How to get navigation on Toyota Highlander?

In a Highlander you can get navigation either through built-in nav on some trims, or via smartphone-based options such as Apple CarPlay or Android Auto; newer models can also use Google built-in navigation via Drive Connect. The path you choose depends on your model year and trim.

Your navigation options in the Highlander

There are several pathways to get navigation on a Highlander, depending on the year and trim. Here is a breakdown of built-in options, smartphone integrations, and Google's built-in navigation in newer models.

• Built-in navigation (availability-dependent): Some Highlander trims come with a factory navigation system. To use it, power on the SUV, tap the Navigation app on the touchscreen, and follow prompts to set your region and destination. Keep the maps up to date via Settings > Map Updates or the vehicle's connected-services portal; live traffic and map accuracy often rely on an active data connection, which may require Drive Connect subscription in newer models.


• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (recommended): You can project your iPhone or Android phone onto the Highlander's touchscreen and use your phone's navigation apps such as Maps, Google Maps, or Waze. This option works via wired or wireless connections depending on trim and year; ensure CarPlay or Android Auto is enabled in Settings.


• Google built-in / Drive Connect (newer models): Some Highlander versions offer Google built-in navigation through Toyota's Drive Connect service. This brings Maps and Assistant to the vehicle screen without needing a connected smartphone, but it requires a Drive Connect subscription and an active data connection in the car.

In summary, check your owner's manual or window sticker to confirm which navigation option your Highlander supports, then follow the relevant steps to access or enable it.

Using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

If you plan to use your phone's navigation, here's how to connect and use CarPlay or Android Auto on the Highlander.

Apple CarPlay

Steps to connect and use Apple CarPlay on the Highlander.

1. Check compatibility: Ensure your iPhone supports CarPlay (iPhone 5 or later, with iOS 7.1 or later; newer iOS versions offer best compatibility).


2. Connect your iPhone to the Highlander: Use a USB cable for a wired connection, or enable wireless CarPlay if your model supports it and you’ve paired it to the vehicle.


3. Authorize connectivity: If prompted on the iPhone, allow CarPlay to connect and grant permissions for navigation apps.


4. Access navigation on the vehicle display: From the Home screen, tap CarPlay and open Apple Maps, Google Maps, or Waze to navigate.


5. Use voice control: Press and hold the steering wheel’s voice button or say "Hey Siri" to use your preferred navigation app hands-free.

CarPlay mirrors your iPhone's navigation apps on the Highlander's screen, providing familiar routes and live traffic just as on your phone. If wireless CarPlay is unavailable or unstable, a wired connection is a reliable alternative.

Android Auto

Steps to connect and use Android Auto on the Highlander.

1. Check compatibility: Ensure your Android phone runs Android 6.0+ and supports Android Auto.


2. Connect your Android phone: Use a USB cable, and enable Android Auto on first connection; some Highlanders also support wireless Android Auto if configured.


3. Grant permissions: Allow Android Auto to access your location, messages, and apps as prompted.


4. Launch navigation: On the vehicle screen, open Google Maps or another supported app (like Waze) via Android Auto.


5. Voice commands: Use the "OK Google" hotword or the steering wheel button to start navigation hands-free.

Using CarPlay or Android Auto keeps your navigation aligned with your phone's maps and updates, often with broader app support and real-time traffic enhancements.

Google built-in / Drive Connect

For newer Highlanders, Google built-in navigation via Drive Connect offers an integrated experience without tethering your phone. Availability varies by model year and region.

• Compatibility and activation: If your Highlander supports Google built-in, you’ll see Google apps (Maps, Assistant) on the infotainment screen. Activation typically runs through Drive Connect and the Toyota app, with a required subscription after an initial trial period.


• Navigation on screen: Use Google Maps on the display, with turn-by-turn directions and live traffic as long as the vehicle has an active data connection.


• Voice control: Use "Hey Google" or the car’s microphone to request directions, weather, or points of interest.


• Data and subscription notes: The feature relies on data connectivity; plan accordingly, as some data charges or subscription terms may apply and vary by region.

