273
2-4. Using other driving systems
2
When driving
VERSO_WE_OM64524E
Hill-start assist control
: If equipped
Hill-start assist control operating conditions
The hill-start assist control system operates under the following condi-
tions.
• The shift lever is in a position other than “P”.
• The parking brake is not applied.
• The accelerator pedal is not depressed.
The hill-start assist control system does not operate when “CHECK VSC
SYSTEM” is displayed on the multi-information display.
Hill-start assist control
While hill-start assist control is operating, the brakes remain automati-
cally applied after the driver releases the brake pedal. The stop lights and
the high mounted stoplight turn on.
Hill-start assist control operates for about 2 seconds after the brake pedal
is released.
If the slip indicator does not flash and the buzzer does not sound when
the brake pedal is further depressed, slightly reduce the pressure on the
brake pedal (do not allow the vehicle to roll backward) and then firmly
depress it again. If the system still does not operate, check if the operat-
ing conditions explained above have been met.
Hill-start assist control helps to prevent the vehicle from rolling
backwards when starting on an incline or slippery slope.
To engage hill-start assist con-
trol, further depress the brake
pedal when the vehicle is
stopped completely.
A buzzer will sound once to
indicate the system is acti-
vated. The slip indicator will
also start flashing.
274 2-4. Using other driving systems
VERSO_WE_OM64524E
Hill-start assist control buzzer
When hill-start assist control is activated, the buzzer will sound once
when the shift lever is in a position other than “P”.
In the following situations, hill-start assist control will be canceled and the
buzzer will sound twice when the shift lever is in a position other than “P”.
• No attempt is made to drive the vehicle within approximately 2 seconds
of releasing the brake pedal.
• The shift lever is moved to “P”.
• The parking brake is applied.
• The brake pedal is depressed again.
If the slip indicator comes on
It may indicate a malfunction in the system. Contact any authorized Toyota
dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped professional.
CAUTION
Hill-start assist control
Do not overly rely on hill-start assist control. Hill-start assist control may
not operate effectively on extremely steep inclines or roads covered in ice.
Unlike the parking brake, hill-start assist control is not intended to hold the
vehicle stationary for an extended period of time. Do not attempt to use
hill-start assist control to hold the vehicle on an incline for an extended
period of time, as doing so may lead to an accident.
276 2-5. Driving information
VERSO_WE_OM64524E
CAUTION
Storage precautions
Observe the following precautions.
Failing to do so may result in death or serious injury.
Do not stack anything in the luggage compartment higher than the seat-
backs.
Such items may be thrown about and possibly injure people in the vehicle
in the event of sudden braking or in an accident.
Do not place cargo or luggage in or on the following locations as the items
may get under the clutch, brake or accelerator pedal and prevent the ped-
als from being depressed properly, block the driver’s vision, or hit the
driver or passengers, causing an accident.
• At the feet of the driver
• On the front passenger or rear seats (when stacking items)
• On the luggage cover
• On the instrument panel
• On the dashboard
Secure all items in the occupant compartment, as they may shift and injure
someone during sudden braking, sudden swerving or an accident.
Never allow anyone to ride in the luggage compartment. It is not designed
for passengers. They should ride in their seats with their seat belts prop-
erly fastened. Otherwise, they are much more likely to suffer death or seri-
ous bodily injury, in the event of sudden braking, sudden swerving or an
accident.
Load and distribution
Do not overload your vehicle.
Do not apply loads unevenly.
Improper loading may cause deterioration of steering or braking control
which may cause death or serious injury.
279 2-5. Driving information
2
When driving
VERSO_WE_OM64524E
Before driving the vehicle
Perform the following according to the driving conditions:
Do not try to forcibly open a window or move a wiper that is
frozen. Pour warm water over the frozen area to melt the ice.
Wipe away the water immediately to prevent it from freezing.
To ensure proper operation of the climate control system fan,
remove any snow that has accumulated on the air inlet vents
in front of the windshield.
Remove any ice that has accumulated on the vehicle chassis.
Periodically check for and remove any excess ice or snow
that may have accumulated in the wheel well or on the
brakes.
When driving the vehicle
Accelerate the vehicle slowly and drive at a reduced speed suit-
able to road conditions.
When parking the vehicle
Park the vehicle and move the shift lever to “P” (Multidrive or
automatic transmission) or to “1” or “R” (manual transmission)
without setting the parking brake. The parking brake may freeze
up, preventing it from being released. If necessary, block the
wheels to prevent inadvertent sliding or creeping.
289 2-5. Driving information
2
When driving
VERSO_WE_OM64524EImportant points regarding turning
The wheels of the trailer will travel closer to the inside of the curve
than the wheels of the vehicle. To make allowance for this, take the
turns wider than you would normally.
Important points regarding stability
Vehicle movement resulting from uneven road surfaces and strong
crosswinds will affect handling. The vehicle may also be rocked by
passing buses or large trucks. Frequently check behind when mov-
ing alongside such vehicles. As soon as such vehicle movement
occurs, immediately start to decelerate smoothly by slowly apply-
ing the brakes. Always steer the vehicle straight ahead while brak-
ing.
Passing other vehicles
Consider the total combined length of your vehicle and trailer, and
ensure that the vehicle-to-vehicle distance is sufficient before exe-
cuting lane changes.
