2023 Highlander LE. Every time I start my vehicle I get an advertisement on the media center saying "experience drive connect". I hit the selection on the left to open Android Auto and the display flickers to Android Auto then goes back to the advertisement for drive connect. This happens 2 or 3 times before I can get rid of the advertisement. This is especially bad when I am trying to use maps to find a place. My dealer tried doing what they could do. No luck. I tried signng up for drive connect, but the advertisement still pops up, so I cancelled the service - Plus the ATT internet trial megabites ended before I even drove the vehicle - It was in the garage while I was out of town. I still get emails from att about it. It is like the ad is the media centers default. Friends are saying that alone is a very good reason to never buy a Toyota. Has anyone figured out how to get rid of this permanently? Thanks in advance.
Bbells
The Toyota dealer said the 'experience drive connect' is an integral part of the media center. An advertisement is an integral part?? Whoever made this the default with no way of getting rid of it should be fired. Toyota said my only option was to get a new stereo/media center. Before that they said I needed to subscribe to the the service for $10 or $20 a month to get rid of the advertisement. Huh? Isn't this called ransomware? The vehicle is only 2 months old. Sometimes it locks the screen up for 10 minutes. Kind of a pita when using Maps.
AFAIK, the service is free for the first year after purchase. I'm not sure if the dealer needs to activate it something. Perhaps you just need to download the app and register.
It's listed as "A"vailable at $16 a month on the Toyota Connected Services site for a Highlander LE which the Op owns.
So no free trial period on that model.
If it was me, I'd push the SOS button and ask them how to disable it, since the dealer couldn't/wouldn't do anything to help.
So no free trial period on that model.
If it was me, I'd push the SOS button and ask them how to disable it, since the dealer couldn't/wouldn't do anything to help.
After a few months going back and forth with Toyota, they got rid of the advertisement. But, from what I understand it will only be gone until the extended free trial of drive connect lasts. Then the advertisement will be back. At that point I will be selling the Highlander. I cannot support companies who engage in ransomware. I mean seriously, requiring customers to pay $200 a year for a service they don't want or need to get rid of an advertisement that blocks the use of the infotainment system? Toyota should be above that type of behavior. Just glad I can afford to jump ship.
I understand your position. Nothing I hate worse than paying exorbitant fees for services which do not justify it.
If I am reading this correct, I believe the service connect comes free of charge if you subscribe to the safety connect or the remote connect. The WiFI connect does not provide you anything you can not already get through your cell phone.
There is no subscription for "drive connect" according to this link. Sounds like drive connect is the system itself and you pay for the options you want from it.
I have an XLE and the salesman told me if I only want the remote connect option (remote start via phone), I can pay $80 a year for it. Not happy but better than spending $500 for a remote start system.
REVISED- OP has a LE, not the L
If I am reading this correct, I believe the service connect comes free of charge if you subscribe to the safety connect or the remote connect. The WiFI connect does not provide you anything you can not already get through your cell phone.
There is no subscription for "drive connect" according to this link. Sounds like drive connect is the system itself and you pay for the options you want from it.
I have an XLE and the salesman told me if I only want the remote connect option (remote start via phone), I can pay $80 a year for it. Not happy but better than spending $500 for a remote start system.
REVISED- OP has a LE, not the L
I don't care. I have no faith in a company that locks up the infotainment center with ransomware. I would have dumped the vehicle already but i need to get some use out of it before losing the money. It is obvious by the lack of responses here, and Toyota saying the only way to get rid of the adv is to pay 200 a year for the advertised service, that it is designed to not be eliminated. As the dealer said, the adv is an integral part of the infotainment system.
Trying to be optimistic, maybe Toyota will do something about that between now and the time your trial expires.
But I think you're already well past that point and just too angry at the car on principle. Sell it now. It's not worth it. Life is too short to be that upset with something you don't want.
But I think you're already well past that point and just too angry at the car on principle. Sell it now. It's not worth it. Life is too short to be that upset with something you don't want.
