2008 TOYOTA AVALON light

162 2-4. Using other driving systems
AVALON_U_(L/O_0802)
NOTICE
■Handling the laser radar sensor
Observe the following to ensure the cruise control system can function effec-
tively.
● Keep the sensor clean at all times.
Clean the sensor with a soft cloth so you do not mark or damage them.
● Do not subject the sensor or surrounding area to a strong impact. 
If the sensor moves even slightly off position, the system may malfunction.
If the sensor or surrounding area is subject to a strong impact, always
have the area inspected and adjusted by a Toyota dealer.
● Do not disassemble the sensor.
● Do not attach accessories or stickers to the sensor, surrounding area.

163
2-4. Using other driving systems
2
When driving
AVALON_U_(L/O_0802)
Driving assist systems
When the VSC/TRAC are operatingIf the vehicle is in danger of slip-
ping, or if the front wheels spin,
the slip indicator light flashes to
indicate that the VSC/TRAC
have been engaged.
A buzzer (intermittent) sounds to
indicate that VSC is operating.
To help enhance driving safety and performance, the following sys-
tems operate automatically in res ponse to various driving situations.
Be aware, however, that these systems are supplementary and
should not be relied upon too h eavily when operating the vehicle.
■ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)
Helps to prevent wheel lock when the brakes are applied suddenly, or if
the brakes are applied while driving on a slippery road surface.
■Brake assist
Generates an increased level of braking force after the brake pedal is
depressed, when the system detects a panic stop situation.
■VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) (if equipped)
Helps the driver to control skidding when swerving suddenly or turning
on slippery road surfaces.
■TRAC (Traction Control) (if equipped)
Maintains drive power and prevents the front wheels from spinning
when starting the vehicle or accelerating on slippery roads.

164 2-4. Using other driving systems
AVALON_U_(L/O_0802)
■Sounds and vibrations caused by the ABS, brake assist, VSC and
TRAC
● A sound may be heard from the engine compartment when the engine is
started or just after the vehicle begins to move. This sound does not indi-
cate that a malfunction has occurred in any of these systems.
● Any of the following conditions may occur when the above systems are
operating. None of these indicates that a malfunction has occurred.
• Vibrations may be felt through the vehicle body and steering.
• A motor sound may be heard after the vehicle comes to a stop.
• The brake pedal may pulsate slightly after the ABS is activated.
• The brake pedal may move down slightly after the ABS is activated.
CAUTION
■The ABS does not operate effectively when
● The limits of tire gripping performance have been exceeded.
● The vehicle hydroplanes while driving at high speed on the wet or slick
road.
■ Stopping distance when the ABS is ope rating on the wet or slick roads
The ABS is not designed to shorten the vehicle’s stopping distance. Always
maintain a sufficient distance from the vehicle in front of you in the following
situations.
● When driving on dirt, gravel or snow-covered roads
● When driving with tire chains
● When driving over bumps in the road
● When driving over roads with potholes or roads with uneven pavement

165
2-4. Using other
driving systems
2
When driving
AVALON_U_(L/O_0802)
CAUTION
■TRAC may not operate effectively when
Directional control and power may not be achievable while driving on slip-
pery road surfaces, even if the TRAC is operating. 
Do not drive the vehicle in conditions where stability and power may be lost.
■ When the VSC is activated
The slip indicator light flashes and a warning buzzer sounds. Always drive
carefully. 
Reckless driving may cause an accident. Exercise particular care when the
indicator light flashes and a buzzer sounds.
■ Replacing tires
Make sure that all tires are of the same size, brand, tread pattern and total
load capacity. In addition, make sure that the tires are inflated to the recom-
mended tire pressure level. 
The ABS and VSC systems will not function correctly if different tires are fit-
ted on the vehicle. 
Contact your Toyota dealer for further information when replacing tires or
wheels.
■ Handling of tires and suspension
Using tires with any kind of problem or modifying the suspension will affect
the driving assist systems, and may cause the system to malfunction.

Interior features3
177
AVALON_U_(L/O_0802)
3-1. Using the air conditioning 
system and defogger... 178
Automatic air conditioning 
system ........................... 178
Using the steering wheel  climate control 
switches ......................... 185
Rear window and outside 
rear view mirror 
defoggers ....................... 187
3-2. Using the audio 
system .......................... 188
Audio system type............ 188
Audio cover ...................... 190
Using the radio ................. 191
Using the CD player ......... 198
Playing MP3 and WMA 
discs............................... 206
Optimal use of the audio 
system ........................... 214
Using the AUX adapter .... 216
Using the steering wheel  audio switches ............... 217
3-3. Using the hands-free 
system .......................... 220
Hands-free system 
(for cellular phone) ........ 220
Using the hands-free 
system ........................... 223 Making a phone call ......... 231
Setting a cellular phone ... 236
Security and system

setup .............................. 241
Using the phone book ...... 244
3-4. Using the interior 
lights ............................. 252
Interior lights list ............... 252
3-5. Using the storage 
features ......................... 255
List of storage features .... 255
3-6. Other interior features ... 263 Sun visors ........................ 263
Vanity mirrors ................... 264
Clock ................................ 265
Outside temperature 
display............................ 266
Ashtrays .......................... 267
Power outlets ................... 268
Climate control seats/seat 
heaters .......................... 270
Armrest ............................ 272
Rear sunshade ................ 273
Floor mats ........................ 275
Trunk features .................. 276
Garage door opener ........ 278
Compass .......................... 283

183
3-1. Using the air conditioning system
and defogger
3
Interior features
AVALON_U_(L/O_0802)
■Using the automatic mode
Fan speed is adjusted automatically in accordance with the temperature set-
ting and ambient conditions. As a result, the following may occur.
● The system may switch automatically to recirculated mode when the
coolest temperature setting is selected in summer.
● Immediately after the switch is pressed, the fan may stop for a while until
warm or cool air is ready to flow.
● Cool air may flow to the area around the upper body when the heater is
on.
■ Using the system in recirculated air mode
The windows will fog up more easily if the recirculated air mode is used for
an extended period.
■ Window defogger feature
Recirculated air mode may automatically switch to outside air mode in situa-
tions where the windows need to be defogged.
■ Outside temperatur e approaches 32F (0 C)
The air conditioning system may not operate even when is
pressed.
■ When the indicator light on flashes
Press and turn off the air conditioning system before turning it on
once more. There may be a problem in the air conditioning system if the indi-
cator light continues to flash. Turn the air conditioning system off and have it
inspected by your Toyota dealer.
CAUTION
■To prevent the windshield from fogging up
Do not use during cool air operation in extremely humid weather.
The difference between the temperature of the outside air and that of the
windshield can cause the outer surface of the windshield to fog up, blocking
your vision.

188
AVALON_U_(L/O_0802)
3-2. Using the audio system
Audio system type
CD player with changer and AM/FM radio
The audio system appearance may differ slightly for vehicles not
equipped with JBL brand audio system.
TitlePage
Using the radioP. 191
Using the CD playerP. 198
Playing MP3 and WMA discsP. 206
Optimal use of the audio systemP. 214
Using the AUX adapterP. 216
Using the steering wheel audio switchesP. 217

205
3-2. Using the audio system
3
Interior features
AVALON_U_(L/O_0802)
NOTICE
■
Player precautions
Failure to follow the precautions below may result in damage to the discs or
the player itself.
● Do not insert anything other than discs into the disc slot.
● Do not apply oil to the player.
● Store discs away from direct sunlight.
● Never try to disassemble any part of the player.
●Do not insert more than one disc at a
time.