Owners of 2006-07 Toyota Highlander hybrid SUVs may complain of a rocking sensation while driving on the open road.
According to Toyota, the back-and-forth motion feels similar to a hesitation or intermittent misfire, typically occurs at around 40 mph, ceases once over that point, then resurfaces at about 70 mph with the vehicle at a steady-state cruise.
Faulty logic in the hybrid system ECU and engine PCM are the root cause of the drivability issue. Reprogramming both modules with updated software is the only remedy.
Check with a dealer for the application specifics of the flash.
"Factory Fixes" is written by Jim DePalma, a 30-year veteran of the auto repair business who has served stints as a service manager, parts manager and ASE-certified technician. His column provides vehicle manufacturers' authentic factory technical service bulletins (TSBs) that have been condensed for easier reading. Mr. DePalma advises that techs always check with a dealer or repair information system for the latest revisions before starting to work on a vehicle. He can be reached via e-mail at [email protected].