4gtacoadmin
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- Tacoma
- 4th Gen Tacoma
This thread consolidates the complete starting and stopping procedures for your 2024+ (4th Gen) Toyota Tacoma from pages 212-215 of the official owner's manual. Includes safety information, step-by-step procedures, engine switch modes, and practical community tips for Smart Key system operation.
WARNING: Starting Safety (Page 212)
Always start the engine while sitting in the driver's seat. Do not depress the accelerator pedal while starting the engine under any circumstances. Doing so may cause an accident resulting in death or serious injury.
WARNING: Manual Transmission Emergency (Page 213)
Caution while driving (vehicles with a manual transmission): If engine failure occurs while the vehicle is moving, do not lock or open the doors until the vehicle reaches a safe and complete stop. Activation of the steering lock in this circumstance may lead to an accident, resulting in death or serious injury.
WARNING: Engine Emergency Shutdown (Page 214)
If you want to stop the engine in an emergency while driving the vehicle, press and hold the engine switch for more than 2 seconds, or press it briefly 3 times or more in succession. However, do not touch the engine switch while driving except in an emergency. Turning the engine off while driving will not cause loss of steering or braking control, but the power assist to these systems will be lost. This will make it more difficult to steer and brake, so you should pull over and stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.
WARNING: Exhaust Gas Hazard (Page 215)
When parking: Exhaust gases include harmful carbon monoxide (CO), which is colorless and odorless. If the vehicle is in a poorly ventilated area or a closed area, such as a garage, stop the engine. Do not leave the vehicle with the engine running for a long time. If such a situation cannot be avoided, park the vehicle in an open space and ensure that exhaust fumes do not enter the vehicle interior. Do not leave the engine running in an area with snow build-up, or where it is snowing. If snowbanks build up around the vehicle while the engine is running, exhaust gases may collect and enter the vehicle.
NOTICE: Cold Engine Operation (Page 214)
Do not race a cold engine. If the engine becomes difficult to start or stalls frequently, have your vehicle checked by your Toyota dealer immediately.
Step 1: Verify Parking Brake is Set
Pull the parking brake switch to check that the parking brake is set. The parking brake indicator will come on, confirming engagement.
Step 2: Position Transmission Correctly
Check that the shift lever is in the correct position:
Step 3: Depress Brake or Clutch Pedal
A message will be displayed on the multi-information display. If not displayed, the engine cannot be started.
Step 4: Press Engine Switch
Press the engine switch shortly and firmly. One short, firm press is enough-it is not necessary to press and hold the switch.
The engine will crank until it starts or for up to 30 seconds, whichever is less. Continue depressing the brake pedal (automatic) or clutch pedal (manual) until the engine is completely started.
Important: The engine can be started from any engine switch mode (OFF, ACC, or ON).
The engine switch illuminates according to these situations:
Immobilizer System Issue:
The engine immobilizer system may not have been deactivated. Contact your Toyota dealer.
Multi-Information Display Message:
If a message related to start-up is shown on the multi-information display, read the message and follow the instructions.
Battery Discharge:
Refer to Page 600 for smart key system restart instructions.
Electronic Key Battery Low:
Refer to Page 125 for electronic key battery depletion information.
Smart Key System Malfunction:
If "Smart Key System Malfunction See Owner's Manual" is displayed on the multi-information display, the system may be malfunctioning. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.
Steering Lock (Manual Transmission Only):
After turning the engine switch off and opening/closing doors, the steering wheel will be locked due to the steering lock function. Operating the engine switch again automatically cancels the steering lock. If the steering lock cannot be released, press the engine switch shortly and firmly while turning the steering wheel left and right.
To prevent steering lock motor overheating, operation of the motor may be suspended if the engine is turned on and off repeatedly in a short period of time. In this case, refrain from operating the engine switch. After about 10 seconds, the steering lock motor will resume functioning.
Engine Switch Operation Issues:
Engine switch modes can be changed by pressing the engine switch with the brake pedal (automatic transmission) or clutch pedal (manual transmission) released. The mode changes each time the switch is pressed: OFF → ACC → ON → OFF (cycling).
Step 1: Stop Vehicle Completely
Bring your vehicle to a complete stop before attempting to shut off the engine.
Step 2: Set Parking Brake
If parking brake is in manual mode, set the parking brake. Check that the parking brake indicator is illuminated.
