236 2−5. Driving information
nBefore towing
Check that the following conditions are met:
lThe vehicle’s tires are properly inflated.
lTrailer tires are inflated according to the trailer manufacturer ’s recom−
mendation.
lAll trailer lights work.
lAll lights work each time you connect them.
lThe trailer ball is set up at the proper height for the coupler on the trailer.
lThe vehicle remains level when a loaded or unloaded trailer is hitched.
Do not drive if the vehicle is not level, and check for improper tongue
load, overloading, worn suspension, or other possible causes.
lThe trailer cargo is securely loaded.
lThe rear view mirrors conform to all applicable federal, state/provincial or
local regulations. If they do not, install rear view mirrors appropriate for
towing purposes.
nBreak in schedule
Toyota recommends that you do not use a new vehicle or a vehicle with any
new power train components (engine, transmission, differential, wheel bear−
ings, etc.) to tow a trailer for the first 500 miles (800 km) of driving.
nMaintenance
lIf you tow a trailer, your vehicle will require more frequent maintenance
due to the additional load. (See “Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or
“Owner ’s Manual Supplement”.)
lRetighten the fixing bolts of the towing ball after approximately 600 miles
(1000 km) of trailer towing.
474 5−2. Steps to take in an emergency
CAUTION
n Replacing a flat tire
Observe the following precautions to reduce the risk of injury.
lLower the spare tire completely to the ground before removing it from
under the vehicle.
lDo not try to remove the wheel ornament by hand. Take due care in
handling the ornament to avoid unexpected personal injury.
lNever use oil or grease on the wheel bolts or wheel nuts.
The oil or grease can cause the wheel nuts to loosen, causing a seri−
ous accident. Remove any oil or grease on the wheel bolts or wheel
nuts.
lHave the wheel nuts tightened with a torque wrench to 97 ftlbf (131
Nm, 13.4 kgfm) as soon as possible after changing wheels.
Failure to follow these precautions could cause the nuts to loosen and
the wheels may fall off, which could lead to an accident causing death
or serious injury.
lDo not attach a heavily damaged wheel ornament, as it may fly off the
wheel while the ve
hicle is moving.
