The most common question we get at our South Edmonton dealership is about the humming or low-pitched choir-like sound emitted by electrified Toyotas.

The Reason:
Electrified vehicles (EVs and Hybrids) are incredibly quiet at low speeds. While this makes for a peaceful drive down the Anthony Henday, it can be dangerous for pedestrians, cyclists, or those with visual impairments who rely on engine noise to detect approaching traffic.

How It Works:

• Safety Regulation: Per Canadian motor vehicle safety standards, all quiet vehicles must emit an audible sound when traveling under 20 km/h.
• Automatic Activation: This sound activates automatically the moment you shift into Reverse or drive at low forward speeds.
• Non-Optional: Because this is a regulated safety feature, the exterior AVAS sound cannot be turned off. It’s your Toyota’s way of saying "I’m here" to the world.

While the AVAS protects people outside the car, the Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), part of the Toyota Safety Sense (TSS) suite, is designed to protect the driver from unseen collisions.

The Symptom:
Unlike the constant hum of the AVAS, RCTA triggers a sharp, intermittent beeping sound accompanied by visual flashes on your side mirrors or backup camera screen.

How It Works:
Using hidden radar sensors located in the rear corners of your bumper, the RCTA system "looks" sideways down the parking aisle. If it detects a vehicle approaching from the left or right while you are in reverse, it alerts you immediately. This is particularly helpful in busy Edmonton parking lots where large SUVs might block your line of sight.

In some higher-trim models like the 2026 Toyota 4Runner or 2026 Toyota Crown, you may hear a faster, more urgent beeping. This is often the Intelligent Clearance Sonar.

Static Objects: These sensors detect stationary objects (like a garage wall or a stray shopping cart).

Increasing Frequency: The closer you get to the object, the faster the beeps become, eventually turning into a solid tone to tell you to STOP.