If you’re in the market for a new truck, you may be wondering what the 2023 Toyota Tundra has to offer.
There are many awesome features the 2023 Toyota Tundra comes with, check out our detailed trim levels guide for the gas model Tundra or the hybrid version!
Don’t get overwhelmed when you first get inside the Tundra. There are many buttons for accessing the many awesome features this truck has. Let’s take a look at every button and what it does!
BTW: Some buttons and features are only available on selected 2023 Tundra models. If you don’t see it in your TUndra, this is very likely why!
CENTER CONSOLE
“DRIVE MODE” switch (Left in Picture)
Select between driving modes on the multi-information display while turning the mode select switch left and right.
Modes available on 2023 Tundra:
- Without Adaptive Variable Suspension System – ECO, Normal, and Sport
- With Adaptive Variable Suspension System – Normal, Comfort, ECO, Sport S, Sport S+, and Custom
Tow Haul switch (Right in Picture)
When hauling a heavy load or pulling a trailer, use Tow Haul mode. The engine, gearbox, and steering are all altered to be more suited when towing a trailer using this function.
In tow truck mode, you have the choice between ‘Tow Haul’ and ‘Tow+.’ You’ll need to use ‘Tow+’ if you’re towing anything that weighs 5,000 pounds or more. For lighter load, you can use ‘Tow Haul’ mode.
This mode will automatically deactivate when:
- the front-wheel-drive is switched to 4L
- drive mode has been selected
- multi-terrain select is being in use
LEFT SIDE OF THE STEERING WHEEL
TOP ROW, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT
Bed Box Light On/Off
When the door or tailgate is opened or closed, the cargo light, bed light, and trailer hitch light will turn on for up to 20 minutes. If the car is in motion, though, the trailer hitch light will be switched off automatically.
Auto High Beam On/Off
Auto high beam activates when your car is travelling at or above 34km/h in the evening and there are no other cars in front of you.
Auto Engine Start Turn Off
When the car is stopped, the Stop & Start function automatically shuts off the engine when your vehicle comes to a full stop to improve fuel efficiency while reducing noise pollution. The engine will restart as soon as you attempt to accelerate. This function will be turned back on the next time your engine is turned on.
Dashboard Brightness
The brightness of the instrument panel light can be adjusted by pressing the button. The change may be altered in one of two ways: by short-pressing or long-pressing the button.
Odometer/Trip View
When the “ODO TRIP” switch is pressed, the odometer display will switch between the accumulated kilometres, trip A, and trip B. The trip meter can be reset by pressing and holding the switch while the trip meter is shown.
Parking Support Brake Turn Off
The parking support brake turns off all of your car’s automatic braking assist when you attempt to park. When this is off, the vehicle will not be able to detect stationary objects and rear-crossing vehicles detection.
When the parking support brake is disabled, the PKSB OFF indicator will be displayed on the dashboard. When 4L mode is active or a trailer is towed, the Parking Support Brake functions are instantly shut off.
Power steps switch (Running Board and bed box step)
This will turn on or off the automatic running board on the side and the auto step bar at the rear of your Tundra.
LOWER ROW, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT
Headlight Leveling Adjustment
The headlight alignment can be adjusted by using this dial switch. It is advised that you keep the headlights at a setting of “0” to avoid affecting other cars.
Heated Steering Wheel
This button turns on or off the heating function of the steering wheel.
AC 120V switch (Not in picture)
This turns on and off the power outlet located in the back seat and bed box. The outlet is typically 120 V AC/100 W. To access the maximum power of 120 V AC/400 W your shift lever must be in P first, then press this button the turn off this feature, then back on again.
Outer mirror extend switch (Not in picture)
When towing a huge trailer, the rearview may be enhanced by extending the side mirrors all the way out to the outer edge. The mirror will extend or retract to its original position every time the switch is pressed.
RIGHT SIDE OF STEERING WHEEL
Engine Start/stop Button
To start the engine, press and hold down the button for one second while pressing down on the brake pedal. To switch off, press the button once more.
When this button is pressed without pressing the brake pedal, in the following order, it will go into these modes with each subsequence pressing of this button: ‘Accessory mode’ > ‘Ignition On’ > Off then repeat.
