Toyota’s hybrid vehicles (Prius, RAV4 Hybrid, Prius Prime, RAV4 Prime, etc.) can often be started remotely (usually via the Toyota App or key fob) for the convenience of pre-heating or pre-cooling the cabin. However, many owners have found that remote start behaves differently on hybrids than on ordinary gas cars. In particular, remote start does not “fill up” the hybrid traction battery, and in fact, it only runs the vehicle on electric power. Toyota’s hybrids are designed so that the gas engine and regenerative braking typically charge the high-voltage (traction) Battery. Still, the remote-start feature is purely for climate comfort,…

The ECT PWR button on a Toyota Tacoma stands for “Electronically Controlled Transmission – Power.” It is a mode that adjusts how the automatic transmission shifts. In simple terms, pressing this button lets the engine rev a bit higher before the transmission changes gears. That means more throttle response and quicker acceleration when you need it, especially under heavy load. Toyota recommends using ECT PWR in situations like mountain driving or towing a trailer. How ECT PWR Works: When you activate Power Mode (ECT PWR), the truck’s computer changes the shift logic. It raises the shift points, allowing the engine…

The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are two of the most popular compact SUVs. Both are known for good build quality and safety. Many buyers ask which one is more reliable in daily use and over many years. We look at detailed data, owner reports, and expert scores to compare them. Engine Types and Known Issues: The CR-V and RAV4 use different engines. Recent RAV4 models use a 2.5‑liter naturally‑aspirated four-cylinder (about 203 hp), while most CR-Vs use a 1.5‑liter turbocharged four-cylinder (about 190 hp). The RAV4’s non‑turbo engine is simple and usually reliable. The CR-V’s turbo engine is peppy…

Unleaded 88 (often called “E15” or “88 octane”) is gasoline blended with 15% ethanol (and 85% gasoline). It has about 88 octane instead of 87. Because it has more ethanol, Unleaded 88 has slightly less energy per gallon than regular gas but is often cheaper. The U.S. DOE/EPA says E15 is approved for all cars (gasoline-powered) from model year 2001 or newer. However, you should always refer to your Toyota’s owner’s manual. Image: A gas pump offering E85 (yellow nozzle), E15 (“Unleaded 88”, blue nozzle), and regular E10 (black nozzle). E15 is a 15% ethanol blend and has an octane…

The small orange (yellow) exclamation point on a Toyota’s dashboard is a warning symbol. It alerts you that something needs attention in your vehicle. The exact meaning depends on the shape of the icon. For example, an exclamation mark inside a tire-shaped symbol indicates low tire pressure, while an exclamation mark inside a triangle signifies the “master warning” light for other issues. An exclamation inside a circle usually means a brake problem. Toyota models similarly utilize these lights: the 2020 Corolla, 2021 Camry, 2025 Highlander, Prius, Corolla Cross, and RAV4 all display the same symbols. Tire Pressure Warning (TPMS Icon):…

A goodwill fix (or goodwill repair) is a courtesy repair by Toyota when a vehicle’s warranty has just ended. In other words, Toyota helps cover a repair even though the official warranty is expired. This is not guaranteed by law – it’s done on Toyota’s goodwill – but it can save an out-of-warranty owner thousands of dollars. Goodwill repairs matter, especially if a major component fails soon after the coverage ends. For example, some owners have faced engine or transmission failures just past the warranty mileage. In one Canadian case, a 2021 Toyota Highlander with 121,000 km had its transmission…

The newest Toyota Tundra trucks (2022–2025 models) have faced several notable problems. One big issue was the new twin-turbo V6 engine. In mid-2024, Toyota recalled approximately 102,000 Tundras (and some Lexus LX SUVs) from the 2022 and 2023 model years to replace the entire engine. Engineers found that during production, some metal debris may have been left inside the engine. Over time, this debris can damage the engine’s main bearings, causing knocking noises, rough running, or even stalling. To address this issue, Toyota dealers will install a new engine in affected trucks at no additional charge. Toyota Tundra Affected Transmission:…

If your Toyota’s tire pressure warning light is blinking or flashing, it usually means a problem with the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) itself – not just that a tire is low. A solid light typically means one or more tires have low pressure. But a blinking light means something else is wrong. If the TPMS light flashes for about a minute or so when you start your car and then stays on, Toyota service techs say it usually means there’s an issue with the TPMS system. In other words, a blinking TPMS light often means a sensor or system…