If you own a Toyota Highlander, you know that it’s a reliable vehicle that will serve you well for years to come. However, even the most reliable vehicles need maintenance from time to time. One of the most common maintenance tasks is resetting the maintenance light. This light comes on when it’s time for your Toyota Highlander to receive an oil change, tire rotation, or other service. While it’s important to keep up with your Toyota Highlander’s maintenance schedule, it can be a hassle to take your vehicle to the dealership every time the maintenance light comes on. The good news is that you can easily reset the maintenance light yourself. Here are the steps on how to do it:
To reset the maintenance light on your Toyota Highlander, you will need to:
- Turn the ignition to the “ON” position without starting the engine.
- Locate the “ODO/TRIP” button on the dashboard.
- Press and hold the “ODO/TRIP” button until the maintenance light starts to flash.
- Release the “ODO/TRIP” button and the maintenance light will reset.
Now that you know how to reset the maintenance light on your Toyota Highlander, you can save yourself the hassle of taking your vehicle to the dealership. Just be sure to keep up with your Toyota Highlander’s maintenance schedule to ensure that it continues to run smoothly for years to come.
Understanding the Maintenance Light
The maintenance light on your Toyota Highlander serves as a crucial reminder for scheduled maintenance tasks, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and other essential services. By staying on top of these maintenance intervals, you enhance the performance, efficiency, and longevity of your vehicle. Understanding the maintenance light’s operation is paramount to ensuring timely maintenance and avoiding potential issues.
The maintenance light is typically activated based on a combination of factors, including the vehicle’s odometer reading and estimated engine oil life. Some models may also use a time-based system to trigger the maintenance light, typically after a certain number of months has passed.
When the maintenance light illuminates, it is crucial to schedule a service appointment with a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Ignoring the maintenance light can lead to a decline in performance, reduced fuel efficiency, and increased risk of breakdowns. Additionally, neglecting maintenance can potentially void your vehicle’s warranty and result in costly repairs down the road.
| Maintenance Light Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Off | Scheduled maintenance not yet due |
| Flashing | Maintenance due within 500 miles |
| Steady On | Maintenance overdue |
Locating the Maintenance Button
Step 1: Park the Vehicle and Turn Ignition On
Park your Toyota Highlander on a flat surface and ensure the parking brake is engaged. Turn the ignition to the "On" position without starting the engine.
Step 2: Locate the Trip Computer Controls
On the dashboard, locate the trip computer controls. These are typically found on the left side of the instrument cluster, near the steering wheel. They may be labeled as "TRIP", "ODO", or "INFO".
Step 3: Navigate to Maintenance Screen
Use the trip computer controls to navigate through the various menus. Look for an option that says "Maintenance" or "Vehicle Information". Once you find it, press the "OK" or "Select" button.
Step 4: Find Maintenance Light Reset Option
Within the Maintenance menu, there should be an option to reset the maintenance light. It may be labeled as "Reset Maintenance Light" or "Clear Maintenance Reminder". Select this option.
Step 5: Confirm Reset
The vehicle’s display will prompt you to confirm the reset. Use the trip computer controls to select "Yes" or "OK". The maintenance light should now be reset.
Additional Tips:
- If you cannot locate the maintenance button, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions.
- It is recommended to reset the maintenance light after every service or oil change.
- Failure to reset the maintenance light may result in delayed maintenance and potential vehicle issues.
Depressing the Brake Pedal
Step 1: Locate the Trip Meter Button
Find the “Trip” button on your Toyota Highlander’s dashboard. It’s usually located near the instrument cluster.
Step 2: Press and Hold the Button
Press and hold the Trip button for a few seconds until the maintenance light begins to flash. Keep holding the button down.
Step 3: Turn the Ignition to the “ON” Position
While still holding the Trip button, turn the ignition key to the “ON” position. Don’t start the engine. Continue holding the button down.
Step 4: Release the Button
Once the maintenance light stops flashing and stays solid, release the Trip button. The maintenance light will now be reset.
Additional Details for Step 4:
If you release the Trip button too early, the maintenance light will not reset. It’s important to hold the button down until the light stops flashing and stays solid.
If the maintenance light does not reset after following the above steps, there may be another issue causing the light to remain illuminated. In this case, it’s recommended to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or a qualified mechanic for further assistance.
