Quick answer

Below about 18 mph, select M1 for a forward descent or R for reverse, release the pedals and press the Downhill Assist Control switch; the slip indicator flashes while the system regulates speed.

Before you start

Check that your vehicle has it.

Availability

Verified in the 2025 U.S. Grand Highlander gasoline owner's manual for AWD vehicles equipped with Downhill Assist Control.

Required equipment / service
AWD, M range and Downhill Assist Control switch, Gasoline AWD equipped with Downhill Assist Control
Compatibility check

Does the documented scope match your car?

This check combines the verified year, any source-supported powertrain scope, source-named trim/package and required equipment. It does not read a VIN or factory build record.

Source-named equipment or service
  • AWD, M range and Downhill Assist Control switch
  • Gasoline AWD equipped with Downhill Assist Control
Can you see the required control, menu or equipment on your vehicle?
Published availability and qualifications

Verified in the 2025 U.S. Grand Highlander gasoline owner's manual for AWD vehicles equipped with Downhill Assist Control.

  • 2025 Grand Highlander gasoline AWD models equipped with DAC
Visual orientation

Know what kind of control to look for.

This original category diagram is an orientation aid, not a picture of your exact trim. Use the written labels and your vehicle manual to identify the real control.

Off-road systems orientation diagram for Toyota Grand Highlander
Off-road systems orientationOriginal visual guide · controls vary by trim · not to scale
How to use it

Step by step.

  1. 01

    Approach the steep descent slowly, keep the vehicle below 18 mph and verify the path is clear.

  2. 02

    Select M1 for a forward descent or R when descending in reverse, then release the accelerator and brake pedals.

  3. 03

    Press the Downhill Assist Control switch and confirm its indicator; the slip indicator flashes while brake control is active.

  4. 04

    Steer carefully down the grade, and press the switch again to cancel when stable ground is reached.

!

Important limits

  • The system supplements the driver and cannot overcome an excessively steep, slippery or uneven surface.
  • Stop lamps illuminate during control; prolonged operation can overheat the brakes and temporarily disable the feature.
If it does not work

Quick checks.

  • ✓If DAC does not engage, recheck speed, M1 or R selection and that both pedals are released.
  • ✓If the indicator flashes after canceling or an overheat warning appears, stop in a safe place and allow the brakes to cool.
Owner feedback

What happened on your vehicle?

Your response is stored on this device. If you separately allow analytics, a non-account-linked guide/result event may also be measured. No VIN or personal information is requested.

Primary evidence

2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Owner's Manual — Downhill Assist Control

Relevant section or page: Pages 352–353. We use the written official source to determine the steps and applicability shown above.

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Editorial record

Reviewed with a visible trail.

Scope and steps were checked by Car Cheat Codes Editorial Review. A guide is narrowed or corrected when the source does not support a broader claim.

Published
Last modified
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Guide change history
  • Initial verified publication.