflate when the passenger compartment
area suffers a severe impact from the
side.

3. Side airbag sensors
4. Airbag sensor assembly
The SRS side airbag system is controlled
by the airbag sensor assembly. The airbag
sensor assembly consists of a safing sensor and airbag sensor.

For the safety of all occupants, always
wear your seat belts properly.

The SRS side airbag system consists
mainly of the following components, and
their locations are shown in the illustration.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

In a severe side impact, the side airbag
sensor triggers the side airbag inflators.
Then a chemical reaction in the inflators
quickly fills the airbags with non−toxic gas
to help restrain the lateral motion of the
occupants.
When the airbags inflate, they produce a
fairly loud noise and release some smoke
and residue along with non−toxic gas. This
does not indicate a fire. This gas is normally harmless; however, for those who
have delicate skin, it may cause a minor
skin irritation. Be sure to wash off any
residue as soon as possible to prevent
any potential skin irritation.
Deployment of the airbags happen in a
fraction of a second, so the airbags must
inflate with considerable force. While the
system is designed to reduce serious injuries, it may also cause minor burns or
abrasions and swelling.

CAUTION

D The SRS side airbag system is de-

signed only as a supplement to the
primary protection of the driver
side and front passenger side seat
belt systems. To ensure maximum
protection in an accident, the driver
and all passengers in the vehicle
must wear their seat belts properly.
Wearing a seat belt properly during
an accident reduces the chances of
death or serious injury or being
thrown out of the vehicle. For
instructions and precautions concerning the seat belt system, see
“Seat belts” on page 45 in this section.

Front seats may be hot for several minutes, but the airbags themselves will not
be hot. The airbags are designed to inflate
only once.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

D Improperly seated and/or restrained

infants and children can be killed
or seriously injured by the deploying airbags. An infant or child who
is too small to use a seat belt
should be properly secured using a
child
restraint
system.
Toyota
strongly recommends that all infants and children be placed in the
rear seat of the vehicle and properly restrained. The rear seat is the
safest for infants and children. For
instructions concerning the installation of a child restraint system, see
“Child restraint” on page 66 in this
section.

D Do not allow a child to lean his/her

head or any part of his/her body
against the front door or the area
of the seat from which the side airbag deploys even if he/she is
seated in the child restraint system.
It is dangerous if the side airbag
inflates, and the impact could cause
death or serious injury to the child.
For instructions concerning the
installation of a child restraint system, see “Child restraint” on page
66 in this section.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

D Do not use accessories for the

seats which cover the parts where
the side airbags inflate. Such accessories may prevent the side airbags
from activating correctly, causing
death or serious injury.

D Do not modify or replace the seats

D Do not lean against the front door

when the vehicle is in use. The side
airbag inflates with considerable
speed and force; you may be killed
or seriously injured.

D Do not apply excessive weight to
the outer side of the front seats on
vehicles with side airbags.

D Do not attach a cup holder or any
other device or object on or around
the door. When the side airbag inflates, the cup holder or any other
device or object will be thrown with
great force or the side airbag may
not activate correctly, resulting in
death or serious injury. Likewise,
the driver and front passenger
should not hold things in their
arms or on their knees.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

Failure to follow these instructions
can result in death or serious injury.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

NOTICE
Do not perform any of the following
changes without
consulting your
Toyota dealer. Such changes can
interfere with proper operation of the
SRS side airbag system in some
cases.
z Installation of electronic devices
such as a mobile two−way radio,
cassette tape player or compact
disc player
z Modification of the suspension system
z Modification of the side structure of
the passenger compartment
z Repairs made on or near the console or front seat

This SRS side airbag system has a
service reminder indicator to inform the
driver of operating problems. If either of
the following conditions occurs, this
indicates a malfunction of the airbags.
Contact your Toyota dealer as soon as
possible to service the vehicle.

D The light does not come on when the
ignition key is turned to the “ON” position, or the light remains on.

D The light comes on or flashes while
driving.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

In the following cases, contact your Toyota
dealer as soon as possible:

D The SRS side airbags have been inflated.

D The portion of the doors (shaded in the

illustration) were involved in an accident that was not severe enough to
cause the SRS side airbags to inflate.

D The surface of the seats with the side
airbag (shaded in the illustration) is
scratched, cracked, or otherwise damaged.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Child restraint—
—Child restraint precautions
NOTICE
Do not disconnect the battery cables
before contacting your Toyota dealer.

Toyota strongly urges the use of child
restraint systems for children small
enough to use them.
The laws of all fifty states in the U.S.A.
and Canada now require the use of a
child restraint system.
Your vehicle conforms to SAEJ1819.
If a child is too large for a child restraint
system, the child should sit in the rear
seat and must be restrained using the
vehicle’s seat belt. See “Seat belts” on
page 45 for details.

CAUTION

D For effective protection in automo-

bile accidents and sudden stops,
child must be properly restrained
using a seat belt or child restraint
system depending on the age and
size of the child. Holding a child in
your arms is not a substitute for a
child restraint system. In an accident, the child can be crushed
against the windshield, or between
you and the vehicle’s interior.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

D Toyota strongly urges use of a

proper child restraint system which
conforms to the size of the child,
and is put on the rear seat. According to accident statistics, the child
is safer when properly restrained in
the rear seat than in the front seat.

D Never put a rear−facing child re-

straint system on the front seat. In
the event of an accident, the force
of the rapid inflation of the airbag
can cause death or serious injury if
a rear−facing child restraint system
is put on the front seat.

D Unless it is unavoidable, do not put
a child restraint
front seat.

system

the

D A forward−facing child restraint sys-

tem should be allowed to put on
the front seat only when it is unavoidable. Always move the seat as
far back as possible, because the
force of the deploying airbag could
cause death or serious injury to the
child.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Child restraint system
D On vehicles with side airbags, do

not allow the child to lean against
the front door or around the front
door even if the child is seated in
the child restraint system. It is dangerous if the side airbag inflates,
and the impact could cause death
or serious injury to the child.

D Make sure that you have complied

with all installation instructions provided
by
the
child
restraint
manufacturer and that the system is
properly secured.

A child restraint system for a small
child or baby must itself be properly
restrained on the seat with the lap portion of the lap/shoulder belt. You must
carefully consult the manufacturer’s
instructions which accompany the child
restraint system.
To provide proper restraint, use a child
restraint system following the manufacturer’s instructions about the appropriate age
and size of the child for the child restraint
system.
Install the child restraint system correctly
following the instructions provided by its
manufacturer. General directions are also
provided under the following illustrations.
The child restraint system should be
installed on the rear seat. According to
accident statistics, the child is safer when
properly restrained in the rear seat than
in the front seat.

CAUTION

D Never put a rear−facing child re-

D Unless it is unavoidable, do not put
a child restraint
front seat.

system

the

D A forward−facing child restraint sys-

D On vehicles with side airbags, do

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Types of child restraint
system
D After installing the child restraint

system, make sure it is secured in
place following the manufacturer’s
instructions. If it is not restrained
securely, it may cause death or serious injury to the child in the
event of a sudden stop or accident.

When not using the child restraint system,
keep it secured with the seat belt or place
it somewhere other than the passenger
compartment. This will prevent it from injuring passengers in the event of a sudden stop or accident.

Child restraint systems are classified into
the following 3 types depending on the
child’s age and size.
(A) Infant seat
(B) Convertible seat
(C) Booster seat
Install the child restraint system following
the instructions provided by its manufacturer.
Your vehicle has anchor brackets for securing the top strap of a child restraint
system.
For instructions about how to use the anchor bracket, see “—Using a top strap” on
page 79 in this section.

(A) Infant seat

The child restraint lower anchorages approved for your vehicle may also be used.
See “—Installation with child restraint lower anchorages” on page 81 in this section.

(B) Convertible seat

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

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—Installation with 3−point
type seat belt

(A) INFANT SEAT INSTALLATION
An infant seat is used in rear−facing
position only.

CAUTION

D Never put a rear−facing child re-

straint system on the front passenger seat because the force of the
rapid inflation of the front passenger airbag can cause death or serious injury to the child.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Same angle

D Do not put a rear−facing child re-

straint system on the rear seat if it
interferes with the lock mechanism
of the front seats. This can cause
death or serious injury to the child
and front passenger in case of sudden braking or a collision.

D When installing a child restraint

system in the rear center position,
align both seatbacks at the same
angle. Otherwise, the child restraint
system cannot be securely restrained and this may cause serious
injuries in a collision.

D If your driving position is not satisfactory, do not install the child restraint system on the left seat.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

1. Run the lap and shoulder belt through
or around the infant seat following the
instructions provided by its manufacturer and insert the tab into the buckle
taking care not to twist the belt. Keep
the lap portion of the belt tight.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

CAUTION

D After inserting the tab, make sure

the tab and buckle are locked and
that the lap and shoulder portions
of the belt are not twisted.

D Do not insert coins, clips, etc. in
the buckle as this may prevent you
from properly latching the tab and
buckle.

D If the seat belt does not function

normally, it cannot protect your
child from injury. Contact your
Toyota dealer immediately. Do not
use the seat until the seat belt is
fixed.

2. Fully extend the shoulder belt to put it
in the lock mode. When the belt is
then retracted even slightly, it cannot
be extended.
To hold the infant seat securely, make
sure the belt is in the lock mode before
letting the belt retract.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

3. While pressing the infant seat firmly
against the seat cushion and seatback,
let the shoulder belt retract as far as
it will go to hold the infant seat securely.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

CAUTION
Push and pull the child restraint system in different directions to be sure
it is secure. Follow all the installation
instructions provided by its manufacturer.

4. To remove the infant seat, press the
buckle−release button and allow the
belt to retract completely. The belt will
move freely again and be ready to
work for an adult or older child passenger.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

(B) CONVERTIBLE SEAT INSTALLATION
A convertible seat is used in forward−
facing or rear−facing position depending on the child’s age and size. When
installing, follow the manufacturer’s instruction about the applicable child’s
age and size as well as directions for
installing the child restraint system.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Move seat
fully back

CAUTION

D Never put a rear−facing child re-

straint system on the front passenger seat because the force of the
rapid inflation of the front passenger airbag can cause death or serious injury to the child.

D A forward−facing child restraint sys-

D On vehicles with side airbags, do

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

D Do not put a rear−facing child re-

D If your driving position is not satisfactory, do not install the child restraint system on the left seat.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

CAUTION

Same angle

D After inserting the tab, make sure

the tab and buckle are locked and
that the lap and shoulder portions
of the belt are not twisted.

D Do not insert coins, clips, etc. in
the buckle as this may prevent you
from properly latching the tab and
buckle.

D If the seat belt does not function
D When installing a child restraint

system in the rear center position,
align both seatbacks at the same
angle. Otherwise, the child restraint
system cannot be securely restrained and this may cause serious
injuries in a collision.

1. Run the lap and shoulder belt through
or around the convertible seat following
the
instructions
provided
by
its
manufacturer and insert the tab into
the buckle taking care not to twist the
belt. Keep the lap portion of the belt
tight.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

normally, it cannot protect your
child from injury. Contact your
Toyota dealer immediately. Do not
use the seat until the seat belt is
fixed.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

2. Fully extend the shoulder belt to put it
in the lock mode. When the belt is
then retracted slightly, it cannot be extended.
To hold the convertible seat securely,
make sure the belt is in the lock mode
before letting the belt retract.

3. While pressing the convertible seat
firmly against the seat cushion and
seatback, let the shoulder belt retract
as far as it will go to hold the convertible seat securely.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

CAUTION
Push and pull the child restraint system in different directions to be sure
it is secure. Follow all the installation
instructions provided by its manufacturer.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Move seat
fully back

4. To remove the convertible seat, press
the buckle−release button and allow the
belt to retract completely. The belt will
move freely again and be ready to
work for an adult or older child passenger.

CAUTION

D A forward−facing child restraint sys-

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

D On vehicles with side airbags, do

Same angle

D When installing a child restraint

system in the rear center position,
align both seatbacks at the same
angle. Otherwise, the child restraint
system cannot be securely restrained and this may cause serious
injuries in a collision.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

1. Sit the child on a booster seat. Run
the lap and shoulder belt through or
around the booster seat and child following the instructions provided by its
manufacturer and insert the tab into
the buckle taking care not to twist the
belt.
Make sure the shoulder belt is
across the child’s shoulder and
lap belt is positioned as low as
on child’s hips. See “Seat belts”
45 for details.

correctly
that the
possible
on page

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

CAUTION

D Always make sure the shoulder belt

is positioned across the center of
child’s shoulder. The belt should be
kept away from child’s neck, but
not falling off child’s shoulder. Failure to do so could reduce the
amount of protection in an accident
and cause serious injuries in a collision.

D If the seat belt does not function

normally, it cannot protect your
child from injury. Contact your
Toyota dealer immediately. Do not
use the seat until the seat belt is
fixed.

D Both high−positioned lap belts and

loose−fitting belts could cause serious injuries due to sliding under
the lap belt during a collision or
other unintended. Keep the lap belt
positioned as low on a child’s hips
as possible.

2. To remove the child restraint system,
press the buckle−release button and allow the belt to retract.

D For child’s safety, do not place the
shoulder belt under child’s arm.

D After inserting the tab, make sure

the tab and buckle are locked and
that the lap and shoulder portions
of the belt are not twisted.

D Do not insert coins, clips, etc. in
the buckle as this may prevent your
child from properly latching the tab
and buckle.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Using a top strap
Anchor brackets

Symbol

Follow the procedure below for a child
restraint system that requires the use
of a top strap.

Use the anchor brackets behind the rear
seatbacks to attach the top strap.

TO USE THE ANCHOR BRACKET:
1. Remove the head restraint.

Anchor brackets are installed for both outside rear seating positions.
This symbol indicates the location of user
ready anchor brackets.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

2. Open the anchor bracket cover with
the symbol as shown in the illustration.

3. Fix the child restraint system with
the seat belt.
Latch the hook onto the anchor
bracket and tighten the top strap.
For instructions to install the child restraint system, see “Child restraint” on
page 66 in this section.

CAUTION
Make sure the top strap is securely
latched, and check that the child restraint system is secure by pushing
and pulling it in different directions.
Follow all the installation instructions
provided by its manufacturer.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

4. Replace the head restraint.
Be sure to close the cover when the anchor bracket is not in use.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Installation with child
restraint lower anchorages

The lower anchorages for the child restraint system interfaced with the
FMVSS225 specification are installed in
the rear seat.
The anchorages are installed in the clearance between the seat cushion and seatback of both outside rear seats.
Child restraint system interfaced with the
FMVSS225 specification can be fixed with
these anchorages. In this case, it is not
necessary to fix the child restraint system
with a seat belt on the vehicle.

Type A
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

Type B

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Tilt steering wheel
CHILD
RESTRAINT
INSTALLATION

SYSTEM

Type A—
1. Widen the clearance between the
seat cushion and seatback a little
and confirm the position of the lower anchorages below the tag in the
seatback.
2. Latch the hooks of lower straps onto
the anchorages and tighten the lower
straps.
Type B—
1. Widen the clearance between the
seat cushion and seatback a little
and confirm the position of the lower anchorages below the tag in the
seatback.
2. Latch the buckles onto the anchorages.
If your child restraint system has a top
strap, it should be anchored. (For the
installation of the top strap, see “—Using
a top strap” on page 79 in this section.)

CAUTION

D When using the lower anchorages

for the child restraint system, be
sure that there are no irregular objects around the anchorages or that
the seat belt is not caught.

D Push and pull the child restraint

system in different directions to be
sure it is secure. Follow all the
installation instructions provided by
its manufacturer.

D After securing the child restraint
system, never recline the seat.

D Do not put a child restraint system

on the rear seat if it interferes with
the lock mechanism of the front
seats. This can cause severe injury
to the child and front passenger in
case of sudden braking or a collision.

For the installation details, refer to the
instruction manual equipped with each
product.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

To change the steering wheel angle,
hold the steering wheel, push down the
lock release lever, tilt the steering
wheel to the desired angle and return
the lever to its original position.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Outside rear view mirrors—
CAUTION

CAUTION

D Do not adjust the steering wheel

D Do not adjust the mirror while the

while the vehicle is moving. It may
cause the driver to mishandle the
vehicle and an accident may occur
resulting in death or serious injuries.

vehicle is moving. It may cause the
driver to mishandle the vehicle and
an accident may occur resulting in
death or serious injuries.

D Since the mirror surfaces can get

D After adjusting the steering wheel,

hot, keep your hands off them when
the defogger switch is on.

try moving it up and down to make
sure it is locked in position.
Adjust the mirror so that you can just
see the side of your vehicle in the mirror.
Be careful when judging the size or distance of any object seen in the outside
rear view mirror on the passenger’s side.
It is a convex mirror with a curved surface. Any object seen in a convex mirror
will look smaller and farther away than
when seen in a flat mirror.
On some models, when you push the outside rear view mirror defogger switch, the
heater panels in the outside rear view
mirrors will quickly clear the mirror surface.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Power rear view mirror
control

To adjust a mirror, use the switches.
1. Master switch—To select the mirror to
be adjusted
Push the “L” (left) or “R” (right) switch.
2. Control switch—To move the mirror
Push the switch in the desired direction.
Mirror can be adjusted when key is in the
“ACC” or “ON” position.

NOTICE
If ice should jam the mirror, do not
operate the control or scrape the mirror face. Use a spray de−icer to free
the mirror.

—Folding rear view mirrors

Anti−glare inside rear view
mirror

The rear view mirrors can be folded
backward for parking in restricted
areas.

Adjust the mirror so that you can just
see the rear of your vehicle in the mirror.

To fold the rear view mirror, push backward.

To reduce glare from the headlights of
the vehicle behind you during night
driving, operate the lever on the lower
edge of the mirror.

CAUTION
Do not drive with the mirrors folded
backward. Both the driver and passenger side rear view mirrors must
be extended and properly adjusted
before driving.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

Daylight driving—Lever at position 1
The reflection in the mirror has greater
clarity at this position.
Night driving—Lever at position 2
Remember that by reducing glare you also
lose some rear view clarity.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Sun visors—
CAUTION

CAUTION

Do not adjust the mirror while the
vehicle is moving. It may cause the
driver to mishandle the vehicle and
an accident may occur resulting in
death or serious injuries.

Do not extend the plate at the end of
the sun visor when the visor is in the
position 1. It can cover the anti−glare
inside rear view mirror and obstruct
the rear view.

To block out glare, move the sun visor.
To block out glare from the front—Swing
down the sun visor (position 1).
To block out glare from the side—Swing
down the sun visor, remove it from the
hook and swing it to the lateral side (position 2).
If glare comes from obliquely behind you,
extend the plate at the end of the visor
(to position 3).

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Vanity mirrors

To use the vanity mirrors, swing down
the sun visor and open the cover.
On some models, the vanity light comes
on when you open the cover.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

SECTION

1− 4

OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND
CONTROLS
Lights, Wipers and Defogger
Headlights and turn signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Emergency flashers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instrument panel light control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Front fog lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interior lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ignition switch light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Personal lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Windshield wipers and washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear window wiper and washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear window defogger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Outside rear view mirror defogger and windshield wiper deicer . . .

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

88
91
91
92
92
93
94
94
95
96
96

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Headlights and turn signals
(with automatic light control
system)
The lights automatically turn off when the
driver’s door is opened with the ignition
key in the “ACC” or “LOCK” position. To
turn them on again, turn the key to the
“ON” position or actuate the headlight
switch. If you are going to park for over
one week, make sure the headlight switch
is off.

NOTICE

HEADLIGHTS
To turn on the following lights: Twist
the headlight/turn signal lever knob.
Position 1—Parking, tail, license plate,
side marker and instrument panel lights
Position
above

2—Headlights

and

all

the

The automatic light control sensor is on
the top of the driver’s side instrument
panel.
Do not place anything on the instrument
panel, and/or do not affix anything on the
windshield to block this sensor.

Position 3 (“AUTO”)—Headlights and/or all
of the lights in position 1

Daytime running light system
(on some models)
The headlights turn on at reduced intensity when the parking brake is released with
the engine started, even with the light
switch in the “OFF” position. They will not
go off until the ignition switch is turned
off.
To turn on the other exterior lights and
instrument panel lights, twist the knob to
the position 1.

They automatically turn on or off depending on the darkness of the surroundings.
Manually twist the knob to the position 2
to turn on the headlights if they are needed immediately when entering a dark tunnel, parking structure, etc.

To prevent the battery from being discharged, do not leave the lights on
for a long period when the engine is
not running.

Twist the knob to the position 2 to turn
the headlights to full intensity for driving
at night.
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Headlights and turn signals
(without automatic light
control system)

High−Low beams—For high beams, turn
the headlights on and push the lever away
from you (position 1). Pull the lever toward you (position 2) for low beams.

TURN SIGNALS

HEADLIGHTS

To signal a turn, push the headlight/
turn signal lever up or down to position
1.

To turn on the following lights: Twist
the headlight/turn signal lever knob.

The headlight high beam indicator light
(blue light) on the instrument panel will
tell you that the high beams are on.

The key must be in the “ON” position.

Flashing the high
(position 3)—Pull the
back. The high beam
when you release the

beam headlights
lever all the way
headlights turn off
lever.

You can flash the high beam headlights
with the knob turned to “OFF”.

The lever automatically returns after you
make a turn, but you may have to return
it by hand after you change lanes.
To signal a lane change, move the lever
up or down to the pressure point (position
2) and hold it.
If the turn signal indicator lights (green
lights) on the instrument panel flash faster
than normal, a front or rear turn signal
bulb is burned out.
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

Position 1—Parking, tail, license plate,
side marker and instrument panel lights
Position
above

2—Headlights

and

all

the

The lights automatically turn off when the
driver’s door is opened with the ignition
turned off. To turn them on again, turn the
key to the “ON” position or actuate the
headlight switch. If you are going to park
for over one week, make sure the headlight switch is off.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

NOTICE
To prevent the battery from being discharged, do not leave the lights on
for a long period when the engine is
not running.
Daytime running light system
(on some models)
The headlights turn on at reduced intensity when the parking brake is released with
the engine started, even with the light
switch in the “OFF” position. They will not
go off until the ignition switch is turned
off.
To turn on the other exterior lights and
instrument panel lights, twist the knob to
the position 1.
Twist the knob to the position 2 to turn
the headlights to full intensity for driving
at night.

High−Low beams—For high beams, turn
the headlights on and push the lever away
from you (position 1). Pull the lever toward you (position 2) for low beams.

TURN SIGNALS

The headlight high beam indicator light
(blue light) on the instrument panel will
tell you that the high beams are on.

The key must be in the “ON” position.

Flashing the high
(position 3)—Pull the
back. The high beam
when you release the

beam headlights
lever all the way
headlights turn off
lever.

You can flash the high beam headlights
with the knob turned to “OFF”.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

To signal a turn, push the headlight/
turn signal lever up or down to position
1.
The lever automatically returns after you
make a turn, but you may have to return
it by hand after you change lanes.
To signal a lane change, move the lever
up or down to the pressure point (position
2) and hold it.
If the turn signal indicator lights (green
lights) on the instrument panel flash faster
than normal, a front or rear turn signal
bulb is burned out.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Emergency flashers

Instrument panel light control
NOTICE
To prevent the battery from being discharged, do not leave the switch on
longer than necessary when the engine is not running.

To turn on the
push the switch.

emergency

flashers,

To adjust the brightness of the instrument panel lights, turn the knob.

All the turn signal lights will flash. To turn
them off, push the switch once again.
Turn on the emergency flashers to warn
other drivers if your vehicle must be
stopped where it might be a traffic hazard.
Always pull as far off the road as possible.
The turn signal light switch will not work
when the emergency flashers are operating.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Front fog lights

Interior lights
ILLUMINATED ENTRY SYSTEM
With the switch in “DOOR” position, the
light comes on when any of the side
doors and back door are opened. After all
the side doors are closed, the light remains on for about 15 seconds and then
fades out.
However, in the following cases, the light
fades out immediately:

D All the side doors and back door are
closed when the ignition key
“ACC” or “ON” position.

To turn on the front fog lights, twist
the band of the headlight and turn signal switch lever. They will come on
only when the headlights are on low
beam.

To turn on the interior light, slide the
switch.

D The ignition key is turned to “ACC”,

“ON”, or “START” after all the side
doors and back door are closed.

The interior light switch has the following
positions:

D All the side doors and back door are

“ON”—Keeps the light on all the time.

When the driver’s door is unlocked by
turning a key in either of the front doors
or with a wireless remote control transmitter, the interior light comes on for about
15 seconds and then fades out, even if
the door is not opened.

“OFF”—Turns the light off.
“DOOR”—Turns the light on when any of
the side doors and back door are opened.
The light goes off when all the side doors
and back door are closed.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

locked when the light is still on.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Ignition switch light
The following adjustments can be made in
this system. For details, contact your
Toyota dealer.

D All the side doors and back door are

D Cancelling the door key or wireless re-

When the driver’s door is unlocked by
turning a key in either of the front doors
or with a wireless remote control transmitter, the ignition switch light comes on for
about 15 seconds and then fade out, even
if the door is not opened.

closed and locked when the light is still
on.

mote control operation

D Changing the timing for the light turning off

The following adjustments can be made in
this system. For details, contact your
Toyota dealer.
For easy access to the ignition switch,
the ignition switch light comes on when
any of the side doors are opened.
The light remains on for some time after
all the side doors and back door are
closed.

D Cancelling the door key or wireless re-

mote control transmitter linked operation

D Changing the timing for the light turning off

However, in the following cases, the lights
go off immediately.

D All the side doors and back door are
closed when the ignition key
“ACC” or “ON” position.

D The ignition key is turned to “ACC”,

“ON”, or “START” after all the side
doors and back door are closed.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Personal lights

Windshield wipers and washer
To turn on the personal light, push the
switch. To turn the light off, push the
switch once again.

With moon roof

To turn on the windshield wipers, move
the lever to the desired setting.
The key must be in the “ON” position.
Lever position

Speed setting

Position 1

Intermittent

Position 2

Slow

Position 3

Fast

For a single sweep of the windshield,
push the lever up and release it.

Without moon roof

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Rear window wiper and washer
With interval adjuster: The “INT TIME”
band lets you adjust the wiping time interval when the wiper lever is in the intermittent position (position 1). Twist the band
upward to increase the time between
sweeps, and downward to decrease it.

NOTICE
Do not operate the rear wiper if the
rear window is dry. It may scratch the
glass.

To squirt washer fluid, pull the lever
toward you.
If the windshield wipers are off, they will
operate a couple of times after the washer
squirts.
For instructions on adding washer fluid,
see “Adding washer fluid” on page 267 in
Section 7−3.
In freezing weather, warm the windshield
with the defroster before using the washer.
This will help prevent the washer fluid
from freezing on your windshield, which
can block your vision.

NOTICE
Do not operate the wipers if the windshield is dry. It may scratch the
glass.

To turn on the rear window wiper, twist
the lever knob upward.
The key must be in the “ON” position.
Lever position

Speed setting

Position 1

Intermittent

Position 2

Normal

To squirt washer fluid on the rear window,
twist the knob upward or downward as far
as it will go (position 3 or 4). The knob
automatically returns from these positions
after you release it.
For instructions on adding washer fluid,
see “Adding washer fluid” on page 267 in
Section 7−3.
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Outside rear view mirror
defogger and windshield
wiper deicer

Rear window defogger
To defog or defrost the rear window,
push the switch.
The key must be in the “ON” position.
The thin heater wires on the inside of the
rear window will quickly clear the window
surface. An indicator light will illuminate to
indicate the defogger is operating.
Push the switch once again to turn the
defoggers off.
The system will automatically shut off after the defoggers have operated about 15
minutes.
With manual air conditioning controls

Make sure you turn the defogger off when
the surfaces are clear. Leaving the defogger on for a long time could cause the
battery to discharge, especially during
stop−and−go driving. The defogger is not
designed for drying rain water or for melting snow.

Type A

NOTICE
When cleaning the inside of the rear
window, be careful not to scratch or
damage the heater wires or connectors.

With automatic air conditioning controls

Type B
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

To turn on the outside rear view mirror
defogger and windshield wiper deicer,
push the switch.
The key must be in the “ON” position.
The heater panel in the outside rear view
mirrors will quickly clear the mirror surface. An indicator light is on when the
defogger is operating.
Type B only—The windshield wiper deicer
is also equipped to deice the windshield
wiper blades by operating simultaneously
with the defogger.
Push the switch once again to turn off the
system.
The system will automatically shut off after the system has operated about 15
minutes.

Make sure you turn the system off when
the mirror surfaces have cleared or the
wiper blades have deiced. Leaving the
system on for a long time could cause the
battery to discharge, especially during
stop−and−go driving. The defogger is not
designed for drying rain water or for melting snow.
If the outside rear view mirrors are heavily coated with ice, use a spray de−icer
before operating the switch.

NOTICE
To prevent the battery from being discharged, do not operate the system
continuously longer than necessary.

CAUTION
Since the mirror surfaces can get hot,
keep your hands off them when the
switch is on.

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2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

SECTION

1− 5

OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND
CONTROLS

Gauges, Meters and Service reminder indicators
Fuel gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Engine coolant temperature gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Odometer and two trip meters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Service reminder indicators and warning buzzers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

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Engine coolant temperature
gauge

Fuel gauge

Low fuel level
warning light

On inclines or curves, due to the movement of fuel in the tank, the fuel gauge
needle may fluctuate or the low fuel level
warning light may come on earlier than
usual.
If the fuel tank is completely empty, the
malfunction indicator lamp comes on. Fill
the fuel tank immediately.
The indicator lamp goes off after driving
several times. If the indicator lamp does
not go off, contact your Toyota dealer as
soon as possible.

The gauge works when the ignition
switch is on and indicates the approximate quantity of fuel remaining in the
tank.

The gauge indicates the engine coolant
temperature when the ignition switch is
on. The engine operating temperature
will vary with changes in weather and
engine load.

Nearly full—Needle at “F”
Nearly empty—Needle at “E”

If the needle moves into the red zone,
your engine is too hot. If your vehicle
overheats, stop your vehicle and allow the
engine to cool.

It is a good idea to keep the tank over
1/4 full.
The needle moves when braking, accelerating or making turns. This is caused by
the movement of the fuel in the tank.

Your vehicle may overheat during severe
operating conditions, such as:

D Driving up a long hill on a hot day.
D Reducing speed or stopping after high

If the fuel level approaches “E” or the low
fuel level warning light comes on, fill the
fuel tank as soon as possible.

speed driving.

D Idling for a long period with the air
conditioning on in stop−and−go traffic.

100

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Tachometer

Odometer and two trip meters

The tachometer indicates engine speed
in thousands of rpm ( revolutions per
minute). Use it while driving to select
correct shift points and to prevent engine lugging and over−revving.

This meter displays the odometer and
two trip meters.

D Towing a trailer.
NOTICE
z Do not remove the thermostat in
the engine cooling system as this
may cause the engine to overheat.
The thermostat is designed to control the flow of coolant to keep the
temperature of the engine within
the specified operating range.
z Do not continue driving with an
overheated engine. See “If your vehicle overheats” on page 213 in
Section 4.

Driving with the engine running too fast
causes excessive engine wear and poor
fuel economy. Remember, in most cases
the slower the engine speed, the greater
the fuel economy.

NOTICE
Do not let the indicator needle get
into the red zone. This may cause
severe engine damage.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

1. Odometer—Shows the total
the vehicle has been driven.

distance

2. Two trip meters—Show two different
distances independently driven since
the last time each trip meter was set
to zero.
You can use one trip meter to calculate
the fuel economy and the other to
measure the distance on each trip. All
trip meter data is cancelled if the electrical power source is disconnected.

