FAULTBASE
NEWSASKCars
© 2025 FAULTBASE
All rights reserved.
v2.0.0 • Production
ContactPrivacyImpressum
Home/Cars/Toyota/Highlander/XU70 (2020-Present)/my Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present) has a rough start what could be the issue

my Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present) has a rough start what could be the issue

Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

Severity: mediumDifficulty: medium2-4 hours
3 min read
599 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix rough start issues in the 2020-Present Toyota Highlander XU70. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

Component
Engine
Repair Time
2-4 hours

Safety Warnings

  • ⚠Disconnect battery before working on electrical systems.
  • ⚠Allow engine to cool before opening any components.

Symptoms

  • •Engine cranks longer than usual before starting
  • •Engine shakes or vibrates during startup
  • •Check engine light illuminated
  • •Unusual sounds such as knocking or sputtering upon starting
  • •Poor fuel economy following rough starts

Diagnostic Steps

  1. 1Scan for error codes using an OBD-II scanner to identify any stored trouble codes.
  2. 2Inspect the battery health and connections to ensure proper voltage and contact.
  3. 3Check fuel pressure using a fuel pressure gauge to determine if the fuel pump is functioning correctly.
  4. 4Inspect the spark plugs for wear, fouling, or damage.
  5. 5Examine the air filter for blockage or dirt accumulation that could restrict airflow.
  6. 6Test the ignition coils for proper operation using a multimeter.

Solution

Solution

1. Preparation

  • Gather necessary tools and parts.
  • Ensure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface, and the engine is cool.
  • Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent electrical shock.

2. Inspect the Battery

  • Tools Required: Multimeter, wrench set
  • Check the battery voltage with a multimeter; it should read around 12.6 volts when fully charged.
  • Clean the battery terminals if there is corrosion present.
  • Tighten any loose connections.

3. Replace Spark Plugs (if necessary)

  • Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, spark plug socket
  • Remove the ignition coil by unscrewing the retaining bolts.
  • Pull the ignition coil straight out of the cylinder head.
  • Use a spark plug socket to remove the spark plug.
  • Install new spark plugs, ensuring they are gapped correctly according to manufacturer specifications (typically around 0.044 inches).
  • Reinstall the ignition coil and torque to the manufacturer's specifications (typically around 7.2 ft-lbs).

4. Check and Replace Fuel Filter (if applicable)

  • Tools Required: Fuel line disconnect tool, wrench set
  • Locate the fuel filter and relieve fuel pressure by disconnecting the fuel pump fuse and running the engine until it stalls.
  • Use the fuel line disconnect tool to remove the lines from the old filter.
  • Install the new fuel filter, ensuring the direction of flow is correct (usually marked on the filter).
  • Reconnect the fuel pump fuse and check for leaks.

5. Inspect Air Filter

  • Tools Required: None (if no tools are needed)
  • Remove the air filter cover and take out the air filter.
  • Inspect for dirt and debris. Replace with a new air filter if dirty.

6. Reconnect Battery

  • Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
  • Start the engine to check for any improvement in the rough start condition.

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
  • Multimeter
  • Socket set
  • Torque wrench
  • Fuel pressure gauge
  • Fuel line disconnect tool

Parts Required

  • Spark plugs
  • Air filter
  • Fuel filter (if needed)

Additional Information

Component

Engine

Repair Time

2-4 hours

Difficulty

medium

Severity

medium

Tools

6 items

Parts

3 items

Related Faults

Discover similar issues

  1. my Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present) feels like it's slipping in gear

    Learn how to diagnose and fix transmission slipping issues in the 2020 Toyota Highlander XU70. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repai...

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Check engine light illuminated
    • •Unusual engine revving without corresponding acceleration
    • +{count} more
  2. how to check transmission fluid level in Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

    Learn how to check the transmission fluid level in a 2020-present Toyota Highlander XU70. Step-by-step guide with symptoms and diagnostic steps.

    Component:Transmission
    Symptoms
    • •Difficulty shifting gears
    • •Slipping transmission
    • +{count} more
  3. why is my Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present) making a squeaking noise when I brake

    Learn how to diagnose and fix squeaking noise when braking in Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present). Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and...

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Squeaking or squealing noise when applying brakes
    • •Noise may increase with speed or pressure on the brake pedal
    • +{count} more
  4. how to fix an overheating issue in Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

    Learn how to diagnose and fix overheating issues in Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present). Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and rep...

    Component:Cooling System
    Symptoms
    • •Engine temperature gauge showing high temperature
    • •Steam rising from under the hood
    • +{count} more
  5. why does my Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present) make a popping noise

    Learn how to diagnose and fix popping noise issues in Toyota Highlander XU70. Step-by-step guide with diagnostic procedures and repair instructions.

    Component:Suspension
    Symptoms
    • •Popping noise when driving over bumps or uneven surfaces
    • •Noise occurs during sharp turns or when accelerating
    • +{count} more
  6. how to replace brake pads on Toyota Highlander XU70 (2020-Present)

    Step-by-step guide on how to replace brake pads on a 2020-present Toyota Highlander XU70. Includes symptoms, diagnostic steps, and safety tips.

    Component:Brakes
    Symptoms
    • •Squeaking or squealing noise when brakes are applied
    • •Reduced braking efficiency or longer stopping distances
    • +{count} more

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