What does the Toyota app do?

I am still learning the ropes with my new 2023 TRD Offroad I picked up last week. I have many questions but let's start with the so called Toyota app. It does nothing for me. All it has is a shopping button, vehicle info, service scheduling and basically nothing else. I was expecting at least remote start/door lock/window. I had those on my Lexus but it was a paid feature. So where are they?

 

Nothing, it is bad.

 

If you want apps, you should have bought a Tesla. I am getting rid of the push button start

 

Yep. I got my 23 TRD ORP about 3 weeks ago, and the app is totally disappointing, after coming from a 7 year old GM product where I could do almost anything with the app. So far the ONLY thing I can really see that the app has any use for is to tell you your tire pressure, remotely

But somebody here said it best - You dont buy a Toyota for the technology, you buy it for the durability/longevity. "Yesterdays technology, today" should be Toyota's motto. lol. Still, they are light years behind on their "app" with the 4Runner.

 

But I read people talk about doing all sorts of remote things, either with the fob or the app. There are instructions about using fob buttons to remote start. I had a Lexus and it had it. I read about Remote Connect too, which I don't know if it is the same as the app or something else. I think we are missing something. May be some trim levels don't have them.

 

Anyone brave enough to try this and report back?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWPR6RPaygI

 

I believe only the Limited and Pro have the full function of the App.

 

Yes but it has a monthly charge for remote connect after the trial period. Totally not worth it to me.

 

I don't even see how you can subscribe.

 

I had it on my Tacoma, and the app is pretty worthless. I didn't see a reason to PAY for a worthless service.

It would monitor the health of the truck: Show me the mileage, when the next service was due, what the oil level was, if there were any recalls.

I could also lock/unlock doors from the app and remote start it from the truck (even if I was far away). I could also flash the lights to find it in a parking lot.

 

You are correct. The limited and TRD PRO trims get full connectivity, such as remote start via the app, and lock/unlock doors IIRC. Any trims beneath those, you are SOL.

 

I know on the pro I use the app all the time to mostly start it.

 

Thanks. Rub it in why dont ya??

 

Nothing. Tries to sell you another car and mess with your current vehicle. Useless.

 

I love that motto!!! LOL

 

All the apps features disappeared October 30, 2023 when Toyota severed all ties with the weather channel, LiveOne,iHeartaRadio, Amazon Alexa, ScoutGPS, and a few others little ones like link to fibd local businesses, and one to tell you the last score of your favorit team, and stocks you watch. They couldn't get the system to work thebway it was promised. I have a 2016 Limited, one day the weather radar wold work, the next it wouldn't. Could almost never get scoutGPS to set up way points. Iheart was hit or miss too (but only when you wanted it.... if you opened it by accident it would work fine).
So, rather then fix the problem, they gave up on it... along with the one touch SOS help button (at least for my model year).
The app is still usefully, in that, you have your vin number on you when ever you need it, and sometimes you can. Even download user manuals.... but that's about it. Newer models may have better tech... since I see the features still advertised att my local dealership as of today.
The someday plan for me at least is to save up for an android compatable system that looks factory, integrates with existing factory accessories (back up camera) and can be more useful like full access OBD2 with live 2way feedback. But have to finish other mods first (like adding rear cargo lights that loom factory installed, install the A-pilliar grab handle I just got the bracket for last week, install engin compartment LED lighting so I can see what I'm doing when I mess it up, replace those God awful factory halogen with some decent LED... still open to suggestions on that one, and install front and rear METAL offroad bumpers and ditch this factory plastic that keeps popping out at the seams. Tried installing KO2's a couple of weeks ago but discount tire insisted I needed 7.5" wide rims and the Limited only has 7", so I went with 265/50 R20 Hankook Dynapro AT2 Extreme's instead.
In short, Toyota ditched any fun the app once had, at least for my year 4runner.

 

I have a ‘24 Limited and I’ve barely used the app so far. When I have done remote start, I just used the key fob.

 

@PennRunner I have been doing some research on this Key fob remote starter/ app starter, it looks good and seen some other forums talking about it. It is called COMPUSTAR. I have been thinking about buying it since the toyota app is pure shit. but like what @Technologic80 has said "yesterday's technology, today". He could not be more right by that comment haha.