1904-2. Driving procedures
■If the “S” indicator does not come on even after shifting the shift lever to
S
This may indicate a malfunction in the automatic transmission system. Have
the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer, immediately.
(In this situation, the transmission will operate in the same manner as when
the shift lever is in D.)
■ Downshifting restrictions warning buzzer (S mode)
To help ensure safety and driving performance, downshifting operation may
sometimes be restricted. In some circumstances, downshifting may not be
possible even when the shift lever is operated. (A buzzer will sound twice.)
■ Transmission protection function
If the tires spin continually when the vehicle becomes stuck in mud, dir\
t or
snow, the automatic transmission temperature may become too high and
cause damage.
To avoid the damaging the automatic transmission, the system may tempo-
rarily lock the gear in 1st.
If the automatic transmission temperature falls, the gear locking is canceled
and returns the automatic transmission to the normal operation.
CAUTION
■When driving on slippery road surfaces
Do not accelerate or shift gears suddenly.
Sudden changes in engine braking may cause the vehicle to spin or skid,
resulting in an accident.
■ To prevent an accident when releasing the shift lock
Before pressing the shift lock override button, make sure to set the parking
brake and depress the brake pedal.
If the accelerator pedal is accidentally depressed instead of the brake pedal
when the shift lock override button is pressed and the shift lever is shifted
out of P, the vehicle may suddenly start, possibly leading to an accident
resulting in death or serious injury.
2204-5. Using the driving support systems
CAUTION
■When using the rear view monitor system
The rear view monitor system is a supplemental device intended to assist
the driver when backing up. When backing up, be sure to visually check all
around the vehicle both directly and using the mirrors before proceeding.
Observe the following precautions to avoid an accident that could result in
death or serious injuries.
● Never depend on the rear view monitor system entirely when backing up.
The image and the position of the guide lines displayed on the screen may
differ from the actual state.
Use caution, just as you would when backing up any vehicle.
● Be sure to back up slowly, depressing the brake pedal to control vehicle
speed.
● The instructions given are only guide lines.
When and how much to turn the steering wheel will vary according to traf-
fic conditions, road surface conditions, vehicle condition, etc. when park-
ing. It is necessary to be fully aware of this before using the rear view
monitor system.
● When parking, be sure to check that the parking space will accommodate
your vehicle before maneuvering into it.
● Do not use the rear view monitor system in the following cases:
• On icy or slick road surfaces, or in snow
• When using tire chains or emergency tires
• When the tailgate is not closed completely
• On roads that are not flat or straight, such as curves or slopes.
● In low temperatures, the screen may darken or the image may become
faint. The image could distort when the vehicle is moving, or you may
become unable to see the image on the screen. Be sure to visually check
all around the vehicle both directly and using the mirrors before proceed-
ing.
● If the tire sizes are changed, the position of the fixed guide lines displayed
on the screen may change.
● The camera uses a special lens. The distances between objects and
pedestrians that appear in the image displayed on the screen will differ
from the actual distances. ( →P. 216)
2304-5. Using the driving support systems
Four-wheel drive system∗
Use the front-wheel drive control swit ch to select the following transfer
modes:
“2WD” (high speed position, two-wheel drive)
Use this for normal driving on dry hard-surfaced roads. This position
gives greater economy, quietest ride and least wear.
“4H” (high speed position, four-wheel drive)
Use this for driving only on tracks that permit the tires slide, like off-road,
icy or snow-covered roads. This position provides greater traction than
two-wheel drive.
The “4HI” indicator will come on.
“4L” (low speed position, four-wheel drive)
Use this for maximum power and traction. Use “4L” for climbing or
descending steep hills, off-road driving, and hard pulling in sand, mud or
deep snow.
The “4LO” indicator will come on.
∗: If equipped
Summary of functions
1
2
3
2404-5. Using the driving support systems
■Reactivation of the TRAC/VSC/A-T RAC/Trailer Sway Control systems
Even after the TRAC/VSC/A-TRAC/Trailer Sway Control systems have been
turned off, turning the engine switch off and then on again will automatically
reactivate the TRAC/VSC/A-TRAC/Trailer Sway Control systems.
■ Reactivation of the TRAC system linked to vehicle speed
When only the TRAC system is turned off, the TRAC system will turn on
when vehicle speed increases. However, when both TRAC/VSC systems are
turned off, the systems will not turn on even when vehicle speed increases.
■ If the brake system overheats
TRAC or A-TRAC will cease operation, and the slip indicator will change from
flashing to being on continuously to alert the driver. Stop the vehicle in a safe
place. (There is no problem with continuing normal driving.)
■ Shifting to “4L”
VSC and Trailer Sway Control are automatically turned off.
