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2-5. Driving information
Winter driving tips
Carry out the necessary preparations and inspections before driving
the vehicle in winter. Always drive the vehicle in a manner appropri-
ate to the prevailing weather conditions.
Pre-winter preparations
Use fluids that are appropriate to the prevailing outside tem-
peratures.
• Engine oil
• Engine coolant
• Washer fluid
Have a service technician inspect the level and specific grav-
ity of battery electrolyte.
Have the vehicle fitted with four snow tires or purchase a set
of tire chains for the front tires.
Ensure that all tires are the same size and brand and that their wear
level is not noticeably different with each other. Also make sure that
chains match the size of the tires.
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.
5
443 5-1. Essential information
When trouble arises
CAUTION
Observe the following precautions.
Failure to do so may result in death or serious injury.
When towing the vehicle
While towing
When towing using a rope, avoid sudden starts, etc. which place exces-
sive stress on the towing hook and rope.
The towing hook or rope may become damaged, broken debris may hit
people and cause serious damage.
Vehicles without a smart entry & start system: Do not turn the engine
switch to the “LOCK” position.
There is a possibility that the steering wheel is locked and cannot be oper-
ated.
Vehicles with a smart entry & start system: Do not turn the “ENGINE
START STOP” switch off.
There is a possibility that the steering wheel is locked and cannot be oper-
ated.
Installing towing eyelet to the vehicle
Make sure that towing eyelet is installed securely.
If not securely installed, towing eyelet may come loose during towing.
Be sure to transport the vehicle with all
four wheels raised off the ground. If the
vehicle is towed with the tires contacting
the ground, the drivetrain and related
parts may be damaged or an accident
may occur due to a change in direction of
the vehicle.