For your vehicle’s battery protection, when the car is in the ‘Accessory’ mode and left idle, it will turn off automatically after 20 minutes; the engine will shut down automatically after 1 hour when it’s in ‘Ignition On.’
Trailer Brake Control Switch
When towing a trailer, the trailer brakes may be controlled by connecting them with a 7-pin connector.
Pressing the “GAIN” (+) and “GAIN” (-) buttons adjusts the amount of power that can be sent to the trailer brakes. using the multi-information, choose the type of trailer brakes (electric or electric-over hydraulic).
To adjust the brake output manually, slide the lever on the left. If you use the manual brake slider while pressing down on the vehicle’s brakes, the greater of the two outputs will be sent to the trailer brakes.
BELOW THE TOUCH SCREEN
TOP ROW, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT
Trailer Backup Guide switch (Not in Picture)
Use this button to access the Trailer Backup Guide. This function may be used to turn on Straight Path Assist or Guidance Mode. Straight Path Assist gives you better control of your trailer to keep it straight while backing up; whereas, Guidance Mode gives direction for manual steering when backing up.
Camera switch (Not in Picture)
With this button, you can access the panoramic view monitor at any moment. The screen displays a variety of viewpoints and environments of the vehicle when in use.
Trailer Sway Control OFF switch
The Traction Control system (TRAC) may limit power from the engine to the wheels if the car gets stuck in mud, dirt or snow. If you press this button to turn off the Trailer Sway Control function, it will be easier for you to rock the vehicle in order to free it.
Emergency light switch
Press this button to flash all of the turn signal lights to warn other drivers when your vehicle has to be stopped on the road due to a breakdown, etc.
Rear differential lock switch (Not in Picture)
When the rear differential lock option is activated, it improves traction by forcing all wheels to spin at the same speed. Pressing this button, the rear differential will be unlocked, allowing the wheels to rotate at different speeds.
The rear differential is locked automatically when the engine is switched off or when the front-wheel drive switch is set to “2H” or “4H.” While the rear differential lock is on, the following functions will be disabled: Anti-Lock Braking System, Brake Assist System, Vehicle Stability Control, Downhill Assist Control System, and Traction Control.
Height control mode select switch (Not in Picture)
The height of the Tundra can be altered using this button. In order to meet changing driving conditions, the electronically modulated air suspension allows you to adjust the vehicle’s height. Downward pressure on it lowers its height and vice versa. This only works while the engine is running.
Height control switch (Not in Picture)
Use this button to switch between 3 available modes: N, HI or Lo.
- “N” mode (normal mode): For ordinary driving Normal height.
- “HI” mode (high mode): This will lift the vehicle up by 1.6 inches or 4 cm. Perfect for driving low speed on bumpy roads. This mode will be disengaged when your speed exceeds 30 km/h.
- “LO” mode (low mode): This mode is designed to make it easier to load or offload items from the truck. It lowers the Tundra’s height by 0.2 inch or 3 cm. This mode can only be used when driving 12 km or lower.
BELOW ROW
Emergency Light On/Off
Press the switch to flash all of the turn signal lights in case of an emergency.
Brake hold switch
By pressing this button to enable the Brake hold feature, it will hold the brake each time your vehicle comes to a complete stop. It will keep the brakes applied until you press the accelerator pedal. Ideal for situations where you must stop and go.
When this function is turned on, a green ‘HOLD’ symbol appears on the dashboard. A second yellow ‘HOLD’ symbol will be displayed when the vehicle is holding the brake after a stop.
Parking brake switch
The parking brake can be switched on or off manually by using this switch. However, You won’t need to use this switch since this function is automatically applied by the vehicle; the parking brake is disabled when your vehicle is in drive mode and enabled when you are in park mode.
If you don’t want the vehicle’s automatic function to operate, simply press and hold down this button while it is stopped until “EPB Shift Interlock Function Deactivated” appears in the dashboard. To turn it back on, pull up the switch and hold it until you see “EPB Shift Interlock Function Activated” appear in the dash
DRIVER SIDE DOOR
Driving position memory switches (Not in Picture)
You may create up to two presets that automatically change the position of the driver’s seat, steering wheel, and outside rearview mirrors to your preferences.
