FAULTBASE
Error CodesASKCars
© 2026 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
What are the common problems with the Toyota Safety Sense features in a 2020 Highlander? - Toyota Highlander
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/Fourth Generation (2020-present)/What are the common problems with the Toyota Safety Sense features in a 2020 Highlander?

What are the common problems with the Toyota Safety Sense features in a 2020 Highlander?

Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes
medium
Difficulty
medium
Severity
Navigation
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
4 min read
686 words

Problem Statement

Explore common issues with Toyota Safety Sense features in the 2020 Highlander, including symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component
Toyota Safety Sense

Symptoms

  • •Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) does not engage
  • •ACC disengages unexpectedly
  • •Warning lights on the dashboard (e.g., cruise control indicator flashing)
  • •Lane Departure Alert (LDA) does not activate
  • •System alerts are inaccurate or overly sensitive
  • •No steering assistance when drifting out of lanes
  • •Frequent false alerts of potential collisions
  • •Warning beeps when no obstacle is present
  • •Pre-Collision System (PCS) shutting down unexpectedly
  • •Automatic High Beam (AHB) feature does not activate
  • •High beams flicker on and off unexpectedly
  • •Manual operation of high beams works, but automatic does not

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6
  7. 7
  8. 8
  9. 9
  10. 10
  11. 11
  12. 12

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

  • ✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
  • ✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
  • ✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

  • •Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
  • •Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
  • •Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
  • •Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

  • •OBD-II scanner
  • •Clean cloth or soft brush for sensor cleaning
  • •Calibration tools (if needed)
  • •Inspection tools (flashlight, mirror)

Additional Information

Affected Component
Toyota Safety Sense
Difficulty
medium
Severity
medium
Tools Required
4 items

Related Faults

Loading...

Share this solution

Comments

Sign in to share your thoughts

Sign In

No comments yet

Be the first to share your thoughts

Back to Generation
Common Problems with Toyota Safety Sense Features in a 2020 Highlander

The Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) system in the 2020 Highlander is designed to enhance safety and prevent accidents, but there can be occasional issues. Below are common problems, their symptoms, diagnostic steps, tools required, and potential repair instructions.

1. Adaptive Cruise Control Malfunction

Symptoms:

  • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) does not engage.
  • ACC disengages unexpectedly.
  • Warning lights on the dashboard (e.g., cruise control indicator flashing).

Diagnostic Steps:

  1. Check the Dashboard Indicators: Look for any warning lights related to the cruise control system.
  2. Inspect the Front Radar Sensor: The sensor located behind the Toyota emblem may be obstructed by dirt, snow, or debris.
  3. Verify System Settings: Ensure that the TSS settings are properly configured in the vehicle’s menu.

Tools Required:

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Clean cloth or soft brush for sensor cleaning

Repair Instructions:

  1. Scan for Error Codes: Connect the OBD-II scanner to the vehicle and check for any error codes related to ACC or TSS.
  2. Clean the Radar Sensor: If the radar sensor is dirty, gently clean it with a soft cloth or brush.
  3. Reset the System: If error codes are present, clear them using the OBD-II scanner, then test the system again.

2. Lane Departure Alert System Issues

Symptoms:

  • Lane Departure Alert (LDA) does not activate.
  • System alerts are inaccurate or overly sensitive.
  • No steering assistance when drifting out of lanes.

Diagnostic Steps:

  1. Check for Calibration: Ensure that the Lane Departure Alert camera is properly calibrated.
  2. Inspect Camera Lens: Look for any obstructions or damage to the camera lens located on the windshield.
  3. Test the System: Drive the vehicle and observe the behavior of the LDA.

Tools Required:

  • Calibration tools (if needed)
  • Clean cloth for lens cleaning

Repair Instructions:

  1. Inspect and Clean the Camera: Clean the camera lens if it appears dirty or obstructed.
  2. Calibrate the System: If necessary, follow the manufacturer's service manual for calibration procedures using appropriate tools.
  3. Perform a Test Drive: Ensure LDA functions as expected after repairs.

3. Pre-Collision System False Alerts

Symptoms:

  • Frequent false alerts of potential collisions.
  • Warning beeps when no obstacle is present.
  • Pre-Collision System (PCS) shutting down unexpectedly.

Diagnostic Steps:

  1. Check for Obstructions: Inspect the front grille area and radar sensor for any debris or modifications.
  2. Scan for Diagnostic Codes: Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any relevant codes.
  3. Evaluate Sensor Performance: Conduct a performance test of the PCS functionality.

Tools Required:

  • OBD-II scanner
  • Inspection tools (flashlight, mirror)

Repair Instructions:

  1. Remove Obstructions: Clear any debris or obstructions from the radar sensor area.
  2. Reset the System: Clear any diagnostic codes and reset the PCS using the OBD-II scanner.
  3. Test the System: Drive the vehicle and observe whether false alerts continue.

4. Automatic High Beams Not Engaging

Symptoms:

  • Automatic High Beam (AHB) feature does not activate.
  • High beams flicker on and off unexpectedly.
  • Manual operation of high beams works, but automatic does not.

Diagnostic Steps:

  1. Check the Headlight Settings: Ensure that the headlight switch is set to ‘Auto’.
  2. Inspect the AHB Sensor: Verify that the sensor on the rearview mirror is clean and unobstructed.
  3. Test the AHB Functionality: Drive at night to evaluate the AHB performance.

Tools Required:

  • Inspection tools (flashlight)
  • Clean cloth

Repair Instructions:

  1. Clean the Sensor: Wipe the AHB sensor on the rearview mirror with a soft cloth.
  2. Verify Electrical Connections: Check the wiring and connections associated with the AHB sensor for damage or corrosion.
  3. Recalibrate if Necessary: If the system still does not function correctly, consult the owner's manual for recalibration procedures.
Conclusion

If any of these issues persist after performing the above diagnostic and repair steps, it is advisable to consult a certified Toyota technician or visit a Toyota service center for a comprehensive inspection. Regular software updates and system checks may also be necessary to keep the TSS features functioning optimally.