101

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Service reminder indicators
and warning buzzers
3. Trip meter reset knob—Resets the two
trip meters to zero, and also change
the meter display.
To change the meter display, quickly
push and release the knob. The meter
display changes in the order from the
odometer to trip meter A to trip meter
B, then back to the odometer each
time you push.
To reset the trip meter A to zero, display the meter A reading, then push
and hold the knob until the meter is
set to zero. The same process can be
applied for resetting the trip meter B.

If the indicator or
buzzer comes on...
(a)
or

(b)

(c)

102

Do this.

If parking brake
is off, stop
immediately and
contact Toyota
dealer.

Fasten driver’s
seat belt.
(indicator and buzzer)
Fasten front
passenger’s seat
belt.

(d)

Stop and check.

(e)

Stop and check.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

If the indicator or
buzzer comes on...
(f)

Do this.

Take vehicle to
Toyota dealer.
or

(g) Low fuel
level warning
light

Fill up tank.

(h)

Take vehicle to
Toyota dealer.
If brake system
warning light is
also on, stop
immediately and
contact Toyota
dealer.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

If the indicator or
buzzer comes on...

Do this.

If the indicator or
buzzer comes on...

Do this.

Close all side
doors and back
door.

(m)

(j)

Stop and check.

(n)

Add washer fluid.

(k)

Take vehicle to
Toyota dealer
immediately.

(o) Key reminder
buzzer

Remove key.

(i)

(l)
and

(four−wheel
drive models)

Take vehicle to
Toyota dealer.

(a) Brake System Warning Light
This light comes on in the following cases
when the ignition key is in the “ON” position.

D When the parking brake is applied...
This light comes on for a few seconds
when the ignition key is turned to the
“ON” position even after the parking brake
is released.

D When the brake fluid level is low...
CAUTION
It is dangerous to continue driving
normally when the brake fluid level is
low.
Have your vehicle checked at your
Toyota dealer in the following cases:

D The light does not come on even if the
parking brake is applied when the ignition key is in the “ON” position.

(two−wheel
drive models)

D The light does not come on even if the
ignition key is turned on with the parking brake released.

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A warning light turning on briefly during
operation does not indicate a problem.

CAUTION
If either of the following conditions
occurs, immediately stop your vehicle
at a safe place and contact your
Toyota dealer.

D The light does not turn off even
after the parking brake is released
while the engine is running.

In this case, the brakes may not
work properly and your stopping
distance will become longer. Depress the brake pedal firmly and
bring the vehicle to an immediate
stop.

D The brake system warning light remains on together with the “ABS”
warning light.

In this case, not only the anti−lock
brake system will fail but also the
vehicle will become extremely unstable during braking.

104

(b) Driver’s Seat Belt Reminder Light
and Buzzer
This light and buzzer remind
buckle up the driver’s seat belt.

you

Once the ignition key is turned to “ON” or
“START”, the reminder light flashes and
buzzer sounds if the driver’s seat belt is
not fastened. Unless the driver fastens the
belt, the light keeps flashing and the
buzzer stops after about 4 to 8 seconds.
(c) Front
Passenger’s
Reminder Light

Seat

Belt

This light reminds you to buckle up the
front passenger’s seat belt.
Once the ignition key is turned to “ON” or
“START”, the reminder light flashes if a
passenger sits in the front passenger seat
and does not fasten the seat belt. However, if a front passenger uses an additional
seat cushion, the light may not flash even
when the seat belt is not buckled up.
If luggage load is placed on the front
passenger seat, depending on its weight
and how it is placed on the seat, built−in
sensors in the seat cushion may detect
the pressure, causing the reminder light to
keep flashing.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

(d) Discharge Warning Light
This light warns that the battery is being
discharged.
If it comes on while you are driving, there
is a problem somewhere in the charging
system.
The engine ignition will continue to operate, however, until the battery is discharged. Turn off the air conditioning,
blower, radio, etc., and drive directly to
the nearest Toyota dealer or repair shop.

NOTICE
Do not continue driving if the engine
drive belt is broken or loose.
(e) Low Engine Oil Pressure Warning
Light
This light warns that the engine oil pressure is too low.
If it flickers or stays on while you are
driving, pull off the road to a safe place
and stop the engine immediately. Call a
Toyota dealer or qualified repair shop for
assistance.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

The light may occasionally flicker when
the engine is idling or it may come on
briefly after a hard stop. There is no
cause for concern if it then goes out when
the engine is accelerated slightly.

If it comes on while you are driving in
case c, have your vehicle checked/repaired by your Toyota dealer as soon as
possible.

The light may come on when the oil level
is extremely low. It is not designed to
indicate low oil level, and the oil level
must be checked using the level dipstick.

This light comes on when the fuel level
in the tank becomes nearly empty. Fill up
the tank as soon as possible.

NOTICE
Do not drive the vehicle with the
warning light on—even for one block.
It may ruin the engine.
(f) Malfunction Indicator Lamp
This lamp
cases.

comes

the

following

a. The fuel tank is completely empty.
(See “Fuel gauge” on page 100 in Section 1−5 for instructions.)
b. The fuel tank cap is not tightened securely. (See “Fuel tank cap” on page
31 in Section 1−2 for instructions.)
c. There is a problem somewhere in your
engine or automatic transmission electrical system.

(g) Low Fuel Level Warning Light

On inclines or curves, due to the movement of fuel in the tank, the low fuel level
warning light may come on earlier than
usual.
(h) “ABS” Warning Light
The light comes on with the ignition key
turned to the “ON” position. If the anti−
lock brake system and the brake assist
system work properly, the light turns off
after a few seconds. Thereafter, if the
system malfunctions, the light comes on
again.

When the “ABS” warning light is on (and
the brake system warning light is off), the
anti−lock brake system does not operate
so that the wheels could lock up during
a sudden braking or braking on slippery
road surfaces.
If either of the following conditions
occurs, this indicates a malfunction
somewhere in the parts monitored by
the warning light system. Contact your
Toyota dealer as soon as possible to
service the vehicle.

D The light does not come on when the
ignition key is turned to the “ON” position, or remains on.

D The light comes on while you are driving.

A warning light turning on briefly during
operation does not indicate a problem.

When the “ABS” warning light is on (and
the brake system warning light is off), the
anti−lock brake system, the brake assist
system, the traction control system and
the vehicle skid control system do not
operate, but the brake system still operates conventionally.

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NOTICE

CAUTION
If the “ABS” warning light remains on
together with the brake system warning light, immediately stop your vehicle at a safe place and contact your
Toyota dealer.
In this case, not only the anti−lock
brake system will fail but also the
vehicle will become extremely unstable during braking.
(i) Open Door Warning Light
This light remains on until all the side
doors and back door are completely
closed.
(j) Automatic
Transmission
Temperature Warning Light

Fluid

This light warns that the automatic transmission fluid temperature is too high.
If this light comes on while you are driving, slow down and pull off the road. Stop
the vehicle at a safe place and put the
selector lever in “P”. With the engine idling, wait until the light goes off. If the
light goes off, you can start the vehicle
again. If the light does not go off, call a
Toyota dealer or qualified repair shop for
assistance.

106

Continued driving with the warning
light on may damage the automatic
transmission.
(k) SRS Warning Light
This light will come on when the ignition key is turned to the “ON” position.
After about 6 seconds, the light will go
off. This means the systems of the airbag and front seat belt pretensioners
are operating properly.
This warning light system monitors the
airbag sensor assembly, front airbag sensors, side airbag sensors, front seat belt
pretensioner assemblies, inflators, warning
light, interconnecting wiring and power
sources.
If either of the following conditions occurs,
this indicates a malfunction somewhere in
the parts monitored by the warning light
system. Contact your Toyota dealer as
soon as possible to service the vehicle.

D The light does not come on when the
ignition key is turned to the “ON” position or remains on.

D The light comes on or flashes while
driving.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

(l) Vehicle Skid Control System Warning and “TRAC OFF” Indicator/
Warning Lights (two−wheel drive
models)
These lights warn that there is a problem
somewhere in the vehicle skid control system or traction control system.
The lights will come on when the ignition
key is turned to “ON”, and will go off after
a few seconds.
If the “VSC” warning light and “TRAC
OFF” indicator/warning light come on, the
vehicle skid control system and traction
control system do not work. However, as
conventional braking operates when applied, there is no problem to continue your
driving.
If any of the following conditions occurs,
this indicates a malfunction somewhere in
the parts monitored by the warning light
system. Contact your Toyota dealer as
soon as possible to service the vehicle:

D The “VSC” warning light and “TRAC

OFF” indicator/warning light do not
come on after the ignition is turned to
on.

D The “VSC” warning light and “TRAC

OFF” indicator/warning light remain on
after the ignition is turned to on.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

D The “VSC” warning light and “TRAC

OFF” indicator/warning light come on
while driving.

(m) Vehicle
Warning
models)

Skid
Light

Control
System
(four−wheel drive

(n) Low Windshield Washer Fluid Level
Warning Light
The light warns that the windshield washer
fluid level is too low. Add washer fluid at
your earliest opportunity. (For instructions,
see “Adding washer fluid” on page 267 in
Section 7−3.)
(o) Key Reminder Buzzer
This buzzer reminds you to remove the
key when you open the driver’s door with
the ignition key in the “ACC” or “LOCK”
position.

CHECKING
SERVICE
REMINDER
INDICATORS (except the low fuel level
warning light and low windshield
washer fluid level warning light)
1. Apply the parking brake.
2. Open one of the side doors or back
door.
The open door warning light should
come on.
3. Close the door.
The open door warning light should go
off.
4. Turn the ignition key to “ON”, but do
not start the engine.
All the service reminder indicators except the open door warning light should
come on. The “ABS”, “VSC” warning
lights, “TRAC OFF” (two−wheel drive
models) indicator/warning light and slip
indicator light go off after a few seconds. The SRS warning light goes off
after about 6 seconds.

If the “VSC” warning light comes on, the
vehicle skid control system and traction
control system do not work. However, as
conventional braking operates when applied, there is no problem to continue your
driving.
If any of the following conditions occurs,
this indicates a malfunction somewhere in
the parts monitored by the warning light
system. Contact your Toyota dealer as
soon as possible to service the vehicle:

If any service reminder indicator or warning buzzer does not function as described
above, have it checked by your Toyota
dealer as soon as possible.

D The “VSC” warning light does not come
on after the ignition is turned to on.

D The “VSC” warning light remains on
after the ignition is turned to on.

D The “VSC” warning light comes on
while driving.

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

SECTION

1− 6

OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND
CONTROLS

Ignition switch, Transmission and Parking brake
Ignition switch with steering lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Traction control system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle skid control system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Parking brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cruise control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

110
111
115
118
122
122

109

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Ignition switch with steering
lock
“LOCK”—Engine is off and the steering
wheel is locked. The key can be removed only at this position.
You must push in the key to turn it from
“ACC” to the “LOCK” position. The selector lever must be in the “P” position before pushing the key.
Vehicles with engine immobiliser system—Once you remove the key, the engine immobiliser system is automatically
set. (See “Engine immobiliser system” on
page 15 in Section 1−2.)
“START”—Starter motor on. The key
will return to the “ON” position when
released.
For starting tips, see page 193 in Section
3.
“ON”—Engine on and all accessories
on.
This is the normal driving position.
“ACC”—Accessories such as the radio
operate, but the engine is off.

When starting the engine, the key may
seem stuck at the “LOCK” position. To
free it, first be sure the key is pushed all
the way in, and then rock the steering
wheel slightly while turning the key gently.

NOTICE
Do not leave the key in the “ON”
position if the engine is not running.
The battery will discharge and the
ignition could be damaged.

If you leave the key in the “ACC” or
“LOCK” position and open the driver’s
door, a buzzer will remind you to remove
the key.

110

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Automatic transmission
Lock release button
To prevent misshifting

Selector lever

Your automatic transmission has a shift
lock system to minimize the possibility of
incorrect operation. This means you can
only shift out of “P” position when the
brake pedal is depressed (with the ignition
switch in “ON” position and the lock release button depressed).
(a) Selector lever
The shift position is also displayed on the
instrument cluster.
P: Parking, engine starting and
key removal
R: Reverse
N: Neutral

With the brake pedal depressed,
shift while holding the lock release
button in. (The ignition switch must
be in “ON” position.)

D: Normal driving (with overdrive on)
2: Stronger engine braking
L: Maximum engine braking

Shift while holding the lock
release button in.

Shift normally.
Overdrive switch

Snow mode
button

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Vehicles with cruise control—When the
cruise control is being used, even if you
downshift the transmission by pushing and
releasing the overdrive switch, engine
braking will not be enabled because the
cruise control is not cancelled.

(b) Overdrive switch
You can select either third gear (with
overdrive off) or fourth gear (with overdrive on) by pushing this switch.
To turn the overdrive off, push the switch.
The “O/D OFF” indicator light should come
on. To turn the overdrive on again, push
the switch again. The “O/D OFF” indicator
light should go off.
Always drive your vehicle with the overdrive on for better fuel economy and
quieter driving.
If the engine is turned off when the overdrive is off and restarted, the overdrive
will automatically be on.

112

CAUTION
Never put your foot on the accelerator pedal while shifting.

For ways to decrease the vehicle speed,
see “Cruise control” on page 122 in this
section.

3. Release the parking brake and brake
pedal. Depress the accelerator pedal
slowly for smooth starting.

(d) Using engine braking

1. Start the engine as instructed in “How
to start the engine” on page 194 in
Section 3. The transmission must be in
“P” or “N”.

To use engine braking, you can downshift
the transmission as follows:

2. With your foot holding down the brake
pedal, shift the selector lever to “D”.
When the lever is in the “D” position, the
automatic transmission system will select
the most suitable gear for running conditions such as normal cruising, hill climbing, hard towing, etc.
Always turn the overdrive on for better
fuel economy and quieter driving. If the
engine coolant temperature is low, the
transmission will not shift into the overdrive gear even with the overdrive on.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

D Push the overdrive switch. The “O/D

OFF” indicator light will come on and
the transmission will downshift to third
gear.

D Shift into the “2” position. The trans-

mission will downshift to second gear
when the vehicle speed drops down to
or lower than the following speed, and
stronger engine braking will be enabled.
Two−wheel drive models
2AZ−FE engine
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 km/h (70 mph)
1MZ−FE engine
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 121 km/h (76 mph)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Four−wheel drive models
2AZ−FE engine
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 101 km/h (63 mph)
1MZ−FE engine
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 113 km/h (71 mph)

D Shift into the “L” position. The trans-

mission will downshift to first gear
when the vehicle speed drops down to
or lower than the following speed, and
maximum engine braking will be enabled.
Two−wheel drive models
2AZ−FE engine
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 km/h (37 mph)
1MZ−FE engine
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 km/h (37 mph)
Four−wheel drive models
2AZ−FE engine
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 km/h (33 mph)
1MZ−FE engine
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 km/h (34 mph)

CAUTION
Be careful when downshifting on a
slippery
surface.
Abrupt
shifting
could cause the vehicle to spin or
skid.
(e) Using “2” and “L” positions
The “2” and “L” positions are used for
strong engine braking as described previously.
With the selector lever in “2” or “L”, you
can start the vehicle in motion as with the
lever in “D”.
With the selector lever in “2”, the vehicle
will start in first gear and automatically
shift to second gear.
With the selector lever in “L”, the transmission is engaged in first gear.

Vehicles with cruise control—When the
cruise control is being used, even if you
downshift the transmission by pushing and
releasing the overdrive switch, engine
braking is not enabled because the cruise
control is not cancelled.

NOTICE
z Be careful not to over−rev the engine. Watch the tachometer to keep
engine rpm from going into the red
zone. The approximate maximum allowable speed for each position is
given below for your reference:
Two−wheel drive models
2AZ−FE engine—
“2” . . . . . . . . 123 km/h
“L” . . . . . . . . . 69 km/h
1MZ−FE engine—
“2” . . . . . . . . 125 km/h
“L” . . . . . . . . . 70 km/h
Four−wheel drive models
2AZ−FE engine—
“2” . . . . . . . . 111 km/h
“L” . . . . . . . . . 62 km/h
1MZ−FE engine—
“2” . . . . . . . . 117 km/h
“L” . . . . . . . . . 65 km/h

(76 mph)
(43 mph)
(78 mph)
(43 mph)

(69 mph)
(38 mph)
(73 mph)
(40 mph)

z Do not continue hill climbing or
hard towing for a long time in the
“2” or “L” position. This may cause
severe automatic transmission damage from overheating. To prevent
such damage, “D” position should
be used in hill climbing or hard
towing.

For ways to decrease the vehicle speed,
see “Cruise control” on page 122 in this
section.
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(f) Backing up

(h) Good driving practice

1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop.

D If the transmission repeatedly shifts up

2. With the brake pedal held down with
your foot, shift the selector lever to the
“R” position.

NOTICE
Never shift into reverse while the vehicle is moving.
(g) Parking
1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop.
2. With the brake pedal pressed down,
fully depress the parking brake pedal
to apply the parking brake securely.
3. With the brake pedal pressed down,
shift the selector lever to the “P” position.

CAUTION
Never attempt to move the selector
lever into “P” position under any circumstances while the vehicle is moving. Serious mechanical damage and
loss of vehicle control may result.

114

and down between third gear and overdrive when climbing a gentle slope, the
overdrive should be turned off. Be sure
to turn the switch on immediately afterward.

D When towing a trailer, in order to main-

tain engine braking efficiency, do not
use overdrive.

CAUTION
Always keep your foot on the brake
pedal while stopped with the engine
running. This prevents the vehicle
from creeping.

NOTICE
Do not hold the vehicle on an upgrade with the accelerator pedal. It
can cause the transmission to overheat. Always use the brake pedal or
parking brake.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

(i) Driving in snow mode
In the snow mode, the transmission system shifts up from second gear. Use this
mode when starting your vehicle in ice or
snow.
To set the driving pattern to the snow
mode, push the switch. In the “ECT
SNOW” indicator on the instrument cluster
is on. To cancel the snow mode, push the
switch again.
If the engine is turned off with the snow
mode is on, the snow mode is cancelled
when the engine is restarted.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Traction control system
(two−wheel drive models)
(j) Rocking your vehicle if stuck

CAUTION
If your vehicle becomes stuck in
snow, mud, sand, etc., then you may
attempt to rock the vehicle free by
moving it forward and backward. Do
not attempt this procedure if people
or objects are anywhere near the vehicle. During the rocking operation
the vehicle may suddenly move forward or backward as it becomes unstuck, causing injury or damage to
nearby people or objects.

z Do not race the engine and avoid
spinning the wheels.
z If your vehicle remains stuck after
rocking the vehicle several times,
consider other ways such as towing.
(k) If you cannot shift the selector lever out of “P” position
If you cannot shift the selector lever from
the “P” position even though the brake
pedal is depressed, use the shift lock
override button. For instructions, see “If
you cannot shift automatic transmission
selector lever” on page 227 in Section 4.

NOTICE
If you rock your vehicle, observe the
following precautions to prevent damage to the transmission and other
parts.

The traction control system automatically helps control the spinning of the
front wheels which may occur when accelerating on slippery road surfaces,
thus assisting driver to control the driving power of the front wheels.
When you turn the ignition switch on, the
traction control system always turns on
automatically, and the slip indicator light
will go off after about a few seconds.

z Do not depress the accelerator pedal while shifting the selector lever
or before the transmission is completely shifted to forward or reverse
gear.

If the slip indicator light does not come on
when the ignition is turned on, contact
your Toyota dealer.
Leave the system on during ordinary driving so that it can operate when needed.
When traction control is applied, the slip
indicator light blinks.
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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

While the “VSC” warning light and “TRAC
OFF” indicator/warning light come on, the
traction control system cannot be operated.
You may hear a sound in the engine
compartment for a few seconds when the
engine is started or just after the vehicle
is started. This means that the traction
control system is in the self−check mode,
and does not indicate malfunction.
When the traction control system is operating, you may feel vibration or noise of
your vehicle, caused by operation of the
brakes. This indicates the system is functioning properly.
When getting the vehicle out of mud or
new snow, etc. the traction control system
will help operate to prevent the wheels
from spinning.

116

You can turn off the traction control
system by pushing the “TRAC OFF”
switch. The “TRAC OFF” indicator/warning light will come on. Pushing the
“TRAC OFF” switch a second time
turns on the traction control system
again and the “TRAC OFF” indicator/
warning light will go off. At this time,
the vehicle skid control also turns off
and on simultaneously.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM FAILURE
WARNING
These lights warn that there is a problem
somewhere in the vehicle skid control system or traction control system.
The lights will come on when the ignition
key is turned to “ON”, and will go off after
about a few seconds.
If the “VSC” warning light and “TRAC
OFF” indicator/warning light come on, the
vehicle skid control system and traction
control system do not work. However, as
conventional braking operates when applied, there is no problem to continue your
driving.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Traction control system
(four−wheel drive models)
While the “VSC” warning light comes on,
the traction control system cannot be operated.

If any of the following conditions occurs,
this indicates a malfunction somewhere in
the parts monitored by the warning light
system. Contact your Toyota dealer as
soon as possible to service the vehicle:

You may hear a sound in the engine
compartment for a few seconds when the
engine is started or just after the vehicle
is started. This means that the traction
control system is in the self−check mode,
and does not indicate malfunction.

D The “VSC” warning light and “TRAC
OFF” indicator/warning light do not
come on after the ignition is turned on.

D The “VSC” warning light and “TRAC

OFF” indicator/warning light are left on
after the ignition is turned on.

D The “VSC” warning light and “TRAC

OFF” indicator/warning light come on
while driving.

CAUTION
Under certain slippery road conditions, full traction of the vehicle and
power to the front wheels cannot be
maintained, even though the traction
control system is in operation. Do not
drive the vehicle under any speed or
maneuvering conditions which will
cause the vehicle to lose traction. In
situations where the road surface is
covered with ice or snow, your vehicle should be fitted with snow tires
or tire chains. Always drive at appropriate and cautious pace.

The traction control system automatically helps control the spinning of 4
wheels which may occur when accelerating on slippery road surfaces, thus
assisting driver to control the driving
power of 4 wheels.

When the traction control system is operating, you may feel vibration or noise of
your vehicle, caused by operation of the
brakes. This indicates the system is functioning properly.
When getting the vehicle out of mud or
new snow, etc. the traction control system
will help operate to prevent the wheels
from spinning.

When you turn the ignition switch on, the
traction control system always turns on
automatically, and the slip indicator light
will go off after about a few seconds.
If the slip indicator light does not come on
when the ignition is turned on, contact
your Toyota dealer.
Leave the system on during ordinary driving so that it can operate when needed.
When traction control is applied, the slip
indicator light blinks.
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Vehicle skid control system
(two−wheel drive models)
If any of the following conditions occurs,
this indicates a malfunction somewhere in
the parts monitored by the warning light
system. Contact your Toyota dealer as
soon as possible to service the vehicle:

D The “VSC” warning light does not come
on after the ignition is turned on.

D The “VSC” warning light is left on after
the ignition is turned on.

D The “VSC” warning light comes on
while driving.

TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM FAILURE
WARNING
This light warns that there is a problem
somewhere in the vehicle skid control system or traction control system.
The light will come on when the ignition
key is turned to “ON”, and will go off after
about a few seconds.
If the “VSC” warning light comes on, the
vehicle skid control system and traction
control system do not work. However, as
conventional braking operates when applied, there is no problem to continue your
driving.

118

CAUTION
Under certain slippery road conditions, full traction of the vehicle and
power to 4 wheels cannot be maintained, even though the traction control system is in operation. Do not
drive the vehicle under any speed or
maneuvering conditions which will
cause the vehicle to lose traction. In
situations where the road surface is
covered with ice or snow, your vehicle should be fitted with snow tires
or tire chains. Always drive at appropriate and cautious pace.

The vehicle skid control system helps
integrated control of several systems
such as an anti−lock brake system,
brake assist system, traction control,
engine control, etc. This system automatically controls the output of the
brakes or engine to help prevent the
vehicle from skidding when cornering
on a slippery road surface or abrupt
steering wheel operation occurs.
When you turn the ignition switch on, the
slip indicator light will come on. The slip
indicator light will go off after about a few
seconds.
If the slip indicator light does not come on
when the ignition is turned on, contact
your Toyota dealer.

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

If the vehicles is going to skid during
driving, the slip indicator light flashes and
an alarm sounds intermittently.
The vehicle skid control system activates
when the vehicle speed is about more
than 15 km/h (9 mph).

D The “VSC” warning light and “TRAC

OFF” indicator/warning light do not
come on after the ignition is turned to
on.

While the “VSC” warning light and “TRAC
OFF” indicator/warning light come on, the
vehicle skid control system cannot be operated.
You may hear a sound in the engine
compartment for a few seconds when the
engine is started or just after the vehicle
is started. This means that the vehicle
skid control is in the self−check mode and
does not indicate a malfunction.

D The “VSC” warning light and “TRAC

OFF” indicator/warning light are left on
after the ignition is turned to on.

VEHICLE
SKID
CONTROL
FAILURE WARNING

SYSTEM

D The “VSC” warning light and “TRAC

OFF” indicator/warning light come on
while driving.

These lights warn that there is a problem
somewhere in the vehicle skid control system or traction control system.
The lights will come on when the ignition
key is turned to “ON”, and will go off after
about a few seconds.
If the “VSC” warning light and “TRAC
OFF” indicator/warning light come on, the
vehicle skid control system and traction
control system do not work. However, as
conventional braking operates when applied, there is no problem to continue your
driving.
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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Vehicle skid control system
(four−wheel drive models)
If the vehicles is going to skid during
driving, the slip indicator light flashes and
an alarm sounds intermittently.

CAUTION

D Do not rely excessively on the ve-

The vehicle skid control system activates
when the vehicle speed is about more
than 15 km/h (9 mph).

hicle skid control system. Even if
the vehicle skid control system is
operating, you must always drive
carefully and attentively to avoid
serious injury. Reckless driving will
result in an unexpected accident. If
the slip indicator light flashes,
sounding an alarm sounds, special
care should be taken while driving.

D Only use tires of specified size. The
size, manufacturer, brand and tread
pattern for all 4 tires should be the
same. If you use the tires other
than specified, or different type or
size, the vehicle skid control system may not function correctly.
When replacing the tires or wheels,
contact your Toyota dealer.

While the “VSC” warning light comes on,
the vehicle skid control system cannot be
operated.

120

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

You may hear a sound in the engine
compartment for a few seconds when the
engine is started or just after the vehicle
is started. This means that the vehicle
skid control is in the self−check mode and
does not indicate a malfunction.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

D The “VSC” warning light does not come
on after the ignition is turned to on.

D The “VSC” warning light is left on after
the ignition is turned to on.

D The “VSC” warning light comes on
while driving.

VEHICLE
SKID
CONTROL
FAILURE WARNING

CAUTION

D Do not rely excessively on the ve-

D Only use tires of specified size. The

SYSTEM

size, manufacturer, brand and tread
pattern for all 4 tires should be the
same. If you use the tires other
than specified, or different type or
size, the vehicle skid control system may not function correctly.
When replacing the tires or wheels,
contact your Toyota dealer.

This light warns that there is a problem
somewhere in the vehicle skid control system or traction control system.
The light will come on when the ignition
key is turned to “ON”, and will go off after
about a few seconds.
If the “VSC” warning light comes on, the
vehicle skid control system and traction
control system do not work. However, as
conventional braking operates when applied, there is no problem to continue your
driving.

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Parking brake

Cruise control
When parking, firmly apply the parking
brake to avoid inadvertent creeping.
To set: Fully depress the parking brake
pedal. For better holding power, first depress the brake pedal and hold it while
setting the parking brake.
To release: Depress the parking brake
pedal once again.
To remind you that the parking brake is
set, the parking brake reminder light in
the instrument panel remains on until you
release the parking brake.

Type A

CAUTION
Before driving, be sure the parking
brake is fully released and the parking brake reminder light is off.

The cruise control allows you to cruise
the vehicle at a desired speed over 40
km/h (25 mph) even with your foot off
the accelerator pedal.
Your cruising speed can be maintained up
or down grades within the limits of engine
performance, although a slight speed
change may occur when driving up or
down the grades. On steeper hills, a
greater speed change will occur so it is
better to drive without the cruise control.

CAUTION

D To help maintain maximum control

of your vehicle, do not use the
cruise control when driving in
heavy or varying traffic, or on slippery (rainy, icy or snow−covered) or
winding roads.

D Avoid vehicle speed increases when

driving downhill. If the vehicle
speed is too fast in relation to the
cruise control set speed, cancel the
cruise control then downshift the
transmission to use engine braking
to slow down.

Type B

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If you need acceleration—for example,
when passing—depress the accelerator
pedal enough for the vehicle to exceed
the set speed. When you release it, the
vehicle will return to the speed set prior
to the acceleration.
CANCELLING THE PRESET SPEED
You can cancel the preset speed by:
a. Pulling the lever in the
direction and releasing it.

“CANCEL”

b. Depressing the brake pedal.
TURNING ON THE SYSTEM

SETTING AT A DESIRED SPEED

To operate the cruise control, push the
“CRUISE ON−OFF” switch. This turns the
system on. The indicator light in the
instrument panel shows that you can now
set the vehicle at a desired cruising
speed. Another push will turn the system
completely off.

The transmission must be in “D” before
you set the cruise control speed.

CAUTION
To avoid accidental cruise control engagement, keep the “CRUISE ON−
OFF” switch off when not using the
cruise control.

Bring your vehicle to the desired speed,
push the lever down in the “SET/COAST”
direction and release it. This sets the vehicle at that speed. If the speed is not
satisfactory, tap the lever up for a faster
speed, or tap it down for a slower speed.
Each tap changes the set speed by 1.6
km/h (1.0 mph). You can now take your
foot off the accelerator pedal.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

If the vehicle speed falls below about 40
km/h (25 mph), the preset speed will automatically cancel out.
If the vehicle speed drops 16 km/h (10
mph) below the preset speed, the preset
speed will also automatically cancel out.
If the preset speed automatically cancels
out other than for the above cases, have
your vehicle checked by your Toyota dealer at the earliest opportunity.

123

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

RESETTING TO A FASTER SPEED

RESUMING THE PRESET SPEED

Push the lever up in the “RES/ACC” direction and hold it. Release the lever when
the desired speed is attained. While the
lever is held up, the vehicle will gradually
gain speed.

If the preset speed is cancelled by pulling
the control lever or by depressing the
brake pedal, pushing the lever up in the
“RES/ACC” direction will restore the speed
set prior to cancellation.

However, a faster way to reset is to accelerate the vehicle and then push the
lever down in the “SET/COAST” direction.

However, once the vehicle speed falls below about 40 km/h (25 mph), the preset
speed will not be resumed.

RESETTING TO A SLOWER SPEED

CRUISE CONTROL FAILURE WARNING

Push the lever down in the “SET/COAST”
direction and hold it. Release the lever
when the desired speed is attained. While
the lever is held down, the vehicle speed
will gradually decrease.

If the “CRUISE” indicator light in the
instrument cluster flashes when using the
cruise control, press the “CRUISE ON−
OFF” switch to turn the system off and
then press it again to turn it on.

However, a faster way to reset is to depress the brake pedal and then push the
lever down in the “SET/COAST” direction.

If any of the following conditions then occurs, there is some trouble in the cruise
control system.

