2012 TOYOTA AVENSIS light

330 2-4. Using other driving systems
AVENSIS_EE (OM20B44E)
Sounds and vibrations caused by the ABS, brake assist, TRC and VSC
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.
EPS operation sound
When the steering wheel operates, a motor sound (whirring sound) may be
heard. This does not indicate a malfunction.
Reduced effectiveness of EPS
The effectiveness of EPS is reduced to prevent the system from overheating
when there is frequent steering input over an extended period of time. The
steering wheel may feel heavy as a result. Should this occur, refrain from
excessive steering input or stop the vehicle and turn the engine off. The sys-
tem should return to normal after about 10 minutes.

331 2-4. Using other driving systems
2
When driving
AVENSIS_EE (OM20B44E)
CAUTION
Any of the following conditions may result in an accident which could cause
death or serious injury:
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 a wet or slick road.
Stopping distance when the ABS is operating may exceed that of nor-
mal conditions
The ABS is not designed to shorten the vehicle’s stopping distance. Always
maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you in the following situ-
ations:
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 roads
TRC may not operate effectively when
Directional control and power may not be achievable while driving on slip-
pery road surfaces, even if the TRC 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. Always drive carefully.
Reckless driving may cause an accident. Exercise particular care when the
indicator light flashes.

333
2-4. Using other driving systems
2
When driving
AVENSIS_EE (OM20B44E)
PCS (Pre-Crash Safety)
: If equipped
When the radar sensor detects possibility of a frontal collision, the
pre-crash safety systems such as the brakes and seat belts are
automatically engaged to lessen impact and injuries to occupants
as well as vehicle damage.
Pre-crash seat belts
If the pre-crash sensor detects that a collision is unavoidable,
the pre-crash safety system will retract the seat belt before the
collision occurs.
The same will happen if the driver makes an emergency braking
or loses control of the vehicle. (P. 110)
However, when the VSC system is disabled, the system will not
operate in the event of skidding.
Pre-crash brake assist
When there is a high possibility of a frontal collision, the system
applies greater braking force in relation to how strongly the
brake pedal is depressed.
Pre-crash braking
When there is a high possibility of a frontal collision, the system
warns the driver using a warning light, warning display and
buzzer. If the system determines that a collision is unavoidable,
the brakes are automatically applied to reduce the collision
speed. Pre-crash braking can be disabled using the pre-crash
braking OFF switch.

334 2-4. Using other driving systems
AVENSIS_EE (OM20B44E)
Disabling pre-crash braking
Type A
Disabled
Enabled
The “PCS” warning light will turn
on when the pre-crash braking is
disabled.
Type B
Disabled
Enabled
The “PCS” warning light will turn
on when the pre-crash braking is
disabled.
Radar sensor
Detects vehicles or other obsta-
cles on or near the road ahead
and determines whether a colli-
sion is imminent based on the
position, speed, and heading of
the obstacles.

337 2-4. Using other driving systems
2
When driving
AVENSIS_EE (OM20B44E)
Situations in which the pre-crash safety system does not function
properly
The system may not function effectively in situations such as the following:
On roads with sharp bends or uneven surfaces
If a vehicle suddenly moves in front of your vehicle, such as at an inter-
section
If a vehicle suddenly cuts in front of your vehicle, such as when overtak-
ing
In inclement weather such as heavy rain, fog, snow or sand storms
When your vehicle is skidding with the VSC system off
When the axis of the radar is out of adjustment
When an extreme change in vehicle height occurs
When there is a malfunction in the system
Warning lights and/or warning messages will turn on or flash. (P. 624)

340 2-4. Using other driving systems
AVENSIS_EE (OM20B44E)
CAUTION
Handling the radar sensor
Observe the following to ensure the pre-crash safety system can function
effectively.
Keep the sensor and grille cover clean at all time.
Clean the sensor and grille cover 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 become
inaccurate or malfunction. If the sensor or surrounding area is subject to a
strong impact, always have the area inspected and adjusted by any autho-
rized Toyota dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped pro-
fessional.
Do not disassemble the sensor.
Do not attach accessories or stickers to the sensor, grille cover or sur-
rounding area.
Do not modify or paint the sensor and grille cover.
Limitations of the pre-crash safety system
Do not rely on the pre-crash safety system. Always drive safely, taking care
to observe your surroundings and checking for any obstacles or other road
hazards.
Failure to do so may cause an accident resulting in death or serious injury.

352 2-5. Driving information
AVENSIS_EE (OM20B44E)
Tire information
Ensure that your vehicle’s tires are properly inflated. (P. 739)
Increase the air pressure of the trailer tires in accordance with the total
trailer weight and according to the values recommended by the manufac-
turer of your trailer.
Trailer lights
Check that the turn signal lights and stoplights are operating correctly every
time you hitch up the trailer. Directly wiring up to your vehicle may damage
the electrical system and stop the lights from functioning correctly.
Break-in schedule
Toyota recommends that vehicles fitted with new power train components
should not be used for towing trailers for the first 800 km (500 miles).
Maintenance
Maintenance must be performed more frequently when using the vehicle
for towing due to the greater weight burden placed on the vehicle com-
pared to normal driving.
Retighten all bolts securing the hitching ball and bracket after towing for
approximately 1000 km (600 miles).

354 2-5. Driving information
AVENSIS_EE (OM20B44E)
Guidance
Your vehicle will handle differently when towing a trailer. In order to
avoid accident, death or serious injury, keep the following in mind
when towing:
Checking connections between trailer and lights
Stop the vehicle and check the operation of the connection
between the trailer and lights after driving for a brief period as well
as before setting off.
Practicing driving with a coupled trailer
Get the feel for turning, stopping and reversing with the trailer
coupled by practicing in an area with no or light traffic.
When reversing with a coupled trailer, hold the section of the
steering wheel nearest to you and rotate clockwise to turn the
trailer left or counterclockwise to turn right. Always rotate gradu-
ally to prevent steering error. Have someone guide you when
reversing to lessen the risk of accident.
Increasing vehicle-to-vehicle distance
At a speed of 10 km/h (6 mph), the distance to the vehicle running
ahead of you should be equivalent to or greater than the combined
length of your vehicle and trailer. Avoid sudden braking that may
cause skidding. Otherwise, the vehicle may spin out of control.
This is especially true when driving on wet or slippery road sur-
faces.