All About Toyota Eco Mode

Choosing Eco Mode while driving your Toyota can cut down on your gas usage, but it comes at the expense of performance.
Written by Brittni Brinn
Reviewed by Hillary Kobayashi
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In a Toyota vehicle, you can press the Eco Mode button to reduce engine power, slow throttle response, and limit climate controls to optimize your car’s fuel usage. Using Eco Mode also cuts down on emissions by five to ten percent.
Eco Mode is just one of up to five driving modes in Toyota vehicles. By limiting power consumption from climate control and other features, Eco Mode also reduces fuel usage and can even improve safety while driving.
Here with the details is the
car insurance super app
and licensed broker,
Jerry
. We’ll take you on a tour of your Toyota’s Eco Mode and will leave you with some tips on how to reduce your
Toyota car insurance costs
!
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What is Toyota’s Eco Mode?

Eco Mode comes standard on most Toyota models. It encourages economical fuel usage and safer driving practices, with the added benefit of reducing emissions while you’re driving.
There are two main ways that Eco Mode accomplishes these benefits: 
  • It adjusts the throttle pedal so it provides a smoother response
  • It reduces the power going to the air conditioner, heated seats, and other features
These may seem like simple adjustments, but Eco Mode uses them to great effect, reducing your Toyota’s emissions, conserving energy, and optimizing fuel consumption. 
By limiting how fast you can accelerate, Eco Mode can help you drive safely and extend the lifespan of your Toyota, too!
Key Takeaway Eco Mode adjusts the power going to your Toyota’s air conditioner and throttle to make for a more fuel-efficient ride. 

Does Toyota’s Eco Mode save fuel?

Toyota reports that Eco Mode can save you between 10 and 20% on your fuel costs. However, the actual amount Eco Mode can reduce your fuel consumption will depend on how often you use it, the model you drive, and the cost of gas in your area. 

What’s the difference between Toyota’s Eco Mode and other modes?

There are five potential modes that come with Toyota vehicles: Normal Mode, Eco Mode, Sport Mode, Snow Mode, and EV Mode. 
Here’s how each mode changes your driving experience: 
  • Normal Mode: The standard default mode for a Toyota vehicle. Choosing this mode will apply the manufacturer’s settings for horsepower, fuel efficiency, and comfort.
  • Eco Mode: Takes the strain off the engine by rerouting power from the climate controls and slowing the throttle response. Results in better fuel economy and fewer emissions.
  • Sport Mode: Prioritizes performance by increasing handling, acceleration, and engine power. Only available on some models, including the
    RAV4
    .
  • Snow Mode: Your Toyota will start in second gear instead of first to give you better traction and turning capabilities on icy roads.
  • EV Mode: Available only on hybrid models, EV mode runs your vehicle solely on battery power.
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How to turn Toyota Eco Mode on and off

Initiating Eco Mode in a Toyota is simple—just find the button on your console or steering wheel that says “ECO” or “ECO MODE.” Once you tap the button, there should be a light that comes on to indicate whether Eco Mode is on or off—if you’re not sure where to find it, check your owner’s manual.

Is Toyota’s Eco Mode worth it?

In some driving situations, Eco Mode is useful, but in other cases, you may want to switch to a different mode.
Eco Mode is great for situations where you don’t have to increase your speed or put too much effort into your engine. It’s also a great way to optimize your fuel usage, reduce your emissions, and practice safe driving.
However, your performance will be limited in Eco Mode. It’s not great for climbing hills or passing someone on the highway. In those cases, switching to Normal or Sport Mode, if you have it, is probably a better bet.
MORE: Highway driving tips for safe and smooth travel

How to save on Toyota insurance

Toyota is already a pretty good brand when it comes to fuel economy, and Eco Mode can cut down your gas costs even further. If you want to do the same with your car insurance costs, the
Jerry
app is ready to help you go into Saving Money Mode!
Here’s how it works: Jerry partners with over 55 top providers nationwide to match you with custom quotes on the coverage you want. You’ll get access to your quotes in under a minute, and if you find one that gives you a better rate or better coverage—or both—Jerry will handle all the paperwork and get you switched over. 
On average, Jerry users reduce their annual premiums by over $800
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was a great service and very easy to work with. I’m confident I will use them again for my upcoming new car purchase.” —Wells O.
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