Even if you turn off the overdrive switch
with the cruise control on, engine braking
will not be applied because the cruise
control is not cancelled. To decrease the
vehicle speed, reset to a slower speed
with the cruise control lever or depress
the brake pedal. If you use the brake
pedal, cruise control is cancelled.

D The indicator light does not come on.
D The indicator light flashes again.
D The indicator light goes out after it

124

comes on.

If this is the case, contact your Toyota
dealer and have your vehicle inspected.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

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SECTION

1− 7

OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND
CONTROLS
Car audio system
Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Using your audio system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Car audio system operating hintsts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Using your audio system—
—Some basics

Reference

This section describes some of the basic
features on Toyota audio systems. Some
information may not pertain to your system.
Your audio system works when the ignition
key is in the “ACC” or “ON” position.
TURNING THE SYSTEM ON AND OFF
Push “PWR·VOL” to turn the audio system
on and off.
Push “AM”, “FM1·2”, “TAPE” or “CD” to
turn on that function without pushing
“PWR·VOL”.
Type 1: AM·FM ETR radio/cassette player/
compact disc player (with compact disc
auto changer controller)

Type 2: AM·FM ETR radio/cassette player/
compact disc auto changer

You can turn on each player by inserting
a cassette tape or compact disc.
You can turn off each player by ejecting
the cassette tape or compact disc. If the
audio system was previously off, then the
entire audio system will be turned off
when you eject the cassette tape or compact disc. If another function was previously playing, it will come on again.
SWITCHING BETWEEN FUNCTIONS
Push “AM”, “FM1·2”, “TAPE” or “CD” if the
system is already on but you want to
switch from one function to another.

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TONE AND BALANCE

YOUR RADIO ANTENNA

YOUR COMPACT DISC PLAYER

For details about your system’s tone and
balance controls, see the description of
your own system.

Mast type antenna—

When you insert a disc, gently push it in
with the label side up. (The player will
automatically eject a disc if the label side
is down.) The compact disc player will
play from track 1 through the end of the
disc.

Tone
How good an audio program sounds to
you is largely determined by the mix of
the treble, midrange and bass levels. In
fact, different kinds of music and vocal
programs usually sound better with different mixes of treble, midrange and bass.
Balance
A good balance of the left and right stereo
channels and of the front and rear sound
levels is also important.
Keep in mind that if you are listening to
a stereo recording or broadcast, changing
the right/left balance will increase the volume of one group of sounds while decreasing the volume of another.

To remove: Turn it counterclockwise carefully.
To install: Turn it clockwise securely.

NOTICE
z Mast type antenna:
To prevent damage to the antenna,
make sure it is removed before
driving your Toyota through an automatic car wash.
z On−glass antenna (built−in on the
rear window glass):
Attaching the film (especially conductive or metallic type) on the rear
glass will noticeably reduce the
sensitivity of the radio.

Type 1—
Then it will play from track 1 again.
Type 2—
The next disc will be played from track 1.
The “LOAD” button must be pressed to
insert a disc. (See “LOAD” button.)

NOTICE
Never try to disassemble or oil any
part of the compact disc player. Do
not insert anything except a compact
disc into the slot.

YOUR CASSETTE PLAYER
When you insert a cassette, the exposed
tape should be to the right.

The player is intended for use with 12 cm
(4.7 in.) discs only.

NOTICE
Do not oil any part of the player and
do not insert anything other than cassette tapes into the slot, or the tape
player may be damaged.
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—Controls and features
"Type 1
Details of specific buttons, controls, and
features are described in the alphabetical
listing that follows.

128

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1 2 3 4 5 6 (Preset buttons)
These buttons are used to preset and
tune in radio stations.
To preset a station to a button: Tune in
the desired station (see “TUNE” knob or
“SEEK” button). Push and hold down the
button until you hear a beep—this will set
the station to the button. The button number will appear on the display.
To tune in to a preset station: Push the
button for the station you want. The button number and station frequency will appear on the display.
These systems can store one AM and two
FM stations for each button (The display
will show “AM”, “FM1” or “FM2” when you
push “AM” “FM1·2”).
(Eject button)
Push the cassette tape eject button to
eject a cassette. Push the compact disc
eject button to eject a compact disc.
After you turn the ignition to “LOCK”, you
will be able to eject a cassette or disc but
you will not be able to reinsert it.

(Program)
Push “
” to select the other side of a
cassette tape. The display indicates which
side is currently selected (“ ” indicates
top side, “

” indicates bottom side).

Auto−reverse feature: After the cassette
player reaches the end of a tape side, it
automatically reverses and begins to play
the other side. This is true whether the
cassette was playing or fast forwarding.
(Reverse/Fast forward buttons)
Cassette Player
Push the fast forward button to fast forward a cassette tape. “FF” will appear on
the display. Push the reverse button to
rewind a tape. “REW” will appear on the
display.
To stop the tape while it is fast forwarding, push the fast forward button or
“TAPE”; to stop the tape while it is rewinding, push the reverse button or
“TAPE”.
If a tape side rewinds completely, the cassette player will stop and then play that
same side. If a tape fast forwards completely, the cassette player will play the
other side of the tape, using the auto−reverse feature.
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

Compact Disc Player
If you want to fast forward or reverse
through a compact disc track, push and
hold in the fast forward or reverse button.
When you release the button, the compact
disc player will resume playing.
AM
Push “AM” to turn on the radio and select
the AM band. “AM” will appear on the
display.
If the audio system is off, you can turn
on the radio by pushing “AM”. Also, push
“AM” to switch from cassette or compact
disc operation to radio operation.
CD (Compact Disc)
Push “CD” to switch from radio or cassette operation to compact disc operation.
If the audio system is off, you can turn
on the compact disc player by pushing
“CD”. In both cases, a disc must already
be loaded in the player.
When the audio is set into compact disc
operation, the display shows the track or,
track and disc number currently being
played. Each time you push “CD”, the
system changes to the automatic changer.
If the player malfunctions, your audio system will display one of the six following
error messages.

129

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

If “WAIT” appears on the display, it indicates that the inside of the player unit
may be too hot due to the very high ambient temperature. Remove the disc or magazine from the player and allow the player
to cool down.
If “Err 1” appears on the display, it
indicates the disc is dirty, damaged, or it
was inserted up−side down. Clean the
disc or insert it correctly.

DISC ƝƜ
Compact disc auto changer only—
By using this button, you can select a
disc you wish to listen to.
Push either side of the button until the
number of the disc you want to listen to
appears on the display.
CONTROL / MODE (Audio control and
mode adjustment)

If “Err 2” appears on the display, it
indicates no disc is loaded inside the
magazine. Insert a disc.

Manual tone adjustment function—

If “Err 3” or “Err 4” appears on the
display, it indicates there is a trouble inside the system. Eject the disc or magazine. Set the disc or magazine again.

For low−pitch tone adjustment, push
“CONTROL / MODE” repeatedly until
“BAS” appears on the display. Then turn
the knob to suit your preference.

If “OPEn” appears on the display, it
indicates the compact disc auto changer
lid is open. Close the compact disc auto
changer lid.

The display will show the range from
“BAS −5” to “BAS 5”.

If the malfunction is not rectified, take
your vehicle to your Toyota dealer.

This knob is used to adjust the tone
manually.

Vehicles with 8 speakers only—for middle−
pitch tone adjustment, push “CONTROL /
MODE” repeatedly until “MId” appears on
the display. Then turn the knob to suit
your preference.
The display will show the range from “MId
−5” to “MId 5”.

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2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

For high−pitch tone adjustment, push
“CONTROL / MODE” repeatedly until
“TRE” appears on the display. Then turn
the knob to suit your preference.
The display will show the range from
“TRE −5” to “TRE 5”.
Sound balance adjustment function—
This knob is also used to adjust the
sound balance between the front and rear,
and the right and left speakers.
For front/rear adjustment, push “CONTROL
/ MODE” repeatedly until “FAd” appears
on the display. Then turn the knob to
adjust the front/rear balance.
The display will show the range from
“FAd−F7” to “FAd−R7”.
For left/right adjustment, push “CONTROL
/ MODE” repeatedly until “BAL” appears
on the display. Then turn the knob to
adjust the left/right balance.
The display will show the range from
“BAL−L7” to “BAL−R7”.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Dolbyr

B NR∗

If you are listening to a tape that was
recorded with Dolbyr B Noise Reduction,
push the button marked with the double−D
symbol. The double−D symbol will appear
on the display. Push the button again to
turn off Dolbyr B NR.

RAND (Random): Compact Disc Player

RPT (Repeat)

There are two random features—you can
either listen to the tracks on all the compact discs in the magazine in random order, or only listen to the tracks on a
specific compact disc in random order.

Cassette Player

Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. “DOLBY” and the
double D symbol
are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories
Licensing Corporation.

FM1·2

Compact disc auto changer only—

Push “FM1·2” to turn on the radio and
select the FM band. “FM1” or “FM2” will
appear on the display. This system allows
you to set twelve FM stations, two for
each button.

To randomly play all the tracks in the
magazine:
Push and hold “RAND” until you hear a
beep. “
” will appear on the display and the player will perform all the
tracks on all the discs in the magazine in
random order. To turn off the random feature, push this button again.

The Dolby NR mode reduces tape noise
by about 10 dB. For best sound reproduction, play your tapes with this button on
or off according to the mode used for
recording the tape.
∗ : Dolby noise reduction manufactured under license from

If the audio system is off, you can turn
on the radio by pushing “FM1·2”. Also,
push “FM1·2” to switch from cassette or
compact disc operation to radio operation.

Push “RPT” while the track is playing.
“
” will appear on the display. When
the track ends, it will automatically be
rewound and replayed. This process will
be continued until you push the button
again to turn off the repeat feature.
There must be at least 3 seconds of blank
space between tracks in order for the repeat feature to work correctly.
Compact Disc Player
There are two repeat features—You can
either replay a disc track or a whole compact disc.
Repeating a track:
Quickly push and release “RPT” while the
track is playing. “
” will appear on the
display. If you hear a beep, you held the
button too long, and the player will repeat
the whole disc. When the track ends, it
will automatically be replayed. This process will be continued until you push the
button again to turn off the repeat feature.

PWR·VOL (Power and Volume)
Push “PWR·VOL” to turn the audio system
on and off. Turn “PWR·VOL” to adjust the
volume.
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Compact disc auto changer only—
Repeating a disc:
Push and hold “RPT” until you hear a
beep. “
” will appear on the display.
The player will repeat all the tracks on the
disc you are listening to. When the disc
ends, the player will automatically go back
to the top track of the disc and replay.
This process will be continued until you
push the button again to turn off the repeat feature.
SCAN
Radio
You can either scan all the frequencies on
a band or scan only the preset stations
for that band.
To scan the preset stations:
Push and hold “SCAN” until you hear a
beep. The radio will tune in the next preset station up the band, stay there for 5
seconds, and then move to the next preset station. To select a station, push
“SCAN” again.

132

To scan all the frequencies:
Quickly push and release “SCAN”. If you
hear a beep, you held the button too long,
and the radio will scan the preset stations. The radio will find the next station
up the station band, stay there for 5 seconds, and then scan again. To select a
station, push “SCAN” again.
Compact disc player
There are two scan features—you can either scan the tracks on a specific disc or
scan the first tracks of all the discs in the
magazine.
Scanning the tracks on a disc:
Quickly push and release “SCAN”. “SCAN”
will appear on the display and the player
will scan all the tracks on the disc you
are listening to. If you hear a beep, you
held the button too long, and the player
will scan the first track of all the discs in
the magazine. To select a track, push
“SCAN” again. If the player scanned all
the tracks on the disc, it will stop scanning.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

Compact disc auto changer only—
Scanning the first track of all the discs in
the magazine:
Push “SCAN” until you hear a beep.
“
·SCAN” will appear on the display and
the player will perform the first track of
the next disc. To select a disc, push the
“SCAN” again. If the player has scanned
all the discs, it will stop scanning.
SEEK (Seeking)
Radio
In the seek mode, the radio finds and
plays the next station up or down the
station band.
To seek a station, quickly push and release the “Ɯ” or “Ɲ” under the “SEEK”.
Do this again to find another station.
Cassette Player
By using this button, you can skip up or
down to a different track.
You can skip up to nine tracks at a time.
Push the up or down side of the button.
“FF 1” or “REW 1” will appear on the
display.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Next, push either side of
until the number on the
the number of tracks you
you push the button ten
feature will be turned off.

the track button
display reaches
want to skip. If
times, the skip

When counting the number of tracks you
want to rewind, remember to count the
current track as well. For example, if you
want to rewind to a song that is two before the song you are listening to, push
on the down side of the button until “REW
3” appears on the display.
If you have pushed the track button more
than you wanted to, push the other side
of the button. The track number will be
reduced.
The track number you select is not valid
if it is higher than the number of tracks
remaining on the current cassette side.

D After the beginning of the tape is
reached, the player will automatically
start playing the same side.

ST (Stereo reception) display

TUNE (Tuning)

Your radio automatically changes to stereo
reception when a stereo broadcast is received. “ST” appears on the display. If the
signal becomes weak, the radio reduces
the amount of channel separation to prevent the weak signal from creating noise.
If the signal becomes extremely weak, the
radio switches from stereo to mono reception.

Your Toyota has an electronic tuning radio
(ETR). Turn the knob clockwise to step up
the frequency. Turn the knob counterclockwise to step down the frequency.

TAPE
Push “TAPE” to switch from radio or compact disc operation to cassette operation.
If the audio system is off, you can turn
on the cassette player by pushing “TAPE”.
In both cases, a cassette must already be
loaded in the player.
TRACK (Track up/down button):
Compact disc player
By using this button, you can skip up or
down to a different track.
Push either side of the track button until
the number of the track you want to listen
to appears on the display. If you want to
return to the beginning of the current
track, push the down side of the button
one time, quickly.

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"Type 2
Details of specific buttons, controls, and
features are described in the alphabetical
listing that follows.

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1 2 3 4 5 6 (Preset buttons)

Compact disc

These buttons are used to preset and
tune in radio stations.

To eject one compact disc only: Push and
release the compact disc eject button. If
you hold the button too long (if the audio
system is on at this time, you hear a
beep.), the mechanism will change to the
mode for ejecting all the discs loaded in
the changer. You can also eject any specific one of the discs loaded in the changer as follows:
1. Push either side of the “DISC” button
until the number of the disc you want
to eject is displayed.
2. Push and release the compact disc
eject button.

To preset a station to a button: Tune in
the desired station (see “TUNE” knob or
“SEEK” button). Push and hold down the
button until you hear a beep—this will set
the station to the button. The button number will appear on the display.
To tune in to a preset station: Push the
button for the station you want. The button number and station frequency will appear on the display.
These systems can store one AM and two
FM stations for each button (The display
will show “AM”, “FM1” or “FM2” when you
push “AM” “FM1·2”).
(Eject button)
Cassette tape
Push the cassette tape eject button to
eject a cassette.
After you turn the ignition to “LOCK”, you
will be able to eject a cassette, but you
will not be able to reinsert it.

To eject all the discs loaded in the changer: Push and hold the compact disc eject
button (until you hear a beep when the
audio system is on). The last compact
disc played before pushing the button will
be ejected first. If a disc is left in the slot
for a long time, the function to eject all
the discs will be automatically cancelled.
After you turn the ignition to “LOCK”, you
will be able to eject one compact disc
only or all the discs loaded in the changer, but you will not be able to reinsert it
or them.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

(Program)
Push “
” to select the other side of a
cassette tape. The display indicates which
side is currently selected (“ ” indicates
top side, “

” indicates bottom side).

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CONTROL / MODE (Audio control and
mode adjustment)

If “Err 1” appears on the display, it
indicates the disc is dirty, damaged, or it
was inserted up−side down. Clean the
disc or insert it correctly.

For low−pitch tone adjustment, push
“CONTROL / MODE” repeatedly until
“BAS” appears on the display. Then turn
the knob to suit your preference.

If “Err 2” appears on the display, it
indicates no disc is loaded inside the
magazine. Insert a disc.

The display will show the range from
“BAS −5” to “BAS 5”.

If “Err 3” or “Err 4” appears on the
display, it indicates there is a trouble inside the system. Eject the disc or magazine. Set the disc or magazine again.
If “OPEn” appears on the display, it
indicates the compact disc auto changer
lid is open. Close the compact disc auto
changer lid.
If the malfunction is not rectified, take
your vehicle to your Toyota dealer.

If the player or another unit equipped with
the player malfunctions, your audio system
will display one of the six following error
messages.

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Manual tone adjustment function—
This knob is used to adjust the tone
manually.

For middle−pitch tone adjustment, push
“CONTROL / MODE” repeatedly until “MId”
appears on the display. Then turn the
knob to suit your preference.
The display will show the range from “MId
−5” to “MId 5”.
For high−pitch tone adjustment, push
“CONTROL / MODE” repeatedly until
“TRE” appears on the display. Then turn
the knob to suit your preference.
The display will show the range from
“TRE −5” to “TRE 5”.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

B NR∗

Sound balance adjustment function—

Dolbyr

This knob is also used to adjust the
sound balance between the front and rear,
and the right and left speakers.

For front/rear adjustment, push “CONTROL
/ MODE” repeatedly until “FAd” appears
on the display. Then turn the knob to
adjust the front/rear balance.
The display will show the range from
“FAd−F7” to “FAd−R7”.
For left/right adjustment, push “CONTROL
/ MODE” repeatedly until “BAL” appears
on the display. Then turn the knob to
adjust the left/right balance.
The display will show the range from
“BAL−L7” to “BAL−R7”.
DISC ƝƜ
By using this button, you can select a
disc you wish to listen to.
Push either side of the button until the
number of the disc you want to listen to
appears on the display.

The Dolby NR mode reduces tape noise
by about 10 dB. For best sound reproduction, play your tapes with this button on
or off according to the mode used for
recording the tape.
∗

: Dolby noise reduction manufactured under license from
Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. “DOLBY” and the
double D symbol
are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories
Licensing Corporation.

FM1·2
Push “FM1·2” to turn on the radio and
select the FM band. “FM1” or “FM2” will
appear on the display. This system allows
you to set twelve FM stations, two for
each button.
If the audio system is off, you can turn
on the radio by pushing “FM1·2”. Also,
push “FM1·2” to switch from cassette or
compact disc operation to radio operation.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

LOAD
This button is used to load the compact
discs in the compact disc auto changer
which is integrated with the radio and cassette player. This compact disc auto
changer can store up to 6 discs.
The key must be in the “ACC” or “ON”
position.
Loading one compact disc only—
To load one compact disc only, quickly
push and release the button. If you hold
the button too long (if the audio system
is on at this time, you hear a beep.), the
mechanism will change to the mode for
loading multiple compact discs. After
pushing the button, insert a compact disc.
At this time, the indicators on both sides
of the slot are flashing. After the disc is
loaded, the shutter of the slot will close
and the indicators will stop flashing.
If no compact disc is inserted, the shutter
will close after 15 seconds.

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Loading multiple compact discs—
To load multiple compact discs, push and
hold (until you hear a beep when the audio system is on). After pushing the button, insert the first compact disc. At this
time, the indicators on both sides of the
slot are flashing. After the disc is loaded,
the shutter of the slot will close and the
indicators will stop flashing. After a few
seconds, the shutter will automatically
open again so the next disc can be inserted. The same process can be applied
for loading the rest of the discs.
If no compact disc is inserted, the shutter
will close after 15 seconds.
PWR·VOL (Power and Volume)
Push “PWR·VOL” to turn the audio system
on and off. Turn “PWR·VOL” to adjust the
volume.
RAND (Random): Compact Disc Player
There are two random features—you can
either listen to the tracks on all the compact discs in the magazine in random order, or only listen to the tracks on a
specific compact disc in random order.

To randomly play the tracks on a disc:
Quickly
push and
release “RAND”.
“
” will appear on the display. The
disc you are listening to will play in random order. If you hear a beep, you held
the button too long, and the player will
play all the tracks in the magazine in
random order. To turn off the random feature, push this button again.
To randomly play all the tracks in the
magazine:
Push and hold “RAND” until you hear a
beep. “
” will appear on the display
and the player will perform all the tracks
on all the discs in the magazine in random order. To turn off the random feature,
push this button again.
RPT (Repeat)
Cassette Player
Push “RPT” while the track is playing.
“
” will appear on the display. When
the track ends, it will automatically be
rewound and replayed. This process will
be continued until you push the button
again to turn off the repeat feature.
There must be at least 3 seconds of blank
space between tracks in order for the repeat feature to work correctly.

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Compact Disc Player
There are two repeat features—You can
either replay a disc track or a whole compact disc.
Repeating a track:
Quickly push and release “RPT” while the
track is playing. “
” will appear on the
display. If you hear a beep, you held the
button too long, and the player will repeat
the whole disc. When the track ends, it
will automatically be replayed. This process will be continued until you push the
button again to turn off the repeat feature.
Repeating a disc:
Push and hold “RPT” until you hear a
beep. “
” will appear on the display.
The player will repeat all the tracks on the
disc you are listening to. When the disc
ends, the player will automatically go back
to the top track of the disc and replay.
This process will be continued until you
push the button again to turn off the repeat feature.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

SCAN

Compact disc player

SEEK (Seeking)

Radio

There are two scan features—you can either scan the tracks on a specific disc or
scan the first tracks of all the discs in the
magazine.

Radio

Scanning the tracks on a disc:
Quickly push and release “SCAN”. “SCAN”
will appear on the display and the player
will scan all the tracks on the disc you
are listening to. If you hear a beep, you
held the button too long, and the player
will scan the first track of all the discs in
the magazine. To select a track, push
“SCAN” again. If the player scanned all
the tracks on the disc, it will stop scanning.

To seek a station, quickly push and release the “Ɯ” or “Ɲ” under the “SEEK”.
Do this again to find another station.

You can either scan all the frequencies on
a band or scan only the preset stations
for that band.
To scan the preset stations:
Push and hold “SCAN” until you hear a
beep. The radio will tune in the next preset station up the band, stay there for 5
seconds, and then move to the next preset station. To select a station, push
“SCAN” again.
To scan all the frequencies:
Quickly push and release “SCAN”. If you
hear a beep, you held the button too long,
and the radio will scan the preset stations. The radio will find the next station
up the station band, stay there for 5 seconds, and then scan again. To select a
station, push “SCAN” again.

Scanning the first track of all the discs in
the magazine:
Push “SCAN” until you hear a beep.
“
·SCAN” will appear on the display and
the player will perform the first track of
the next disc. To select a disc, push the
“SCAN” again. If the player has scanned
all the discs, it will stop scanning.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

In the seek mode, the radio finds and
plays the next station up or down the
station band.

Cassette Player
By using this button, you can skip up or
down to a different track.
You can skip up to nine tracks at a time.
Push the up or down side of the button.
“FF 1” or “REW 1” will appear on the
display.
Next, push either side of
until the number on the
the number of tracks you
you push the button ten
feature will be turned off.

the track button
display reaches
want to skip. If
times, the skip

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Car audio system operating
hints
If you have pushed the track button more
than you wanted to, push the other side
of the button. The track number will be
reduced.
The track number you select is not valid
if it is higher than the number of tracks
remaining on the current cassette side.

D After the beginning of the tape is
reached, the player will automatically
start playing the same side.

D After the end of the tape is reached,
the player will automatically reverse
sides and start playing the other side.
There must be at least 3 seconds of blank
space between tracks for the track button
to work correctly. In addition, the feature
may not work well with some spoken
word, live, or classical recordings.
ST (Stereo reception) display
Your radio automatically changes to stereo
reception when a stereo broadcast is received. “ST” appears on the display. If the
signal becomes weak, the radio reduces
the amount of channel separation to prevent the weak signal from creating noise.
If the signal becomes extremely weak, the
radio switches from stereo to mono reception.

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NOTICE
To ensure the correct audio system
operation:
z Be careful not to spill beverages
over the audio system.
z Do not put anything other than a
cassette tape or Compact Disc into
the slot.
z The use of cellular phone inside or
near the vehicle may cause a noise
from the speakers of the audio system which you are listening to.
However, this does not indicate a
malfunction.
RADIO RECEPTION
Usually, a problem with radio reception
does not mean there is a problem with
your radio—it is just the normal result of
conditions outside the vehicle.
For example, nearby buildings and terrain
can interfere with FM reception. Power
lines or telephone wires can interfere with
AM signals. And of course, radio signals
have a limited range. The farther you are
from a station, the weaker its signal will
be. In addition, reception conditions
change constantly as your vehicle moves.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Here are some common reception problems that probably do not indicate a problem with your radio:
FM
Fading and drifting stations—Generally, the
effective range of FM is about 40 km (25
miles). Once outside this range, you may
notice fading and drifting, which increase
with the distance from the radio transmitter. They are often accompanied by distortion.
Multi−path—FM signals are reflective,
making it possible for two signals to reach
your antenna at the same time. If this
happens, the signals will cancel each other out, causing a momentary flutter or
loss of reception.

Use high−quality cassettes.

Fading—AM broadcasts are reflected by
the upper atmosphere–especially at night.
These reflected signals can interfere with
those received directly from the radio station, causing the radio station to sound
alternately strong and weak.

D Low−quality cassette tapes can cause

Station interference—When a reflected signal and a signal received directly from a
radio station are very nearly the same
frequency, they can interfere with each
other, making it difficult to hear the broadcast.

D Do not use a cassette if it has been

Static—AM is easily affected by external
sources of electrical noise, such as high
tension power lines, lightening, or electrical motors. This results in static.

D Store cassettes in their cases and out

Static and fluttering—These occur when
signals are blocked by buildings, trees, or
other large objects. Increasing the bass
level may reduce static and fluttering.

CARING FOR YOUR CASSETTE PLAYER
AND TAPES

Station swapping—If the FM signal you
are listening to is interrupted or weakened, and there is another strong station
nearby on the FM band, your radio may
tune in the second station until the original signal can be picked up again.

Clean the tape head and other parts regularly.

For the best performance for your cassette player and tapes:

many problems, including poor sound,
inconsistent
playing
speed,
and
constant auto−reversing. They can also
get stuck or tangled in the cassette
player.
damaged or tangled or if its label is
peeling off.

D Do not leave a cassette in the player
if you are not listening to it, especially
if it is hot outside.
of direct sunlight.

D Avoid using cassettes with a total playing time longer than 100 minutes (50
minutes per side). The tape used in
these cassettes is thin and could get
stuck or tangled in the cassette player.

D A dirty tape head or tape path can
decrease sound quality and tangle your
cassette tapes. The easiest way to
clean them is by using a cleaning tape.
(A wet type is recommended.)
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D Bumpy roads or other vibrations may
make your compact disc player skip.

D If moisture gets into your compact disc
player, you may not hear any sound
even though your compact disc player
appears to be working. Remove the
disc from the player and wait until it
dries.

CARING FOR YOUR
PLAYER AND DISCS

COMPACT

DISC

D Use only compact discs labeled as
shown above. CD−R (CD−Recordable),
CD−RW (CD−Re−writable) and personal
computer use CD−ROMs may not be
playable on your compact disc player.

D Your compact disc player is intended
for use with 12 cm (4.7 in.) discs only.

D Extremely high temperatures can keep
your compact disc player from working.
On hot days, use the air conditioning
to cool the vehicle interior before you
listen to a disc.

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D Your automatic changer or compact
disc player cannot play special shaped
or low−quality compact discs such as
those shown here. Do not use them as
the player could be damaged.

D Handle compact discs carefully, especially when you are inserting them.
Hold them on the edge and do not
bend them. Avoid getting fingerprints
on them, particularly on the shiny side.

CAUTION
Compact disc players use an invisible
laser beam which could cause hazardous radiation exposure if directed
outside the unit. Be sure to operate
the player correctly.

D Dirt, scrapes, warping, pin holes, or
other disc damage could cause the
player to skip or to repeat a section of
a track. (To see a pin hole, hold the
disc up to the light.)

D Remove discs from the compact disc
player when you are not listening to
them. Store them in their plastic cases
away from moisture, heat, and direct
sunlight.
To clean a compact disc: Wipe it with a
soft, lint−free cloth that has been dampened with water. Wipe in a straight line
from the center to the edge of the disc
(not in circles). Dry it with another soft,
lint−free cloth. Do not use a conventional
record cleaner or anti−static device.

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

SECTION

1− 8

OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND
CONTROLS
Air conditioning system

Manual air conditioning system
Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air flow selector settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic air conditioning system
Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Air flow selector settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Side vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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146
149
149
152
156
156
159

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Manual air conditioning system—
—Controls
1. Air intake selector
2. “A/C” button
3. Air flow selector
4. Temperature selector
5. Fan speed selector

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This position allows the air intake to
select FRESH automatically. This is to
clean up the front view more quickly.

Fan speed selector
Turn the knob to adjust the fan speed—to
the right to increase, to the left to decrease.

If you want to return the setting to
RECIRCULATE mode, press the air intake selector button once again.

Temperature selector
Turn the knob to adjust the temperature—
to the right to warm, to the left to cool.

5. Windshield—Air flows mainly from the
windshield vents.
Turning the air flow selector to the
windshield position turns on the defogging function with the purpose of clearing the front view.
Air flow selector
Turn the knob to select the vents used for
air flow.

This position allows the air intake to
select FRESH automatically. This is to
clean up the front view more quickly.

the

If you want to return the setting to
RECIRCULATE mode, press the air intake selector button once again.

2. Bi−level—Air flows from both the floor
vents and the instrument panel vents.

For details about air flow selector settings,
see “Air flow selector settings” described
blow.

1. Panel—Air flows mainly
instrument panel vents.

from

3. Floor—Air flows mainly from the floor
vents.
4. Floor/Windshield—Air
flows
mainly
from the floor vents and windshield
vents.
Turning the air flow selector to the
floor/windshield position turns on the
defogging function with the purpose of
clearing the front view.
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Air intake selector
The air intake selector button is used to
switch the air intake FRESH mode that
draws outside air into the system and
RECIRCULATED mode that recirculates
the air inside vehicle.
To turn the air source to RECIRCULATED
mode, press the button. The indicator will
come on. To turn the air source to FRESH
mode, press the button again. The indicator will go off.
To prevent fogging up of the windshield,
the air intake mode may change automatically to FRESH depending on the condition of the air conditioning system.
“A/C” button
To turn on the air conditioning, press the
“A/C” button. The “A/C” button indicator
will come on. To turn the air conditioning
off, press the button again.
If the “A/C” button indicator flashes, there
is a problem in the air conditioning system
and the air conditioning automatically
shuts off. If this happens, take your vehicle to a Toyota dealer for service.

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—Air flow selector settings

—Operating tips
D To cool off your Toyota after it has

been parked in the hot sun, drive with
the windows open for a few minutes.
This vents the hot air, allowing the air
conditioning to cool the interior more
quickly.

D Make sure the air intake grilles in front
of the windshield are not blocked (by
leaves or snow, for example).

D On humid days, do not blow cold air

on the windshield. The windshield could
fog up because of the difference in air
temperature on the inside and outside
of the windshield.

D Keep the area under the front seats

clear to allow air to circulate throughout the vehicle.

D On cold days, set the fan speed to
high for a minute to help clear the
intake ducts of snow or moisture. This
can reduce the amount of fogging on
the windows.

D When driving on dusty roads, close all

windows. If dust thrown up by the vehicle is still drawn into the vehicle after
closing the windows, it is recommended
that the air intake selector be set to
FRESH and the fan speed selector to
any setting except “OFF”.

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D If following another vehicle on a dusty

road, or driving in windy and dusty
conditions, it is recommended that the
air intake selector be temporarily set to
RECIRCULATE, which will close off the
outside passage and prevent outside
air and dust from entering the vehicle
interior.

