My mom’s Highlander has a bunch of warning lights on the dash all of a sudden. Anyone have an idea what might be causing it? Thanks!
- Probably just a door open.
- Check Engine Light (CEL) might need to be read with a code scanner. You can get the codes read for free at auto parts stores or grab a cheap OBDII scanner for about $20 from Walmart.
@Nye
Lol, the door open comment made me laugh.
@Nye
Last time I needed a scanner, Walmart had one for like 50 bucks. I just used it and returned it the next day.
Could be stability control, traction control, and maybe a door open indicator.
Sometimes these can be triggered if a battery was recently changed. For some cars, you need to turn the steering wheel all the way left and right after a battery swap to reset it. Otherwise, get a scan tool on it. Might be related to stability or traction control.
Edit: Could also be a dead ABS sensor causing all these.
@Cort
Agree with the ABS or speed sensor possibility. In my experience, either can cause those lights. Sometimes the speed sensor fails so bad that even the speedometer doesn’t work. Less likely, it could be a VSC module issue.
I had similar lights come on in my 2004 Lexus RX. For me, it was the downstream O2 sensor. Replacing it and clearing the codes fixed the issue.
It can really depend on what the specific code says, though.
@Koa
Same here. Changed the downstream O2 sensor, and it turned off my CEL, VSC, and AWD lights. CEL code pointed to the O2 sensor.
Toyota does love lighting up the dash for anything! Had it happen in my Avalon. It was just an ignition coil going out. Bought a cheap OBD reader, replaced the coil, and cleared the code. Simple fix.
@Zinnia
How is this comment:
a) So far down here.
b) Not common knowledge on this forum? This is exactly the answer!
Honestly, it could be a lot of things. Get a code reader or head to a parts store. Could be something as simple as a misfire, an evap canister, or even a bad O2 sensor or MAF.
Those lights don’t really tell you what’s wrong. They just mean something is off. Best bet is to get the codes pulled. AutoZone will do it for free.
While you’re on the way, check that your gas cap is fully tightened—it’s a common cause of some warnings.
If all those lights came on at once, they’re probably connected. Whatever’s wrong is likely causing both the traction and stability systems to go out and triggering the Check Engine Light. Get the codes read for free at AutoZone. Anything odd happen before the lights came on? Could be an ABS sensor or something similar.
Check the gas cap.
ToyotaTim3 said:
Check the gas cap.
My dad’s 4Runner had all those lights come on, and it turned out to be the seal on his gas cap. His is an '02 V6 with 300k miles!
ToyotaTim3 said:
Check the gas cap.
First thing I’d check, too. I always recommend it to people before quoting them for diagnostics, especially if they have a full tank.
Not serious if the lights are dim… unless they’re super bright, in which case maybe take it in! (Just kidding.)
First time this happened to me, I had to replace the EVAP system. Later on, I had to change the catalytic converter and O2 sensor. I’d get an OBD scanner or go to AutoZone for a scan.
Is it Christmas already?
Keegan said:
Is it Christmas already?
Nah, Toyotas know when it’s “too early” 