Inserting the Key
To begin the process of resetting the maintenance light on your Toyota Highlander, follow these steps:
- Park your vehicle: Ensure that your Highlander is parked on a flat surface and the transmission is in the “Park” position.
- Turn off the engine: Turn off the ignition completely by removing the key from the ignition switch.
- Insert the key: Reinsert the key back into the ignition, but do not turn it to the “On” position.
- Press and hold the odometer reset button: Look for the odometer reset button located on the dashboard, typically near the odometer display. Press and hold it down while proceeding to the next step.
Keep the odometer reset button pressed while performing the following actions:
- Turn the key to the “On” position: Without releasing the odometer reset button, turn the key to the “On” position, but do not start the engine.
- Wait for the maintenance light to flash: Continue holding the odometer reset button until the maintenance light on the dashboard begins to flash rapidly.
- Release the odometer reset button: Once the maintenance light starts flashing, release the odometer reset button.
- Turn the key to the “Off” position: Turn the key back to the “Off” position and remove it from the ignition switch.
- Start the engine: Start your Toyota Highlander as usual.
- Check the maintenance light: The maintenance light should now be reset and no longer illuminated on the dashboard.
Holding the Maintenance Button
Locate the “Maintenance” button on the dashboard, typically near the instrument cluster. This button is usually marked with a wrench or vehicle silhouette icon.
Press and hold the “Maintenance” button for a few seconds, typically between 5-10 seconds. Continue holding the button until the maintenance light begins to flash or the display starts to change.
Once the maintenance light starts to flash or the display changes, you can release the “Maintenance” button. This indicates that the reset process has been initiated.
Follow any additional prompts or instructions that may appear on the display. Some Toyota Highlander models may require you to confirm the reset by pressing another button or turning the ignition key.
Once the reset is complete, the maintenance light should turn off, and the display should show the regular odometer or trip information.
| Model Years | Reset Method |
|---|---|
| 2001-2007 | Hold the “Maintenance” button for 10 seconds. |
| 2008-2013 | Hold the “Maintenance” button for 5 seconds, then release and hold it again for 5 seconds. |
| 2014-2019 | Hold the “Maintenance” button for 10 seconds, then follow the on-screen prompts. |
Turning the Ignition to “ON”
Step 1: Locate the Odometer Reset Button
The odometer reset button is typically located on the left side of the instrument panel, near the speedometer. It is usually a small, black button with the words “ODO RESET.”
Step 2: Press and Hold the Odometer Reset Button
Press and hold the odometer reset button for about five seconds, or until the odometer display begins to flash.
Step 3: Turn the Ignition Key to “ON”
While continuing to hold the odometer reset button, turn the ignition key to the “ON” position, but do not start the engine.
Step 4: Release the Odometer Reset Button
Once the ignition key is in the “ON” position, release the odometer reset button. The odometer display will continue to flash.
Step 5: Press the Gas Pedal
Press the gas pedal once fully to reset the maintenance light. The maintenance light should now be turned off.
Additional Information for Table
| Step | Action |
|—|—|
| 1 | Locate the Odometer Reset Button |
| 2 | Press and Hold the Odometer Reset Button |
| 3 | Turn the Ignition Key to “ON” |
| 4 | Release the Odometer Reset Button |
| 5 | Press the Gas Pedal |
Releasing the Brake Pedal
The seventh and final step in resetting the maintenance light on Toyota Highlander is releasing the brake pedal. Once you have confirmed that the maintenance light has been reset, you can release the brake pedal and start the engine. The maintenance light should now be off, and you can drive your Highlander as usual.
Here is a table summarizing the steps involved in resetting the maintenance light on a Toyota Highlander:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position. |
| 2 | Fully depress the brake pedal. |
| 3 | Press and hold the odometer reset button. |
| 4 | Turn the ignition switch to the “OFF” position. |
| 5 | Release the odometer reset button. |
| 6 | Turn the ignition switch to the “ON” position. |
| 7 | Release the brake pedal. Confirm that the maintenance light has been reset. |
Waiting for the Light to Reset
If you don’t drive your Highlander for several hours, the maintenance light will reset on its own. However, if you need to reset the light more quickly, you can follow the steps below.
