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Please see SAFETY RECALL 20TA06

2020 Toyota Highlander
Potential Vehicle Stall While Driving

On March 19, 2020 Toyota filed a Defect Information Report (DIR) with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) informing the agency of our intent to conduct a voluntary Safety Recall on certain 2020 model year Highlander vehicles.

Condition:
The subject vehicles are equipped with a feature that stops and restarts the engine. Under certain driving patterns and vehicle conditions, this feature may not operate correctly resulting in a vehicle stall. If a vehicle stall occurs, an audible chime will sound and multiple warning indicators will illuminate. If a vehicle stall occurs while driving at higher speeds, this could increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy:
Any authorized Toyota dealer will update the engine control unit (ECU) software FREE OF CHARGE.

Covered Vehicles:
There are approximately 38,800 vehicles covered by this Safety Recall. Approximately 1,000 vehicles involved in this Safety Recall were distributed to Puerto Rico.

Owner Letter Mailing Date:
Toyota will notify owners by mid-May 2020.


Frequently Asked Questions

What is the condition?

The subject vehicles are equipped with a feature that stops and restarts the engine. Under certain driving patterns and vehicle conditions, this feature may not operate correctly resulting in a vehicle stall. If a vehicle stall occurs, an audible chime will sound and multiple warning indicators will illuminate. If a vehicle stall occurs while driving at higher speeds, this could increase the risk of a crash.

What is the purpose of the feature that stops and restarts the engine?
The Stop and Start system stops and starts the engine according to brake pedal or shift lever operation when the vehicle is stopped, such as at a stoplight, intersection, etc., in order to help improve fuel economy and reduce noise pollution caused by engine idling.

Are there any symptoms/warnings before the vehicle stall can occur?
No.

Could the vehicle stall regardless of the driving speed?
Yes, for this condition, the vehicle stall can occur independent of driving speed.

Will safety features such as Toyota Safety Sense and airbags function when a vehicle stall occurs?
Yes. Both safety features will function normally.

Can the vehicle be restarted after a vehicle stall?
Yes. With the vehicle stopped and the transmission in the “Park” position, the engine can be restarted if the driver:
1) Presses the engine (ignition) switch once or twice until the meter display extinguishes (and “ACCESSORY” or “IGNITION ON” is not shown on the multi-information display);
2) Waits approximately 15 seconds; and
3) Depresses the brake pedal, then press the engine (ignition) switch to start the engine.

What is Toyota going to do?
Toyota will send an owner notification by first class mail by mid-May 2020 advising owners to make an appointment with their authorized Toyota dealer to have the engine control unit (ECU) software updated FREE OF CHARGE to customers.

NOTE:
(Customers who live in the state of California) The state of California requires the completion of Safety Recalls / Service Campaigns on emission related parts prior to vehicle registration renewal. In addition, the State requires that every vehicle must pass an emission test (SMOG Check) every two years and before it is sold. Without the completion of this FREE Safety Recall, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) will not allow your vehicle to be registered. State of California Regulations require Toyota to provide the Department of Motor Vehicles with a record of all vehicles that have not had the Safety Recall completed.

Your Toyota dealer will provide you with a Vehicle Emissions Recall Proof of Correction Form after the campaign has been completed. Please ensure you retain this form, because the DMV may require that you supply proof that the campaign has been completed during your vehicle registration renewal process.

Which and how many vehicles are covered by this Safety Recall?
There are approximately 38,800 vehicles covered by this Safety Recall.

Are there any other Lexus/Toyota/Scion vehicles covered by this Safety Recall in the U.S.?
No, there are no other Lexus/Toyota/Scion vehicles covered by this Safety Recall.

How long will the repair take?
The repair takes approximately one hour. However, depending upon the dealer’s work schedule, it may be necessary to make the vehicle available for a longer period of time.

What if I have additional questions or concerns?
If you have additional questions or concerns, please contact the Toyota Customer Experience Center at 1-888-270-9371 Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, Saturday 7:00 am to 4:30 pm Central Time.
 
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