Step 3: Position Transmission
Shift the shift lever to:
Step 4: Press Engine Switch to Stop
Press the engine switch shortly and firmly. The engine will stop, and the meter display will be extinguished.
Step 5: Verify Shutdown Complete
Release the brake pedal and check that "ACCESSORY" or "IGNITION ON" is not shown on the multi-information display. If either is displayed, the engine shutdown sequence has not completed-repeat Step 4.
The vehicle is equipped with a feature that automatically shuts off the engine when the shift lever is in P with the engine running for an extended period. The engine will automatically shut off after approximately 1 hour if left running.
Timer Management:
If emergency stop is required while driving:
An engine switch operation warning message will appear on the multi-information display and a buzzer will sound when engine switch is operated while vehicle is running.
After Emergency Shutdown - Engine Restart:
Remote Start Feature for Temperature Control:
The remote start feature will run your engine for approximately 10 minutes before auto-shutoff. Enable AC before powering off vehicle, then use remote start to cool the cabin before entering-useful in extreme hot weather. (Source: 4th Gen Tacoma Owner Community)
Keep Spare Key Fob Battery in Vehicle:
Emergency Starting Workaround for Smart Key Glitches:
If Smart Key system is unresponsive, press and hold the engine switch for 15 seconds while depressing brake/clutch. This procedure bypasses certain Smart Key system checks and uses alternate authentication. Useful if experiencing intermittent "Smart Key Malfunction" messages or slow system response. (Source: 4th Gen Tacoma Owner Community)
Defective Panasonic 12V Batteries in Early 2024 Production:
Multiple 2024 Tacoma Hybrid owners experienced repeated no-start at low mileage (3,500-5,000 miles). Root cause: factory quality control issue in Panasonic batteries confirmed by Toyota Master Technicians. Resolution: Request battery load test from dealer; all defective batteries replaced under warranty. No NHTSA recall issued. (Source: TorqueNews)
Accelerated Key Fob Battery Depletion Pattern:
Documented by multiple owners: Key fob batteries dying at 6-9 months (vs expected 1-2 years). Affects both gas and hybrid models. Not a safety issue (mechanical key unlock still works), but consider keeping spare battery. (Source: 4th Gen Tacoma Owner Community)
DCM Battery Drain ("Power Vampire") Phenomenon:
The Data Communication Module (DCM) is identified as a known power drain on some 4th Gen Tacomas. Vehicle systems can remain partially awake even when parked, draining battery over 2-3 day periods. This explains no-start issues after several days of non-use despite recently charged battery. Workaround: Disconnect negative battery terminal if parking for extended periods (3+ days). (Source: 4th Gen Tacoma Owner Community)
Owner's Manual Pages:
Additional Community Sources:
Disclaimer:
This guide is derived from the official 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual (OM04041U) with supplementary information from the 4th Gen Tacoma owner community and authoritative automotive sources. Always follow your official owner's manual for warranty compliance. This is a reference guide only. For persistent starting issues, contact your Toyota dealer for diagnosis.
Tacoma Engine Start & Stop: Procedures, Safety & Tips
Safety Precautions
WARNING: Starting Safety (Page 212)
Always start the engine while sitting in the driver's seat. Do not depress the accelerator pedal while starting the engine under any circumstances. Doing so may cause an accident resulting in death or serious injury.
WARNING: Manual Transmission Emergency (Page 213)
Caution while driving (vehicles with a manual transmission): If engine failure occurs while the vehicle is moving, do not lock or open the doors until the vehicle reaches a safe and complete stop. Activation of the steering lock in this circumstance may lead to an accident, resulting in death or serious injury.
WARNING: Engine Emergency Shutdown (Page 214)
If you want to stop the engine in an emergency while driving the vehicle, press and hold the engine switch for more than 2 seconds, or press it briefly 3 times or more in succession. However, do not touch the engine switch while driving except in an emergency. Turning the engine off while driving will not cause loss of steering or braking control, but the power assist to these systems will be lost. This will make it more difficult to steer and brake, so you should pull over and stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.