Google built-in provides a seamless, app-based navigation experience directly from the Highlander’s touchscreen, reducing the need to tether a phone for navigation.

Software updates and settings

Keeping navigation up to date requires regular software and map updates, and sometimes dealer involvement for certain features.

1. Check for system updates: In Settings > System or Settings > Software Update, look for available infotainment updates; connect to Wi‑Fi if possible or visit a dealer if required.


2. Update built-in maps (if present): If your Highlander has factory navigation, ensure map data is current through the vehicle’s update tool or the Toyota app/Drive Connect portal.


3. Update Drive Connect or Google built-in features: If you subscribe to Drive Connect, keep the service active and verify that the subscription is current; adjust data settings in the app if needed.


4. Manage permissions and accounts: Confirm your Toyota ID, Google account, Apple ID, or related accounts are linked and authorized for navigation features.


5. Test navigation after updates: Run a quick route to a known destination to confirm accuracy and responsiveness.

Regular updates improve routing accuracy, live traffic information, and the reliability of voice commands across the Highlander’s navigation options.

Tips and troubleshooting

Common questions and quick fixes to ensure navigation works smoothly.

• If navigation doesn’t appear on the screen, verify the feature is enabled on your trim and that the vehicle has an active data connection or Drive Connect subscription.


• For CarPlay/Android Auto, ensure your phone is compatible and correctly connected; reboot the infotainment system or phone if needed.


• Check for connectivity issues: ensure Wi‑Fi or cellular data is available, and that the car’s antenna is not obstructed.


• Reset infotainment settings: If navigation behaves oddly, try a factory reset of the infotainment system after backing up settings, or consult the dealer.


• Consult the owner’s manual or Toyota support: Some issues are model-year specific; when in doubt, contact your local dealer or Toyota support for guidance.

With the right setup, Highlander navigation can be straightforward, but limitations vary by trim, year, and region.

Summary

Navigation on a Toyota Highlander can be delivered through built-in maps on select trims, or through Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and in newer models via Google built-in with Drive Connect. Check your vehicle’s trim and year to determine the available options, keep software up to date, and use the most convenient method for your driving needs. For many owners, CarPlay/Android Auto offers the fastest path to reliable, up-to-date navigation on the move.

How to get a Toyota navigation system?

You can get a Toyota navigation system through your vehicle's built-in Drive Connect subscription, by using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, or by installing an aftermarket system. For the built-in system, you will need to set up a Toyota account via the Toyota app and have an active subscription, which can be accessed on the infotainment screen. Alternatively, you can connect your smartphone to use familiar apps like Google Maps or Apple Maps through either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which is available on many new models. For older vehicles, you can install an aftermarket in-dash system. 
Built-in Toyota system (Drive Connect) 

• Set up: Download the Toyota App and create an account, then register your vehicle's VIN. 
• Access: Tap the tilted arrow icon on the infotainment home screen to access the cloud navigation. 
• Features: Requires a Drive Connect trial or subscription and offers features like voice commands, live traffic, and 3D maps. 

Smartphone integration

• Apple CarPlay/Android Auto: Connect a compatible smartphone to the car's USB port.
• Access: The system will mirror your phone's navigation apps on the car's display.
• Subscription: No additional subscription is required beyond your phone's data plan and your app subscriptions. 

This video explains how to set up Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on a Toyota vehicle: 58sToyota USAYouTube · Oct 3, 2025
Aftermarket systems

• What it is: This involves replacing the factory radio with a new in-dash receiver that has built-in GPS functionality. 
• Access: This method provides a modern navigation system as an upgrade to older vehicles that may not have the original factory options. 
• Installation: This is typically done by a professional installer. 

You can watch this video to see how to use the cloud navigation on Toyota's new audio multimedia system: 1mToyota USAYouTube · Mar 19, 2025

How do I get Google Maps on my Toyota car screen?

