Since the 1990s, a convenient feature has been available on some Lexus vehicles, and it was initially enabled by default: remote operation of windows and sunroofs via the key fob. However, reports surfaced on Lexus forums detailing instances where windows and sunroofs were inadvertently opened. This issue, which some have playfully termed “Tight Pants Syndrome,” arises when something in the same pocket as the key fob applies continuous pressure to the unlock button, leading to unintended opening of windows and sunroof. While this might be inconsequential if the vehicle is garaged, it becomes problematic when parked outdoors during inclement weather like rain or snow, as documented in various reports.
This potential for unintentional activation might explain why this feature is now often disabled by default in many vehicles, including potentially the 2019 Toyota Highlander XLE.
Personal experiences mirror these reports. On Lexus vehicles, kept in a garage, items like a Swiss army knife in the same pocket as the key fob have caused windows and sunroof to open unexpectedly. This even occurred while working on vehicles inside the garage. Increased vigilance regarding pocket contents and habitually removing fobs upon entering the house or when working on vehicles became necessary.
A similar issue has been encountered with a Sienna, where pocket pressure on the fob’s sliding door or hatch buttons resulted in doors opening unexpectedly. Often, it was a sliding door found ajar. Suspicions arose about the rear hatch door as well, evidenced by chips on its bottom edge, possibly from garage door contact upon unintended opening. While the hatch door never remained fully open (likely due to automatic reversal upon garage door contact), the risk was evident. Perhaps newer Highlanders, like a friend’s model where parking sensors prevent remote hatch opening near obstacles, have mitigated this specific hatch issue.
It’s not intended to discourage enabling the remote window/sunroof feature on a 2019 Toyota Highlander XLE. Instead, the aim is to inform owners about the potential risk and provide guidance on mitigating it. This feature is undeniably advantageous on hot, sunny days when parked outside. On a past Lexus LS, rolling down windows and opening the sunroof from a considerable distance (over 100 yards) was achievable by pressing the fob against the chin while pressing the unlock button – a technique for extending range. Similarly, side and hatch doors on a Sienna could be opened from nearly the same distance using this “chin-press” method.
Ultimately, understanding the capabilities of your 2019 Toyota Highlander Xle Key Fob, including its remote window and sunroof operation, allows for informed use. While convenient, awareness of potential unintentional activation and taking preventative measures ensures that features like remote window operation remain a benefit rather than a source of unexpected trouble.
