How to Use Toyota’s Pre-Collision System

13 August 2025

If you recently purchased a Toyota from us at West Edmonton Mall Toyota, you may be exploring the Toyota Safety Sense features. One of the most valuable is Toyota’s Pre-Collision System (PCS).

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know, from how to activate the system to what to expect while driving. If you have further questions about your recently purchased Toyota or its technology, contact us today.

You can also find us at 8882 170 St NW #1950 inside West Edmonton Mall.

What is Toyota’s Pre-Collision System?

Toyota’s Pre-Collision System uses both camera and radar technology. These work together to detect vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists in front of your car.

Display screen of a Toyota vehicle

When the system detects a possible collision, it responds in three stages:

Warning: Visual and audible alerts are triggered.
Brake Assist: Additional braking force is applied if you begin to brake.
Automatic Braking: If you don’t brake in time, the system can apply the brakes automatically to reduce impact or avoid the collision entirely.

Best of all, Pre-Collision System is standard on all Toyota models from 2017 onward, including the Corolla, RAV4, Camry, Highlander, and Tacoma.

How to Activate the Pre-Collision System

You don’t need to be tech-savvy to use the Pre-Collision System.

Dashboard screen behind the steering wheel of a Toyota vehicle

To get started, here’s how to turn it on in just a few taps:

Start your car, turn the ignition or press the start button.
Look at your dashboard screen behind the steering wheel.
Use the arrow buttons on your steering wheel to open the Settings menu.
Scroll until you see “PCS” or “Pre-Collision System.”
Select it, then choose “ON.”

Once activated, the system monitors the road ahead. It alerts you only when a real collision risk is detected. From that point, it’s constantly watching for hazards.

What Happens When a Pre-Collision System Detects a Threat?

When the Pre-Collision System detects an object in your path, you’ll experience:

A flashing alert on your dashboard
A beeping sound
If braking isn’t applied, automatic emergency braking

In everyday driving, this system is most useful in everyday moments like:

Sudden stops by the car ahead
A pedestrian stepping onto the road unexpectedly
Low-visibility driving conditions

Troubleshooting and Tips

While Pre-Collision System is highly effective, there are situations where it may not activate or function fully:

Man driving a Toyota vehicle

It’s important to note that the Pre-Collision System may be limited if:

Snow, dirt, or stickers is blocking the radar sensor or front camera
You are driving at low speeds or during sharp turns
Heavy rain, fog, or glare disrupt visibility
You’re already applying sufficient brake pressure

Services & Support at West Edmonton Mall Toyota

If you’re unsure whether the Pre-Collision System is on in your Toyota, or you’d like a walkthrough in person, and you’ve purchased your vehicle with us here at West Edmonton Mall Toyota, come in for a visit.

We’ll gladly help you:

Confirm your Pre-Collision System settings
Run a feature demo
Answer any Toyota Safety Sense questions you might have

Why Choose West Edmonton Mall Toyota

Beyond safety, we’ve got over 55 service bays, 25+ loaner vehicles, and a lifetime free oil change program for eligible customers. Safety starts with knowing your vehicle, and we’ve got your back.

What makes WEM Toyota truly unique is our unbeatable convenience. We are located right inside West Edmonton Mall. This makes it easy to combine your vehicle service with shopping, dining, or entertainment.

We’re open seven days a week and have extended evening hours. This makes it easy to fit service into your schedule, whether after work or on weekends.

With Western Canada’s largest Toyota inventory, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for, and our friendly, knowledgeable team is here to make your experience exceptional.

Speaking of technology, our staff would be thrilled to walk you through any of Toyota’s latest features and show you how to get the most out of your vehicle’s advanced systems. From Toyota Safety Sense to multimedia connectivity, we’ll ensure you’re comfortable and confident with every button, screen, and feature.

Stay connected with us for more helpful tips and insights – follow WEM Toyota on YouTube and Instagram, where we regularly share valuable content to help you make the most of your Toyota ownership experience.