To get Google Maps on your Toyota car screen, connect your phone using Android Auto (for Android phones) or Apple CarPlay (for iPhones) via a USB cable or wirelessly. On your phone, download the respective app, connect it to the car's USB port or through Bluetooth, and follow the on-screen prompts on both your phone and car display to enable and launch the interface. Some newer Toyota models may have Google Maps built-in, which can be accessed directly from the car's home screen after setup. 
Wired connection using Android Auto/Apple CarPlay
This video demonstrates how to connect your phone to your Toyota's system using Android Auto: 1mToyota USAYouTube · Dec 15, 2020

1. Download the app: If you have an Android phone, ensure you have Android Auto installed from the Google Play Store. For iPhones, make sure you have the latest version of iOS, as CarPlay is a built-in feature. 
2. Connect your phone: Plug your phone into the car's USB data port (charging-only cables will not work). 
3. Enable Android Auto/Apple CarPlay: Follow the prompts on both your phone and your car's infotainment screen to grant permissions and enable the connection. You may need to turn on the feature in your car's "Settings" or "Setup" menu first. 
4. Start navigation: Once connected, the Android Auto or Apple CarPlay interface will appear on your car's screen, giving you access to Google Maps. 

Wireless connection using Bluetooth 
You can watch this video to learn how to connect your phone's audio through Bluetooth: 56sThink TutorialYouTube · Apr 15, 2025

1. Pair your phone: Go to your phone's Bluetooth settings and pair it with your car's system. 
2. Open Google Maps: Launch the Google Maps app on your phone. 
3. Adjust navigation settings: In the Google Maps settings, find the "Navigation" section and enable "Play voice over Bluetooth" and "Play as Bluetooth phone call" to get the audio directions through your car speakers. 

Built-in Google Maps (some newer models) 
This video explains how to use Google Maps built into some Toyota models: 1mKenneth ValentonYouTube · Apr 21, 2022

1. Access the app: On your car's home screen, look for and tap the Google Maps app icon.
2. Start navigation: Search for your destination or select a suggested one to begin navigation directly on the car's screen. 

If you have trouble
This video shows how to fix some common issues with Google Maps in Android Auto: 33sWheelsJointYouTube · Dec 22, 2024

• Restart your phone. 
• Check that your USB cable is a data cable, not just for charging. 
• Unpair and re-pair your phone with the car. 
• Update your phone's operating system, the Android Auto/CarPlay app, and your car's infotainment software. 

How do I get the Toyota navigation app?

To install a navigation app on your Toyota, you must either download the Toyota app to link your phone with the car's connected services, or set up Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to use apps like Google Maps directly through the car's touchscreen. For the first option, download the Toyota app, register your account and vehicle (by scanning the VIN and then a QR code on the car's screen), and ensure Bluetooth is enabled and connected. For the second option, connect your phone via USB or Bluetooth and select the CarPlay or Android Auto icon on your car's display, then choose your preferred navigation app, such as Google Maps or Waze. 
This video demonstrates how to set up the new Toyota multimedia system and connect your phone: 59sSteve CliffordYouTube · Aug 3, 2023
Method 1: Using the Toyota App

1. Download the app: Get the official Toyota app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. 
2. Register: Create an account with your name, email, and phone number. You may need to enter a verification code sent to your email. 
3. Add your vehicle: Scan the QR code displayed on your car's multimedia screen to link your car to the app. Ensure Bluetooth is on and your phone is connected to the car's system first. 
4. Complete setup: Follow the on-screen instructions to accept data handling requirements and finish the setup process, which may include setting up a PIN and selecting services like Drive Connect for cloud-based navigation. 

Method 2: Using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto

1. Connect your phone: Connect your iPhone or Android device to your car using either a USB cable or Bluetooth. 
2. Enable CarPlay/Android Auto: On the car's infotainment screen, select the Apple CarPlay or Android Auto icon when it appears. 
3. Launch the navigation app: Your phone's apps, including navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze, should now be visible on the car's touchscreen. 
4. Navigate: Select the navigation app you want to use, then use the search bar or voice command to find your destination. 

You can watch this video to learn how to set up Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on your Toyota: 1mBrian RupertiYouTube · Sep 20, 2023

How to connect maps to Toyota Highlander?

Your smartphone should now display your new Grand Highlander confirm your vehicle. Create an optional nickname. And select your preferred dealership for future maintenance.