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Does the 2024 Toyota Highlander have ambient lighting?

Yes. Ambient interior lighting is available on the 2024 Highlander, though it's not offered on the base trims. The feature appears on mid-to-high trims (XLE and above) and may be included as part of an interior package, with availability varying by market.


What ambient lighting means for the Highlander


Ambient interior lighting refers to soft LED illumination around cabin accents, door panels, and the instrument cluster to create a more premium and relaxed interior atmosphere. In the 2024 Highlander, this lighting is designed to help with visibility at night and to enhance the feel of the interior. The way it’s delivered—standard vs. optional—depends on the trim level and regional specifications.


Trims and ambient lighting availability


Below is a general guide to which trims typically include ambient lighting and in what form. Note that exact equipment can vary by market, and some appearances may be part of a package rather than a standalone option.



  • L: Ambient interior lighting not offered.

  • LE: Ambient interior lighting not offered.

  • XLE: Ambient interior lighting included (often standard or part of an interior package in most regions).

  • Limited: Ambient interior lighting included (standard).

  • Platinum: Ambient interior lighting included (standard).


In practice, ambient lighting tends to appear on the Highlander’s mid-to-high trims. If you’re shopping in a specific region, confirm with the local dealer whether the feature is standard or optional for your chosen configuration.


Additional considerations: lighting color and controls


When available, ambient lighting typically offers a soft, programmable glow around interior accents. The exact color options and brightness levels can differ by trim and market. Some buyers may experience this lighting as part of a bundled interior upgrade, rather than as a standalone feature.


Summary


The 2024 Toyota Highlander does offer ambient interior lighting, but it is not included on the base L and LE trims. It is available on XLE and higher trims, either as standard equipment or as part of an interior package. Prospective buyers should verify the exact specification for their market and trim level.

How to change ambient lighting in Toyota Highlander?


In order to customize. Your lights both headlights. And interior lights in the Toyota. You're going to go from any screen.



Does Toyota come with ambient lighting?


Yes, many modern Toyota models are available with ambient lighting, either as a standard feature on higher trims, an optional extra, or as an aftermarket accessory. The type of lighting varies, from fixed-color accents to customizable, app-controlled LED systems that allow for color and brightness changes.
 
You can watch this video to see how to adjust ambient lighting in a Toyota Tundra: 40sToyota USAYouTube · Apr 25, 2025

  • Standard and available features: Ambient lighting is becoming a standard or available feature on many models, such as the Corolla, Camry, RAV4, Highlander, and Sequoia, particularly on higher trim levels. 
  • Customization: Some models offer app-controlled ambient lighting that allows you to change the color using a color wheel or select from pre-set moods. Other systems may have more limited, fixed-color options, notes r/Toyotavenza. 
  • Aftermarket options: For those who don't have factory-installed ambient lighting, there are aftermarket kits available through dealerships or online, such as the SmartLED system, that can be installed to add customizable lighting to the interior, explains Southeast Toyota Dealers and Tansky Sawmill Toyota. 
  • Control: You can often control the lighting through a button on the dashboard or through the infotainment system's settings menu. App-controlled systems can also be accessed via a smartphone app. 

This video demonstrates how to add ambient lighting to a Toyota vehicle: 1mToyotaJeff ReviewsYouTube · Mar 11, 2023



Does the Toyota Highlander have ambient lighting?


Yes, the Toyota Highlander has ambient lighting, but it is available on higher trims and specific models like the Grand Highlander. The standard Highlander may only have a basic overhead LED light in the map light console, while other trims can have additional features like ambient light strips on the dashboard and door handles. 
Availability and features

  • Standard vs. available: Ambient lighting is not a standard feature on all Highlanders, but is available on many models, particularly higher trim levels and the Grand Highlander. 
  • Location: In models where it's available, it's often found as a soft glow in the dashboard and door handles, and can also be present in the footwell area. 
  • Control: Drivers can usually dim the lights, though some models may not have an option to turn them off completely while keeping the main screen on. Some aftermarket options are available to customize the color of the lights. 



What is the lawsuit against the Toyota Highlander?


Recent and ongoing lawsuits involving the Toyota Highlander address issues such as faulty door lock actuators, a potential transmission defect in certain models, and a claim that 2020-2021 Highlander Hybrids have fuel tanks that do not fill completely. Other recent lawsuits include an investigation into defective power liftgates and a separate class action settlement for a Bluetooth echo defect that affected some Highlanders. 
Current and recent lawsuits

  • Door Lock Actuators: A class action lawsuit was filed because many Toyota models, including the Highlander, reportedly have defective door lock actuators that may fail to engage properly. The lawsuit claims owners have been charged for repeated replacements, which Toyota allegedly considered "wear and tear" items. 
  • Transmission Defect: Lawsuits allege that certain Highlander models (2017-2022) equipped with the UA80 automatic transmission have a defect that can cause whining, erratic shifting, and premature failure. A Customer Support Program (CSP ZJC) was created but only covers a limited number of vehicles, according to Change.org. 
  • Fuel Tank Defect: A class action lawsuit was filed on behalf of owners of 2020-2021 Highlander Hybrids, claiming a defective fuel tank vent causes it to not fill to its capacity. 
  • Power Liftgate Defect: Some Highlander models (XU20, XU40, XU50, and Highlander Hybrid MHU28) are reportedly affected by a power liftgate defect that can lead to costly repairs, with the lawsuit alleging Toyota knew about the issue but did not issue a recall or warning. 
  • Bluetooth Echo Defect: A class action lawsuit over a Bluetooth defect that caused an echo on calls in certain Toyota models, including the Highlander, resulted in a settlement, notes this article from Unión Rayo and ClassAction.org. 

How to proceed
  • Identify your vehicle's details: Determine if your Highlander is included in any of these lawsuits by checking its model year, VIN, and the specific defect alleged.
  • Gather evidence: Collect any repair invoices, service records, or documentation related to the defect.
  • Contact an attorney: Speak to a lawyer who specializes in consumer or automotive class action lawsuits to understand your options and how you may be affected by an ongoing investigation or settlement. 
  • Check settlement websites: Visit official settlement websites if they are available for a specific lawsuit, as they often provide important information and instructions for potential claimants. 


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.