Heating

Air conditioning

For best results, set controls to:

Fan speed—Any setting except “OFF”
Temperature—Towards WARM
(red zone)
Air intake—FRESH (outside air)
Air flow—FLOOR
Air conditioning—OFF

Fan speed—Any setting except “OFF”
Temperature—Towards COLD
(blue zone)
Air intake—FRESH (outside air)
Air flow—PANEL
Air conditioning—ON

D For quick heating, select recirculated

D For quick cooling, select recirculated

air for a few minutes. To keep the
windows from fogging, select fresh after the vehicle interior has been
warmed.

D Press the “A/C” button on for dehumidified heating.

D Choose floor/windshield air flow to heat

the vehicle interior while defrosting or
defogging the windshield.

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2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

air for a few minutes.

Ventilation
For best results, set controls to:
Fan speed—Any setting except “OFF”
Temperature—Towards COLD
(blue zone)
Air intake—FRESH (outside air)
Air flow—PANEL
Air conditioning—OFF

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Defogging

Defrosting

The inside of the windshield

The outside of the windshield

For best results, set controls to:

Fan speed—Any setting except “OFF”
Temperature—Towards WARM
(red zone) to heat;
COLD (blue zone) to
cool
Air intake—FRESH (outside air)
Air flow—WINDSHIELD
Turning the air flow selector to the windshield or floor/windshield position turns on
the defogging function with the purpose of
clearing the front view.
When turning the air flow selector to windshield or floor/windshield position, the air
intake selects FRESH automatically. This
is to clean up the front view more quickly.
If you want to return the setting to
RECIRCULATE mode, press the air intake
selector button once again.

D On humid days, do not blow cold air

on the windshield—the difference between the outside and inside temperatures could make the fogging worse.

Fan speed—Any setting except “OFF”
Temperature—Towards WARM
(red zone)
Air intake—FRESH (outside air)
Air flow—WINDSHIELD
Turning the air flow selector to the windshield or floor/windshield position turns on
the defrosting function with the purpose of
clearing the front view.
When turning the air flow selector to windshield or floor/windshield position, the air
intake selects FRESH automatically. This
is to clean up the front view more quickly.
If you want to return the setting to
RECIRCULATE mode, press the air intake
selector button once again.

D To heat the vehicle interior while defrosting
the
windshield,
floor/windshield air flow.

choose

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Automatic air conditioning system—
—Controls
1. Air intake selector
2. “MODE” button (air flow selector)
3. Fan speed selector
4. “A/C” button
5. “OFF” button
6. Windshield air flow button
7. “AUTO” button
8. Temperature selector

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“AUTO” button

Temperature selector

For automatic operation of the air conditioning, press the “AUTO” button. An indicator light will illuminate to show that the
automatic operation mode has been selected.

Turn the knob to adjust the temperature—
to the right to warm, to the left to cool.

In the automatic operation mode, the air
conditioning selects the most suitable fan
speed, air flow, air intake and on−off of
the air conditioning according to the temperature.

“OFF” button
Push the button to turn off the air conditioning system.

You may use manual controls if you want
to select your own settings.
“MODE” button (air flow selector)

To turn off the automatic operation, press
the “OFF” button.
Fan speed selector

Push the “MODE” button to select the
vents used for air flow.

Turn the knob to adjust the fan speed—to
the right to increase, to the left to decrease.

In automatic operation, you do not have
to select the air flow unless you desire
another air flow mode.

In automatic operation, you do not have
to adjust the fan speed unless you desire
another fan speed mode.

1. Panel—Air flows mainly
instrument panel vents.

from

the

2. Bi−level—Air flows from both the floor
vents and the instrument panel vents.
3. Floor—Air flows mainly from the floor
vents.
4. Floor/Windshield—Air
flows
mainly
from the floor vents and windshield
vents.
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When the “A/C” button is not pressed in,
pressing another air flow button turns off
the air conditioning.
For details about air flow selector settings,
see “Air flow selector settings” described
below.

Windshield air flow button
When this button is pressed, air flows
mainly from the windshield vents and the
FRESH mode is automatically set. This
setting clears the front view more quickly.

To prevent fogging up of the windshield,
the air intake mode may change automatically to FRESH depending on the condition of the air conditioning system.

If you want to return the setting to
RECIRCULATE mode, press the air intake
selector button once again.
Pressing the button once again returns the
air flow mode to the last one used.
Pressing the windshield air flow button
turns on the defroster−linked air conditioning. This is to clean up the front view
more quickly.

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“A/C” button
To turn on the air conditioning, press the
“A/C” button. The “A/C” button indicator
will come on. To turn the air conditioning
off, press the button again.
If the “A/C” button indicator flashes, there
is a problem in the air conditioning system
and the air conditioning automatically
shuts off. If this happens, take your vehicle to a Toyota dealer for service.

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—Air flow selector settings

—Operating tips
D To cool off your Toyota after it has

been parked in the hot sun, drive with
the windows open for a few minutes.
This vents the hot air, allowing the air
conditioning to cool the interior more
quickly.

D Make sure the air intake grilles in front
of the windshield are not blocked (by
leaves or snow, for example).

D On humid days, do not blow cold air

on the windshield. The windshield could
fog up because of the difference in air
temperature on the inside and outside
of the windshield.

D Keep the area under the front seats

clear to allow air to circulate throughout the vehicle.

D On cold days, set the fan speed to
high for a minute to help clear the
intake ducts of snow or moisture. This
can reduce the amount of fogging on
the windows.

D When driving on dusty roads, close all

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D If following another vehicle on a dusty

Heating

Air conditioning

For best results, set controls to:

For automatic operation—

Press in the “AUTO” button.
Temperature—To the desired
temperature
Air intake—FRESH (outside air)
Air conditioning—OFF
For manual operation—

Press in the “AUTO” button.
Temperature—To the desired
temperature
Air intake—FRESH (outside air)
Air conditioning—ON
For manual operation—

Fan speed—To the desired fan speed
Temperature—Towards WARM
(to the right)
Air intake—FRESH (outside air)
Air flow—FLOOR
Air conditioning—OFF

Fan speed—To the desired fan speed
Temperature—Towards COLD
(to the left)
Air intake—FRESH (outside air)
Air flow—PANEL
Air conditioning—ON

D For quick heating, select recirculated

D For quick cooling, select recirculated

air for a few minutes. To keep the
windows from fogging, select fresh after the vehicle interior has been
warmed.

air for a few minutes.

D Press the “A/C” button on for dehumidified heating.

D Choose floor/windshield air flow to heat

the vehicle interior while defrosting or
defogging the windshield.

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Ventilation

Defogging and defrosting—

For best results, set controls to:

—The inside of the windshield

For automatic operation—

For best results, set controls to:

Press in the “AUTO” button.
Temperature—Towards COLD
(to the left)
Air intake—FRESH (outside air)
Air conditioning—OFF
For manual operation—
Fan speed—To the desired fan speed
Temperature—Towards COLD
(to the left)
Air intake—FRESH (outside air)
Air flow—PANEL
Air conditioning—OFF

For automatic operation—
Temperature—Towards WARM
(to the right) to heat;
COLD (to the left) to
cool
Air intake—FRESH (outside air)
Air flow—WINDSHIELD
For manual operation—
Fan speed—To the desired fan speed
Temperature—Towards WARM
(to the right) to heat;
COLD (to the left) to
cool
Air intake—FRESH (outside air)
Air flow—WINDSHIELD
When pressing the windshield air flow button, the air intake selects FRESH automatically. This is to clean up the front
view more quickly.
If you want to return the setting to
RECIRCULATE mode, press the air intake
selector button once again.

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2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

Pressing the windshield button turns on
the defroster−linked air conditioning. This
is to clean up the front view more quickly.
When the “A/C” button is not pressed in,
pressing another air flow button turns off
the air conditioning.

D On humid days, do not blow cold air

on the windshield—the difference between the outside and inside temperatures could make the fogging worse.

—The outside of the windshield
For best results, set controls to:
For automatic operation—
Temperature—Towards WARM
(to the right)
Air intake—FRESH (outside air)
Air flow—WINDSHIELD

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Side vents
For manual operation—
Fan speed—To the desired fan speed
Temperature—Towards WARM
(to the right)
Air intake—FRESH (outside air)
Air flow—WINDSHIELD
When pressing the windshield air flow button, the air intake selects FRESH automatically. This is to clean up the front
view more quickly.
If you want to return the setting to
RECIRCULATE mode, press the air intake
selector button once again.
Pressing the windshield button turns on
the defroster−linked air conditioning. This
is to clean up the front view more quickly.

If air flow control is not satisfactory, check
the side vents. The side vents may be
opened or closed as shown.

When the “A/C” button is not pressed in,
pressing another air flow button turns off
the air conditioning.

D To heat the vehicle interior while defrosting
the
windshield,
floor/windshield air flow.

choose

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SECTION

1− 9

OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND
CONTROLS
Other equipment
Multi−information display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cigarette lighter and ashtray . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Power outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Glove box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Garage door opener . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Auxiliary box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cup holderss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bottle holderss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tie−down hooks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Luggage cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Roof luggage carrier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Floor mat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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163
164
164
165
165
168
170
171
171
172
173
175

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Multi−information display
The multi−information display indicates
the following information.

1. Outside temperature
(“OUTSIDE TEMP”)

1. Outside temperature

The outside temperature display indicates the outside air temperature.

2. Average vehicle speed
3. Average fuel consumption
4. Instantaneous fuel consumption
5. Driving time
6. Air conditioning system on—The air
conditioned temperature is displayed.
Air conditioning system off—The air
conditioned temperature is not displayed.
Every time you push the “INFO” button,
the display toggles through this information.

Air conditioning system on—

Air conditioning system off—

162

The displayed values in the multi−information display indicate general driving conditions. Accuracy varies with driving habits
and road conditions.
You can adjust the air conditioned temperature while the multi−information is operating. 5 seconds has been passed after adjusting the temperature or pushing “INFO”
button, the display will be back to the
multi−information display.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

The displayed temperature ranges from
−22F (−30C) up to 122F (50C).
If there is some abnormality in the connection of the outside air temperature sensor, “−−F” (“−−C”) will appear on the
display. If “−−F” (“−−C”) appears on the
display, contact your Toyota dealer.
There may be a case that “−−F” (“−−C”)
appears momentarily when the ignition is
quickly turned to “ON”. It is normal if it
goes out soon.
2. Average vehicle speed
(“AVG MPH” or “AVG km/h”)
Average vehicle speed is calculated and
displayed based on total driving distance and total driving time with the
engine running.
The displayed value is updated every 10
seconds.
To reset the calculation, push the “INFO”
button for more than 1 second.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Clock
3. Average fuel consumption
(“AVG MPG” or “AVG L/100 km”)

The calculation is reset when the ignition
switch is turned off.

Average fuel consumption is calculated
and displayed based on total driving
distance and total fuel consumption
with the engine running.

5. Driving time
(“E/T”)

The displayed value is updated every 10
seconds.
To reset the calculations, push the “INFO”
button for more than 1 second.
4. Instantaneous fuel consumption
(“MPG” or “L/100 km”)
The instantaneous fuel consumption is
calculated and displayed based on distance and fuel consumption for 1 seconds with the engine running.

The elapsed time after the engine starts
is displayed.
When the engine is started, driving time
is counted from 0:00. Up to 11:59 (11
hours, 59 minutes) can be displayed.
When the driving time exceeds 11:59, the
counter returns to 0:00.
The calculation is reset when the ignition
switch is turned off.

The digital clock indicates the time.
The key must be in the “ACC” or “ON”
position.

The displayed value is updated every 2
seconds.

To reset the hour: Push the “H” button.
To reset the minutes: Push the “M” button.

Note that an accurate figure may not be
shown in the following cases.

If the electrical power source has been
disconnected from the clock, the time display will automatically be set to 1:00 (one
o’clock).

When the vehicle is stopped with the
engine running, the display will indicate
the extremely high fuel consumption.

When the vehicle is driving down a
long slope, applying the engine brake,
the display will indicate the extremely
low fuel consumption.

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Cigarette lighter and ashtray
(on some models)

Power outlets
CIGARETTE LIGHTER
To use the cigarette lighter, press it in.
When it becomes heated, it automatically pops out ready for use.
If the engine is not running, the key must
be in the “ACC” position.
Do not hold the cigarette lighter pressed
in.
Use a Toyota genuine cigarette lighter or
equivalent for replacement.
ASHTRAY

Cigarette lighter

To use the ashtray, pull it out.
When finished with your cigarette, thoroughly extinguish it in the ashtray to prevent other cigarette butts from catching
fire. After using the ashtray, push it back
in completely.

Front

To remove the ashtray, press down on the
lock spring plate and pull out.

CAUTION
To reduce the chance of injury in
case of an accident or sudden stop
while driving, always completely close
the ashtray after using it.
Ashtray

164

Rear
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The power outlets are designed
power supply for car accessories.

Glove box

Garage door opener

To use the glove box, do this.

The garage door opener (HomeLink
Universal Transceiver) is manufactured
under license from HomeLink and can
be programmed to operate garage
doors, gates, entry doors, door locks,
home lighting systems, and security
systems, etc.

for

The key must be in the “ACC” or “ON”
position for the power outlets to be used.

NOTICE
z To prevent the fuse from being
blown, do not use the electricity
over the total vehicle capacity of
12V/120W (front and rear outlets together).
z To prevent the battery from being
discharged, do not use the power
outlets longer than necessary when
the engine is not running.
z Close the power outlet lids when
the power outlets are not in use.
Inserting a foreign object other than
the appropriate plug that fits the
outlet, or allowing any liquid into
the outlet may cause electrical failure or short circuits.

To open: Pull the lever.
With the instrument panel lights on, the
glove box light will come on when the
globe box is open.
To lock: Insert the master key and turn it
clockwise.

CAUTION
To reduce the chance of injury in
case of an accident or a sudden stop,
always keep the glove box door
closed while driving.

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(a) Programming the HomeLink
The HomeLink in your vehicle has 3
buttons and you can store one program
for each button.

3. Simultaneously press and hold the
hand−held garage transmitter button
along with the selected HomeLink button.

To ensure correct programming into the
HomeLink, install a new battery in the
hand−held transmitter prior to programming.

4. When the indicator light on the
HomeLink changes from a slow to a
rapid flash after 20 seconds, you can
release both buttons.

The battery side of the hand−held transmitter must be pointed away from the
HomeLink during the programming process.
For Canadian users, follow the procedure
in “Programming an entrance gate/Programming all devices in the Canadian
market”.
1. Decide which of 3 HomeLink buttons
you want to program.
2. Place your hand−held garage transmitter 25 to 75 mm (1 to 3 in.) away from
the surface of the HomeLink.
Keep the indicator light on the HomeLink
in view while programming.

5. Test the operation of the HomeLink by
pressing the newly programmed button.
If programming a garage door opener,
check to see if the garage door opens
and closes.
If the garage door does not operate, identify if your garage transmitter is of the
“Rolling Code” type. Press and hold the
programmed HomeLink button. The garage door has the rolling code feature if
the indicator light (on the HomeLink)
flashes rapidly and then remains lit after
2 seconds. If your garage transmitter is
the “Rolling Code” type, proceed to the
heading “Programming a rolling code system”.
6. Repeat steps 2 through 5 for each remaining HomeLink button to program
another device.

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Programming a rolling code system
If your device is “Rolling Code”
equipped, it is necessary to follow
steps 1 through 4 under the heading
“Programming the HomeLink” before
proceeding with the steps listed below.
1. Locate the “training” button on the ceiling mounted garage door opener motor.
The exact location and color of the
button may vary by brand of garage
door opener. Refer to the owner’s
guide supplied by the garage door
opener manufacturer for the location of
this “training” button.
2. Press the “training” button on the ceiling mounted garage door opener motor.
Following this step, you have 30 seconds
in which to initiate step 3 below.
3. Press and release the vehicle’s programmed HomeLink button twice. The
garage door may open. If the door
does open, the programming process is
complete. If the door does not open,
press and release the button a third
time. This third press and release will
complete the programming process by
opening the garage door.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

The ceiling mounted garage door opener
motor
should
now
recognize
the
HomeLink unit and be able activate the
garage door up/down.

6. Test the operation of the HomeLink by
pressing the newly programmed button.
Check to see if the gate/device operates correctly.

4. Repeat steps 1 through 3 for each remaining HomeLink button to program
another rolling code system.

7. Repeat steps 1 through 6 for each remaining HomeLink button to program
another device.

Programming an entrance gate/Programming all devices in the Canadian market

Programming other devices

1. Decide which of the 3 HomeLink buttons you want to program.
2. Place
your
hand−held gate/device
transmitter 25 to 75 mm (1 to 3 in.)
away
from
the
surface
of
the
HomeLink.
Keep the indicator light on the HomeLink
in view while programming.
3. Press
and
hold
HomeLink button.

the

selected

4. Continuously press and release (cycle)
the hand−held gate/device transmitter
button every two seconds until step 5
is complete.
5. When the indicator light on the
HomeLink changes from a slow to a
rapid flash after 20 seconds, you can
release both buttons.

To program other devices such as home
security systems, home door locks or
lighting, contact your authorized Toyota
dealer for assistance.

(c) Erasing
the
entire
HomeLink
memory (all three programs)
To erase all previously programmed codes
at one time, press and hold down the 2
outside buttons for 20 seconds until the
indicator light flashes.
If you sell your vehicle, be sure to erase
the programs stored in the HomeLink
memory.

Reprogramming a button
buttons cannot be
Individual HomeLink
erased, however, to reprogram a single
button, follow the procedure “Programming
the HomeLink”.
(b) Operating the HomeLink
To operate the HomeLink, press the
appropriate HomeLink button to activate
the programmed device. The HomeLink
indicator light should come on. The
HomeLink continues to send the signal
for up to 20 seconds as long as the
button is pressed.

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Auxiliary box
(instrument panel)
CAUTION

When programming the HomeLink

Universal Transceiver, you may be
operating a garage door or other
device. Make sure people and objects are out of the way of the garage door or other device to prevent potential harm or damage.

Do not use this HomeLink Univer-

sal Transceiver with any garage
door opener that lacks the safety
stop and reverse feature as required by federal safety standards.
(This includes any garage door
opener model manufactured before
April 1, 1982.) A garage door opener, which cannot detect an object,
signaling the door to stop and reverse, does not meet current federal safety standards. Using a garage
door opener without these features
increases risk of serious injury or
death.

168

This device complies with Part 15 of the
FCC Rules and with RSS−210 of the
Industry Canada. Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: (1) This
device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept
any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
WARNING: This transmitter has been
tested and complies with FCC and
Industry Canada DOC/MPAC rules.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the
use’s authority to operate the device.

To use the box, push down the knob
and pull the lid.

CAUTION
To reduce the chance of injury in
case of an accident or a sudden stop,
always keep the auxiliary box closed
while driving.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Auxiliary box
(instrument panel—on some
models)

To use the box, pull out while holding
the lever.

CAUTION

To reduce the chance of injury in

case of an accident or a sudden
stop, always keep the auxiliary box
closed while driving.

Auxiliary box
(luggage compartment)

To use the box, pull up the strap.

CAUTION
To reduce the chance of injury in
case of an accident or a sudden stop,
always keep the auxiliary box closed
while driving.

Do not use this auxiliary box as an

Auxiliary box
(on the ceiling)

To use the box, open it as shown
above.

CAUTION

To reduce the chance of injury in

case of an accident or a sudden
stop, always keep the auxiliary box
closed while driving.

As this holder is designed for hold-

ashtray.

ing a light object, do not place any
heavy objects in it. Heavy objects
may cause the holder to open and
contents to fly out resulting in injuries.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

169

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Cup holders
NOTICE

CAUTION

During hot weather, the interior of the
vehicle becomes very hot. Do not
leave anything flammable or deformable such as a lighter, glasses, etc.
inside.

Do not place anything else other

than cups or drink−cans in the cup
holder, as such items may be
thrown about in the compartment
and possibly injure people in the
vehicle during sudden braking or in
an accident.

To reduce the chance of injury in

The cup holders are designed for holding cups or drink−cans securely.
To use the holder, pull it out.

170

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

case of an accident or sudden stop
while driving, keep the cup holder
closed when it is not in use.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Bottle holders

Tie−down hooks
CAUTION
Do not attempt to use the holder for
any other purpose for which it was
intended. Inappropriately sized or
shaped objects may be thrown about
in the compartment and possibly injure people in the vehicle during a
sudden braking or an accident.

The bottle holders are designed to hold
bottles securely.

To secure your luggage, use the tie−down
hooks as shown above.
See “Luggage stowage precautions” on
page 189 in Section 2 for precautions in
loading luggage.

NOTICE
When using the bottle holder, put the
bottle with a cap. Otherwise, the liquid will spill over when opening or
closing the door.

CAUTION
To avoid personal injury, keep the tie−
down hooks folded in place on the
floor when not in use.

NOTICE
Do not use the seat anchors instead
of the tie−down hooks.
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

171

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Luggage cover
USING LUGGAGE COVER
To use the luggage cover:
1. Hang the front hooks of the luggage
cover to the claws on the back of
the rear seats.
2. Pull out the rear luggage cover and
hook it on the anchors.

CAUTION
Do not place anything on the luggage
cover. Such items may be thrown
about and possibly injure people in
the vehicle during sudden braking or
an accident.

REMOVING LUGGAGE COVER
To remove the luggage cover, detach its
hooks from the back of rear seats.
Then, retract and release both ends,
and lift the luggage cover out.
After you remove the luggage cover, place
it somewhere other than the passenger
compartment. This will prevent passengers
from injury in the event of a sudden stop
or accident.

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2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Roof luggage carrier
Cross rails

Side knobs

Upper
knob

Roof rails

The roof luggage carrier consists of
roof rails and sliding cross rails.

ADJUSTING THE POSITION OF CROSS
RAILS:
1. Turn the upper and side knobs counterclockwise to loosen the cross
rails.

2. Slide the cross rails to the appropriate position for loading the luggages
and turn the side knobs clockwise to
tighten the cross rails securely.
Vehicles with electric moon roof—There
are cross rail stoppers on the roof rails
which help you prevent the cross rails
being touched with the tilted up moon
roof.

NOTICE
Vehicles
only—Do
stoppers,
damaged

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

with electric moon roof
not remove the cross rail
or the moon roof may be
when it is tilted.

173

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Follow the manufacture’s instructions and
precautions when installing the attachments or their equivalent.

CAUTION
When you load cargo on the roof luggage carrier, observe the following:

If driving for a long distance, on
rough roads, or at high speeds,
stop the vehicle now and then during the trip to make sure the cargo
remains in its place.

Do not exceed 45 kg (100 lb.) cargo
weight on the roof luggage carrier.

Place the cargo so that its weight

is distributed evenly between the
front and rear axles.

If loading long or wide cargo, never
3. In order to fix the cross rails to the
appropriate length, turn the upper
knobs clockwise after tightening all
of the side knobs.

CAUTION
Make sure the cross rails are fixed
securely by pushing forward and rearward them. Failure to do so may
cause an unexpected accident or severe injury in the event of emergency
braking or a collision.

174

exceed the vehicle overall length or
width.
(See
“Dimensions
and
weight” on page 274 in Section 8
for information on your vehicle
overall length and width.)

Before driving, make sure the cargo
is securely fastened on the roof
luggage carrier.

Loading cargo on the roof luggage
carrier will make the center of the
vehicle gravity higher. Avoid high
speeds, sudden starts, sharp turns,
sudden braking or abrupt maneuvers, otherwise it may result in loss
of control or vehicle rollover due to
failure to operate this vehicle correctly.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

NOTICE
When loading the luggages, be careful
not to scratch the surface of the
moon roof.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Floor mat

Use a floor mat of the correct size.
If the floor carpet and floor
hole, then it is designed for
locking clip. Fix the floor mat
clip into the hole in the floor

mat have a
use with a
with locking
carpet.

CAUTION
Make sure the floor mat is properly
placed on the floor carpet. If the floor
mat slips and interferes with the
movement of the pedals during driving, it may cause an accident.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

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SECTION

INFORMATION BEFORE DRIVING YOUR
TOYOTA
Off−road vehicle precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Break−in period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel pump shut off system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operation in foreign countries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Three−way catalytic converter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine exhaust cautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Facts about engine oil consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Iridium−tipped spark plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake pad wear limit indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Luggage stowage precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Limited−slip differential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Your Toyota’s identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Theft prevention labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Suspension and chassis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Types of tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

178
179
179
181
182
182
183
184
185
185
189
189
190
190
191
192
192

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Off−road vehicle precautions
This vehicle belongs to the utility vehicle class, which has higher ground
clearance and narrower tread in relation
to the height of its center of gravity to
make it capable of performing in a wide
variety of off−road applications. Specific
design characteristics give it a higher
center of gravity than ordinary passenger cars. This vehicle design feature
causes this type of vehicle to be more
likely to rollover. And, utility vehicles
have a significantly higher rollover rate
than other types of vehicles. An advantage of the higher ground clearance is
a better view of the road allowing you
to anticipate problems. It is not designed for cornering at the same
speeds as ordinary passenger cars any
more than low−slung sports cars designed to perform satisfactorily under
off−road conditions. Therefore, sharp
turns at excessive speeds may cause
rollover.

178

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

CAUTION
Always observe the following precautions to minimize the risk of serious
personal injury or damage to your vehicle:

D In a rollover crash, an unbelted per-

son is significantly more likely to
die than a person wearing a seat
belt. Therefore, the driver and all
passengers should fasten their seat
belts whenever the vehicle is moving.

D Avoid sharp turns or abrupt maneu-

vers, if at all possible. Failure to
operate this vehicle correctly may
result in loss of control or vehicle
rollover causing death or serious
injury.

D Loading cargo on the roof luggage
carrier will make the center of the
vehicle gravity higher. Avoid high
speeds, sudden starts, sharp turns,
sudden braking or abrupt maneuvers, otherwise it may result in loss
of control or vehicle rollover due to
failure to operate this vehicle correctly.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

D Always slow down in gusty cross-

winds. Because of its profile and
higher center of gravity, your vehicle is more sensitive to side
winds than an ordinary passenger
car. Slowing down will allow you to
have better control.

D When driving off−road or in rugged

terrain, do not drive at excessive
speeds, jump, make sharp turns,
strike objects, etc. This may cause
loss of control or vehicle rollover
causing death or serious injury. You
are also risking expensive damage
to your vehicle’s suspension and
chassis.

D Do not drive horizontally across

Break−in period

Fuel

Drive gently and avoid high speeds.

FUEL TYPE

Your vehicle does not need an elaborate
break−in. But following a few simple tips
for the first 1600 km (1000 miles) can add
to the future economy and long life of
your vehicle:

Your new vehicle must use only unleaded gasoline.

D Do not drive over 88 km/h (55 mph).
D Run the engine at moderate speed between 2000 and 4000 rpm.

D Avoid full−throttle starts.
D Try to avoid hard stops during the first
300 km (200 miles).

D Do not drive for a long time at any
single speed, either fast or slow.

D Do not tow a trailer during the first 800
km (500 miles).

steep slopes. Driving straight up or
straight down is preferred. Your vehicle (or any similar off−road vehicle) can tip over sideways much
more easily than forward or backward.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

To help prevent gas station mix−ups, your
Toyota has a smaller fuel tank opening.
The special nozzle on pumps with unleaded fuel will fit it, but the larger standard nozzle on pumps with leaded gas will
not.
At a minimum, the gasoline you use
should meet the specifications of ASTM
D4814 in the U.S.A. and CGSB 3.5−M93
in Canada.

NOTICE
Do not use leaded gasoline. Use of
leaded gasoline will cause the three−
way catalytic converter to lose its effectiveness and the emission control
system to function improperly. Also,
this can increase maintenance costs.

179

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

OCTANE RATING
2AZ−FE engine: Select Octane Rating 87
(Research Octane Number 91) or higher.
1MZ−FE engine: Select Octane Rating
87 (Research Octane Number 91) or
higher. For improved vehicle performance, the use of premium unleaded
gasoline with an Octane Rating 91 (Research Octane Number of 96) or higher
is recommended.
Use of unleaded gasoline with an octane
rating or research octane number lower
than stated above will cause persistent
heavy knocking. If it is severe, this will
lead to engine damage.
If your engine knocks...
If you detect heavy knocking even when
using the recommended fuel, or if you
hear steady knocking while holding a
steady speed on level roads, consult your
Toyota dealer.

GASOLINE
ADDITIVES

CONTAINING

DETERGENT

Toyota recommends the use of gasoline
that contains detergent additives to
avoid build−up of engine deposits.
However, all gasoline sold in the U.S.
contains detergent additives to keep clean
and/or clean intake systems.
QUALITY GASOLINE
Automotive manufacturers in the U.S.,
Europe and Japan have developed a
specification for quality fuel named
World−Wide Fuel Charter (WWFC) that
is expected to be applied world wide.
The WWFC consists of three categories
that depend on required emission levels. In the U.S., category 3 has been
adopted. The WWFC improves air quality by providing for better emissions in
vehicle fleets, and customer satisfaction
through better vehicle performance.

However, now and then, you may notice
light knocking for a short time while accelerating or driving up hills. This is no need
of concern.

180

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

CLEANER BURNING GASOLINE
Cleaner burning gasoline, including reformulated gasoline that contains oxygenates such as ethanol or MTBE is
available in many areas.
Toyota recommends the use of cleaner
burning gasoline and appropriately blended
reformulated gasoline. These types of gasoline provide excellent vehicle performance, reduce vehicle emissions, and improve air quality.
OXYGENATES IN GASOLINE
Toyota allows the use of oxygenate
blended gasoline where the oxygenate
content is up to 10% ethanol or 15%
MTBE. If you use gasohol in your
Toyota, be sure that it has an octane
rating no lower than 87.
Toyota does not recommend the use of
gasoline containing methanol.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Fuel pump shut off system
SULFUR IN GASOLINE

GASOLINE QUALITY

If your vehicle is certified to California
Emission Regulations, the vehicle is
designed to operate on California
cleaner burning gasoline (CBG) that
contains lower sulfur. If you cannot use
California CBG, your emission control
system may suffer damage and turn on
the Malfunction Indicator Lamp.

In a very few cases, you may experience
driveability problems caused by the particular gasoline that you are using. If you
continue to have unacceptable driveability,
try changing gasoline brands. If this does
not rectify your problem, then consult your
Toyota dealer.

The fuel pump shut off system stops supplying fuel to the engine to minimize the
risk of fuel leakage when the engine stalls
or an airbag inflates upon collision. To
restart the engine after the fuel pump shut
off system activates, turn the ignition
switch to “ACC” or “LOCK” once and start
it.

NOTICE

CAUTION

z Do not use gasohol other than
stated above. It will cause fuel system damage or vehicle performance
problems.

Inspect the ground under the vehicle
before restarting the engine. If you
find that liquid has leaked onto the
ground, it is the fuel system has
been damaged and it is in need of
repair. In this case, do not restart the
engine.

If the malfunction is caused by the type
of fuel used, repairs may not be covered
by your warranty.
GASOLINE CONTAINING MMT
Some gasoline contain an octane enhancing additive called MMT (Methylcyclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl).
Toyota does not recommend the use of
gasoline that contains MMT. If fuel containing MMT is used, your emission control system may be adversely affected.
The Malfunction Indicator Lamp on the instrument cluster may come on. If this happens, contact your Toyota dealer for service.

z If driveability problems occur (poor
hot starting, vaporizing, engine
knock, etc.), discontinue the use.
z Take care not to spill gasohol during refueling. Gasohol may cause
paint damage.
FUEL TANK CAPACITY
75 L (19.8 gal., 16.5 Imp. gal.)