To set a memory, position the seats, steering wheel and outside mirrors as desired, press ‘Set,’ then press either ‘1’ or ‘2’ to have it programmed. Memory adjustment will only work when your car is parked. The tundra will also widen the entrance space by automatically adjusting the seats and steering wheel for easier access and exit.
BONUS:
Did you know that the Tundra can automatically adjust the seats and side mirror position based on the key fob? To do so, first set the desired position to ‘1’ or ‘2.’ While the car is on, press the number you assigned it to, then hold down this button until you hear a buzzing sound.
The next time you lock your car with the same key, the seat and mirror position will be preset to your preferences automatically. Unfortunately, this function does not take into account the steering wheel position.
Side rearview mirror controls
The position of the side rearview mirrors may be adjusted using the joystick. To select which side you’d like to change, utilize the joystick to rotate it left or right.
The mirrors may be set to fold automatically by placing the switch in the neutral position. The automatic mode enables the folding and unfolding of the mirrors to be linked to door locking/unlocking.
In extremely cold conditions, the mirror may be frozen. Remove any ice and snow from the door mirror before using it. If this isn’t possible, keep it in manual mode or manually adjust it.
Window lock switch
To keep children from opening or closing the windows, use the Windows Lock Switch. Even if you turn on the lock switch, the driver’s switch can still be used to open and close the windows.
Door lock switches
The buttons on the door handle are used to lock and unlock the doors. You can modify the following door settings in the Tundra’s dashboard:
- lock all doors when you are driving 20km or faster
- lock all doors when the gear shift is no longer in the P position
- unlock all doors when the gear shift is set to the P position
- unlock all doors when the driver’s door is opened within 45 seconds after engine shut off
Power window switches
Use this set of buttons to open or close any of the windows in the Tundra.
LEFT PANEL OF STEERING WHEEL
Dash Menu control switches
The up, down, left, and right arrow keys as well as a return button are used for selecting and controlling items from the dashboard menu.
Phone button
To accept or end a phone conversation, press the Answer/End button while connected to your phone via Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or Bluetooth. You can also use this as a shortcut to the phone app while using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto when you’re not on a call.
Audio volume switches
To adjust the music volume, use this. This is also used to adjust the volume during a phone conversation.
Talk switch
Calls can be made using voice commands. To end voice command, press and hold the talk switch
RIGHT PANEL OF STEERING WHEEL
TOP ROW, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT
Vehicle-to-vehicle distance switch
Press this button to choose how far away from the vehicle ahead you want your Tundra to remain. The speed of the Tundra will be changed/reduced to maintain that distance. You have three options: Long (around 160 ft.), Medium (130 ft.), and short (100 ft.). In order to use this button, Cruise Control must first be enabled.
Lane Tracing Assist switch
The Lane Tracing Assist function will be switched on with this button. When the Lane Tracing Assist is activated, each press of this button will toggle the Lane Centering function on or off, which will be shown on the dashboard display. Holding down this button can turn off the Lane Tracing Assist completely.
When the Lane Tracing Assist light flashes, this indicates it is on and ready to trace your vehicle’s route. When the Lane Tracing Assist symbol illuminates, it means that it is active and ready to track your car’s path. Here are the meanings of the colours:
- White – Lane Tracing Assist is on
- Green – Steering Assist is on to help steer you to remain in the centre of the lane
- Orange and flashing – Lane Departure Alert is on
MIDDLE ROW, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT
Cruise control switches
This button turns on the cruise control ability of the vehicle. After, program in the speed by:
- accelerate or decelerate to the desire speed, then press ‘-SET’
- To change the speed, press and hold the ‘+RES’ or ‘-SET’ buttons for a few seconds. To scroll through the speed options more quickly, you can hold down those keys. Set it to the speed you want and your car will adapt to it automatically.
At any time, you can modify the speed by:
- accelerate to the desire speed, then press ‘-SET’
- To change the speed, press and hold the ‘+RES’ or ‘-SET’ buttons for a few seconds. To scroll through the speed options more quickly, you can hold down those keys. Set it to the speed you want and your car will adapt to it automatically.
When the cruise control is activated, pressing on the ‘Cancel’ button or pressing down the pedal will cause it to stop. When it’s safe to drive again, press +RES to re-activate the cruise control function.