WARNING: Exhaust Gas Hazard (Page 215)
When parking: Exhaust gases include harmful carbon monoxide (CO), which is colorless and odorless. If the vehicle is in a poorly ventilated area or a closed area, such as a garage, stop the engine. Do not leave the vehicle with the engine running for a long time. If such a situation cannot be avoided, park the vehicle in an open space and ensure that exhaust fumes do not enter the vehicle interior. Do not leave the engine running in an area with snow build-up, or where it is snowing. If snowbanks build up around the vehicle while the engine is running, exhaust gases may collect and enter the vehicle.
NOTICE: Cold Engine Operation (Page 214)
Do not race a cold engine. If the engine becomes difficult to start or stalls frequently, have your vehicle checked by your Toyota dealer immediately.
Starting the Engine Procedure
Step-by-Step Process (Pages 212-213)
Step 1: Verify Parking Brake is Set
Pull the parking brake switch to check that the parking brake is set. The parking brake indicator will come on, confirming engagement.
Step 2: Position Transmission Correctly
Check that the shift lever is in the correct position:
- Automatic Transmission: P (Park)
- Manual Transmission: N (Neutral)
Step 3: Depress Brake or Clutch Pedal
- Automatic Transmission: Firmly depress the brake pedal
- Manual Transmission: Firmly depress the clutch pedal
A message will be displayed on the multi-information display. If not displayed, the engine cannot be started.
Step 4: Press Engine Switch
Press the engine switch shortly and firmly. One short, firm press is enough-it is not necessary to press and hold the switch.
The engine will crank until it starts or for up to 30 seconds, whichever is less. Continue depressing the brake pedal (automatic) or clutch pedal (manual) until the engine is completely started.
Important: The engine can be started from any engine switch mode (OFF, ACC, or ON).
Engine Switch Illumination Behavior (Page 213)
The engine switch illuminates according to these situations:
- When driver's door or front passenger's door is opened, the engine switch illumination illuminates
- When engine switch is in OFF and brake pedal is depressed while carrying electronic key, the engine switch illumination blinks
- When engine switch is in ACC or ON, the engine switch illumination illuminates
- When engine switch mode is changed from ACC or ON to OFF, the illumination illuminates for a certain amount of time, then turns off
If Engine Won't Start (Page 213)
Immobilizer System Issue:
The engine immobilizer system may not have been deactivated. Contact your Toyota dealer.
Multi-Information Display Message:
If a message related to start-up is shown on the multi-information display, read the message and follow the instructions.
Battery Discharge:
Refer to Page 600 for smart key system restart instructions.
Electronic Key Battery Low:
Refer to Page 125 for electronic key battery depletion information.
Smart Key System Malfunction:
If "Smart Key System Malfunction See Owner's Manual" is displayed on the multi-information display, the system may be malfunctioning. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.
Steering Lock (Manual Transmission Only):
After turning the engine switch off and opening/closing doors, the steering wheel will be locked due to the steering lock function. Operating the engine switch again automatically cancels the steering lock. If the steering lock cannot be released, press the engine switch shortly and firmly while turning the steering wheel left and right.
To prevent steering lock motor overheating, operation of the motor may be suspended if the engine is turned on and off repeatedly in a short period of time. In this case, refrain from operating the engine switch. After about 10 seconds, the steering lock motor will resume functioning.
Engine Switch Operation Issues:
- If the switch is not pressed shortly and firmly, the engine switch mode may not change or the engine may not start
- If attempting to restart the engine immediately after turning the engine switch to OFF, the engine may not start in some cases. After turning the engine switch to OFF, please wait a few seconds before restarting the engine
Engine Switch Modes Explained
Engine switch modes can be changed by pressing the engine switch with the brake pedal (automatic transmission) or clutch pedal (manual transmission) released. The mode changes each time the switch is pressed: OFF → ACC → ON → OFF (cycling).
OFF Mode
Emergency flashers can be used. The multi-information display is not displayed. Use when parked with engine off.ACC Mode (Accessory)
Some electrical components such as the audio system can be used. "ACCESSORY" will be displayed on the meter. Use when vehicle is parked and you need power without engine running.ON Mode (Ignition On)
All electrical components can be used. "IGNITION ON" will be displayed on the meter. Use when engine is running or ready to start.Stopping the Engine Procedure
Step-by-Step Process (Pages 214)
Step 1: Stop Vehicle Completely
Bring your vehicle to a complete stop before attempting to shut off the engine.