Imho, you don't understand the problem. Let's say you buy a cell phone. And everytime you try to answer it an advertisement pops up that locks up the phone for anywhere from one minute to ten minutes. An advertisement that you can only get rid of if you pay an additional fee. How long would you keep the phone? The android auto map is essential to my use of the vehicle. Plus, i did not pay for the advertisement version of the vehicle like many do with the kindle. Too many people roll over and pay for services like this that they don't need. As long as that happens toyota won't change it.
I have read this thread several times, trying to understand. I have a '22 Platinum Hybrid, and it is over 1 year from purchase date I was notified by email that some of the "trial" subscription services had ended, and they wanted me to pay to continue. I have no use for any of their subscriptions, and use Android Auto/Google maps every time I am in the car without any ads coming up. I know you (the OP) has the LE version, and I am not familiar with that, other than some or all of the trial subscriptions are a shorter time frame.
Wish I had an answer for you, but I HATE the auto manufacturers making features by subscription.
Wish I had an answer for you, but I HATE the auto manufacturers making features by subscription.
IMO, paying a subscription for the app wouldn't be so bad if the app wasn't so bad. My Subaru app is far far superior. Much better UI, better control over notifications, no ads or bloat, can control climate control, seat heat/ventilation, remote start doesn't shut off when opening the door, etc.. I let my HL apps expire 3 weeks ago. I get no notifications or reminders about that on my HL display, so far...
Understand that the OP has a 2023 Highlander, which has the new Toyota Audio Multimedia system rather than the Entune 3.0 system on 2020-2022 Highlanders. TAM is new on several Toyota models for 2023. The OP's experience is different from that of the 2020-2022 owners.
"Drive Connect" is the name of the new cloud-based navigation service. In 2020-2022, you could pay for a subscription to "Dynamic Navigation", which is a supplemental service to the on-board navigation system. Dynamic Nav requires you to have the nav option already installed, which only happened on higher trim levels. For TAM, Drive Connect is available on all trim levels as a service; there's no such thing as on-board navigation anymore, but instead, higher trims come with a free trial period for Drive Connect.
It certainly sounds like Toyota is trying too hard to encourage people to sign up for the Drive Connect service. That's annoying, and I do understand what a hassle that sounds like. You obviously don't need to have Drive Connect to use any other features of the multimedia system, as it's essentially just one app (a navigation app). Toyota certainly should get rid of that nag screen.
"Drive Connect" is the name of the new cloud-based navigation service. In 2020-2022, you could pay for a subscription to "Dynamic Navigation", which is a supplemental service to the on-board navigation system. Dynamic Nav requires you to have the nav option already installed, which only happened on higher trim levels. For TAM, Drive Connect is available on all trim levels as a service; there's no such thing as on-board navigation anymore, but instead, higher trims come with a free trial period for Drive Connect.
It certainly sounds like Toyota is trying too hard to encourage people to sign up for the Drive Connect service. That's annoying, and I do understand what a hassle that sounds like. You obviously don't need to have Drive Connect to use any other features of the multimedia system, as it's essentially just one app (a navigation app). Toyota certainly should get rid of that nag screen.
OMG I'm not the only one!!! I have gone to the dealer twice to get rid of this stupid screen that pops up, and disables my phone. They tried and tried, can't. They suggested having one of my kids sync their phone, create a dummy account, which will temporarily remove the screen until the trial period is over. Then back to normal. I told them this is a deal breaker, last Toyota I buy (just got this 2023 Highlander in December). I hate being forced to look at a commercial for a product I don't want every time I start the vehicle I already paid for. Its more than annoying. Own 3 Chevy's, don't pay anything for their app, which I can use to remote start, unlock, or locate the trucks. Own a Lincoln, don't pay anything for the app. I resent nickel and diming people who have spent ten's of thousands on a product, which gives them a negative feeling about the product each and every time they sit down to drive. Toyota listen to your customers.