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

181

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Operation in foreign countries

Three−way catalytic converter

If you plan to drive your Toyota in
another country...

The three−way catalytic converter is an
emission control device installed in the
exhaust system.

First, comply with the vehicle registration
laws.

The purpose is to reduce pollutants in the
exhaust gas.

Second, confirm the availability of the correct fuel (unleaded and minimum octane
number).

CAUTION

D Keep people and combustible mate-

rials away from the exhaust pipe
while the engine is running. The
exhaust gas is very hot.

2AZ−FE engine

1MZ−FE engine

182

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

D Do not idle or park your vehicle
over anything that might burn easily such as grass, leaves, paper or
rags.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Engine exhaust cautions
NOTICE
A large amount of unburned gases
flowing into the three−way catalytic
converter may cause it to overheat
and create a fire hazard. To prevent
this and other damage, observe the
following precautions:
z Use only unleaded gasoline.
z Do not drive with an extremely low
fuel level; running out of fuel could
cause the engine to misfire, creating an excessive load on the three−
way catalytic converter.
z Do not allow the engine to run at
idle speed for more than 20 minutes.
z Avoid racing the engine.
z Do not push−start or pull−start your
vehicle.
z Do not turn off the ignition while
the vehicle is moving.

z Keep your engine in good running
order. Malfunctions in the engine
electrical system, electronic ignition
system/distributor ignition system
or fuel systems could cause an extremely high three−way catalytic
converter temperature.

CAUTION

D Avoid inhaling the engine exhaust.

It contains carbon monoxide, which
is a colorless and odorless gas. It
can cause unconsciousness or even
death.

z If the engine becomes difficult to
start or stalls frequently, take your
vehicle in for a check−up as soon
as possible. Remember, your Toyota
dealer knows your vehicle and its
three−way catalytic converter system best.

D Make sure the exhaust system has

z To ensure that the three−way catalytic converter and the entire emission control system operate properly, your vehicle must receive the
periodic inspections required by the
Toyota Maintenance Schedule. For
scheduled maintenance information,
refer to the “Scheduled Maintenance
Guide” or “Owner’s Manual Supplement”.

D Do not run the engine in a garage

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

no holes or loose connections. The
system should be checked from
time to time. If you hit something,
or notice a change in the sound of
the exhaust, have the system
checked immediately.
or enclosed area except for the
time needed to drive the vehicle in
or out. The exhaust gases cannot
escape, making this a particularly
dangerous situation.

D Do not remain for a long time in a

parked vehicle with the engine running. If it is unavoidable, however,
do so only in an unconfined area
and adjust the heating or cooling
system to force outside air into the
vehicle.

183

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Facts about engine oil
consumption
D To allow proper operation of your

vehicle’s ventilation system, keep
the inlet grilles in front of the windshield clear of snow, leaves, or other obstructions.

D Keep the back door closed while
driving. An open or unsealed back
door may cause exhaust gases to
be drawn into the vehicle.

D If you smell exhaust fumes in the

vehicle, drive with the windows
open and the back door closed.
Have the cause immediately located
and corrected.

FUNCTIONS OF ENGINE OIL
Engine oil has the primary functions of
lubricating and cooling the inside of the
engine, and plays a major role in maintaining the engine in proper working order.
ENGINE OIL CONSUMPTION
It is normal that an engine should consume some engine oil during normal
engine operation. The causes of oil
consumption in a normal engine are as
follows.

D Oil is used to lubricate pistons, piston

rings and cylinders. A thin film of oil
is left on the cylinder wall when a piston moves downwards in the cylinder.
High negative pressure generated when
the vehicle is decelerating sucks some
of this oil into the combustion chamber.
This oil as well as some part of the oil
film left on the cylinder wall is burned
by the high temperature combustion
gases during the combustion process.

D Oil is also used to lubricate the stems

of the intake valves. Some of this oil
is sucked into the combustion chamber
together with the intake air and is
burned along with the fuel. High temperature exhaust gases also burn the
oil used to lubricate the exhaust valve
stems.

The amount of engine oil consumed depends on the viscosity of the oil, the
quality of the oil and the conditions the
vehicle is driven under.
More oil is consumed by high−speed driving and frequent acceleration and deceleration.
A new engine consumes more oil, since
its pistons, piston rings and cylinder walls
have not become conditioned.
When judging the amount of oil consumption, note that the oil may become
diluted and make it difficult to judge
the true level accurately.
As an example, if a vehicle is used for
repeated short trips, and consumes a normal amount of oil, the dipstick may not
show any drop in the oil level at all, even
after 1000 km (600 miles) or more. This
is because the oil is gradually becoming
diluted with fuel or moisture, making it
appear that the oil level has not changed.

184

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Iridium−tipped spark plugs
The diluting ingredients evaporate out
when the vehicle is then driven at high
speeds, as on an expressway, making it
appear that oil is excessively consumed
after driving at high speeds.

The tandem master cylinder brake system
is a hydraulic system with two separate
sub−systems. If either sub−system should
fail, the other will still work. However, the
pedal will be harder to press, and your
stopping distance will be longer. Also, the
brake system warning light may come on.

IMPORTANCE OF ENGINE OIL LEVEL
CHECK
One of the most important points in proper vehicle maintenance is to keep the engine oil at the optimum level so that oil
function will not be impaired. Therefore, it
is essential that the oil level be checked
regularly. Toyota recommends that the oil
level be checked every time you refuel
the vehicle.

Your engine is fitted with iridium−tipped
spark plugs.

NOTICE

Failure to check the oil level regularly
could lead to serious engine trouble
due to insufficient oil.
For detailed information on oil level check,
see “Checking the engine oil level” on
page 252 in Section 7−2.

Brake system

CAUTION
Do not drive your vehicle with only a
single brake system. Have your
brakes fixed immediately.

Use only iridium−tipped spark plugs
and do not adjust gaps for your engine performance and smooth drivability.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

BRAKE BOOSTER
The brake booster uses engine vacuum to
power−assist the brakes. If the engine
should quit while you are driving, you can
bring the vehicle to a stop with normal
pedal pressure. There is enough reserved
vacuum for one or two stops—but no
more!

185

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

CAUTION

D Do not pump the brake pedal if the

engine stalls. Each push on the
pedal uses up your reserved vacuum.

D Even if the power assist is com-

pletely lost, the brakes will still
work. But you will have to push the
pedal hard, much harder than normal. And your braking distance will
be longer.

ANTI−LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM
(with “ABS” warning light)
The anti−lock brake system is designed
to help prevent lock−up of the wheels
during a sudden braking or braking on
slippery road surfaces. This assists in
providing directional stability and steering performance of the vehicle under
these circumstances.

186

Effective way to press the ABS brake
pedal: When the anti−lock brake system
function is in action, you may feel the
brake pedal pulsating and hear a noise.
In this situation, to let the anti−lock
brake system work for you, just hold the
brake pedal down more firmly. Do not
pump the brake in a panic stop. This
will result in reduced braking performance.
The anti−lock brake system becomes operative after the vehicle has accelerated
to a speed in excess of approximately 10
km/h (6 mph). It stops operating when the
vehicle decelerates to a speed below
approximately 5 km/h (3 mph).
Depressing the brake pedal on slippery
road surfaces such as on the manhole
cover, the steel plate under the construction, joints in the bridge, etc. on a rainy
day tends to activate the anti−lock brake
system.
You may hear a click or motor sound in
the engine compartment for a few seconds
when the engine is started or just after
the vehicle is started. This means that the
anti−lock brake system is in the self−
check mode, and does not indicate a malfunction.
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

When the anti−lock brake system is activated, the following conditions may
occur. They do not indicate a malfunction of the system:

D You may hear the anti−lock brake sys-

tem operating and feel the brake pedal
pulsating and the vibrations of the vehicle body and steering wheel. You
may also hear the motor sound in the
engine compartment even after the vehicle is stopped.

D At the end of the anti−lock brake system activation, the brake pedal may
move a little forward.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

CAUTION
Do not overestimate the anti−lock
brake system: Although the anti−lock
brake system assists in providing vehicle control, it is still important to
drive with all due care and maintain
a moderate speed and safe distance
from the vehicle in front of you, because there are limits to the vehicle
stability and effectiveness of steering
wheel operation even with the anti−
lock brake system on.
If tires grip performance exceeds its
capability, or if hydroplaning occurs
during high speed driving in the rain,
the anti−lock brake system does not
provide vehicle control.

D Driving with tire chains installed.
D Driving over the steps such as the
joints on the road.

D Driving on roads where the road
surface is pitted or has other differences in surface height.

Install all 4 tires of specified size at
appropriate pressure: The anti−lock
brake system detects vehicle speeds
using the speed sensors for respective wheels’ turning speeds. The use
of tires other than specified may fail
to detect the accurate turning speed
resulting in a longer stopping distance.

Type A

Anti−lock brake system is not designed to shorten the stopping distance: Always drive at the moderate
speed and maintain a safe distance
from the vehicle in front of you.
Compared with vehicles without an
anti−lock brake system, your vehicle
may require a longer stopping distance in the following cases:

D Driving on rough, gravel or snow−

Type B

covered roads.

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“ABS” warning light
The light comes on when the ignition key
is turned to the “ON” position. If the anti−
lock brake system and the brake assist
system work properly, the light turns off
after a few seconds. Thereafter, if the
system malfunctions, the light comes on
again.
When the “ABS” warning light is on (and
the brake system warning light is off), the
anti−lock brake system, the brake assist
system, the traction control system and
the vehicle skid control system do not
operate, but the brake system still operates conventionally.
When the “ABS” warning light is on (and
the brake system warning light is off), the
anti−lock brake system does not operate
so that the wheels could lock up during
a sudden braking or braking on slippery
road surfaces.
If either of the following conditions
occurs, this indicates a malfunction
somewhere in the parts monitored by
the warning light system. Contact your
Toyota dealer as soon as possible to
service the vehicle.

D The light comes on while you are driving.

A warning light turning on briefly during
operation does not indicate a problem.

CAUTION
If the “ABS” warning light remains on
together with the brake system warning light, immediately stop your vehicle at a safe place and contact your
Toyota dealer.
In this case, not only the anti−lock
brake system will fail but also the
vehicle will become extremely unstable during braking.
DRUM−IN−DISC TYPE PARKING BRAKE
SYSTEM
Your vehicle has a drum−in−disc type
parking brake system. This type of brake
system needs bedding−down of the brake
shoes periodically or whenever the parking
brake shoes and/or drums are replaced.
Have your Toyota dealer perform the bedding−down.

D The light does not come on when the
ignition key is turned to the “ON” position, or remains on.

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2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

BRAKE ASSIST SYSTEM
If you slam the brakes on such as in
an emergency or apply the brakes more
firmly than usual such as when descending the hill with the designated
number of occupants in the vehicle, the
brake assist system provides more
powerful braking.
When you slam the brakes on, more powerful braking will be applied. At this time,
you may hear a sound in the engine
compartment and feel the vibrations of the
brake pedal. This does not indicate a malfunction.
The brake assist system becomes operative after the vehicle has accelerated to
a speed in excess of approximately 10
km/h (6 mph). It stops operating when the
vehicle decelerates to a speed below
approximately 5 km/h (3 mph).
For an explanation of this system’s warning light, see “Service reminder indicators
and warning buzzers” on page 102 in Section 1−5.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Brake pad wear limit indicators

Luggage stowage precautions
When stowing luggage or cargo in the
vehicle, observe the following:

D Put luggage or cargo in the luggage

compartment when at all possible. Be
sure all items are secured in place.

D Be careful to keep the vehicle balanced. Locating the weight as far forward as possible helps maintain balance.

D For better fuel economy, do not carry
unneeded weight.

The brake pad wear limit indicators on
your disc brakes give a warning noise
when the brake pads are worn to where
replacement is required.
If you hear a squealing or scraping noise
while driving, have the brake pads
checked and replaced by your Toyota
dealer as soon as possible. Expensive rotor damage can result if the pads are not
replaced when necessary.

CAUTION

D To prevent luggage or packages
from sliding forward during braking,
do not stack anything in the luggage compartment higher than the
seatbacks. Keep luggage or packages low, as close to the floor as
possible.

D Never allow anyone to ride in the
luggage compartment. It is not designed for passengers. They should
ride in their seats with their seat
belts properly fastened. Otherwise,
they are much more likely suffer
serious bodily injury, in the event
of sudden braking or a collision.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

D Do not place anything on the flat-

tened seat, or it may slide forward
during braking.

D Do not place anything on the lug-

gage cover. Such items may be
thrown about and possibly injure
people in the vehicle during sudden
braking or an accident. Secure all
items in a safe place.

D Do not drive with objects left on

top of the instrument panel. They
may interfere with the driver’s field
of view. Or they may move during
sharp vehicle acceleration or turning, and impair the driver’s control
of the vehicle. In an accident they
may injure the vehicle occupants.

NOTICE
Do not load the vehicle beyond the
vehicle capacity weight specified on
page 274 in Section 8.

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Limited−slip differential

Your Toyota’s identification—
—Vehicle identification
number

Some Toyotas are equipped with a limited−slip differential. If one rear wheel begins to spin, the limited−slip differential is
designed to aid traction by automatically
transmitting driving force to the other rear
wheel. If you are not sure whether your
vehicle is equipped with one, you can ask
your Toyota dealer.

CAUTION
Do not start or run the engine while
your vehicle is supported by a jack.
The vehicle could be driven off the
jack and could pose a danger or result in serious injury.

NOTICE
Use only a spare tire of the same
size, construction and load capacity
as the original tires on your Toyota
because damage to the limited−slip
differential could possibly occur with
another tire type.

190

The vehicle identification number (VIN)
is the legal identifier for your vehicle.
This number is on the left top of the
instrument panel, and can be seen
through the windshield from outside.
This is the primary identification number
for your Toyota. It is used in registering
the ownership of your vehicle.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is
also on the Certification Regulation Label.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Theft prevention labels
(except for Canada)

—Engine number
The engine number is stamped on the
engine block as shown.

Your new vehicle carries theft prevention labels which are approximately 56
mm (2.20 in.) by 16 mm (0.63 in.).
The purpose of these labels is to reduce
the incidence of vehicle thefts by facilitating the tracing and recovery of parts from
stolen vehicles. The label is designed so
that once it is applied to a surface, any
attempt to remove it will result in destroying the integrity of the label. Transferring
these labels intact from one part to another, will be impossible.

NOTICE

2AZ−FE engine

You should not attempt to remove the
theft prevention labels as it may violate certain state or federal laws.

1MZ−FE engine
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

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Suspension and chassis

Types of tires

CAUTION

Determine what kind of tires your vehicle is originally equipped with.

Do not modify the suspension/chassis
with lift kits, spacers, springs, etc. It
can cause dangerous handling characteristics, resulting in loss of control.

Summer tires are high−speed capability
tires best suited to highway driving under
dry conditions.

1. Summer tires

Since summer tires do not have the same
traction performance as snow tires, summer tires are inadequate for driving on
snow−covered or icy roads. For driving on
snow−covered or icy roads, we recommend using snow tires. If installing snow
tires, be sure to replace all four tires.
2. All season tires
All season tires are designed to provide
better traction in snow and to be adequate
for driving in most winter conditions, as
well as for use all year round.
All season tires, however, do not have
adequate traction performance compared
with snow tires in heavy or loose snow.
Also, all season tires fall short in acceleration
and
handling
performance
compared with summer tires in highway
driving.

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2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

CAUTION

D Do not mix summer and all season

tires on your vehicle as this can
cause dangerous handling characteristics, resulting in loss of control.

D Do not use tire other than the

manufacturer’s designated tires, and
never mix tires or wheels of the
sizes different from the originals.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

SECTION

STARTING AND DRIVING
Before starting the engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How to start the engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tips for driving in various conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Off−road driving precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Winter driving tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dinghy towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Trailer towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How to save fuel and make your vehicle last longer . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

194
194
195
196
197
198
200
206

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Before starting the engine
1. Check the area around the vehicle before entering it.
2. Adjust seat position, seatback angle,
seat cushion angle, head restraint
height and steering wheel angle.
3. Adjust the inside and outside rear view
mirrors.
4. Lock all side doors and back door.
5. Fasten seat belts.

How to start the engine—
(a) Before cranking
1. Apply the parking brake firmly.
2. Turn off unnecessary lights and accessories.

(b) Starting the engine
Before starting the engine, be sure to follow the instructions in “(a) Before cranking”.

3. Put the selector lever in “P”. If you
need to restart the engine while the
vehicle is moving, put the selector lever in “N”. A starter safety device will
prevent the starter from operating if the
selector lever is in any drive position.

Normal starting procedure

4. Depress the brake pedal and hold it to
the floor until driving off.

1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, crank the engine by turning the key
to “START”. Release it when the engine starts.

The multiport fuel injection system/sequential multiport fuel injection system in your
engine automatically controls the proper
air−fuel mixture for starting. You can start
a cold or hot engine as follows:

2. After the engine runs for about 10 seconds, you are ready to drive.
If the weather is below freezing, let the
engine warm up for a few minutes before
driving.
If the engine stalls...
Simply restart it, using the correct procedure given in normal starting.
If the engine will not start...
See “If your vehicle will not start” on page
210 in Section 4.

194

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NOTICE
z Do not crank for more than 30 seconds at a time. This may overheat
the starter and wiring systems.
z Do not race a cold engine.
z If the engine becomes difficult to
start or stalls frequently, have the
engine checked immediately.

Tips for driving in various
conditions
D Always slow down in gusty crosswinds.
This will allow you much better control.

D Drive slowly onto curbs and, if pos-

sible, at a right angle. Avoid driving
onto high, sharp−edged objects and
other road hazards. Failure to do so
can lead to severe tire damage resulting in tire bursts.

D When parking on a hill, turn the front

CAUTION

D Before driving off, make sure that

the parking brake is fully released
and the parking brake reminder
light is off.

D Do not leave your vehicle unat-

tended while the engine is running.

wheels until they touch the curb so
that the vehicle will not roll. Apply the
parking brake, and place the transmission in “P”. If necessary, block the
wheels.

D Do not rest your foot on the brake

D Washing your vehicle or driving through

reduce your speed and downshift.
Remember, if you ride the brakes
excessively, they may overheat and
not work properly.

deep water may get the brakes wet. To
see whether they are wet, check that
there is no traffic near you, and then
press the pedal lightly. If you do not
feel a normal braking force, the brakes
are probably wet. To dry them, drive
the vehicle cautiously while lightly
pressing the brake pedal with the parking brake applied. If they still do not
work safely, pull to the side of the road
and call a Toyota dealer for assistance.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

pedal while driving. It can cause
dangerous overheating, needless
wear, and poor fuel economy.

D To drive down a long or steep hill,

D Be careful when accelerating, up-

shifting, downshifting or braking on
a slippery surface. Sudden acceleration or engine braking, could cause
the vehicle to spin or skid.

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Off−road driving precautions
D Do not drive in excess of the speed

limit. Even if the legal speed limit
permits it, do not drive over 140
km/h (85 mph) unless your vehicle
has high−speed capability tires.
Driving over 140 km/h (85 mph) may
result in tire failure, loss of control
and possible injury. Be sure to consult a tire dealer to determine
whether the tires on your vehicle
are high−speed capability tires or
not before driving at such speeds.

D Do not continue normal driving

when the brakes are wet. If they are
wet, your vehicle will require a
longer stopping distance, and it
may pull to one side when the
brakes are applied. Also, the parking brake will not hold the vehicle
securely.

When driving your vehicle off−road, please
observe the following precautions to ensure your driving enjoyment and to help
prevent the closure of areas to off−road
vehicles.
a. Drive your vehicle only in areas where
off−road vehicles are permitted to travel.
b. Respect private property. Get owner’s
permission before entering private property.
c. Do not enter areas that are closed.
Honor gates, barriers and signs that restrict travel.
d. Stay on established roads. When conditions are wet, driving techniques should
be changed or travel delayed to prevent damage to roads.
For owners in U.S. mainland, Hawaii and
Puerto Rico:
To obtain additional information pertaining
to driving your vehicle off−road, consult
the following organizations.

D State and Local Parks and Recreation
Departments

D State Motor Vehicle Bureau
D Recreational Vehicle Clubs
D U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of
Land Management

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2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

CAUTION
Always observe the following precautions to minimize the risk of serious
personal injury or damage to your vehicle:

D Drive carefully when off the road.

Do not take unnecessary risks by
driving in dangerous places.

D Do not grip the steering wheel

spokes when driving off−road. A
bad bump could jerk the wheel and
injure your hands. Keep both hands
and especially your thumbs on the
outside of the rim.

D Always check your brakes for effec-

tiveness immediately after driving in
sand, mud, water or snow.

D After driving through tall grass,

mud, rock, sand, rivers, etc., check
that there is no grass, bush, paper,
rags, stone, sand, etc. adhering or
trapped on the underbody. Clear off
any such matter from the underbody. If the vehicle is used with
these materials trapped or adhering
to the underbody, a breakdown or
fire could occur.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Winter driving tips
D In a rollover crash, an unbelted per-

son is significantly more likely to
die than a person wearing a seat
belt. Therefore, the driver and all
passengers should fasten their seat
belts whenever the vehicle is moving.

D When driving off−road or in rugged

NOTICE
z If driving through water, such as
when crossing shallow streams,
first check the depth of the water
and the bottom of the river bed for
firmness. Drive slowly and avoid
deep water.

z Take all necessary safety measures
to ensure that water damage to the
engine or other components does
not occur.
Water entering the engine air intake
will cause severe engine damage.
Water can wash the grease from
wheel bearings, causing rusting and
premature failure, and may also enter the differentials, transmission
and transfer case, reducing the gear
oil’s lubricating qualities.
z Sand and mud that has accumulated
in brake drums and around brake
discs may affect braking efficiency
and may damage brake system components.
z Always perform a maintenance inspection after each day of off−road
driving that has taken you through
rough terrain, sand, mud, or water.
For scheduled maintenance information, refer to the “Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or “Owner’s Manual
Supplement”.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

Make sure you have a proper freeze
protection of engine coolant.
Your coolant must contain ethylene−glycol
type coolant for a proper corrosion
protection of aluminum components. Use
“TOYOTA Long Life Coolant” or equivalent.
See page 253 in Section 7−2 for details
about coolant type selection.

NOTICE
Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or
plain water alone.
When it is extremely cold, we recommend
to use 60% solution for your Toyota, to
provide protection down to about −50_C
(−58_F). Do not use more than 70% solution for better coolant performance.
Check the condition of the battery and
cables.
Cold temperatures reduce the capacity of
any battery, so it must be in top shape
to provide enough power for winter starting. Section 7−3 tells you how to visually
inspect the battery. Your Toyota dealer
and most service stations will be pleased
to check the level of charge.

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Dinghy towing
Make sure the engine oil viscosity is
suitable for the cold weather.

Do not use your parking brake when
there is a possibility it could freeze.

See page 252 in Section 7−2 for recommended viscosity. Leaving a heavy summer oil in your vehicle during winter
months may cause harder starting. If you
are not sure about which oil to use, call
your Toyota dealer–he will be pleased to
help.

When parking, put the transmission into
“P” and block the rear wheels. Do not use
the parking brake, or snow or water accumulated in and around the parking brake
mechanism may freeze, making it hard to
release.

Keep the door locks from freezing.
Squirt lock de−icer or glycerine into the
locks to keep them from freezing.
Use a washer fluid containing an antifreeze solution.
This product is available at your Toyota
dealer and most auto parts stores. Follow
the manufacturer’s directions for how
much to mix with water.

NOTICE
Do not use engine antifreeze or any
other substitute because it may damage your vehicle’s paint.

198

Keep ice and snow from accumulating
under the fenders.
Ice and snow built up under your fenders
can make steering difficult. During bad
winter driving, stop and check under the
fenders occasionally.
Depending on where you are driving,
we recommend you carry some emergency equipment.
Some of the things you might put in the
vehicle are tire chains, window scraper,
bag of sand or salt, flares, small shovel,
jumper cables, etc.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

Your vehicle can be dinghy towed (with
four wheels on the ground) from the
front behind a motorhome.

CAUTION
Dinghy towing requires special equipment and accessories. Please refer to
your service outlet of the motorhome
manufacture for the recommended
equipment.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

NOTICE

Dinghy towing does not eliminate the
possibility of damage to your vehicle.

To prevent the vehicle from being
damaged, observe following.

DINGHY TOWING TIPS
Before dinghy towing, be sure to observe the following in order to reduce
the damage to your vehicle.
1. Turn the ignition switch to the “ON”
position.
2. Shift the selector lever into the “N”
position.
3. Turn the ignition switch to the “ACC”
position. Make sure the audio is turned
off and any item is not plugged into
the power outlet.

z Do not tow the vehicle at the vehicle speed more than 88 km/h (55
mph).
z Do not tow the vehicle for more
than 320 km (200 miles).
After dinghy towing or at the recommended distance limit, let the engine idle
for more than 3 minutes before driving the
vehicle or resuming towing.

NOTICE
Do not tow your vehicle from the
rear. This may cause serious damage
to your vehicle.

NOTICE
To avoid the locking of the steering
wheel, turn the ignition switch to the
“ACC” position.
4. Release the parking brake.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

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Trailer towing
Your vehicle is designed primarily as a
passenger−and−load carrying vehicle. Towing a trailer will have an adverse effect on
handling, performance, braking, durability
and driving economy (fuel consumption,
etc.). Your safety and satisfaction depend
on the proper use of correct equipment
and cautious driving habits. For your
safety and the safety of others, you must
not overload your vehicle or trailer. Toyota
warranties do not apply to damage or
malfunction caused by towing a trailer for
commercial purposes. Ask your local
Toyota dealer for further details before
towing.

WEIGHT LIMITS
Before towing, make sure the total trailer weight, gross combination weight,
gross vehicle weight, gross axle weight
and trailer tongue load are all within
the limits.
The total trailer weight and tongue load
can be measured with platform scales
found at a highway weighing station, building supply company, trucking company,
junk yard, etc.

D The

total trailer weight (trailer
weight plus its cargo load) must
not exceed the following. Exceeding
this weight is dangerous.
Vehicles with 2AZ−FE engine
1360 kg (3000 lb.)
Vehicles with 1MZ−FE engine
1585 kg (3500 lb.)

D The gross combination weight (sum

of your vehicle weight plus its load
and the total trailer weight) must
not exceed the following.
Vehicles with 2AZ−FE engine
3845 kg (8485 lb.)
Vehicles with 1MZ−FE engine
3620 kg (7985 lb.)

NOTICE
When towing a trailer, be sure to consult your Toyota dealer for further information on additional requirements
such as a towing kit, etc.

200

CAUTION

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D The gross vehicle weight must not

exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight
Rating (GVWR) indicated on the
Certification Label. The gross vehicle weight is the sum of weights
of the unloaded vehicle, driver, passengers, luggage, hitch and trailer
tongue load. It also includes the
weight of any special equipment
installed on your vehicle.

D The load on either the front or rear
D Trailer hitch assemblies have differ-

ent weight capacities established by
the hitch manufacturer. Even though
the vehicle may be physically capable of towing a higher weight, the
operator must determine the maximum weight rating of the particular
hitch assembly and never exceed
the maximum weight rating specified for the trailer−hitch. Exceeding
the maximum weight rating set by
the trailer hitch manufacturer can
cause an accident resulting in serious personal injuries.

axle resulting from distribution of
the gross vehicle weight on both
axles must not exceed the Gross
Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) listed
on the Certification Label.

Total trailer weight

Tongue load
Total trailer weight

Tongue load

100 = 9 to 11%

D The trailer cargo load should be
distributed so that the tongue load
is 9 to 11% of the total trailer
weight, not exceed the following.
Vehicles with
136 kg (300
Vehicles with
158 kg (350

2AZ−FE engine
lb.)
1MZ−FE engine
lb.)

Never load the trailer with more
weight in the back than in the
front. About 60% of the trailer load
should be in the front half of the
trailer and the remaining 40% in the
rear.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

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HITCHES

TRAILER BALL

D If you wish to install a trailer hitch, you

Follow these easy steps to properly determine the correct trailer ball for your application:

should consult with your Toyota dealer.

D Use only a hitch recommended by the
hitch manufacturer and the one which
conforms to the total trailer weight
requirement.

1. Determine the correct trailer ball size
for the trailer coupler. Most couplers
are stamped with the required trailer
ball size. The sizes you will most likely
find stamped on the coupler are:

D The hitch must be bolted securely to
the vehicle frame and installed according to the hitch manufacturer’s instructions.

D The hitch ball and king pin should have
a light coat of grease.

D Toyota recommends removing the trail-

er hitch whenever you are not towing
a trailer to reduce the possibility of
additional damage caused by the hitch
if your vehicle is struck from behind.
After removing the hitch, seal any
mounting holes in the vehicle body to
prevent entry of pollutants such as exhaust fumes, dirt, water, etc.

1
2
3
4

Trailer ball load rating
Ball diameter
Shank length
Shank diameter

Typical trailer ball size

III

2—5/16 in.

2 in.

1—7/8 in.

2. Select the appropriate trailer ball to
match or exceed the gross trailer
weight rating of the trailer. The trailer
ball load rating should be printed on
the top of the ball.
3. When mounted in the ball mount, the
threaded ball shank must protrude beyond the bottom of the lock washer
and nut at least 2 threads. The trailer
ball shank must be matched to the ball
mount hole diameter size.

NOTICE
Do not use axle−mounted hitches as
they can cause damage to the axle
housing, wheel bearings, wheels or
tires.

202

Trailer class

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MATCHING TRAILER BALL HEIGHT TO
TRAILER COUPLER HEIGHT
No matter which class of tow hitch applies, for a safe trailer hookup, the trailer
ball setup on must be the proper height
for the coupler on the trailer.
BRAKES AND SAFETY CHAINS

D Toyota recommends trailers with brakes

that conform to any applicable federal
and state/provincial regulations.

D A safety chain must always be used

between the towing vehicle and the
trailer. Leave sufficient slack in the
chain for turns. The chain should cross
under the trailer tongue to prevent the
tongue from dropping to the ground in
case it becomes damaged or separated. For correct safety chain procedures, follow the hitch or trailer
manufacturer’s recommendations.

CAUTION

D If the total trailer weight exceeds

453 kg (1000 lb.), trailer brakes are
required.

D Never tap into your vehicle’s hy-

draulic system as it would lower its
braking effectiveness.

D Never tow a trailer without using a

safety chain securely attached to
both the trailer and the vehicle. If
damage occurs to the coupling unit
or hitch ball, there is danger of the
trailer wandering over into another
lane.

TIRES

D Ensure that your vehicle’s tires are
properly inflated. See page 256 in Section 7−2 for instructions.

D The trailer tires should be inflated to
the pressure recommended by the trailer manufacturer in respect to the total
trailer weight.

1 Coupler
2 Trailer ball
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

BREAK−IN SCHEDULE

D Toyota recommends that you do not

tow a trailer with a new vehicle or a
vehicle with any new power train component (engine, transmission, differential, wheel bearings, etc.) for the first
800 km (500 miles) of driving.

MAINTENANCE

D If you tow a trailer, your vehicle will

TRAILER LIGHTS

D Your vehicle is equipped with a wire

harness stored in the rear end under
body. Some models are fitted with a
socket for trailer lights under the rear
bumper. Use either of them to connect
and operate the trailer lights. However,
the trailer lights must comply with federal, state/provincial and local regulations. See your local recreational vehicle dealer or rental agency for the
correct type of wiring and relays for
your trailer. Check for correct operation
of the turn signals and stop lights each
time you hitch up. Direct splicing may
damage your vehicle’s electrical system
and cause a malfunction of your lights.

