Toyota Highlander is a popular crossover SUV that offers great performance on all kinds of terrain. However, there may be times when you need to turn off the all-wheel drive (AWD) function in your Highlander. Whether you’re driving on dry pavement or trying to maximize fuel efficiency, knowing how to turn off AWD can be useful. In this article, we will discuss the steps to turn off AWD on a Toyota Highlander.
Why Turn off AWD?
There are several reasons why you might want to turn off the AWD system in your Toyota Highlander. Some of these reasons include:
- Improving fuel economy:
- Driving on dry pavement:
- Reducing wear and tear:
- Maximizing performance:
- Reducing maintenance costs:
Steps to Turn off AWD on Toyota Highlander
Turning off the AWD system on a Toyota Highlander is a relatively simple process. Here are the steps you can follow:
- Locate the AWD lock switch:
- Press the AWD lock switch:
- Check the dashboard indicator:
Step 1: Locate The Awd Lock Switch
The AWD lock switch is usually located on the dashboard or on the center console of the Toyota Highlander. It is typically labeled with the letters “AWD LOCK” or “4WD LOCK.”
Step 2: Press The Awd Lock Switch
Once you’ve located the AWD lock switch, press it to disengage the AWD system. This will allow you to operate the vehicle in two-wheel drive mode, thus turning off the AWD function.
Step 3: Check The Dashboard Indicator
After pressing the AWD lock switch, check the dashboard indicator to ensure that the AWD system has been turned off. The indicator may display a message such as “AWD OFF” or “2WD MODE” to confirm that the AWD system is no longer engaged.
When to Turn off AWD
Now that you know how to turn off AWD on your Toyota Highlander, it’s important to understand when it’s appropriate to do so. Here are some situations in which you may want to turn off the AWD function:
- Driving on dry, paved roads where extra traction is not required.
- Maximizing fuel efficiency by reducing the load on the drivetrain.
- Operating the vehicle in conditions that do not warrant the use of AWD, such as highway driving in good weather.