1. Turn the ignition to the “ON” position, but do not start the engine.
2. Press and hold the odometer reset button on the instrument panel.
3. While holding the odometer reset button, turn the ignition to the “START” position.
4. Continue to hold the odometer reset button until the maintenance light turns off.
5. Release the odometer reset button.
6. Turn the ignition to the “OFF” position.
7. Start the engine and check to make sure that the maintenance light is off.
| Model Year | Reset Button Location |
|---|---|
| 2020-2023 | On the instrument panel, to the left of the steering wheel. |
| 2015-2019 | On the dashboard, above the steering wheel. |
| 2010-2014 | On the instrument panel, to the right of the steering wheel. |
| 2007-2009 | On the center console, below the climate controls. |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Difficulty Completing the Reset
If you encounter difficulties resetting the maintenance required light, try the following steps:
- Ensure you follow the instructions precisely as outlined.
- Check if the battery in your remote key fob is weak or requires replacement.
- Disconnect the battery terminals for a few minutes to reset the system.
Light Does Not Reset
If the maintenance light remains on after following the reset procedure, it may indicate an underlying issue.
- Schedule a maintenance appointment to diagnose and address the problem.
Light Reappears After a Short Time
If the maintenance light re-appears shortly after resetting it, the vehicle’s computer system may have detected a new or ongoing issue that requires attention.
- Check for any warning lights or messages on the instrument cluster.
- Consult the owner’s manual for guidance or contact a Toyota dealership.
Incorrect Reset Procedure
Some older Toyota Highlander models may have slightly different reset procedures. Refer to your owner’s manual or consult with a Toyota dealership for the specific instructions.
| Model Year | Reset Procedure |
|---|---|
| 2001-2007 | Hold the odometer reset button and turn the ignition to the ‘ON’ position. Release the button and press it again 4 times quickly. Turn the ignition to the ‘OFF’ position and back to ‘ON’ to complete the reset. |
| 2008-2013 | Follow the standard procedure outlined in this article. |
| 2014-2022 | Press and hold the ‘trip’ button on the steering wheel. Turn the ignition to the ‘ON’ position and release the button. The maintenance light should reset automatically. |
Maintaining Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your Toyota Highlander in optimal condition and extending its lifespan. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
- Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule: Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended maintenance intervals and services specific to your Highlander model and year.
- Regular oil changes: Keep your engine lubricated and running smoothly with timely oil changes as per the recommended intervals.
- Tire rotations: Rotate your tires regularly to ensure even wear and extend their lifespan.
- Air filter replacement: Replace the air filter according to the manufacturer’s guidelines to maintain optimal engine performance and air quality.
- Brake inspections and service: Ensure your brakes are in good working order by getting them inspected and serviced regularly.
- Spark plug replacement: Change your spark plugs at the recommended intervals to maintain efficient engine ignition and combustion.
- Coolant flush: Flush the coolant system periodically to remove contaminants and maintain cooling system effectiveness.
- Battery service: Test and clean your battery terminals regularly to prevent corrosion and ensure reliable starting power.
- Transmission service: Maintain your transmission by having it serviced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations for fluid changes and inspections.
- Resetting the Maintenance Light:
When the “Maintenance Required” light illuminates on your Toyota Highlander, it indicates that it’s time for a scheduled maintenance service. To reset the light manually once the service has been performed:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Turn the key to the “ON” position without starting the engine. |
| 2 | Press and hold the “ODO/TRIP” button located on the left side of the instrument panel. |
| 3 | Turn the key to the “OFF” position and release the “ODO/TRIP” button. |
| 4 | Turn the key to the “ON” position again. |
| 5 | The “Maintenance Required” light should now be reset. |
How To Reset Maintenance Light On Toyota Highlander
The maintenance light on your Toyota Highlander is a reminder that it’s time for some routine maintenance. You can reset the maintenance light yourself by following these steps:
- Turn the ignition to the “ON” position, but don’t start the engine.
- Press and hold the odometer reset button for about 5 seconds.
- While holding the odometer reset button, turn the ignition to the “OFF” position.
- Release the odometer reset button.
- Turn the ignition to the “ON” position again.
- The maintenance light should now be reset.
If the maintenance light does not reset, you may need to have it reset by a dealer.
