2015 TOYOTA GT86 Owners Manual (in English)

225
2-4. Using other driving systems
2
When driving
Driving assist systems
When the TRC/VSC systems are operating
The slip indicator light will flash
while the TRC (brake LSD func-
tion)/VSC systems are operat-
ing.
To help enhance driving safety and performance, the following sys-
tems operate automatically in response to various driving situations.
Be aware, however, that these systems are supplementary and
should not be relied upon too heavily 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)
Helps the driver to control skidding when swerving suddenly or turning
on slippery road surfaces
TRC (Traction Control)
Helps to maintain drive power and prevent the drive wheels from spin-
ning when starting the vehicle or accelerating on slippery roads.
The TRC system is also equipped with the brake LSD function.
EPS (Electric Power Steering)
Employs an electric motor to reduce the amount of effort needed to turn
the steering wheel

226 2-4. Using other driving systems
Disabling the TRC system
If the vehicle gets stuck in mud, dirt or snow, the TRC system may
reduce power from the engine to the wheels. Pressing to turn
the system off may make it easier for you to rock the vehicle in order
to free it.
In this case, the brake LSD function remains on.
To turn the TRC system off,
quickly press and release the
button.
The “TRC OFF” indicator light will
come on.
Press the button again to turn the
system back on.
“VSC SPORT” mode
Your vehicle is equipped with two types of control modes to accom-
modate various driving preferences. The control modes can be
selected with the “VSC SPORT” mode switch. Normal mode allows
secure and smooth normal driving. When the switch is pressed, “VSC
SPORT” mode is activated. Control characteristics such as the VSC
and TRC are adjusted to afford maneuverability closer to what a
driver may have imagined, while a sense of security is retained.
“VSC SPORT” mode/Normal
mode
The “VSC SPORT” indicator and
VSC off indicator come on when
in “VSC SPORT” mode.

227 2-4. Using other driving systems
2
When driving
Selecting TRC mode and VSC mode
Modes can be selected to suit your driving conditions as follows:
Driving
conditionsTRC
modesVSC modesIndicator lights
Normal roadsOn Normal mode
Rough roads Off Normal mode
Sport drivingOn“VSC SPORT”
mode
Off“VSC SPORT”
mode
Off Off

228 2-4. Using other driving systems
Turning off both TRC and VSC systems
To turn the TRC and VSC systems off, press and hold for more than 3
seconds while the vehicle is stopped.
The “TRC OFF” indicator light and the VSC off indicator light will come on.
In this case, the brake LSD function remains on.
Press the button again to turn the systems back on.
Sounds and vibrations caused by the ABS, brake assist, TRC and VSC
systems
A sound may be heard from the engine compartment when the brake
pedal is depressed repeatedly, when the engine is started or just after the
vehicle begins to move. This sound does not indicate 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 is operated, a motor sound (whirring sound) may
be heard. This does not indicate a malfunction.
Automatic reactivation of TRC and VSC systems
After turning the TRC and VSC systems off, the systems will be automati-
cally reactivated in the following situations:
Vehicles without a smart entry & start system: When the engine switch is
turned to “LOCK” position
Vehicles with a smart entry & start system: When the “ENGINE START
STOP” switch is turned off
If only the TRC system is turned off, the TRC will turn on when vehicle
speed is more than approximately 50 km/h (31 mph).
If both the TRC and VSC systems are turned off, automatic reactivation
will not occur when vehicle speed increases.

229 2-4. Using other driving systems
2
When driving
Reduced effectiveness of the EPS system
The effectiveness of the EPS system 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 EPS system should return to normal after a little while.
Automatic deactivation of “VSC SPORT” mode
Vehicles without a smart entry & start system
When the engine switch is turned to “LOCK” position after driving in “VSC
SPORT” mode, the mode is automatically deactivated.
Vehicles with a smart entry & start system
When the “ENGINE START STOP” switch is turned off after driving in “VSC
SPORT” mode, the mode is automatically deactivated.
CAUTION
The ABS does not operate effectively when
Tires with inadequate gripping ability are used (such as excessively worn
tires on a snow covered road).
The vehicle hydroplanes while driving at high speed on wet or slick roads.
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 uneven surfaces
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 system is operating.
Do not drive the vehicle in conditions where stability and power may be lost.

230 2-4. Using other driving systems
CAUTION
When the VSC and/or brake LSD function is activated
The slip indicator light flashes. Always drive carefully. Reckless driving may
cause an accident. Exercise particular care when the indicator light flashes.
When the TRC/VSC systems are turned off
Be especially careful and drive at a speed appropriate to the road condi-
tions. As these are the systems to help ensure vehicle stability and driving
force, do not turn the TRC/VSC systems off unless necessary.
Replacing tires
Make sure that all tires are of the specified size, brand, tread pattern and
total load capacity. In addition, make sure that the tires are inflated to the
recommended tire inflation pressure level.
The ABS, TRC and VSC systems will not function correctly if different tires
are installed on the vehicle.
Contact any authorized Toyota dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified
and equipped professional 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 a system to malfunction.

231
2
When driving
2-5. Driving information
Cargo and luggage
CAUTION
Things that must not be carried in the trunk
The following things may cause a fire if loaded in the trunk:
Receptacles containing gasoline
Aerosol cans
Take notice of the following information about storage precautions,
cargo capacity and load:
Stow cargo and luggage in the trunk whenever possible.
Be sure all items are secured in place.
To maintain vehicle balance while driving, position luggage
evenly within the luggage compartment.
For better fuel economy, do not carry unnecessary weight.

232 2-5. Driving information
CAUTION
Storage precautions
Observe the following precautions.
Failure to do so may result in death or serious injury.
Stow cargo and luggage in the trunk whenever possible.
To prevent cargo and luggage from sliding forward during braking, do
not stack anything in the enlarged trunk. Keep cargo and luggage low,
as close to the floor as possible.
When you fold down the rear seats, long items should not be placed
directly behind the front seats.
Never allow anyone to ride in the enlarged trunk. 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
serious bodily injury, in the event of sudden braking, sudden swerving
or an accident.
Do not place cargo or luggage in or on the following locations as the
item may get under the clutch, brake or accelerator pedal and prevent
the pedals 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 package tray
• 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 acci-
dent.
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.