Spidersmouse, I feel exactly the same way. I am thinking of having an aftermarket stereo installed and sending the bill to Totota. It is either that or sell the vehicle. And selling is starting to sound awfully attractive - And not another Toyota. Toyota USA can't fix it. The Toyota Tech department can't fix it. The dealer is clueless. As it stands I know once the "free trial" expires the system will again be unusable.
When I bought my 2023 Highlander Hybrid in December, the salesperson insisted I sign up for the Toyota App. When he tried to get my cell phone to link to Toyota to download the App, (which I didn't really want) , turned out my cell phone was too old, a Samsung Galaxy S6 Active.
So I was saved from that spam. Recently I have noticed this Experience Drive Connect popping up on my screen.
Going to a dealer tomorrow. Will ask him to delete the pop-up ad.
This is a software issue that could easily be remedied and would be remedied if Toyota's opportunity cost to continue the annoyance outweighed the cost of the solution.
1. It's a safety issue— a driver distraction
2. The owner is held captive with the advertising until they buy a subscription, over and over again.
3. And wait, the owner paid for the infotainment system when they paid for the car.
National news would eat this up.
1. It's a safety issue— a driver distraction
2. The owner is held captive with the advertising until they buy a subscription, over and over again.
3. And wait, the owner paid for the infotainment system when they paid for the car.
National news would eat this up.
Has anyone asked a dealer more recently if there's an update for the multimedia system that might solve this? Yes, it's easy to remedy, and maybe Toyota got around to it.
You can also check here for updates. With the 2023 Toyota Audio Multimedia Entertainment (TAM) system instead of the older Entune system, this Web site now requires a VIN number and a data file that's generated by your car in order to give you an update for it. While you're under warranty, you might be better off asking the dealer instead the next time you're there.
You can also check here for updates. With the 2023 Toyota Audio Multimedia Entertainment (TAM) system instead of the older Entune system, this Web site now requires a VIN number and a data file that's generated by your car in order to give you an update for it. While you're under warranty, you might be better off asking the dealer instead the next time you're there.
Interesting. Then unfortunately, maybe it's correct and there is no update available. I'd still try asking a dealer though, as they might see an update available before that Web site.
I have been speaking with Toyota USA and my dealer. Neither has a solution to this, and there is no plan to change the problem with any update. And I agree, it is dangerous. Question: Does anyone know how to hack into the software of the infotainment system so the app can be manually deleted/altered? Toyota USA hinted that it may be possible, but did not tell me how to do it. They kind of panicked when I said I would be perfectly happy to connect to the infotainment system and do what needed to be done. Personally, I have nothing to lose since if I can ever find something that fits I would replace it anyways. But, much cheaper just to hack into it. This will be my last Toyota, too. Currently looking for a replacement. Just glad I can afford to move on.
I am glad I picked up a new 2022 V6 end of last year.
The reported problems with the 4 cylinder turbo and this will not help Toyota's reputation. I am sure both problems can and will be resolved.
If this is a safety hazard, will not be long before someone is hurt and sues them.
If enough consumers spread their discontent over Twitter, YouTube and other social media platforms it will also help.
The reported problems with the 4 cylinder turbo and this will not help Toyota's reputation. I am sure both problems can and will be resolved.
If this is a safety hazard, will not be long before someone is hurt and sues them.
If enough consumers spread their discontent over Twitter, YouTube and other social media platforms it will also help.
Sounds like a firmware update is needed-
www.toyotanation.com
2023 Highlander 2.4 Turbo Surging and Bucking under...
My Lifted 2015 AWD Seinna van had a bearing going out on the transmission so I'm now the Proud owner of a new 2023 Limited Highlander AWD with the 2.4 Turbo. I am getting a lot of herky jerky while under normal or moderate acceleration. Full Throttle and just creeping around off boost is not a...
www.toyotanation.com
I just sent my dealer and Toyota USA the following message.
I am still having problems with the drive connect in my 2023 Highlander.
