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What should I do if my 2020 Toyota Highlander won't start? - Toyota Highlander
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/Fourth Generation (2020-present)/What should I do if my 2020 Toyota Highlander won't start?

What should I do if my 2020 Toyota Highlander won't start?

Toyota Highlander Fourth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes
2-4 hours
Time
medium
Difficulty
medium
Severity
Navigation
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
ProblemSymptomsDiagnosisSolution
4 min read
734 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix starting issues with your 2020 Toyota Highlander. Follow our step-by-step guide for effective troubleshooting.

Affected Component
Starting System
Estimated Time
2-4 hours

Symptoms

  • •Engine Cranks but Doesn't Start
  • •No Crank
  • •Dashboard Lights
  • •Battery Warning Light

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5

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

  • •Multimeter or battery tester
  • •Jumper cables
  • •Fuse puller or flathead screwdriver
  • •Replacement fuses
  • •Socket set
  • •Screwdrivers
  • •Fuel pressure gauge
  • •Safety glasses
  • •Spark tester

Additional Information

Affected Component
Starting System
Estimated Time
2-4 hours
Difficulty
medium
Severity
medium
Tools Required
9 items

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Back to Generation

If your 2020 Toyota Highlander won't start, you can troubleshoot the issue by following this structured approach. Below are the symptoms, diagnostic steps, tools required, and repair instructions.

Step 1: Check the Battery

  • Symptoms: If the dashboard lights are dim or non-functional, or if you hear a clicking sound when turning the key, the battery may be dead.

  • Tools Required:

    • Multimeter or battery tester
    • Jumper cables

  • Instructions:

    1. Visual Inspection: Check for corrosion on battery terminals and ensure they are tightly connected.
    2. Test Battery Voltage: Use a multimeter to check the battery voltage. A healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts or more.
    3. Jump Start: If the battery is low, attempt to jump-start the vehicle using jumper cables. If it starts, the battery may need replacement.

Step 2: Check Fuses

  • Symptoms: If electrical components are not functioning, a blown fuse may be the culprit.

  • Tools Required:

    • Fuse puller or flathead screwdriver
    • Replacement fuses

  • Instructions:

    1. Locate the fuse box (usually under the dashboard or in the engine compartment).
    2. Use the diagram on the fuse box cover to identify the fuses related to the ignition and starter systems.
    3. Pull each fuse and inspect it. If a fuse is blown, replace it with an identical fuse.

Step 3: Check the Starter Motor

  • Symptoms: If the engine cranks but does not start, the starter may be malfunctioning.

  • Tools Required:

    • Multimeter
    • Socket set
    • Screwdrivers

  • Instructions:

    1. Locate the starter motor (usually near the transmission).
    2. Check the electrical connections at the starter for tightness and corrosion.
    3. Test the starter by applying 12V directly to the starter solenoid from the battery. If it does not engage, the starter may be faulty and needs replacement.

Step 4: Fuel System Check

  • Symptoms: The engine cranks but does not start, indicating a possible fuel supply issue.

  • Tools Required:

    • Fuel pressure gauge
    • Screwdrivers
    • Safety glasses

  • Instructions:

    1. Locate the fuel pump fuse and relay; check if they are functioning.
    2. Attach a fuel pressure gauge to the fuel rail to check for proper pressure (should be around 35-50 psi).
    3. If no pressure or low pressure is detected, the fuel pump may need replacement.

Step 5: Check Ignition System

  • Symptoms: If the engine cranks but does not start, it may not be firing due to ignition issues.

  • Tools Required:

    • Spark tester
    • Socket set

  • Instructions:

    1. Remove one spark plug wire and connect a spark tester.
    2. Crank the engine and check for a spark. If there is no spark, the ignition coil may be faulty.
    3. If you find a faulty ignition coil, replace it and repeat the spark test.
Repair Instructions
  1. Battery Replacement: If the battery is dead or weak, replace it with a new one that meets OEM specifications.
  2. Fuse Replacement: Replace any blown fuses with the same amperage rating.
  3. Starter Replacement: If the starter is defective, remove it by unbolting it from the transmission and disconnecting the electrical connectors. Install the new starter in reverse order.
  4. Fuel Pump Replacement: If the fuel pump is defective, it typically requires removal of the fuel tank. Follow the repair manual for detailed steps.
  5. Ignition Coil Replacement: If the ignition coil is faulty, remove it from the engine block and replace it with a new coil.
Final Steps

After repairs, ensure all connections are secure, and the components are correctly installed. Attempt to start the vehicle again. If the vehicle still does not start after following these steps, further diagnostics may be required, possibly involving the vehicle's ECU or more advanced electrical testing.

Conclusion

By following these structured diagnostic steps, you should be able to identify and resolve the starting issue with your 2020 Toyota Highlander. If you are uncomfortable performing any of these steps, it is advisable to consult a professional automotive technician.