204

require more frequent maintenance due
to the additional load. For this information, please refer to the scheduled
maintenance information in the “Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or “Owner’s
Manual Supplement”.

D Retighten all fixing bolts of the towing
ball and bracket after approximately
1000 km (600 miles) of trailer driving.

PRE−TOWING SAFETY CHECK

D Check that your vehicle remains level

when a loaded or unloaded trailer is
hitched. Do not drive if the vehicle has
an abnormal nose−up or nose−down
condition, and check for improper
tongue load, overload, worn suspension
or other possible causes.

D Make sure the trailer cargo is securely
loaded so that it cannot shift.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

D Check that your rear view mirrors con-

form to any applicable federal, state/
provincial or local regulations. If not,
install the rear view mirrors required
for towing purposes.

TRAILER TOWING TIPS
When towing a trailer, your vehicle will
handle differently than when not towing. The three main causes of vehicle−
trailer accidents are driver error, excessive speed and improper trailer loading.
Keep these in mind when towing:

D Before starting out, check operation of

the lights and all vehicle−trailer connections. After driving a short distance,
stop and recheck the lights and connections. Before actually towing a trailer, practice turning, stopping and backing with a trailer in an area away from
traffic until you learn the feel.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

D Backing with a trailer is difficult and

requires practice. Grip the bottom of
the steering wheel and move your hand
to the left to move the trailer to the
left. Move your hand to the right to
move the trailer to the right. (This procedure is generally opposite to that
when backing without a trailer). Also,
just turn the steering wheel a little at
a time, avoiding sharp or prolonged
turning. Have someone guide you when
backing to reduce the risk of an accident.

D Because stopping distance may be in-

creased, vehicle−to−vehicle distance
should be increased when towing a
trailer. For each 16 km/h (10 mph) of
speed, allow at least one vehicle and
trailer length between you and the vehicle ahead. Avoid sudden braking as
you may skid, resulting in jackknifing
and loss of control. This is especially
true on wet or slippery surfaces.

D Avoid jerky starts or sudden acceleration.

D Avoid jerky steering and sharp turns.

The trailer could hit your vehicle in a
tight turn. Slow down before making a
turn to avoid the necessity of sudden
braking.

D Remember that when making a turn,

the trailer wheels will be closer than
the vehicle wheels to the inside of the
turn. Therefore, compensate for this by
making a larger than normal turning
radius with your vehicle.

D Crosswinds and rough roads will ad-

versely affect handling of your vehicle
and trailer, causing sway. Pay attention
to the rear from time to time to prepare yourself for being passed by large
trucks or buses, which may cause your
vehicle and trailer to sway. If swaying
happens, firmly grip the steering wheel
and reduce speed immediately but
gradually. Never increase speed. Steer
straight ahead. If you make no extreme
correction with the steering or brakes,
the vehicle and trailer will stabilize.

D Be careful when passing other ve-

hicles. Passing requires considerable
distance. After passing a vehicle, do
not forget the length of your trailer and
be sure you have plenty of room before changing lanes.

D In order to maintain engine braking efficiency, do not use overdrive.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

D Because of the added load of the trail-

er, your vehicle’s engine may overheat
on hot days (at temperatures over
30_C [85_F]) when going up a long or
steep grade with a trailer. If the engine
coolant temperature gauge indicates
overheating, immediately turn off the air
conditioning (if in use), pull off the road
and stop in a safe spot. Refer to “If
your vehicle overheats” on page 213 in
Section 4.

D Always place wheel blocks under both
the vehicle and trailer wheels when
parking. Apply the parking brake firmly.
Put the transmission in “P”. Avoid parking on a slope with a trailer, but if it
cannot be avoided, do so only after
performing the following:

1. Apply the brakes and hold.
2. Have someone place wheel blocks under both the vehicle and trailer wheels.
3. When the wheel blocks are in place,
release your brakes slowly until the
blocks absorb the load.
4. Apply the parking brake firmly.
5. Shift into “P” and turn off the engine.

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

How to save fuel and make
your vehicle last longer
When restarting out after parking on a
slope:
1. With the transmission in “P” position,
start the engine. Be sure to keep the
brake pedal depressed.
2. Shift into gear.
3. Release the parking brake and brake
pedal and slowly pull or back away
from the wheel blocks. Stop and apply
your brakes.
4. Have someone retrieve the blocks.

CAUTION

D Do not exceed 72 km/h (45 mph) or

the posted towing speed limit,
whichever is lower. Because instability (swaying) of a towing vehicle−
trailer
combination
usually
increases as the speed increases, exceeding 72 km/h (45 mph) may
cause loss of control.

D Slow down and downshift before
descending steep or long downhill
grades. Do not make sudden downshifts.

D Avoid holding the brake pedal down

too long or too frequently. This
could cause the brakes to overheat
and result in reduced braking efficiency.

Improving fuel economy is easy—just take
it easy. It will help make your vehicle last
longer, too. Here are some specific tips
on how to save money on both fuel and
repairs:

D Keep your tires inflated at the cor-

rect pressure. Underinflation causes
tire wear and wastes fuel. See page
256 in Section 7−2 for instructions.

D Do not carry unneeded weight in
your vehicle. Excess weight puts a
heavier load on the engine, causing
greater fuel consumption.

D Avoid lengthy warm−up idling. Once
the engine is running smoothly, begin
driving—but gently. Remember, however, that on cold winter days this may
take a little longer.

D Keep

the automatic transmission
overdrive turned on when engine
braking is not required. Driving with
the overdrive off will reduce the fuel
economy. (For details, see “Automatic
transmission” on page 111 in Section
1−6.)

D Accelerate

slowly and smoothly.
Avoid jackrabbit starts. Get into high
gear as quickly as possible.

206

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

D Avoid long engine idling. If you have

a long wait and you are not in traffic,
it is better to turn off the engine and
start again later.

D Avoid engine lugging or over−revving. Use a gear position suitable for
the road on which you are travelling.

D Avoid continuous speeding up and
slowing down.
wastes fuel.

Stop−and−go

driving

D Avoid

unnecessary stopping and
braking. Maintain a steady pace. Try
to time the traffic signals so you only
need to stop as little as possible or
take advantage of through streets to
avoid traffic lights. Keep a proper distance from other vehicles to avoid sudden braking. This will also reduce wear
on your brakes.

D Avoid heavy traffic or traffic jams
whenever possible.

D Do not rest your foot on the brake
pedal. This causes premature wear,
overheating and poor fuel economy.

D Keep the front wheels in proper

alignment. Avoid hitting the curb and
slow down on rough roads. Improper
alignment not only causes faster tire
wear but also puts an extra load on
the engine, which, in turn, wastes fuel.

D Keep the bottom of your vehicle free
from mud, etc. This not only lessens
weight but also helps prevent corrosion.

CAUTION
Never turn off the engine to coast
down hills. Your power steering and
brake booster will not function without the engine running. Also, the
emission control system operates
properly only when the engine is running.

D Keep your vehicle tuned−up and in

top shape. A dirty air cleaner, improper valve clearance, dirty plugs, dirty oil
and grease,brakes not adjusted, etc. all
lower engine performance and contribute to poor fuel economy. For longer
life of all parts and lower operating
costs, keep all maintenance work on
schedule, and if you often drive under
severe conditions, see that your vehicle
receives more frequent maintenance.
(For scheduled maintenance information, please refer to the “Scheduled
Maintenance Guide” or “Owner’s Manual Supplement”).

D Maintain a moderate speed on highways. The faster you drive, the greater
the fuel consumption. By reducing your
speed, you will cut down on fuel consumption.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

208

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

SECTION
IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY
If your vehicle will not start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
If your engine stalls while driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
If your vehicle overheats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
If you have a flat tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
If your vehicle needs to be towed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
If you cannot shift automatic transmission selector lever . . . . . . . .
If you lose your keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
If you lose your wireless remote control transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

4
210
213
213
214
221
227
227
228

209

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

If your vehicle will not start—
(a) Simple checks
Before making these checks, make sure
you have followed the correct starting
procedure given in “How to start the
engine” on page 194 in Section 3 and that
you have sufficient fuel. If your vehicle is
equipped with the engine immobiliser system, also check whether the other keys
will start the engine. If they work, your
key may be broken. Have the key
checked at your Toyota dealer. If none of
your keys work, the system is possibly
broken. Call your Toyota dealer. (See
“Keys (with engine immobiliser system)”
on page 12 in Section 1−2.)
If the engine is not turning over or is
turning over too slowly—
1. Check that the battery terminals are
tight and clean.
2. If the battery terminals are O.K., switch
on the interior light.
3. If the light is out, dim or goes out
when the starter is cranked, the battery
is discharged. You may try jump starting. See “(c) Jump starting” on page
211 for further instructions.

(b) Starting a flooded engine
NOTICE
Do not pull−or push−start the vehicle.
It may damage the vehicle or cause
a collision when the engine starts.
Also the three−way catalytic converter
may overheat and become a fire hazard.
If the engine turns over at its normal
speed but will not start—
1. Turn the ignition key to “ACC” or
“LOCK” and try starting the engine
again.
2. If the engine will not start, the engine
may be flooded because of repeated
cranking. See “(b) Starting a flooded
engine” on page 210 for further instructions.
3. If the engine still will not start, it needs
adjustment or repair. Call a Toyota
dealer or qualified repair shop.

If the light is O.K., but the engine still will
not start, it needs adjustment or repair.
Call a Toyota dealer or qualified repair
shop.

210

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

If the engine will not start, your engine
may be flooded because of repeated
cranking.
If this happens, turn the key to “START”
with the accelerator pedal held down.
Keep the key and accelerator pedal these
positions for 15 seconds and release
them. Then try starting the engine with
your foot off the accelerator pedal.
If the engine does not start after 15 seconds of cranking, release the key, wait
a few minutes and try again.
If the engine still will not start, it needs
adjustment or repair. Call a Toyota dealer
or qualified repair shop for assistance.

NOTICE
Do not crank for more than 30 seconds at a time. This may overheat
the starter and wiring systems.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

(c) Jump starting
To avoid serious personal injury and
damage to your vehicle which might result from battery explosion, acid burns,
electrical burns, or damaged electronic
components, these instructions must be
followed precisely.
If you are unsure about how to follow this
procedure, we strongly recommend that
you seek the help of a competent mechanic or towing service.

CAUTION

D The gas normally produced by a

battery will explode if a flame or
spark is brought near. Use only
standardized jumper cables and do
not smoke or light a match while
jump starting.

D Warning: Battery posts, terminals
and related accessories contain lead
and lead compounds, chemicals
known to the State of California to
cause cancer
and reproductive
harm. Wash hands after handling.

D Batteries

contain
sulfuric
acid
which is poisonous and corrosive.
Wear protective safety glasses when
jump starting, and avoid spilling
acid on your skin, clothing, or vehicle.

D If you should accidentally get acid

NOTICE
The battery used for boosting must
be 12 V. Do not jump start unless you
are sure that the booster battery is
correct.

JUMP STARTING PROCEDURE
1. If the booster battery is installed in
another vehicle, make sure the vehicles
are not touching. Turn off all unnecessary lights and accessories.
2. If required, remove all the vent plugs
from the booster and discharged batteries. Lay a cloth over the open vents
on the batteries. (This helps reduce the
explosion hazard, personal injuries and
burns.)
3. If the engine in the vehicle with the
booster battery is not running, start it
and let it run for a few minutes. During
jump starting, run the engine at about
2000 rpm with the accelerator pedal
lightly depressed.

on yourself or in your eyes, remove
any contaminated clothing and flush
the affected area with water immediately. Then get immediate medical attention. If possible, continue
to apply water with a sponge or
cloth while en route to the medical
office.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

211

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Jumper cable

Discharged
battery
Booster
battery
Positive
terminal
(“+” mark)

Jumper
cable

Positive
terminal (“+”mark)

4. Make the cable connections in the order a, b, c, d.
a. Connect the clamp of the positive
(red) jumper cable to the positive (+)
terminal on the discharged battery.
b. Connect the clamp at the other end
of the positive (red) jumper cable to
the positive (+) terminal on the booster
battery.

Discharged
battery
Negative
terminal (“−”mark)

Booster
battery

c. Connect the clamp of the negative
(black) cable to the negative (−) terminal on the booster battery.

Connecting point for 2AZ−FE engine

d. Connect the clamp at the other end
of the negative (black) jumper cable to
a solid, stationary, unpainted, metallic
point of the vehicle with the discharged
battery.
The recommended connecting point is
shown in the following illustrations:

Connecting point for 1MZ−FE engine

212

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

If your engine stalls while
driving
Do not connect it to or near any part
that moves when the engine is
cranked.

CAUTION
When making the connections, to
avoid serious injury, do not lean over
the battery or accidentally let the
jumper cables or clamps touch anything except the correct battery terminals or the ground.
5. Start your engine in the normal way.
After starting, run it at about 2000 rpm
for several minutes with the accelerator
pedal lightly depressed.
6. Carefully disconnect the cables in the
exact reverse order: the negative cable
and then the positive cable.

If your engine stalls while driving...
1. Reduce your speed gradually, keeping
a straight line. Move cautiously off the
road to a safe place.
2. Turn on your emergency flashers.
3. Turn the ignition key to “ACC” or
“LOCK”, and try starting the engine
again.
If the engine will not start, see “If your
vehicle will not start” on page 210.

CAUTION
If the engine is not running, the power assist for the brakes and steering
will not work so steering and braking
will be much harder than usual.

If your vehicle overheats
If your engine coolant temperature
gauge indicates overheating, if you experience a loss of power, or if you hear
a loud knocking or pinging noise, the
engine has probably overheated. You
should follow this procedure...
1. Pull safely off the road, stop the vehicle and turn on your emergency
flashers. Put the transmission in “P”
and apply the parking brake. Turn off
the air conditioning if it is being used.
2. If coolant or steam is boiling out of the
radiator or reservoir, stop the engine.
Wait until the steam subsides before
opening the hood. If there is no coolant
boiling over or steam, leave the engine
running and make sure the electric
cooling fan is operating. If it is not,
turn the ignition off.

CAUTION

7. Carefully dispose of the battery cover
cloths—they may now contain sulfuric
acid.

To help avoid personal injury, keep
the hood closed until there is no
steam. Escaping steam or coolant is
a sign of very high pressure.

8. If removed, replace all the battery vent
plugs.
If the cause of your battery discharging is
not apparent (for example, lights left on),
you should have it checked.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

213

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

If you have a flat tire—
3. Look for obvious coolant leaks from the
radiator, hoses, and under the vehicle.
However, note that water draining from
the air conditioning is normal if it has
been used.

CAUTION

6. After the engine coolant temperature
has cooled to normal, again check the
coolant level in the reservoir. If necessary, bring it up to half full again. Serious coolant loss indicates a leak in the
system. You should have it checked as
soon as possible at your Toyota dealer.

When the engine is running, keep
hands and clothing away from the
moving fan and engine drive belts.

2. Stop the engine and
emergency flashers.

turn on

your

3. Firmly set the parking brake and put
the transmission in “P”.
4. Have everyone get out of the vehicle
on the side away from traffic.

4. If the coolant is leaking, stop the engine immediately. Call a Toyota dealer
for assistance.

5. Read the following instructions thoroughly.

5. If there are no obvious leaks, check
the coolant reservoir. If it is dry, add
coolant to the reservoir while the engine is running. Fill it about half full.

CAUTION
When jacking, be sure to observe the
following to reduce the possibility of
personal injury:

CAUTION

D Follow jacking instructions.
D Do not put any part of your body

Do not attempt to remove the radiator
cap when the engine and radiator are
hot. Serious injury could result from
scalding hot fluid and steam blown
out under pressure.

214

1. Reduce your speed gradually, keeping
a straight line. Move cautiously off the
road to a safe place well away from
the traffic. Avoid stopping on the center
divider of a highway. Park on a level
spot with firm ground.

under the vehicle supported by the
jack. Personal injury may occur.

D Do not start or run the engine while

your vehicle is supported by the
jack.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Required tools and spare tire
D Stop the vehicle on a level firm
ground, firmly set the parking brake
and put the transmission in “P”.
Block the wheel diagonally opposite
to the one being changed if necessary.

NOTICE
Do not continue driving with a deflated tire. Driving even a short distance can damage a tire and wheel
beyond repair.

D Make sure to set the jack properly
in the jack point. Raising the vehicle with jack improperly positioned will damage the vehicle or
may allow the vehicle to fall off the
jack and cause personal injury.

D Never get under the vehicle when

1. Get the required tools and spare
tire.

the vehicle is supported by the jack
alone.

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

D Use the jack only for lifting your
vehicle during wheel changing.

D Do not raise the vehicle with someone in the vehicle.

D When raising the vehicle, do not

Jack handle
Wheel nut wrench
Front towing eyelet
Jack
Spare tire

To prepare yourself for an emergency, you
should familiarize yourself with the use of
the jack, each of the tools and their storage locations.

put an object on or under the jack.

D Raise the vehicle only high enough
to remove and change the tire.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

215

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Blocking the wheel

Turn the jack joint by hand.

To remove the spare tire:

To remove: Turn the joint in direction 1
until the jack is free.
To store: Turn the joint in direction 2 until
the jack is firmly secured to prevent it
flying forward during a collision or sudden
braking.

1. Hang the deck board on the weatherstrip.

216

2. Remove the spare tire cover.
3. Loosen the bolt and remove it.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

2. Block the wheel diagonally opposite
the flat tire to keep the vehicle from
rolling when it is jacked up.
When blocking the wheel, place a wheel
block from the front for the front wheels
or from the rear for the rear wheels.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Removing wheel ornament

—Loosening wheel nuts
3. Remove the wheel ornament.
Pry off the wheel ornament, using the
beveled end of the wheel nut wrench as
shown.

CAUTION
Do not try to pull off the ornament by
hand. Take due care in handling the
ornament to avoid unexpected personal injury.

Steel wheels

4. Loosen all the wheel nuts.
Always loosen the wheel nuts before raising the vehicle.
Turn the wheel nuts counterclockwise to
loosen. To get maximum leverage, fit the
wrench to the nut so that the handle is
on the right side, as shown above. Grab
the wrench near the end of the handle
and pull up on the handle. Be careful that
the wrench does not slip off the nut.
Do not remove the nuts yet—just unscrew
them about one−half turn.

Aluminium wheels
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

217

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Positioning the jack

—Raising your vehicle
CAUTION
Never get under the vehicle when the
vehicle is supported by the jack
alone.

5. Position the jack at the correct jack
point as shown.
Make sure the jack is positioned on a
level and solid place.

6. After making sure that no one is in
the vehicle, raise it high enough so
that the spare tire can be installed.
Remember you will need more ground
clearance when putting on the spare tire
than when removing the flat tire.
To raise the vehicle, insert the jack handle
into the jack (it is a loose fit) and turn it
clockwise. As the jack touches the vehicle
and begins to lift, double−check that it is
properly positioned.

218

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Changing wheels

7. Remove the wheel nuts and change
tires.
Lift the flat tire straight off and put it
aside.
Roll the spare wheel into position and
align the holes in the wheel with the bolts.
Then lift up the wheel and get at least the
top bolt started through its hole. Wiggle
the tire and press it back over the other
bolts.

—Reinstalling wheel nuts

Before putting on wheels, remove any corrosion on the mounting surfaces with a
wire brush or such. Installation of wheels
without good metal−to−metal contact at the
mounting surface can cause wheel nuts to
loosen and eventually cause a wheel to
come off while driving. Therefore after the
first 1600 km (1000 miles), check to see
that the wheel nuts are tight.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

8. Reinstall all the wheel nuts finger
tight.
Reinstall the wheel nuts (tapered end inward) and tighten them as much as you
can by hand. Press back on the tire back
and see if you can tighten them more.

219

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Lowering your vehicle

—Reinstalling wheel ornament
CAUTION
When lowering the vehicle, make sure
all portions of your body and all other persons around will not be injured
as the vehicle is lowered to the
ground.

Steel wheels

9. Lower the vehicle completely and
tighten the wheel nuts.
Turn the jack handle counterclockwise to
lower the vehicle.
Use only the wheel nut wrench and turn
it clockwise to tighten the nuts. Do not
use other tools or any additional leverage
other than your hands, such as a hammer,
pipe or your foot. Make sure the wrench
is securely engaged over the nut.
Tighten each nut a little at a time in the
order shown. Repeat the process until all
the nuts are tight. (For the tightening
torque, see “Tires” on page 277 in Section
8.)

220

Aluminum wheels
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—After changing wheels
10. Reinstall the wheel ornament.
1. Put the wheel ornament into position.
2. Then tap it firmly with the side or heel
of your hand to snap it into place.

CAUTION
Take due care in handling the ornament to avoid unexpected personal
injury.

11. Check the air pressure of the replaced tire.
Adjust the air pressure to the specification
designated on page 277 in Section 8. If
the pressure is lower, drive slowly to the
nearest service station and fill to the correct pressure.
Do not forget to reinstall the tire inflation
valve cap as dirt and moisture could get
into the valve core and possibly cause air
leakage. If the cap is missing, have a new
one put on as soon as possible.

If your vehicle needs to be
towed—
(a) Towing with wheel lift type truck—
—From front

—From rear

12. Restow all the tools and jack securely.
As soon after changing wheels as possible, tighten the wheel nuts to the torque
specified on page 277 in Section 8 with
a torque wrench. Have a technician repair
the flat tire.

(b) Using flat bed truck

CAUTION
Before driving, make sure all the
tools and jack are securely in place
in their storage location to reduce the
possibility of personal injury during a
collision or sudden braking.
Two−wheel drive models
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

221

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

(a) Towing with wheel lift type truck—
—From front

—From rear

If towing is necessary, we recommend
you to have it done by your Toyota
dealer or a commercial tow truck service. In consultation with them, have
your vehicle towed using either (a) or
(b).

TOWING PRECAUTIONS:

Only when you cannot receive a towing
service from a Toyota dealer or commercial tow truck service, tow your vehicle carefully in accordance with the
instructions given in “—Emergency towing” on page 223 in this section.

Two−wheel drive models—

Proper equipment will help ensure that
your vehicle is not damaged while being
towed. Commercial operators are generally
aware of the state/provincial and local
laws pertaining to towing.
(b) Using flat bed truck

Your vehicle can be damaged if it is
towed incorrectly. Although most operators
know the correct procedure, it is possible
to make a mistake. To avoid damage to
your vehicle, make sure the following precautions are observed. If necessary, show
this page to the tow truck driver.

Use a safety chain system for all towing,
and abide by the state/provincial and local
laws. The wheels and axle on the ground
must be in good condition. If they are
damaged, use a towing dolly.
(a) Towing with wheel lift type truck
From front—Release the parking brake.

NOTICE
When lifting wheels, take care to ensure adequate ground clearance for
towing at the opposite end of the
raised vehicle. Otherwise, the bumper
and/or underbody of the towed vehicle
will be damaged during towing.
From rear—
Use a towing dolly under the front wheels.

NOTICE
Never tow a vehicle from the rear
with the front wheels on the ground,
as this may cause serious damage to
the transmission.

Four−wheel drive models

222

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Emergency towing
(b) Using flat bed truck
Four−wheel drive models—

(a) Towing with wheel lift type truck
Use a towing dolly under the wheels not
lifted by the truck.
(b) Using flat bed truck

Front

All models—
(c) Towing with sling type truck

NOTICE
Do not tow with sling type truck, either from the front or rear. This may
cause body damage.

Rear

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—Installing front towing
eyelet
If towing is necessary, we recommend
you to have it done by your Toyota
dealer or a commercial tow truck service.
If towing service is not available in an
emergency, your vehicle may be temporarily towed by a cable or chain secured to one of the emergency towing
eyelets on the front of the vehicle or
the right emergency towing eyelet under the rear of the vehicle. Use extreme
caution when towing the vehicle.

NOTICE
Only use specified towing eyelet;
otherwise your vehicle may be damaged.
A driver must be in the vehicle to steer
it and operate the brakes.
Towing in this manner may be done only
on hard−surfaced roads for a short distance and at low speeds. Also, the
wheels, axles, drive train, steering and
brakes must all be in good condition.

CAUTION
Use extreme caution when towing vehicles. Avoid sudden starts or erratic
driving maneuvers which would place
excessive stress on the emergency
towing eyelet and towing cable or
chain. The eyelet and towing cable or
chain may break and cause serious
injury or damage.

NOTICE
Use only a cable or chain specifically
intended for use in towing vehicles.
Securely fasten the cable or chain to
the towing eyelet provided.
Before towing, release the parking brake
and put the transmission in “N”. The key
must be in “ACC” (engine off) or “ON”
(engine running).

CAUTION
If the engine is not running, the power assist for the brakes and steering
will not work so steering and braking
will be much harder than usual.

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2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

1. Pull up the deck board and remove the
front towing eyelet by turning it counterclockwise. (For the towing eyelet
location, see “—Required tools and
spare tire” on page 215 in this section.)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

2. Remove the front towing eyelet cover
on the front bumper.

3. Secure it to the hole on the bumper by
turning clockwise.

4. Tighten the front towing eyelet securely
by a wheel nut wrench.

NOTICE
Make sure that the front towing eyelet
is tightened securely, or it may be
loosened or removed when towing the
vehicle.

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—Emergency towing eyelet
precautions
D Before emergency towing, check that

the eyelet is not broken or damaged
and that the installation bolts are not
loose.

D Fasten the towing cable or chain securely to the eyelet.

D Do not jerk the eyelet. Apply steady
and even force.

D To avoid damaging the eyelet, do not

pull from the side or at a vertical
angle. Always pull straight ahead.

—Tips for towing a stuck
vehicle
CAUTION
If the emergency towing eyelet is
used to get out when your vehicle
becomes struck in mud, sand or other condition from which the vehicle
cannot be driven out under its own
power, make sure to observe the precautions mentioned below. Otherwise,
excessive stress will be put on the
eyelet and the towing cable or chain
may break, causing serious injury or
damage.

D If the towing vehicle can hardly

move, do not forcibly continue the
towing. Contact your Toyota dealer
or a commercial tow truck service
for assistance.

D Tow the vehicle as straight ahead
as possible.

D Keep away from the vehicle during
towing.

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The following methods are effective to get
out when your vehicle is struck in mud,
sand or other condition from which the
vehicle cannot be driven out under its own
power. Use extreme caution when towing
vehicles. In addition, keep away from the
vehicles and towing cable or chain when
towing.

D Remove the soil and sand in the front
and the back of the tires.

D Place a stone or wood under the tires.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

If you cannot shift automatic
transmission selector lever

If you lose your keys
You can purchase a new key at your
Toyota dealer if you can give them the
key number. If your vehicle is equipped
with the engine immobiliser system, the
dealer will also need your master key.
Vehicles with engine immobiliser system—
Even if you lose only one key, contact
your Toyota dealer to make a new key. If
you lose all your master keys, you cannot
make new keys; the whole engine immobiliser system must be replaced.
See the suggestion given in “Keys” on
page 12 in Section 1−2.

If you cannot shift the selector lever
out of “P” position to other positions
even though the brake pedal is depressed, use the shift lock override button as follows:

3. Insert your finger into the
push down the shift lock
button. You can shift out
position only while pushing
ton.

1. Turn the ignition key to
position. Make sure the
brake is applied.

4. Shift into “N” position.

“LOCK”
parking

2. Pry up the cover with a flat−bladed
screwdriver or equivalent.

hole to
override
of “P”
the but-

5. Insert the cover.
6. Start the engine. For your safety,
keep the brake pedal depressed.

If your keys are locked in the vehicle and
you cannot get a duplicate, many Toyota
dealers can still open the door for you,
using their special tools. If you must
break a window to get in, we suggest
breaking the smallest side window because it is the least expensive to replace.
Be extremely cautious to avoid cuts from
the glass.

Be sure to have the system checked by
your Toyota dealer as soon as possible.

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If you lose your wireless
remote control transmitter
You can purchase a new wireless remote control transmitter at your Toyota
dealer.
Have the registered identification numbers
of your transmitters deleted from your vehicle by your Toyota dealer as soon as
possible to avoid the possibility of theft or
an accident. Then, have the identification
number of your new transmitter registered.
At the same time, you must bring all of
the remaining transmitters to have them
registered again as well.
You can use the wireless remote control
system with the new transmitter. Contact
your Toyota dealer for detailed information.

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SECTION
CORROSION PREVENTION AND
APPEARANCE CARE

Protecting your Toyota from corrosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
Washing and waxing your Toyota . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231
Cleaning the interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 233

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Protecting your Toyota from
corrosion
Toyota, through its diligent research, design and use of the most advanced
technology available, has done its part to
help prevent corrosion and has provided
you with the finest quality vehicle
construction. Now, it is up to you. Proper
care of your Toyota can help ensure long−
term corrosion prevention.
The most common causes of corrosion
to your vehicle are:

D The accumulation of road salt, dirt and
moisture in hard−to−reach areas under
the vehicle.

D Chipping

of paint, or undercoating
caused by minor accidents or by
stones and gravel.

Care is especially important if you live
in particular areas or operate your vehicle under certain environmental conditions:

D Road salt or dust control chemicals will

accelerate corrosion, as will the presence of salt in the air near the sea−
coast or in areas of industrial pollution.

D High humidity accelerates corrosion especially when temperatures range just
above the freezing point.

230

D Wetness or dampness to certain parts

of your vehicle for an extended period
of time, may cause corrosion even
though other parts of the vehicle may
be dry.

D High ambient temperatures can cause

corrosion to those components of the
vehicle which are prevented from
quick−drying due to lack of proper ventilation.

The above signifies the necessity to keep
your vehicle, particularly the underside, as
clean as possible and to repair any damage to paint or protective coatings as
soon as possible.
To help prevent corrosion on
Toyota, follow these guidelines:

your

Wash your vehicle frequently. It is, of
course, necessary to keep your vehicle
clean by regular washing, but to prevent
corrosion, the following points should be
observed:

D If you drive on salted roads in the
winter or if you live near the ocean,
you should hose off the undercarriage
at least once a month to minimize corrosion.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

D High pressure water or steam is effec-

tive for cleaning the vehicle’s underside
and wheel housings. Pay particular
attention to these areas as it is difficult
to see all the mud and dirt. It will do
more harm than good to simply wet the
mud and debris without removing them.
The lower edge of doors, rocker panels
and frame members have drain holes
which should not be allowed to clog
with dirt as trapped water in these
areas can cause corrosion.

D Wash the underside of the vehicle thoroughly when winter is over.

See “Washing and waxing your Toyota” on
page 231 for more tips.
Check the condition of your vehicle’s
paint and trim. If you find any chips or
scratches in the paint, touch them up immediately to prevent corrosion from starting. If the chips or scratches have gone
through the bare metal, have a qualified
body shop make the repair.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Washing and waxing your
Toyota
Check the interior of your vehicle. Water and dirt can accumulate under the
floor mats and could cause corrosion. Occasionally check under the mats to make
sure the area is dry. Be particularly careful when transporting chemicals, cleansers, fertilizers, salt, etc; these should be
transported in proper containers. If a spill
or leak should occur, immediately clean
and dry the area.
Use mud shields on your wheels. If you
drive on salted or gravel roads, mud
shields help protect your vehicle. Full−size
shields, which come as near to the ground
as possible, are the best. We recommend
that the fittings and the area where the
shields are installed be treated to resist
corrosion. Your Toyota dealer will be
happy to assist in supplying and installing
the shields if they are recommended for
your area.
Keep your vehicle in a well ventilated
garage or a roofed place. Do not park
your vehicle in a damp, poorly ventilated garage. If you wash your vehicle in
the garage, or if you drive it in covered
with water or snow, your garage may be
so damp it will cause corrosion. Even if
your garage is heated, a wet vehicle can
corrode if the ventilation is poor.