1) Between Grand Marais and Two Harbors a request for the drive connect pin number popped up 26 times, thus covering the google map and making my routing useless. 26 times!! I wasn't even using drive connect - it offers nothing I want or need. Plus, even if I would have been using drive connect, there is no reason for it to even have a pin number, much less request a pin number and block my display 26 times!!! If you have ever been on 61 you know there are very few places to pull over to enter the useless pin number and so curvy and bumpy that it can't be entered while driving.
2) Even though Toyota has given me a free trial of drive connect, it only accomplishes blocking me from using my mapping software. One morning this week I had to press the Android Auto icon 15 times before I could get the display to switch out of the useless Toyota drive connect map and go to Android Auto. WTH?
This is unsafe, dangerous and irritating. This is my 3rd try to get Toyota to do something about this pos. This app is stopping me from using the vehicle for what I purchased it for. Whoever created this app needs to be fired by Toyota. It is ransomware. and not even good ransomware since it doesn't work and hinders use of the vehicle even during the free trial.
1) They need to delete the app or add a software switch so users can permanently turn off the app. This would take less than an hour of programming. I know because I used to market custom computer programming. There is no excuse for Toyota to not do this.
2) Last time I had the vehicle in for service I asked how much Toyota would charge to put a different info center in the vehicle. They said they don't do that. So, if you don't do number 1 above, to make my vehicle safe and usable, I will need to replace the entire stereo/infotainment system (if I can find one that will fit). Toyota should pay for that since it is their ransomware that is ruining the vehicle. When I bought the vehicle I never agreed to have such a worthless program control my display.
3) If I can't find a system that will fit, I will be forced to sell my Highlander. I can't use it for what I bought it for the way it is. This means I will never even consider buying another Toyota.
There are 10's of thousands of people on the internet stating they have the same problem with the vehicles they bought. Toyota needs to fix this. I am sending a copy of this to Toyota USA.
Oh, if I don't hear from you guys in a week I will assume you won't do 1 or 2. Although, since my ac is stuck on I will need to schedule service after I hear or don't hear from you.
Thanks
I am still having problems with the drive connect in my 2023 Highlander.
1) Between Grand Marais and Two Harbors a request for the drive connect pin number popped up 26 times, thus covering the google map and making my routing useless. 26 times!! I wasn't even using drive connect - it offers nothing I want or need. Plus, even if I would have been using drive connect, there is no reason for it to even have a pin number, much less request a pin number and block my display 26 times!!! If you have ever been on 61 you know there are very few places to pull over to enter the useless pin number and so curvy and bumpy that it can't be entered while driving.
2) Even though Toyota has given me a free trial of drive connect, it only accomplishes blocking me from using my mapping software. One morning this week I had to press the Android Auto icon 15 times before I could get the display to switch out of the useless Toyota drive connect map and go to Android Auto. WTH?
This is unsafe, dangerous and irritating. This is my 3rd try to get Toyota to do something about this pos. This app is stopping me from using the vehicle for what I purchased it for. Whoever created this app needs to be fired by Toyota. It is ransomware. and not even good ransomware since it doesn't work and hinders use of the vehicle even during the free trial.
1) They need to delete the app or add a software switch so users can permanently turn off the app. This would take less than an hour of programming. I know because I used to market custom computer programming. There is no excuse for Toyota to not do this.
2) Last time I had the vehicle in for service I asked how much Toyota would charge to put a different info center in the vehicle. They said they don't do that. So, if you don't do number 1 above, to make my vehicle safe and usable, I will need to replace the entire stereo/infotainment system (if I can find one that will fit). Toyota should pay for that since it is their ransomware that is ruining the vehicle. When I bought the vehicle I never agreed to have such a worthless program control my display.
3) If I can't find a system that will fit, I will be forced to sell my Highlander. I can't use it for what I bought it for the way it is. This means I will never even consider buying another Toyota.
There are 10's of thousands of people on the internet stating they have the same problem with the vehicles they bought. Toyota needs to fix this. I am sending a copy of this to Toyota USA.
Oh, if I don't hear from you guys in a week I will assume you won't do 1 or 2. Although, since my ac is stuck on I will need to schedule service after I hear or don't hear from you.
Thanks
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