CAUTION
■The ABS does not operate effectively when
● The limits of tire gripping performance have been exceeded (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, especially in the
following situations:
● 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
■ TRAC or A-TRAC may not operate effectively when
Directional control and power may not be achievable while driving on slip-
pery road surfaces, even if the TRAC or A-TRAC system is operating.
Drive the vehicle carefully in conditions where stability and power may be
lost.
2414-5. Using the driving support systems
4
Driving
CAUTION
■When the VSC and Trailer Sway Control are 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 TRAC/VSC/A-TRAC/Trailer Sway Control 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 TRAC/VSC/A-TRAC/Trailer Sway Control 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, TRAC, A-TRAC, VSC and Trailer Sway Control systems will not
function correctly if different tires are installed on the vehicle.
Contact your Toyota dealer for further information when replacing tires or
wheels.
■ Handling of tires and the 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.
■ Trailer Sway Control precaution
The Trailer Sway Control system is not able to reduce trailer sway in all situ-
ations. Depending on many factors such as the conditions of the vehicle,
trailer, road surface, and driving environment, the Trailer Sway Control sys-
tem may not be effective. Refer to your trailer owner’s manual for informa-
tion on how to tow your trailer properly.
■ If trailer sway occurs
Observe the following precautions.
Failure to do so may cause death or serious injury.
● Firmly grip the steering wheel. Steer straight ahead.
Do not try to control trailer swaying by turning the steering wheel.
● Begin releasing the accelerator pedal immediately but very gradually to
reduce speed.
Do not increase speed. Do not apply vehicle brakes.
If you make no extreme correction with the steering or brakes, your vehicle
and trailer should stabilize. ( →P. 178)
2454-6. Driving tips
4
Driving
Winter driving tips
●Use fluids that are appropriate to the prevailing outside tempera-
tures. • Engine oil
• Engine coolant
• Washer fluid
● Have a service technician ins pect the condition of the battery.
● Have the vehicle fitted with four snow tires or purchase a set of tire
chains for the rear tires.
Ensure that all tires are the same size and brand, and that chains match
the size of the tires.
Perform the following accordin g 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.
● Check for and remove any excess ice or snow that may have accu-
mulated on the exterior lights, vehicle’s roof, chassis, around the
tires or on the brakes.
● Remove any snow or mud from the bottom of your shoes before
getting in the vehicle.
Accelerate the vehicle slowly, keep a safe distance between you and
the vehicle ahead, and drive at a reduced speed suitable to road con-
ditions.
Carry out the necessary preparations and inspections before
driving the vehicle in winter. Al ways drive the vehicle in a man-
ner appropriate to the prevailing weather conditions.
Preparation for winter
Before driving the vehicle
When driving the vehicle
2474-6. Driving tips
4
Driving
Regulations regarding the use of tire chains vary depending on loca-
tion and type of road. Always check local regulations before installing
chains.
■ Tire chain installation
Observe the following precautions when installing and removing chains:
●Install and remove tire chains in a safe location.
● Install tire chains on the rear tires. Do not install tire chains on the front tires.
● Install tire chains on rear tires as tightly as possible. Retighten chai\
ns after
driving 1/4 ⎯ 1/2 mile (0.5 ⎯ 1.0 km).
● Install tire chains following the instructions provided with the tire ch\
ains.
Regulations on the use of tire chains
CAUTION
■Driving with snow tires
Observe the following precautions to reduce the risk of accidents.
Failure to do so may result in a loss of vehicle control and cause death or
serious injury.
● Use tires of the specified size.
● Maintain the recommended level of air pressure.
● Do not drive in excess of 75 mph (120 km/h), regardless of the type of
snow tires being used.
● Use snow tires on all, not just some wheels.
● 4WD models: Do not mix tires of different makes, models, tread patterns
or treadwear.
■ Driving with tire chains
Observe the following precautions to reduce the risk of accidents.
Failure to do so may result in the vehicle being unable to be driven safely,
and may cause death or serious injury.
● Do not drive in excess of the speed limit specified for the tire chains being
used, or 30 mph (50 km/h), whichever is lower.
● Avoid driving on bumpy road surfaces or over potholes.
● Avoid sudden acceleration, abrupt steering, sudden braking and shifting
operations that cause sudden engine braking.
● Slow down sufficiently before entering a curve to ensure that vehicle con-
trol is maintained.
2484-6. Driving tips
NOTICE
■Repairing or replacing snow tires
Request repairs or replacement of snow tires from Toyota dealers or legiti-
mate tire retailers.
This is because the removal and attachment of snow tires affects the opera-
tion of the tire pressure warning valves and transmitters.
■ Fitting tire chains
The tire pressure warning valves and transmitters may not function correctly
when tire chains are fitted.