Washing your Toyota
Keep your
washing.

vehicle

clean

regular

The following cases may cause weakness
to the paint or corrosion to the body and
parts. Wash your vehicle as soon as possible.

D When driving in a coastal area
D When driving on a road sprinkled with
antifreeze

D When having coal tar, tree sap, bird
droppings and carcass of an insect

D When driving in the areas where there
is a lot of smoke, soot, dust, iron dust
and chemical substance

D When the vehicle becomes remarkably
dirty with dust and mud

Hand−washing your Toyota
Work in the shade and wait until the
vehicle body is not hot to the touch.

1. Rinse off loose dirt with a hose. Remove any mud or road salt from the
underside of the vehicle or in the
wheel wells.
2. Wash with a mild car−wash soap,
mixed according to the manufacturer’s
instructions. Use a soft cotton mitt and
keep it wet by dipping it frequently into
the wash water. Do not rub hard—let
the soap and water remove the dirt.
Plastic wheel ornaments: The plastic
wheel ornaments are damaged easily by
organic substances. If any organic substances splashes an ornament, be sure to
wash it off with water and check if the
ornament is damaged.

CAUTION
Do not attach the heavily damaged
plastic wheel ornament. It may fly off
the wheel and cause accidents while
the vehicle is moving.

CAUTION
When cleaning under floor or chassis,
be careful not to injure your hands.

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Aluminum wheels: Use only a mild soap
or neutral detergent.
Plastic bumpers: Wash carefully. Do not
scrub with abrasive cleaners. The bumper
faces are soft.
Road tar: Remove with turpentine or
cleaners that are marked safe for painted
surfaces.

NOTICE
Do not use organic substances (gasoline, kerosene, benzine or strong solvents), which may be toxic or cause
damage.
3. Rinse
thoroughly—dried
soap
can
cause streaking. In hot weather you
may need to rinse each section right
after you wash it.

Automatic car wash

Waxing your Toyota

Your vehicle may be washed in an automatic car wash, but remember that the
paint can be scratched by some type of
brushes, unfiltered washing water, or the
washing process itself. Scratching reduces
paint durability and gloss, especially on
darker colors. The manager of the car
wash should be able to advise you whether the process is safe for the paint on
your vehicle.

Polishing and waxing is recommended
to maintain the original beauty of your
Toyota’s finish.

NOTICE
With mast type antenna:
To prevent damage to the antenna,
make sure it is removed before driving your Toyota through an automatic
car wash.

4. To prevent water spots, dry the vehicle
using a clean soft cotton towel. Do not
rub or press hard—you might scratch
the paint.

232

Once a month or if the vehicle surface
does not repel water well, apply wax.
1. Always wash and dry the vehicle before you begin waxing, even if you are
using a combined cleaner and wax.
2. Use a good quality polish and wax. If
the finish has become extremely weathered, use a car−cleaning polish, followed by a separate wax. Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions and
precautions. Be sure to polish and wax
the chrome trim as well as the paint.
3. Wax the vehicle again when water
does not bead but remains on the surface in large patches.

NOTICE
Always remove the plastic bumpers if
your vehicle is re−painted and placed
in a high heat paint waxing booth.
High temperatures could damage the
bumpers.

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Cleaning the interior
CAUTION

D Vehicles with side airbags:
Be careful not to splash water or
spill liquid on the floor. This may
prevent the side airbags from activating correctly, resulting in serious
injury.

D Do not wash the vehicle floor with

water, or allow water to get onto
the floor when cleaning the vehicle
interior or exterior. Water may get
into audio components or other
electrical components above or under the floor carpet (or mat) and
cause a malfunction; and it may
cause body corrosion.

Vinyl interior

Carpets

The vinyl upholstery may be easily
cleaned with a mild soap or detergent
and water.

Use a good foam−type
clean the carpets.

First vacuum over the upholstery to remove loose dirt. Then, using a sponge or
soft cloth, apply the soap solution to the
vinyl. After allowing it to soak in for a few
minutes to loosen the dirt, remove the dirt
and wipe off the soap with a clean damp
cloth. If all the dirt do not come off, repeat the procedure. Commercial foaming−
type vinyl cleaners are also available
which work well. Follow the manufacturer’s
instructions.

NOTICE
Do not use solvent, thinner, gasoline
or window cleaner on the interior.

shampoo

Begin by vacuuming thoroughly to remove
as much dirt as possible. Several types of
foam cleaners are available; some are in
aerosol cans and others are powders or
liquids which you mix with water to produce a foam. To shampoo the carpets,
use a sponge or brush to apply the foam.
Rub in overlapping circles.
Do not apply water—the best results are
obtained by keeping the carpet as dry as
possible. Read the shampoo instructions
and follow them closely.
Seat belts
The seat belts may be cleaned with
mild soap and water or with lukewarm
water.
Use a cloth or sponge. As you are cleaning, check the belts for excessive wear,
fraying, or cuts.

NOTICE
z Do not use dye or bleach on the
belts—it may weaken them.
z Do not use the belts until they become dry.
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Windows
The windows may be cleaned with any
household window cleaner.

NOTICE
When cleaning the inside of the rear
window, be careful not to scratch or
damage the heater wires or connectors.
Air conditioning control panel, car audio, instrument panel, console panel,
and switches
Use a soft damp cloth for cleaning.
Soak a clean soft cloth in water or lukewarm water then lightly wipe off dirt.

NOTICE

z If you use a liquid car freshener, do
not apply the liquid onto the vehicle’s interior surfaces. It may contain
the
ingredients mentioned
above. Immediately clean any spill
using the method mentioned above.
Leather Interior
The leather upholstery may be cleaned
with neutral detergent for wool.
Remove dirt using a soft cloth dampened
with 5% solution of neutral detergent for
wool. Then thoroughly wipe off all traces
of detergent with a clean damp cloth.
After cleaning or whenever any part of the
leather gets wet, dry with a soft clean
cloth. Allow the leather to dry in a ventilated shaded area.

z Do not use organic substances (solvents, kerosene, alcohol, gasoline,
etc.) or alkaline or acidic solutions.
These chemicals can cause discoloring, staining or peeling of the
surface.
z If you use cleaners or polishing
agents, make sure their ingredients
do not include the substances mentioned above.

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2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

NOTICE
z If a stain should fail to come out
with a neutral detergent, apply a
cleaner that does not contain an
organic solvent.
z Never use organic substances such
as benzine, alcohol or gasoline, or
alkaline or acid solutions for cleaning the leather as these could
cause discoloring.
z Use of a nylon brush or synthetic
fiber cloth, etc. may scratch the
fine grained surface of the leather.
z Mildew may develop on soiled leather upholstery. Be especially careful
to avoid oil spots. Try to keep your
upholstery always clean.
z Long exposure to direct sunlight
may cause the leather surface to
harden and shrink. Keep your vehicle in a shaded area, especially in
the summer.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

z The interior of your vehicle is apt
to heat up on hot summer days, so
avoid placing on the upholstery
items made of vinyl or plastic or
containing wax as these tend to
stick to leather when warm.
z Improper cleaning of the leather upholstery could result in discoloration or staining.
If you have any questions about the
cleaning of your Toyota, your local
Toyota dealer will be pleased to answer
them.

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SECTION
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND CARE

Maintenance requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 238
General maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 239
Does your vehicle need repairing? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 241

For scheduled maintenance information, please refer to the “Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or “Owner’s Manual Supplement”.

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Maintenance requirements
Your Toyota vehicle has been designed for
fewer maintenance requirements with longer service intervals to save both your time
and money. However, each regular maintenance, as well as day−to−day care, is
more important than ever before to ensure
smooth, trouble−free, safe, and economical
drivings.
It is the owner’s responsibility to make
sure the specified maintenance, including
general maintenance service, is performed.
Note that both the new vehicle and emission control system warranties specify that
proper maintenance and care must be performed. See “Owner’s Warranty Information Booklet” or “Owner’s Manual Supplement” for complete warranty information.
General maintenance
General maintenance items are those day−
to−day care practices that are important to
your vehicle for proper operation. It is the
owner’s responsibility to ensure that the
general maintenance items are performed
regularly.
These checks or inspections can be done
either by yourself or a qualified technician,
or if you prefer, your Toyota dealer will be
pleased to do them at a nominal cost.

238

Scheduled maintenance

Where to go for service?

The scheduled maintenance items listed in
the “Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or
“Owner’s Manual Supplement” are those
required to be serviced at regular intervals.

Toyota technicians are well−trained specialists and are kept up to date with the
latest service information through technical
bulletins, service tips, and in−dealership
training programs. They learn to work on
Toyotas before they work on your vehicle,
rather than while they are working on it.

For details of your maintenance schedule,
read the “Scheduled Maintenance Guide”
or “Owner’s Manual Supplement”.
It is recommended that any replacement
parts used for maintenance or for the
repair of the emission control system
be Toyota supplied.
The owner may elect to use non−Toyota
supplied parts for replacement purposes without invalidating the emission
control system warranty. However, use
of replacement parts which are not of
equivalent quality may impair the effectiveness of the emission control systems.
You may also elect to have maintenance, replacement, or repair of the
emission control devices and system
performed by any automotive repair establishment or individual without invalidating this warranty. See “Owner’s Warranty Information Booklet” or “Owner’s
Manual Supplement” for complete warranty information.
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

You can be confident that your Toyota
dealer’s service department performs the
best job to meet the maintenance requirements on your vehicle—reliably and economically.
Your copy of the repair order is proof that
all required maintenance has been performed for warranty coverage. And if any
problems should arise with your vehicle
while under warranty, your Toyota dealer
will promptly take care of it. Again, be
sure to keep a copy of the repair order
for any service performed on your Toyota.
What about do−it−yourself maintenance?
Many of the maintenance items are easy
to do yourself if you have a little mechanical ability and a few basic automotive
tools. Simple instructions for how to perform them are presented on page 243 in
Section 7.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

General maintenance
If you are a skilled do−it−yourself mechanic, the Toyota service manuals are recommended. Please be aware that do−it−yourself maintenance can affect your warranty
coverage. See “Owner’s Warranty Information Booklet” or “Owner’s Manual Supplement” for the details.

Listed below are the general maintenance
items that should be performed as frequently as specified. In addition to checking the items listed, if you notice any
unusual noise, smell or vibration, you
should investigate the cause or take your
vehicle to your Toyota dealer or a qualified service shop immediately. It is recommended that any problem you notice be
brought to the attention of your dealer or
the qualified service shop for their advice.

CAUTION
Make these checks only where adequate ventilation can be obtained if
you run the engine.

Tire surface and wheel nuts
Check the tires carefully for cuts, damage
or excessive wear. See page 257 in Section 7−2 for additional information. When
checking the tires, make sure no nuts are
missing, and check the nuts for looseness. Tighten them if necessary.
Tire rotation
Rotate the tires according to the
maintenance schedule. (For scheduled
maintenance information, please refer to
the “Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or
“Owner’s Manual Supplement”.) See page
258 in Section 7−2 for additional
information.
Fluid leaks

Items listed below should be performed
from time to time, unless otherwise
specified.

Check underneath for leaking fuel, oil, water or other fluid after the vehicle has
been parked for a while. If you smell fuel
fumes or notice any leak, have the cause
found and corrected immediately.

Tire pressure

Doors and engine hood

Check the pressure with a gauge every
two weeks, or at least once a month. See
page 256 in Section 7−2 for additional
information.

Check that all side doors and back door
operate smoothly and all latches lock securely. Make sure the engine hood secondary latch secures the hood from opening when the primary latch is released.

OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE

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INSIDE THE VEHICLE

Seat belts

Items listed below should be checked
regularly, e.g. while performing periodic
services, cleaning the vehicle, etc.

Check that the seat belt system such as
buckles, retractors and anchors operate
properly and smoothly. Make sure the belt
webbing is not cut, frayed, worn or damaged.

Lights
Make sure the headlights, stop lights, tail
lights, turn signal lights, and other lights
are all working. Check headlight aim.
Service reminder indicators and warning
buzzers

Accelerator pedal
Check the pedal for smooth operation and
uneven pedal effort or catching.
Brake pedal

Steering wheel

Check the pedal for smooth operation and
that the pedal has the proper clearance.
Check the brake booster function.

Check that it has the specified free play.
Be alert for changes in steering condition,
such as hard steering or strange noise.

Brakes
At a safe place, check that the brakes do
not pull to one side when applied.

Seats

Parking brake

Check that all seat controls such as seat
adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. operate
smoothly and that all latches lock securely
in any position. Check that the head restraints move up and down smoothly and
that the locks hold securely in any latched
position. For folding−down rear seatbacks,
check that the latches lock securely.

Check that the pedal has the proper travel
and that, on a safe incline, your vehicle
is held securely with only the parking
brake applied.

Check that all service reminder indicators
and warning buzzers function properly.

240

Automatic transmission “Park” mechanism
Check the lock release button of the selector lever for proper and smooth operation. On a safe incline, check that your
vehicle is held securely with the selector
lever in “P” position and all brakes released.
IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT
Items listed below should be checked
from time to time, e.g. each time when
refueling.
Washer fluid
Make sure there is sufficient fluid in the
tank. See page 267 in Section 7−3 for
additional information.
Engine coolant level
Make sure the coolant level is between
the “F” and “L” lines on the see−through
reservoir when the engine is cold. See
page 253 in Section 7−2 for additional
information.
Battery electrolyte level
Your Toyota has a maintenance free battery. You do not have to add distilled water. For longer life of the battery, however,
see page 264 for additional information.

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Does your vehicle need
repairing?
Brake fluid level
Make sure the brake fluid level is correct.
See page 254 in Section 7−2 for additional information.
Engine oil level
Check the level on the dipstick with the
engine turned off and the vehicle parked
on a level spot. See page 252 in Section
7−2 for additional information.
Power steering fluid level

Be on the alert for changes in performance, sounds, and visual tip−offs that
indicate service is needed. Some important clues are as follows:

D
D
D
D

Engine missing, stumbling, or pinging
Appreciable loss of power
Strange engine noises
A leak under the vehicle (however, water dripping from the air conditioning
after use is normal.)

Check the level through the reservoir. The
level should be in the “HOT” or “COLD”
range depending on the fluid temperature.
See page 255 in Section 7−2 for additional information.

D Change in exhaust sound (This may

Exhaust system

D Flat−looking tire; excessive tire squeal

If you notice any change in the sound of
the exhaust or smell exhaust fumes, have
the cause located and corrected immediately. (See “Engine exhaust cautions” on
page 183 in Section 2.)

If you notice any of these clues, take your
vehicle to your Toyota dealer as soon as
possible. It probably needs adjustment or
repair.

CAUTION
Do not continue driving with the vehicle unchecked. It could result in serious vehicle damage and possibly
personal injury.

indicate a dangerous carbon monoxide
leak. Drive with the windows open and
have the exhaust system checked immediately.)
when cornering; uneven tire wear

D Vehicle pulls to one side when driving
straight on a level road

D Strange noises related to suspension
movement

D Loss of brake effectiveness; spongy

feeling brake pedal; pedal almost
touches floor; vehicle pulls to one side
when braking

D Engine coolant temperature continually
higher than normal

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242

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

SECTION
DO−IT−YOURSELF MAINTENANCE

7− 1

Introduction
Engine compartment overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuse locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Do−it−yourself service precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Positioning the jack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Parts and tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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246
247
248
249

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Engine compartment overview
"2AZ−FE engine
1. Engine coolant reservoir
2. Power steering fluid reservoir
3. Engine oil filler cap
4. Brake fluid reservoir
5. Fuse blocks
6. Battery
7. Electric cooling fans
8. Engine oil level dipstick
9. Windshield and rear window washer
fluid tank

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"1MZ−FE engine
1. Engine coolant reservoir
2. Power steering fluid reservoir
3. Engine oil filler cap
4. Brake fluid reservoir
5. Fuse blocks
6. Battery
7. Electric cooling fans
8. Engine oil level dipstick
9. Windshield washer fluid tank

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Fuse locations

Spare fuses

With daytime running light system

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Do−it−yourself service
precautions
If you perform maintenance by yourself,
be sure to follow the correct procedure
given in this section.
You should be aware that improper or incomplete servicing may result in operating
problems.
Performing
do−it−yourself
maintenance
during the warranty period may affect your
warranty coverage. Read the separate
Toyota Warranty statement for details and
suggestions.
This section gives instructions only for
those items that are relatively easy for an
owner to perform. As explained in Section
6, there are still a number of items that
must be done by a qualified technician
with special tools.

CAUTION

D When the engine is running, keep

hands, clothing, and tools away
from the moving fan and engine
drive
belts.
(Removing
rings,
watches, and ties is advisable.)

D Right

after driving, the engine
compartment—the engine, radiator,
exhaust manifold, power steering
fluid reservoir and spark plug
boots, etc.—will be hot. So be careful not to touch them. Oil, fluids
and spark plugs may also be hot.

D If the engine is hot, do not remove

the radiator cap or loosen the drain
plugs to prevent burning yourself.

For information on tools and parts for do−
it−yourself maintenance, see “Parts and
tools” on page 249 in this section.

D Do not smoke, cause sparks or al-

Utmost care
ing on your
injury. Here
you should
serve:

D Do not get under your vehicle with

should be taken when workvehicle to prevent accidental
are a few precautions that
be especially careful to ob-

low open flames around fuel or the
battery. Their fumes are flammable.
just the body jack supporting it. Always use automotive jack stands or
other solid supports.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

D Be sure that the ignition is off if

you work near the electric cooling
fans or radiator grille. With the
ignition on, the electric cooling fans
will automatically start to run if the
engine coolant temperature is high
and/or the air conditioning is on.

D Use eye protection whenever you
work on or under your vehicle
where you may be exposed to flying
or falling material, fluid spray, etc.

D Used engine oil contains potentially

harmful contaminants which may
cause skin disorders such as inflammation or skin cancer, so care
should be taken to avoid prolonged
and repeated contact with it. To remove used engine oil from your
skin, wash thoroughly with soap
and water.

D Do not leave used oil within the
reach of children.

D Be extremely cautious when working on the battery. It contains poisonous and corrosive sulfuric acid.

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Positioning the jack
D Warning: Battery posts, terminals
and related accessories contain lead
and lead compounds, chemicals
known to the State of California to
cause cancer
and reproductive
harm. Wash hands after handling.

D Dispose of used oil and filter only
in a safe and acceptable manner.
Do not dispose of used oil and filter in household trash, in sewers or
onto the ground. Call your dealer or
a service station for information
concerning recycling or disposal.

NOTICE
z Remember that battery and ignition
cable carry high currents or voltages. Be careful of accidentally
causing a short circuit.
z Add only demineralized or distilled
water to fill the radiator. And if you
spill some of the coolant, be sure
to wash it off with water to prevent
it from damaging the parts or paint.

z Use only spark plugs of the specified type. Using other types will
cause engine damage, loss of performance or radio noise.
z Do not reuse iridium−tipped spark
plugs by cleaning or regapping.
z Do not overfill automatic transmission fluid and power steering fluid,
or the transmission and power
steering could be damaged.
z Do not drive with the air cleaner
filter removed, or excessive engine
wear could result. Also backfiring
could cause a fire in the engine
compartment.

Front

z Be careful not to scratch the glass
surface with the wiper frame.
z When closing the engine hood,
check to see that you have not forgotten any tools, rags, etc.

z Do not allow dirt or anything else
to fall through the spark plug holes.
Rear (two−wheel drive models)

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Parts and tools
D Do not start or run the engine while

your vehicle is supported by the
jack.

D Stop the vehicle on a level firm

ground, firmly set the parking brake
and put the transmission in “P”.
Block the wheels on the opposite
side of the jack up point if necessary.

D Make sure to set the jack properly
Rear (four−wheel drive models)

in the jack point. Raising the vehicle with jack improperly positioned will damage the vehicle or
may allow the vehicle to fall off the
jack and cause personal injury.

When jacking up your vehicle with the
jack, position the jack correctly as
shown in the illustrations.

D Never get under the vehicle when

CAUTION

D Do not raise the vehicle with some-

When jacking, be sure to observe the
following to reduce the possibility of
personal injury:

D Follow jacking instructions.
D Do not put any part of your body
under the vehicle supported by the
jack. Personal injury may occur.

the vehicle is supported by the jack
alone; use vehicle support stands.
one in the vehicle.

D When raising the vehicle, do not
put an object on or under the jack.

NOTICE
Make sure to place the jack correctly,
or your vehicle may be damaged.

Here is a list of parts and tools you will
need on performing do−it−yourself maintenance. Remember all Toyota parts are designed in metric sizes, so your tools must
be metric.
Checking the engine oil level
Parts (if level is low):

D Engine

oil
API
grade
SJ,
“Energy−Conserving”
or
ILSAC
multigrade having viscosity proper for
your climate

Tools:

D Rag or paper towel
D Funnel (only for adding oil)
Checking the engine coolant level
Parts (if level is low):

D “TOYOTA Long Life Coolant” or equivalent
See page 253 in Section 7−2 for details about coolant type selection.
D Demineralized or distilled water
Tools:

D Funnel (only for adding coolant)
Checking brake fluid
Parts (if level is low):

D SAE J1703 or FMVSS No.116 DOT 3
brake fluid

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

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Tools:

Adding washer fluid

D Rag or paper towel
D Funnel (only for adding fluid)

Parts:

D Water
D Washer fluid containing antifreeze

Checking power steering fluid

(for winter use)

Parts (if level is low):

D Automatic

transmission
DEXRONrII or III

fluid

Tools:

D Funnel

Tools:

Replacing light bulbs

D Rag or paper towel
D Funnel (only for adding fluid)

Parts:

D Bulb with same number and wattage

rating as original (See charts in
“Replacing light bulbs” on page 268 in
Section 7−3.)

Checking battery condition
Tools:

D
D
D
D

Warm water

Tools:

Baking soda

D Screwdriver

Grease
Conventional
clamp bolts)

wrench

(for

terminal

Checking and replacing fuses
Parts (if replacement is necessary):

D Fuse with same amperage rating as
original

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

SECTION
DO−IT−YOURSELF MAINTENANCE

7− 2

Engine and Chassis
Checking the engine oil level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking the engine coolant level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking brake fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking power steering fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking tire pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking and replacing tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rotating tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Installing snow tires and chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Aluminum wheel precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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253
254
255
256
257
258
259
260
261

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Checking the engine oil level
Low level

2AZ−FE
engine
1MZ−FE
engine
Add oil

O.K.

ENGINE OIL SELECTION

CAUTION

Full level

Too full

Be careful not to touch the hot exhaust manifold.
If the oil level is below or only slightly
above the low level, add engine oil of
the same type as already in the engine.

With the engine at operating temperature and turned off, check the oil level
on the dipstick.
1. To get a true reading, the vehicle
should be on a level spot. After turning
off the engine, wait a few minutes for
the oil to drain back into the bottom of
the engine.

Oil quantity, L (qt., lmp. qt.):
2AZ−FE engine
1.0 (1.1, 0.9)
1MZ−FE engine
1.5 (1.6, 1.3)

3. Reinsert the dipstick—push it in as far
as it will go, or the reading will not be
correct.
4. Pull the dipstick out and look at the oil
level on the end.

252

Recommended viscosity (SAE):

5W-30 Preferred

Remove the oil filler cap and add engine
oil in small quantities at a time, checking
the dipstick.
The approximate quantity of oil needed to
fill between the low level and the full level
on the dipstick is indicated below for reference.

2. Pull out the dipstick, and wipe it clean
with a rag.

Use API grade SJ, “Energy−Conserving”
or ILSAC multigrade engine oil.

Temperature range anticipated before
next oil change

When the level reaches within the correct
range, install the filler cap hand−tight.

NOTICE
z Avoid overfilling, or
could be damaged.

the

engine

z Check the oil level on the dipstick
once again after adding the oil.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

SAE 5W−30 is the best choice for your
vehicle, for good fuel economy and
good starting in cold weather.
If you use SAE 10W−30 engine oil in
extremely low temperatures, the engine
may become difficult to start, so SAE
5W−30 engine oil is recommended.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Checking the engine coolant
level
Oil identification marks
Either or both API registered marks are
added to some oil containers to help
you select the oil you should use.
The API Service Symbol is located anywhere on the outside of the container.

API service symbol

The top portion of the label shows the oil
quality by API (American Petroleum Institute) designations such as SJ. The center
portion of the label shows the SAE viscosity grade such as SAE 5W−30. “Energy−
Conserving” shown in the lower portion,
indicates that the oil has fuel−saving capabilities.
The ILSAC (International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee) Certification Mark is displayed on the front of
the container.

Look at the see−through coolant reservoir when the engine is cold. The coolant level is satisfactory if it is between
the “F” and “L” lines on the reservoir.
If the level is low, add ethylene−glycol
type coolant for a proper corrosion
protection of aluminum components.
The coolant level in the reservoir will vary
with engine temperature. However, if the
level is on or below the “L” line, add
coolant. Bring the level up to the “F” line.
Always use ethylene−glycol type coolant
for a proper corrosion protection of aluminum components. See information in the
next column.
If the coolant level drops within a short
time after replenishing, there may be a
leak in the system. Visually check the
radiator, hoses, radiator cap and drain
cock and water pump.
If you can find no leak, have your Toyota
dealer test the cap pressure and check
for leaks in the cooling system.

ILSAC certification mark
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Checking brake fluid
CAUTION
To prevent burning yourself, do not
remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot.
Coolant type selection
Use of improper coolants may damage
your engine cooling system. Your coolant
must contain ethylene−glycol type coolant
for a proper corrosion protection of your
engine that contains aluminum components. Use “TOYOTA Long Life Coolant”
or equivalent.

We recommend to use 50% solution for
your Toyota, to provide protection down to
about −35_C (−31_F). When it is extremely cold, to provide protection down to
about −50_C (−58_F), 60% solution is recommended. Do not use more than 70%
solution for better coolant performance.

NOTICE
Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or
plain water alone.

To check the fluid level, simply look at
the see−through reservoir. The level
should be between the “MAX” and
“MIN” lines on the reservoir.

In addition to preventing freezing and subsequent damage to the engine, this type
of coolant will also prevent corrosion. Further supplemental inhibitors or additives
are neither needed nor recommended.

It is normal for the brake fluid level to go
down slightly as the brake pads wear. So
be sure to keep the reservoir filled.

Read the coolant container for information
on freeze protection. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for how much to mix
with plain water (preferably demineralized
water or distilled water). The total capacity
of the cooling system is given on page
276 in Section 8.

254

If the reservoir needs frequent refilling, it
may indicate a serious mechanical problem.
If the level is low, add SAE J1703 or
FMVSS No.116 DOT 3 brake fluid to the
brake reservoir.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Checking power steering fluid
Remove and replace the reservoir cap by
hand. Fill the brake fluid to the dotted
line. This brings the fluid to the correct
level when you put the cap back on.
Use only newly opened brake fluid. Once
opened, brake fluid absorbs moisture from
the air, and excess moisture can cause a
dangerous loss of braking.

CAUTION
Take care when filling the reservoir
because brake fluid can harm your
eyes and damage painted surfaces. If
fluid gets in your eyes, flush your
eyes with clean water immediately. If
you still feel uncomfortable with your
eyes, go to the doctor.

NOTICE
If you spill some of the fluid, be sure
to wash it off with water to prevent
it from damaging the parts or paint.

If cold O.K.
Close

If cold add

Open

If hot O.K.

If hot add

Check the fluid level through the reservoir. If necessary, add automatic transmission fluid DEXRONrII or III.
If the vehicle has been driven around 80
km/h (50 mph) for 20 minutes (a little
more in frigid temperatures), the fluid is
hot (80_C or 175_F). You may also check
the level when the fluid is cold (about
room
temperature,
10_C—30_C
or
50_F—85_F) if the engine has not been
run for about five hours.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

Clean all dirt from outside of the reservoir
tank and look at the fluid level. If the fluid
is cold, the level should be in the “COLD”
range. Similarly, if it is hot, the fluid level
should be in the “HOT” range. If the level
is at the low side of either range, add
automatic transmission fluid DEXRONrII or
III to bring the level within the range.
To remove the reservoir cap, turn it counterclockwise and lift up. To reinstall it,
turn it clockwise. After replacing the reservoir cap, visually check the steering box
case, vane pump and hose connections
for leaks or damage.

CAUTION
The reservoir tank may be hot so be
careful not to burn yourself.

NOTICE
Avoid overfilling, or the power steering could be damaged.

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Checking tire pressure
Incorrect tire pressure can reduce tire
life and make your vehicle less safe to
drive.
Low tire pressure results in excessive
wear, poor handling, reduced fuel economy, and the possibility of blowouts from
overheated tires. Also, low tire pressure
can cause poor sealing of the tire bead.
If the tire pressure is excessively low,
there is the possibility of wheel deformation and/or tire separation.

Keep your tire pressures at the proper
level.
The recommended cold tire pressures, tire
size and the vehicle capacity weight are
given on page 274 and page 277 in Section 8. They are also on the tire pressure
label as shown.
You should check the tire pressures every
two weeks, or at least once a month. And
do not forget the spare!

256

High tire pressure produces a harsh ride,
handling problems, excessive wear at the
center of the tire tread, and a greater
possibility of tire damage from road hazards.
If a tire frequently needs refilling, have it
checked by your Toyota dealer.
The following instructions for checking
tire pressure should be observed:

D The pressure should be checked only
when the tires are cold. If your vehicle has been parked for at least 3
hours and has not been driven for
more than 1.5 km or 1 mile since, you
will get an accurate cold tire pressure
reading.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

D Always use a tire pressure gauge.

The appearance of a tire can be misleading. Besides, tire pressures that
are even just a few pounds off can
degrade ride and handling.

D Do not bleed or reduce tire pressure
after driving. It is normal for the tire
pressure to be higher after driving.

D Never exceed the vehicle capacity

weight. The passenger and luggage
weight should be located so that the
vehicle is balanced.

D Be sure to reinstall the tire inflation

valve caps. Without the valve caps,
dirt or moisture could get into the valve
core and cause air leakage. If the caps
have been lost, have new ones put on
as soon as possible.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Checking and replacing tires
Tread wear indicator

Check the tires regularly for damage
such as cuts, splits and cracks. If any
damage is found, consult with a technician and have the tire repaired or replaced.
Even if the damage does not appear serious, a qualified technician should examine
the damage. Objects which have penetrated the tire may have caused internal
damage.
Any tires which are over 6 years old
must be checked by a qualified technician even if damage is not obvious.

CHECKING YOUR TIRES
Check the tire tread for the tread wear
indicators. If the indicators show, replace the tires.
The tires on your Toyota have built−in
tread wear indicators to help you know
when the tires need replacement. When
the tread depth wears to 1.6 mm (0.06
in.) or less, the indicators will appear. If
you can see the indicators in two or more
adjacent grooves, the tire should be replaced. The lower the tread, the higher
the risk of skidding.
The effectiveness of snow tires is lost
if the tread wears down below 4 mm
(0.16 in.).

