Written by: Sunny Driver
If you drive a newer Toyota (2020 or later), you might have access to something that genuinely makes life easier — the myToyota Connect app.
Now, I’m not always one to jump on the latest tech, but after using this for a while, I’ve got to say: it’s simple, helpful, and once you’ve got it, you won’t want to go without it.
Let me walk you through a few of the features I’ve found handy — no jargon, just real-life stuff.
🔑 Lock or unlock your car from your phone
We’ve all been there, at least I have, thinking "Did I lock the car?" and you’re too far away for the key to do anything. Well stress no more — with myToyota Connect you can lock your car from your phone. And you want to know the best part, you can unlock it remotely too! So if your kids, partner or parents need to get access to your car when you're not close by - they can! How easy is that?!
❄ Start the engine and cool it down (or warm it up)*
Summer's on the Sunshine Coast can be brutal and there’s nothing worse than getting into a boiling hot car after it’s been sitting in the sun. With the app, you can start your Toyota remotely and get the air con pumping before you even get in. It's one of those things that I never knew I needed, until I tried it. Definitely a winner!
📍 Can’t find your car? Same
If you've ever been to the Sunshine Plaza at Christmas time, you'll know that parking can be an absolute nightmare! I once lost my car there for way longer than I’d like to admit. The myToyota Connect app shows you exactly where your car is parked, so you don’t have to be that person wandering the carpark clicking the unlock button anymore!
🛠 Service reminders that actually help
Service reminders, accessible in the one place whenever you need them! And because the app tracks your odometer as well, you're not just getting reminders at the time intervals, but also KMs, the app keeps track of it for you. You’ll get a heads-up when your service is due and you can book it in directly through the app.
⛽ Check fuel and distance at a glance
If you're one of those people who leaves fuelling up until the last minute, or you swap cars often with your partner, you won't need to stress about whether you're going to make it to work in the morning any longer! Just open the app and you'll know how much fuel is in the tank or how far your car has driven this week - it's in real time so you know its right!
🛡 Extra peace of mind
If you needed an extra benefit, you can now have additional peace of mind that myToyota Connect will let you know if a door’s been left open, your fuel is running low or something else with your vehicle needs attention. It’s like having an extra set of eyes on your car and I’m all for that.
Is myToyota Connect worth it?
Depending on your situation of course but honestly for me, it's a big yes. Especially if you like knowing my car’s locked, service is booked, and I'll be able to find it when I'm lost in the carpark (guilty). It just takes some of the small daily hassles out of the picture.
Not sure if your Toyota is compatible?
Most 2020 or newer models are. If you’re not sure, just pop into Sunshine Toyota or visit our website to check vehicle compatiability — we’ll happily check for you and help get it set up.
Getting started is easy
Download the myToyota Connect app from the App Store or Google Play, log in with your Toyota Account, and you’re off and running. And if you need a hand? The team at Sunshine Toyota is always happy to walk you through it.