Transmission information
Multidrive or automatic transmission
To maintain engine braking efficiency, when using engine brak-
ing, do not use the transmission in “D”. Transmission shift gear
position must be in “4” in the 7-speed sport sequential shiftmatic
mode (Multidrive) (P. 196) or the “M” mode (automatic trans-
mission) (P. 202).
Manual transmission
To maintain engine braking efficiency, when using engine brak-
ing, do not use the transmission in “5” and “6” gear. (P. 209)
When towing a trailer, check the engine coolant temperature
warning light (Red)
Towing a loaded trailer up a long steep incline in temperatures
exceeding 30C (85F) may result in the engine overheating.
If the engine coolant temperature warning light (Red) flashes or
comes on, turn the air conditioning off immediately and stop the
vehicle in a safe place. (P. 532)
290 2-5. Driving information
VERSO_WE_OM64524EWhen parking the vehicle
Always place wheel chocks under the wheels of both the vehicle
and trailer. Firmly set the parking brake and shift the shift lever to
“P” for Multidrive or automatic transmission, and “1” or “R” for man-
ual transmission.
CAUTION
Follow all the instructions described in this section.
Failure to do so could cause an accident resulting in death or serious injury.
Trailer towing precautions
When towing, make sure that none of the weight limits are exceeded.
(P. 283)
Before descending hills or long declines
Reduce speed and downshift. However, never downshift suddenly while
descending steep or long downhill grades.
Operation of the brake
Do not hold the brake pedal depressed often or for long periods.
Doing so may result in the brake overheating or reduce braking effects.
To avoid accident or injury
Do not exceed 100 km/h (62 mph) or the posted towing speed limit, which-
ever is lower.
Do not use cruise control when you are towing.
Vehicles with a compact spare tire: Do not tow if your vehicle has a com-
pact spare tire installed.
396 4-2. Maintenance
VERSO_WE_OM64524E
Where to go for service?
In order to maintain your vehicle in the highest possible condition, Toyota
recommends that all repairs and service operations be carried out by autho-
rized Toyota dealers or repairers or other duly qualified and equipped profes-
sionals. For repairs and services covered by your warranty, please visit an
authorized Toyota dealer or repairer, who will use genuine Toyota parts in
repairing any difficulties you may encounter. There can also be advantages
in utilizing authorized Toyota dealers or repairers for non-warranty repairs
and services, as members of the Toyota network will be able to expertly
assist you with any difficulties you may encounter.
Your Toyota dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped pro-
fessional service department will perform all of the scheduled maintenance
on your vehicle-reliably and economically due to their experience with
Toyota vehicles.
Does your vehicle need repair?
Be on the alert for changes in performance and sounds, and visual tip-offs
that indicate service is needed. Some important clues are:
Engine missing, stumbling, or pinging
Appreciable loss of power
Strange engine noises
A fluid leak under the vehicle (However, water dripping from the air condi-
tioning after use is normal.)
Change in exhaust sound (This may indicate a dangerous carbon mon-
oxide leak. Drive with the windows open and have the exhaust system
checked immediately.)
Flat-looking tires, excessive tire squeal when cornering, uneven tire wear
Vehicle pulls to one side when driving straight on a level road
Strange noises related to suspension movement
Loss of brake effectiveness, spongy feeling brake pedal, pedal almost
touches the floor, vehicle pulls to one side when braking
Engine coolant temperature continually higher than normal
If you notice any of these clues, take your vehicle to any authorized Toyota
dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped professional, as
soon as possible. Your vehicle may need adjustment or repair.
399 4-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance
4
Maintenance and care
VERSO_WE_OM64524E
CAUTION
The engine compartment contains many mechanisms and fluids that may
move suddenly, become hot, or become electrically energized. To avoid death
or serious injury, observe the following precautions.
When working on the engine compartment
Keep hands, clothing, and tools away from the moving fan and engine
drive belt.
Be careful not to touch the engine, radiator, exhaust manifold, etc. right
after driving as they may be hot. Oil and other fluids may also be hot.
Do not leave anything that may burn easily, such as paper or rags, in the
engine compartment.
Do not smoke, cause sparks or expose an open flame to fuel or the bat-
tery. Fuel and battery fumes are flammable.
Be extremely cautious when working on the battery. It contains poisonous
and corrosive sulphuric acid.
Take care because brake fluid can harm your hands or eyes and damage
painted surfaces.
If fluid gets on your hands or in your eyes, flush the affected area with
clean water immediately.
If you still experience discomfort, see a doctor.
When working near the electric cooling fan or radiator grille
Vehicles without smart entry & start system: Be sure the engine switch is
in the “LOCK” position.
With the engine switch in the “ON” position, the electric cooling fan may
automatically start to run if the air conditioning is on and/or the coolant
temperature is high. (P. 415)
Vehicles with smart entry & start system: Be sure the “ENGINE START
STOP” switch is OFF.
With the “ENGINE START STOP” switch in IGNITION ON mode, the elec-
tric cooling fan may automatically start to run if the air conditioning is on
and/or the coolant temperature is high. (P. 415)
Safety glasses
Wear safety glasses to prevent flying or falling material, fluid spray, etc. from
getting in the eyes.