Tires deteriorate with age even if they
have never or seldom been used.
This also applies to the spare tire and
tires stored for future use.
REPLACING YOUR TIRES
Two−wheel drive models—When replacing a tire, use only the same size and
construction as originally installed and
with the same or greater load capacity.
Four−wheel drive models—When replacing tires, make sure all the tires are the
same brand. Only use the same size
and construction as the originally
installed tires, with the same or greater
load capacity.
2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

Using any other size or type of tire may
seriously affect handling, ride, speedometer/odometer calibration, ground clearance,
and clearance between the body and tires
or snow chains.

CAUTION

D Do not mix radial, bias belted, or

bias−ply tires on your vehicle. It
can cause dangerous handling characteristics, resulting in loss of control.

D Do not use tire or wheels other
than the manufacturer’s
mended size.

recom-

NOTICE
Four−wheel drive models:
Do not use tires of different brands,
sizes and constructions. This may
damage the drive system.
Toyota recommends all four tires, or at
least both front or rear tires be replaced as a set.
See “If you have a flat tire” on page 214
in Section 4 for tire change procedure.

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Rotating tires
When rotating tires, check for uneven
wear and damage. Abnormal wear is usually caused by incorrect tire pressure, improper wheel alignment, out−of−balance
wheels, or severe braking.

When a tire is replaced, the wheel
should always be balanced.
An unbalanced wheel may affect vehicle
handling and tire life. Wheels can get out
of balance with regular use and should
therefore be balanced occasionally.
When replacing a tubeless tire, the air
valve should also be replaced with a
new one.

To equalize tire wear and help extend
tire life, Toyota recommends that you
rotate your tires according to the maintenance schedule. (For scheduled maintenance information, please refer to the
“Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or
“Owner’s Manual Supplement”.) However, the most appropriate timing for tire
rotation may vary according to your
driving habits and road surface conditions.
See “If you have a flat tire” on page 214
in Section 4 for tire change procedure.

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Installing snow tires and
chains
WHEN TO
CHAINS

USE

SNOW

TIRES

Snow tires or chains are recommended
when driving on snow or ice.
On wet or dry roads, conventional tires
provide better traction than snow tires.
SNOW TIRE SELECTION
If you need snow tires, select the same
size, construction and load capacity as
the original tires on your Toyota.
Do not use tires other than those mentioned above. Do not install studded tires
without first checking local regulations for
possible restrictions.

NOTICE
Four−wheel drive models:
Do not use tires of different brands,
sizes and constructions. This may
damage the drive system.

SNOW TIRE INSTALLATION

Side chain

Snow tires should be installed on all
wheels.
Installing snow tires on the front wheels
only can lead to an excessive difference
in road grip capability between the front
and rear tires, which could cause loss of
vehicle control.

Cross chain

When storing removed tires, you should
store them in a cool dry place.
Mark the direction of rotation and be sure
to install them in the same direction when
replacing.

CAUTION

D Do not drive with the snow tires
incorrectly inflated.

D Never drive over 120 km/h (75 mph)
with any type of snow tires.

TIRE CHAIN SELECTION
Use the tire chains of correct size.
Use the following type chains.
A
B
C
D
E
F

Diameter of side chain
Width of side chain
Length of side chain
Diameter of cross chain
Width of cross chain
Length of cross chain

mm (in.)
3 (0.12)
10 (0.39)
30 (1.18)
4 (0.16)
14 (0.55)
25 (0.98)

Regulations regarding the use of tire
chains vary according to location or
type of road, so always check them
before installing chains.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

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Replacing wheels
NOTICE

CAUTION

If the wrong combination of tire and
chain is used, the chains could damage the vehicle body.

D Do not exceed 50 km/h (30 mph) or

CHAIN INSTALLATION
Install the chains on the front tires as
tightly as possible. Do not use tire
chains on the rear tires. Retighten
chains
after
driving
0.5—1.0
km
(1/4—1/2 mile).
When installing chains on your tires, carefully follow the instructions of the chain
manufacturer.
If wheel covers are used, they will be
scratched by the chain band, so remove
the covers before putting on the chains.

260

the chain manufacturer’s recommended speed limit, whichever is
lower.

D Drive

carefully avoiding bumps,
holes, and sharp turns, which may
cause the vehicle to bounce.

WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR WHEELS
If you have wheel damage such as
bending, cracks or heavy corrosion, the
wheel should be replaced.
If you fail to replace damaged wheels, the
tire may slip off the wheel or cause loss
of handling control.
WHEEL SELECTION

D Avoid sharp turns or locked−wheel

When replacing wheels, care should be
taken to ensure that the wheels are replaced by ones with the same load capacity, diameter, rim width, and offset.

D When driving with chains installed,

Correct replacement wheels are available
at your Toyota dealer.

braking, as use of chains may adversely affect vehicle handling.
be sure to drive carefully. Slow
down before entering the curves to
avoid losing control of the vehicle.
Otherwise an accident may occur.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

A wheel of a different size or type may
adversely affect handling, wheel and bearing life, brake cooling, speedometer/odometer calibration, stopping ability, headlight
aim, bumper height, vehicle ground clearance, and tire or snow chain clearance to
the body and chassis.

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Replacement with used wheels is not recommended as they may have been subjected to rough treatment or high mileage
and could fail without warning. Also, bent
wheels which have been straightened may
have structural damage and therefore
should not be used. Never use an inner
tube in a leaking wheel which is designed
for a tubeless tire.

NOTICE
Four−wheel drive models:
Do not use wheels of different
brands, sizes and types. This may
damage the drive system.

Aluminum wheel precautions
D When installing aluminum wheels,

check that the wheel nuts are tight
after driving your vehicle the first 1600
km (1000 miles).

D If

you have
changed your
wheel nuts are
1600 km (1000

rotated, repaired, or
tires, check that the
still tight after driving
miles).

D When using tire chains, be careful not
to damage the aluminum wheels.

D Use only the Toyota wheel nuts and
wrench designed for
wheels.

your

aluminum

D When balancing your wheels, use only

Toyota balance weights or equivalent
and a plastic or rubber hammer.

D As with any wheel, periodically check

your aluminum wheels for damage. If
damaged, replace immediately.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

261

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

262

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

SECTION
DO−IT−YOURSELF MAINTENANCE

7− 3

Electrical components
Checking battery condition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Battery recharging precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking and replacing fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adding washer fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing light bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

264
265
266
267
268

263

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Checking battery condition—
—Precautions
CAUTION
BATTERY PRECAUTIONS
The battery produces flammable and
explosive hydrogen gas.

D Do not cause a spark from the battery with tools.

D Do not smoke or light a match near
the battery.

The electrolyte contains poisonous
and corrosive sulfuric acid.

D Avoid contact with eyes, skin or
clothes.

D Never ingest electrolyte.
D Wear protective safety glasses when
working near the battery.

D Keep children away from the battery.

EMERGENCY MEASURES

D If electrolyte gets in your eyes,

—Checking battery exterior
D If electrolyte gets on your skin,

Ground cable

D If electrolyte gets on your clothes,

there is a possibility of its soaking
through to your skin, so immediately take off the exposed clothing and
follow the procedure above, if necessary.

D If you accidentally swallow electro-

lyte, drink a large quantity of water
or milk. Follow with milk of magnesia, beaten raw egg or vegetable
oil. Then go immediately for emergency help.

flush your eyes with clean water
immediately and get immediate
medical attention. If possible, continue to apply water with a sponge
or cloth while en route to the medical office.

264

Terminals

thoroughly wash the contact area. If
you feel pain or burning, get medical attention immediately.

Hold−down clamp

Check the battery for corroded or loose
terminal connections, cracks, or loose
hold−down clamp.
a. If the battery is corroded, wash it off
with a solution of warm water and baking soda. Coat the outside of the terminals with grease to prevent further corrosion.
b. If the terminal connections are loose,
tighten their clamp nuts—but do not
overtighten.
c. Tighten the hold−down clamp only
enough to keep the battery firmly in
place. Overtightening may damage the
battery case.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Checking battery fluid
NOTICE
z Be sure the engine and all accessories are off before performing maintenance.
z When checking the battery, remove
the ground cable from the negative
terminal (“−” mark) first and reinstall it last.

Type A

Battery recharging precautions

Dark

Clear or
light yellow

White

Red

Green

During recharging, the battery is producing hydrogen gas.
Therefore, before recharging:
1. If recharging with the battery installed
on the vehicle, be sure to disconnect
the ground cable.

Type B
Blue

2. Be sure the power switch on the recharger is off when connecting the
charger cables to the battery and when
disconnecting them.

z Be careful not to cause a short circuit with tools.
z Take care no solution gets into the
battery when washing it.

CAUTION

D Always charge the battery in an un-

CHECKING BY HYDROMETER
Check the battery
hydrometer color.
Hydrometer color
Type A

Type B

Green

Blue

Dark
Clear or
light
yellow

White

Red

condition

the

Condition
Good
Charging necessary.
Have battery
checked by your
Toyota dealer.

Have battery
checked by your
Toyota dealer.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

confined area. Do not charge the
battery in a garage or closed room
where there is not sufficient ventilation.

D Only do a slow charge (5 A or

less). Charging at a quicker rate is
dangerous. The battery may explode, causing personal injuries.

NOTICE
Never recharge the battery while the
engine is running. Also, be sure all
accessories are turned off.

265

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Checking and replacing fuses

Good

Blown

Type A

Good

Blown

Type C

If the headlights or other electrical
components do not work, check the
fuses. If any of the fuses are blown,
they must be replaced.
See “Fuse locations” on page 246 in Section 7−1 for locations of the fuses.
Turn the ignition switch and inoperative
component off. Pull a suspected fuse
straight out and check it.

Good

Determine which fuse may be causing the
problem. The lid of the fuse box shows
the name of the circuit for each fuse. See
on page 278 in Section 8 of this manual
for the functions controlled by each circuit.

Blown

Type B

266

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Adding washer fluid
Type A fuses can be pulled out by using
the pull−out tool. The location of the pull−
out tool is shown in the illustration.
If you are not sure whether the fuse has
blown, try replacing the suspected fuse
with one that you know is good.
If the fuse has blown, push a new fuse
into the clip.
Only install a fuse with the amperage rating designated on the fuse box lid.

If the new fuse immediately blows out,
there is a problem with the electrical system. Have your Toyota dealer correct it as
soon as possible.

CAUTION
Never use a fuse with a higher amperage rating, or any other object, in
place of a fuse. This may cause extensive damage and possibly a fire.

If you do not have a spare fuse, in an
emergency you can pull out the “RADIO
NO.1” or “RADIO NO.2” fuse, which may
be dispensable for normal driving, and use
it if its amperage rating is the same.

If any washer does not work or low
windshield washer fluid level warning
light comes on, the washer tank may be
empty. Add washer fluid.
You may use plain water as washer fluid.
However, in cold areas where temperatures range below freezing point, use
washer fluid containing antifreeze. This
product is available at your Toyota dealer
and most auto parts stores. Follow the
manufacturer’s directions for how much to
mix with water.

NOTICE
Do not use engine antifreeze or any
other substitute because it may damage your vehicle’s paint.

If you cannot use one of the same amperage, use one that is lower, but as close
as possible to the rating. If the amperage
is lower than that specified, the fuse
might blow out again but this does not
indicate anything wrong. Be sure to get
the correct fuse as soon as possible and
return the substitute to its original clip.
It is a good idea to purchase a set of
spare fuses and keep them in your vehicle for emergencies.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

267

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Replacing light bulbs—
The following illustrations show how to
gain access to the bulbs. When replacing
a bulb, make sure the ignition switch and
light switch are off. Use bulbs with the
wattage ratings given in the table.

CAUTION

D To prevent yourself from burning,

do not replace the light bulbs while
they are hot.

D Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas

The inside of the lens of exterior lights
such as headlights may temporarily fog up
when the lens becomes wet in the rain or
in a car wash. This is not a problem
because the fogging is caused by the
temperature difference between the outside
and inside of the lens, just like the
windshield fogged up in the rain. However,
if there is a large drop of water on the
inside of the lens, or if there is water
pooled inside the light, contact your
Toyota dealer.

inside and require special handling.
They can burst or shatter if
scratched or dropped. Hold a bulb
only by its plastic or metal case.
Do not touch the glass part of a
bulb with bare hands.

NOTICE
Only use a bulb of the listed type.

268

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

Light bulbs

Bulb
No.

Type

Headlights (low)

9006

Headlights (high)

9005

Front fog lights

—

Front turn signals/
parking and front
side marker lights

—

21/5

Rear turn signal
lights

—

Stop/tail lights

7443

21/5

Rear side marker

4CP

Back−up lights

7440

License plate light

4CP

High mounted
stop light

921

Interior lights

—

Personal light

—

Vanity lights

—

1.5

Door courtesy
lights

—

Glove box light

—

1.2

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Headlights
A:
B:
C:
D:
E:
F:
G:

HB3 halogen bulbs
HB4 halogen bulbs
H3 halogen bulbs
Wedge base bulbs
Wedge base bulbs (amber)
Single end bulbs
Double end bulbs

1. Open the hood. Turn the bulb base
counterclockwise to the front of the
vehicle as shown.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

2. Pull the bulb out of the bulb base
and install a new bulb.
If the connector is tight, wiggle it.

269

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—Front fog, front turn signal/
parking and rear side marker
lights
If either the left or right front fog, front
turn signal/parking or rear side marker
lights burns out, contact your Toyota
dealer.

NOTICE
Do not try to replace any of the light
bulbs mentioned above by yourself.
You may damage the vehicle.

3. Insert the bulb base into the mounting hole by turning it clockwise.
Aiming is not necessary after replacing
the bulb. When aiming adjustment is necessary, contact your Toyota dealer.

270

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

—Rear turn signal, stop/tail
and back−up lights

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—High mounted stoplight

a:
b:
c:
d:

Stop/tail light
Rear turn signal light
Stop/tail light
Back−up light

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

271

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

—License plate light

Use a Phillips−head screwdriver.

272

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

SECTION

SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions and weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

274
274
275
275
277
278

273

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Dimensions and weight

Engine
Two−wheel drive models

Four−wheel drive models

Overall length

mm (in.)

4685 (184.4)

Overall width

mm (in.)

1825

(71.9)

1825

(71.9)

(66.1)∗1

1690
1745

(66.5)∗1
(68.7)∗2

Overall height

mm (in.)

1680
1735

Wheelbase

mm (in.)

2715 (106.9)

Front tread

mm (in.)

1580

(62.2)

1575

(62.0)

Rear tread

mm (in.)

1565

(61.6)

1555

(61.2)

Vehicle capacity
weight (occupants
+ luggage)
∗1 :
∗2 :

274

420

(68.3)∗2

(925)

420

(925)

kg (lb.)

Unladen vehicle (without roof rails)
Unladen vehicle (with roof rails)

Model:
2AZ−FE and 1MZ−FE
Type:
2AZ−FE engine
4 cylinder in line, 4 cycle, gasoline
1MZ−FE engine
6 cylinder V type 4 cycle, gasoline
Bore and stroke, mm (in.):
2AZ−FE engine
88.5
96.0 (3.48
3.78)
1MZ−FE engine
87.5
83.0 (3.44

1MZ−FE engine
2995 (182.8)

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

3.27)

Displacement, cm3 (cu. in.):
2AZ−FE engine
2362 (144.1)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Fuel

Service specifications

Fuel type:
2AZ−FE engine
Unleaded gasoline, Octane Rating 87
(Research Octane Number 91) or
higher

ENGINE

ENGINE LUBRICATION

Valve clearance (engine cold), mm (in.):
2AZ−FE engine
Intake
0.19—0.29 (0.007—0.011)
Exhaust
0.30—0.40 (0.012—0.016)

Oil capacity (drain and refill), L (qt., Imp.
qt.):

1MZ−FE engine
Unleaded gasoline, Octane Rating 87
(Research Octane Number 91) or
higher. For improved vehicle performance, the use of premium unleaded
gasoline with an Octane Rating of 91
(Research Octane Number 96) or
higher is recommended.
Fuel tank capacity, L (gal., Imp. gal.):
75 (19.8, 16.5)

1MZ−FE engine
Intake
0.15—0.25 (0.006—0.010)
Exhaust
0.25—0.35 (0.010—0.014)
Spark plug type:
DENSO
NGK

SK20R11
IFR6A11

Spark plug gap, mm(in.):
1.1 (0.043)
Drive belt tension measured with Borroughs
drive
belt
tension
gauge
No.BT−33−73F (used belt), Ibf:
2AZ−FE engine
Automatic adjustment

2AZ−FE engine
With filter
Without filter

3.8 (4.0, 3.3)
3.6 (3.8, 3.2)

1MZ−FE engine
With filter
Without filter

4.7 (5.0, 4.1)
4.5 (4.8, 4.0)

Oil grade:
API grade SJ, “Energy−Conserving” or
ILSAC multigrade engine oil is recommended.
Recommended oil viscosity (SAE):

5W-30 Preferred

1MZ−FE engine
115"20

Temperature range anticipated before
next oil change

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

275

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

COOLING SYSTEM

AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE

Total capacity, L (qt., Imp. qt.):
2AZ−FE engine
6.4 (6.8, 5.6)
1MZ−FE engine
9.4 (9.9, 8.2)

Fluid capacity (drain and refill), L (qt.,
Imp. qt.):

Coolant type:
“TOYOTA Long Life Coolant” or equivalent
With ethylene−glycol type coolant for a
proper corrosion protection of aluminum
components
Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or
plain water alone.
BATTERY
Open voltage∗ at 20_C (68_F):
12.6—12.8V Fully charged
12.2—12.4V Half charged
11.8—12.0V Discharged
∗: Voltage that is checked 20 minutes after the key is removed with all the lights
turned off

Charging rates:
5 A max.

276

Two−wheel drive models
Up to 3.3 (3.5, 2.9)
Four−wheel drive models
Up to 3.9 (4.1, 3.4)
Fluid type:
Automatic transmission fluid Type T−IV
Change automatic transmission fluid only
as necessary.
Generally, it is necessary to change
automatic transmission fluid only if your
vehicle is driven under one of the Special
Operating Conditions
listed
in your
“Scheduled
Maintenance
Guide”
or
“Owner’s Manual Supplement”. When
changing the automatic transmission fluid,
use only Toyota Genuine ATF Type T−IV
(ATF JWS3309 or NWS6500) to aid in
assuring optimum transaxle performance.
Notice: Using automatic transmission
fluid other than Toyota Genuine ATF
Type T−IV may cause deterioration in
shift quality, locking up of your transmission accompanied by vibration, and
ultimately damage the automatic transmission of your vehicle.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

TRANSFER
(four−wheel drive models)
Oil capacity, L (qt., Imp. qt.):
0.9 (1.0, 0.8)
Oil type:
Hypoid gear oil API GL−5
Recommended oil viscosity:
Above −18_C (0_F)
SAE 90
Below −18_C (0_F)
SAE 80W or 80W−90
REAR DIFFERENTIAL
(four−wheel drive models)
Oil capacity, L (qt., Imp. qt.):
0.9 (1.0, 0.8)
Oil type:
Hypoid gear oil API GL−5
Recommended oil viscosity:
Above −18_C (0_F)
SAE 90
Below −18_C (0_F)
SAE 80W or 80W−90

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Tires
BRAKES

STEERING

Minimum pedal clearance when depressed
with the force of 490 N (50 kgf, 110 lbf)
with the engine running, mm (in.):
106 (4.2)

Wheel free play:
Less than 30 mm (1.2 in.)

Pedal free play, mm (in.):
1—6 (0.04—0.24)

Power steering fluid type:
Automatic transmission fluid DEXRONrII
or III

Pad wear limit, mm (in.):
1.0 (0.04)
Lining wear limit, mm (in.):
1.0 (0.04)
Parking brake adjustment when depressed
with the force of 294 N (30 kgf, 66 lbf):
5—7 clicks

Tire size:
P225/70R16 101S
Tire pressure, kPa (kgf/cm2 or bar, psi):
210 (2.1, 30)
When driving under the above vehicle load
conditions at sustained high speeds above
160 km/h (100 mph), in countries where
such speeds are permitted by−law, inflate
the front and rear tires to 240 kPa (2.4
kgf/cm2 or bar, 35 psi) provided that it
does not exceed the maximum cold tire
pressure molded on the tire sidewall.
Wheel size:
16
6 1/2JJ
Wheel nut torque, N·m (kgf·m, ft·lbf):
103 (10.5, 76)

Fluid type:
SAE J1703 or FMVSS No.116 DOT 3

NOTE: For a complete information on
tires (e.g. replacing tires or replacing wheels), see “Checking
tire pressure” through “Aluminum
wheel precautions”, pages 256
through 261, in Section 7−2.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

277

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Fuses

Instrument panel

Engine compartment
(with daytime running light system)

Fuses (type A)

8. HORN 10 A: Horns

1. STARTER 7.5 A: Multiport fuel injection
system/sequential multiport fuel injection system

9. SECURITY 15 A: Theft deterrent system

2. ABS3 7.5 A: Vehicle skid control system
3. HEAD LP RH LWR 15 A: Right−hand
headlight (low beam)
4. HEAD LP LH LWR 15 A: Left−hand
headlight (low beam)
5. A/F 25 A: Air fuel ratio sensor
Engine compartment

6. ALT−S 7.5 A: Charging system
7. TOWING 20 A: Trailer lights

278

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

10. HEAD LP RH UPR 10 A: Right−hand
headlight (high beam)
11. ECU−B 7.5 A: Theft deterrent system,
air conditioning system, vehicle skid
control system, gauges and meters,
wireless remote control system, power
door lock
12. EFI 20 A: Multiport fuel injection system/sequential multiport fuel injection
system, fuel pump, engine immobiliser
system

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

13. DOOR LOCK 25 A: Power door lock
system, theft deterrent system
14. HEAD LP LH UPR 10 A: Left−hand
headlight (high beam)
15. RADIO NO.1 25 A: Car audio system
16. DOME 10 A: Personal light, interior
lights, vanity mirror lights, ignition
switch light, wireless remote control
system, gauges and meters

29. WIPER 25 A: Windshield wipers and
washer
30. P RR DOOR 20 A: Power windows
31. P FR DOOR 25 A: Power windows,
door courtesy lights, power door lock
system

39. IG2 15 A: Multiport fuel injection system/sequential multiport fuel injection
system, charging system, starter system
40. WASHER 20 A: Washer
warning light

fluid level

32. S/ROOF 20 A: Electric moon roof

41. RR FOG 7.5 A: No circuit

33. HEATER 15 A: Air conditioning system,
electric cooling fan, rear defogger, outside rear view mirror defogger, gauges
and meters

42. FR DEF 20 A: Air conditioning system,
outside rear view mirror defoggers
43. D FR DOOR 20 A: Power windows,
door courtesy lights
44. TAIL 10 A: Tail lights, license plate
lights, instrument panel lights, front fog
lights, front side marker lights, rear
side marker lights, parking lights

21. IGN 7.5 A: Gauges and meters, SRS
airbag system

34. IG1 7.5 A: Back up lights, vehicle skid
control system, multiport fuel injection
system/sequential multiport fuel injection system, outside rear view mirror
heaters, power door lock system, wireless remote control system

22. RADIO NO.2 7.5 A: Car audio system

35. RR WIP 15 A: Rear window wiper

23. CIG 15 A: Cigarette lighter

36. STOP 20 A: Stop lights, high mounted
stoplight, anti−lock brake system, vehicle skid control system, shift lock
system, cruise control system, multiport
fuel injection system/sequential multiport fuel injection system

17. HAZARD 15 A: Emergency flashers,
instrument panel light
18. SPARE 7.5 A: Spare fuse
19. SPARE 15 A: Spare fuse
20. SPARE 25 A: Spare fuse

24. D RR DOOR 20 A: Power windows
25. PWR OUTLET 15 A: Power outlets
26. FR FOG 10 A: Front fog lights
27. SRS−IG 15 A: SRS airbag system
28. ECU−IG 15 A: Electric moon roof,
anti−lock brake system, vehicle skid
control system, shift lock system,
charging system, cruise control system,
emergency flashers, starting system

37. OBD 7.5 A: On−board diagnosis system
38. SEAT HTR 15 A: Seat heaters

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

45. PANEL 7.5 A: Instrument panel lights
46. DRL 7.5 A: Daytime running light system
Fuses (type B)
47. AM2 30 A: Multiport fuel injection system/sequential multiport fuel injection
system, starting system
48. ABS2 40 A: Anti−lock brake system,
vehicle skid control system
49. ABS1 40 A: Anti−lock brake system,
vehicle skid control system
50. HEATER 50 A: Air conditioning system

279

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

51. RDI 30 A: Electric cooling fans
52. RR DEF 30 A: Rear window defoggers
53. CDS 30 A: Electric cooling fans
54. RDI 50 A: No circuit
55. MAIN 40 A: “HEAD LP RH LWR”,
“HEAD LP LH LWR”, “HEAD LP RH
UPR” and “HEAD LP LH UPR” fuses
56. AM1 40 A: Multiport fuel injection system/sequential multiport fuel injection
system, starting system
57. POWER 30 A: Power seat
Fuse (type C)
58. ALT 140 A: “ABS1”, “ABS2”, “RDI”,
“CDS”, “RR DEF”, “HEATER”, “AM1”,
“AM2”,
“TAIL”,
“PANEL”,
“STOP”,
“S/ROOF” and “SEAT HTR” fuses

280

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

SECTION

REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS FOR U.S.
OWNERS AND UNIFORM TIRE QUALITY
GRADING
Reporting safety defects for U.S. owners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 282
Uniform tire quality grading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 282

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

281

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Reporting safety defects
for U.S. owners
If you believe that your vehicle
has a defect which could cause a
crash or could cause injury or
death, you should immediately inform the National Highway Traffic
Safety Administration (NHTSA) in
addition to notifying Toyota Motor
Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
(Toll−free: 1−800−331−4331).
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation, and if it finds that a safety
defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may order a recall and
remedy
campaign.
However,
NHTSA cannot become involved
in individual problems between
you, your dealer, or Toyota Motor
Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

282

Uniform tire quality grading
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline
toll−free at 1−800−424−9393 (or
366−0123 in Washington, D.C.
area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S.
Department of Transportation,
Washington, D.C. 20590. You can
also obtain other information about
motor vehicle safety from the Hotline.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

This information has been prepared in accordance with regulations issued by the
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation. It provides the purchasers and/
or prospective purchasers of Toyota
vehicles with information on uniform tire
quality grading.
Your Toyota dealer will help answer any
questions you may have as you read this
information.
DOT quality grades—All passenger car
tires must conform to Federal Safety
Requirements in addition to these
grades. Quality grades can be found
where applicable on the tire sidewall
between tread shoulder and maximum
section width. For example: Treadwear
200 Traction AA Temperature A

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Treadwear—The treadwear grade is a
comparative rating based on the wear rate
of the tire when tested under controlled
conditions on a specified government test
course. For example, a tire graded 150
would wear one and a half (1−1/2) times
as well on the government course as a
tire graded 100. The relative performance
of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to
variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.

Traction AA, A, B, C—The traction
grades, from highest to lowest, are AA, A,
B, and C, and they represent the tire’s
ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt
and concrete. A tire marked C may have
poor traction performance.

Warning: The temperature grades for this
tire are established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive
loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible
tire failure.

Warning: The traction grade assigned to
this tire is based on braking (straight
ahead) traction tests and does not include
cornering (turning) traction.
Temperature A, B, C—The temperature
grades are A (the highest), B, and C,
representing the tire’s resistance to the
generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled
conditions on a specified indoor laboratory
test wheel. Sustained high temperature
can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire
failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car
tires must meet under the Federal Motor
Vehicle Safety Standard No.109. Grades B
and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than
the minimum required by law.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

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’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

284

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

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U −3

Quick index
D If a service reminder indicator or warning buzzer comes on . . . . . . . . 102
D If your vehicle will not start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210
D If your engine stalls while driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
D If your vehicle overheats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
D If you have a flat tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214
D If your vehicle needs to be towed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221
D Tips for driving during break−in period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
D How to start the engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
D General maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 239
D Complete index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NO TAG

Gas station information
Fuel type:
2AZ−FE engine: UNLEADED gasoline, Octane Rating 87
(Research Octane Number 91) or higher
1MZ−FE engine: UNLEADED gasoline, Octane Rating 87
(Research Octane Number 91) or higher
For improved vehicle performance, the use of premium unleaded
gasoline with an Octane Rating of 91 (Research Octane Number 96)
or higher is recommended.
See page 179 for detailed information.
Fuel tank capacity:
75 L (19.8 gal., 16.5 lmp.gal.)
Engine oil:
API grade SJ, “Energy−Conserving” or ILSAC multigrade engine oil is
recommended.
See page 252 for detailed information.
Tire information: See pages 256 through 261.
Tire pressure: See page 277.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

Publication No. OM48432U
Part No. 01999-48432
Printed in Japan 01-0106-00 C

(

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

You should know as much about the quality and
importance of proper maintenance of your new
vehicle as the people who built it.
The Toyota authorized Repair Manual
tells you how to maintain your vehicle and
enables you to correctly perform your own
maintenance.
The best way to keep your new vehicle in top
running order is to maintain it properly from
the moment you drive it off the showroom
floor.
The Toyota authorized Repair Manual is
packed with literally everything you need to
know to perform your own maintenance in
virtually every area of your new vehicle.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Maintenance procedures for the engine,
chassis, body, electrical system, and more,
are clearly explained and illustrated.
Periodic maintenance and tune−up
Periodic maintenance and tune−up helps to prevent
small problems from growing into larger ones later on.
The repair manual outlines exactly what maintenance
is required and clearly explains how to do the work
yourself step−by−step.
Areas covered include such things as spark plug replacement, valve clearance adjustment and engine oil
and filter replacement.

Where to obtain the
Repair Manual
The repair manual for HIGHLANDER, written in
English, may be purchased as applicable from any
Toyota dealer.
Pub. Name: 2001 HIGHLANDER Repair Manual
Pub. No.: RM837U1 (Maintenance, Preparation,
Service specifications and Diagnostics)
RM837U2 (Engine, Chassis, Body and
Electrical)

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

Foreword
Welcome to the growing group of value−conscious people who drive Toyotas. We are proud of the advanced engineering and
quality construction of each vehicle we build.
This Owner’s Manual explains the operation of your new Toyota. Please read it thoroughly and have all the occupants
follow the instructions carefully. Doing so will help you enjoy many years of safe and trouble−free motoring. For
important information about this manual and your Toyota, read the following pages carefully.
When it comes to service, remember that your Toyota dealer knows your vehicle best and is interested in your complete
satisfaction. He will provide quality maintenance and any other assistance you may require.
If there is not a Toyota dealer near you, or you need emergency assistance for any reason, please call the following number:

D U.S. OWNERS:
Toyota Customer Assistance Center
D CANADIAN OWNERS: Toyota Canada Customer Interaction Centre

Toll−free:1−800−331−4331
Toll−free:1−888−TOYOTA−8 (1−888−869−6828)

Please leave this Owner’s Manual in this vehicle at the time of resale. The next owner will need this information also.
All information and specifications in this manual are current at the time of printing. However, because of Toyota’s policy of
continual product improvement, we reserve the right to make changes at any time without notice.
Please note that this manual applies to all models and explains all equipment, including options. Therefore, you may
find some explanations for equipment not installed on your vehicle.

TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

’01 HIGHLANDER_U (L/O 0106)

WE REALLY CARE ABOUT YOU PLEASE BUCKLE UP
Toyota has made a special effort to encourage use of seat belts.
Toyota belts are:

D Comfortable
D Easy to use
D Convenient
We encourage you to use your belts every time you drive.

2001 MY HIGHLANDER_U (OM48432U)

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Toyota 2001 Highlander Owners Manual

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