Mode and Playback Button
To change the station you want to listen to, use these buttons. The Mode button may be used to switch between radio and Bluetooth mode. Playback controls will alternate between preset stations while listening to the radio.
DIRECTLY BENEATH THE TOUCH SCREEN
TOP ROW, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT
Left-side temperature control toggle
Use to increase/decrease the temperature for the left side of the interior.
The “AUTO” mode toggle
When you switch on ‘AUTO,’ the Fan speed is automatically adjusted to fit the current temperature setting and surrounding conditions. As a result, the fan may come to a halt for a while until warm or cool air is accessible.
When you manually choose a fan speed or alter the airflow settings, the automatic mode indicator will go off. When this happens, AUTO mode will still be in control, but the functions you have manually chosen will no longer be in automatic mode.
Fan speed control toggle
Manually increase/decrease the fan speed with this toggle.
“SYNC” mode toggle
When you turn on ‘SYNC’ mode, the driver’s side temperature control switch will be used to regulate both sides of the vehicle’s temperature. This mode can be switched off by manually setting the front passenger’s side temperature control switch or pressing the “SYNC” toggle again.
Airflow mode control toggle
Press this to change between the following airflow modes:
- Flowing towards the upper body.
- Flowing towards the upper body
- and feet.
- Flowing towards the feet.
- Flowing towards the feet with windshield defogger active.
Right-side temperature control toggle
Control the temperature for the front passenger area. Use to increase/decrease the temperature for the right side of the interior
LOWER ROW, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT
Left-side heated seat control
Turns on/off the heated seat function for the driver seat. 3 levels of heating are available.
Left-side ventilated seat control
Turns on/off the ventilated seat function for the driver seat. 3 levels of heating are available.
“OFF” switch
Use this switch to turn off the climate control system.
Windshield defogger switch
When pressed, this button will turn on the front defoggers for the front windshield and front side windows. Raise the airflow and temperature to defog the windscreen and side windows quickly. To return to the previous setting, press the windshield defogger button once again when the windshield has been defogged.
However, do not use the windshield defogger switch during cold air operation in excessively humid climates. The temperature difference between the outside air and that of the windscreen might cause the outer surface of the windshield to fog up, impairing your vision.
Rear window and outside rearview mirror defoggers switch
To enable this function, press and hold the rear window and outside rear view mirror defoggers switch. After 15 minutes, the defoggers will turn off automatically.
“A/C” switch
To turn on air conditioning, press this button. The climate control will instead blow out ambient temperature air or heated air if this isn’t pressed.
Recirculated air mode switch
Press this button to turn on recirculated air modes. When the recirculated air mode is turned on, it will close the fresh air intake and circulate the air already in the vehicle.
Turning on recirculated air mode for a little while should prevent filthy air from entering the car interior and assist to cool it down when the outside air temperature is high.
Outside air mode switch
Press this button to turn on outside air modes. Outside air mode is a function that allows the fresh air from outside to come into the car.
Right-side ventilated seat control
Turns on/off the ventilated seat function for the front passenger seat. 3 levels of heating are available.
Right-side heated seat control
Turns on/off the heated seat function for the front passenger seat. 3 levels of heating are available.
OVERHEAD PANEL
SOS Button
Press this button to access or register for the Toyota Safety Connect service.
The following indicator light patterns indicate specific system usage conditions:
- Green light = Active service
- Green light flashing = Safety Connect call in process
- Red light (except at vehicle start-up) = System malfunction (contact your Toyota dealer)
- No indicator light (off) = Safety Connect service not active
Power back window switch (Left Button in Picture)
Use to open or close to window behind the back seats.
Sunroof open/close switch (Not in Picture)
Use these buttons to open, close, or tilt the sunroof to allow air in.
Garage door opener buttons (Not in Picture)
The garage door opener buttons can be programmed to operate garage doors, gates, entry doors, door locks, home lighting systems, security systems, and other devices. You can set up to 3 devices.
Conclusion
We hope that you have found this guide helpful. You’ve spent a lot of money on your Tundra and you should use as many of its features as possible! Are there more features or tips that we didn’t describe in this guide? Let us know in the comment.