Step 2: Set Parking Brake
If parking brake is in manual mode, set the parking brake. Check that the parking brake indicator is illuminated.
Step 3: Position Transmission
Shift the shift lever to:
- Automatic Transmission: P (Park)
- Manual Transmission: N (Neutral)
Step 4: Press Engine Switch to Stop
Press the engine switch shortly and firmly. The engine will stop, and the meter display will be extinguished.
Step 5: Verify Shutdown Complete
Release the brake pedal and check that "ACCESSORY" or "IGNITION ON" is not shown on the multi-information display. If either is displayed, the engine shutdown sequence has not completed-repeat Step 4.
Automatic Engine Shut-Off Feature (Page 214)
The vehicle is equipped with a feature that automatically shuts off the engine when the shift lever is in P with the engine running for an extended period. The engine will automatically shut off after approximately 1 hour if left running.
Timer Management:
- Timer resets if brake pedal is pressed
- Timer resets if shift lever is moved to position other than P
- Feature disables if door locked with interior switch or exterior mechanical key after parking
- Feature re-enables if driver's door is opened
Emergency Engine Shutdown (Page 214)
If emergency stop is required while driving:
- Method 1: Press and hold the engine switch for more than 2 seconds
- Method 2: Press engine switch briefly 3 or more times in succession
An engine switch operation warning message will appear on the multi-information display and a buzzer will sound when engine switch is operated while vehicle is running.
After Emergency Shutdown - Engine Restart:
- Automatic Transmission: Shift shift lever to N (Neutral), then press engine switch
- Manual Transmission: Depress clutch pedal, then press engine switch
Community Tips and Real-World Experience
Remote Start Feature for Temperature Control:
The remote start feature will run your engine for approximately 10 minutes before auto-shutoff. Enable AC before powering off vehicle, then use remote start to cool the cabin before entering-useful in extreme hot weather. (Source: 4th Gen Tacoma Owner Community)
Keep Spare Key Fob Battery in Vehicle:
Emergency Starting Workaround for Smart Key Glitches:
If Smart Key system is unresponsive, press and hold the engine switch for 15 seconds while depressing brake/clutch. This procedure bypasses certain Smart Key system checks and uses alternate authentication. Useful if experiencing intermittent "Smart Key Malfunction" messages or slow system response. (Source: 4th Gen Tacoma Owner Community)
Important Known Issues
Defective Panasonic 12V Batteries in Early 2024 Production:
Multiple 2024 Tacoma Hybrid owners experienced repeated no-start at low mileage (3,500-5,000 miles). Root cause: factory quality control issue in Panasonic batteries confirmed by Toyota Master Technicians. Resolution: Request battery load test from dealer; all defective batteries replaced under warranty. No NHTSA recall issued. (Source: TorqueNews)
Accelerated Key Fob Battery Depletion Pattern:
Documented by multiple owners: Key fob batteries dying at 6-9 months (vs expected 1-2 years). Affects both gas and hybrid models. Not a safety issue (mechanical key unlock still works), but consider keeping spare battery. (Source: 4th Gen Tacoma Owner Community)
DCM Battery Drain ("Power Vampire") Phenomenon:
The Data Communication Module (DCM) is identified as a known power drain on some 4th Gen Tacomas. Vehicle systems can remain partially awake even when parked, draining battery over 2-3 day periods. This explains no-start issues after several days of non-use despite recently charged battery. Workaround: Disconnect negative battery terminal if parking for extended periods (3+ days). (Source: 4th Gen Tacoma Owner Community)
Source Attribution
Owner's Manual Pages:
- Starting procedure: Pages 212-213
- Starting troubleshooting: Page 213
- Engine switch modes: Page 215
- Stopping procedure: Page 214
- Automatic engine shut-off feature: Page 214
Additional Community Sources:
- 4GTaco.com (4th Gen Tacoma Forum)
- TacomaWorld.com (Owner Community)
- Tacoma4G.com (4th Gen Forum)
- TorqueNews (Automotive Journalism)
Disclaimer:
This guide is derived from the official 2024+ Toyota Tacoma Owner's Manual (OM04041U) with supplementary information from the 4th Gen Tacoma owner community and authoritative automotive sources. Always follow your official owner's manual for warranty compliance. This is a reference guide only. For persistent starting issues, contact your Toyota dealer for diagnosis.
