2004 Toyota 4runner Owners Manual

Four- wheel drive control switch knob at “H4”

47 km/h (29 mph) Four- wheel drive control switch knob at “L4”

18 km/h (11 mph) When the cruise control is being used, even if you downshift to “4”, engine braking will not be enabled be- cause the cruise control is not cancelled. For ways to decrease the vehicle speed, see “Cruise control” on page 190 in this Section.

from “D”

CAUTION

Be careful when downshifting on a slippery shifting could cause the vehicle to skid or spin.

surface. Abrupt

(d) Using “3”, “2” and “L” positions The “3”, “2” and “L” positions are used for strong engine braking as described pre- viously. With the selector lever in ”3”, “2” or “L”, you can start the vehicle in motion as with the lever in “D”. With the selector lever in “3” or “2”, the vehicle will start in first gear and automat- ically shift to third gear or second gear. With the selector lever in “L”, the trans- mission is engaged in first gear.

NOTICE

(cid:1) Be careful not to over-rev the en- gine. Watch the tachometer to keep engine rpm from going into the red zone. The approximate maximum al- lowable speed for each position is given below for your reference:

Two-wheel drive models

“3” “2” “L”

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

136 km/h (84 mph) 93 km/h (57 mph) 54 km/h (33 mph)

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Four-wheel drive models

“3” “2” “L”

Four-wheel drive control switch knob at “H4” . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

136 km/h (84 mph) 93 km/h (57 mph) 54 km/h (33 mph) Four-wheel drive control switch knob at “L4”

“3” “2” “L”

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

53 km/h (32 mph) 36 km/h (22 mph) 21 km/h (13 mph) (cid:1) Do not continue hill climbing or hard towing for a long time in the “3”, “2” or “L” position. This may cause severe automatic transmis- sion damage from overheating. To prevent such damage, “4” position should be used in hill climbing or hard towing.

(e) Backing up 1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop. 2. With the brake pedal held down with your foot, shift the selector lever to the “R” position.

NOTICE

Never shift into reverse while the ve- hicle is moving.

in

the

ignition switch

Vehicles with rear view monitor system— When the selector lever is shifted into “R” position with the “ON” position, rear view monitor system will activate. For instructions, see “Rear view monitor system” on page 246 in Sec- tion 1- 10. (f) Parking 1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop. 2. With

the brake pedal pressed down, fully depress the parking brake pedal to apply the parking brake securely.

3. With

the brake pedal pressed down, shift the selector lever to the “P” posi- tion.

154

CAUTION

Never attempt to move the selector lever into “P” position under any cir- cumstances while the vehicle is mov- ing. Serious mechanical damage and loss of vehicle control may result.

If the automatic unlocking operation linked with the shift position is set, all the side doors and back door are automatically un- locked when the selector lever is moved to the “P” position with the ignition switch is in the “ON” position. For details, see “—Automatic door locking and unlocking functions” on page 18 in Section 1- 2. (g) Good driving practice (cid:1) If the transmission repeatedly shifts up and down between fourth gear and overdrive when climbing a gentle slope, shift the selector lever to the “4” posi- tion. Be sure to shift the selector lever to the “D” position immediately after- ward.

(cid:1) When towing a trailer, in order to main- tain engine braking efficiency, do not use “D” position.

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CAUTION

Always keep your foot on the brake pedal while stopped with the engine running. This prevents the vehicle from creeping.

NOTICE

Always use the brake pedal or the parking brake to hold the vehicle on an upgrade. Do not attempt to hold the vehicle using the accelerator ped- al, as this can cause the transmission to overheat.

(h) If you cannot shift the selector le-

ver out of “P” position

is depressed, use

If you cannot shift the selector lever from the “P” position even though the brake pedal lock override button. For instructions, see “If you cannot shift automatic transmission selector lever” on page 337 in Section 4.

the shift

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Automatic transmission (4- speed)

Your automatic transmission has a shift lock system to minimize the possibility of incorrect operation. This means you can only shift out of “P” position when the brake pedal is depressed (with the ignition switch in “ON” position). (a) Selector lever The shift position is also displayed on the instrument cluster. P: Parking, engine starting and

key removal

R: Reverse N: Neutral D: Normal driving (shifting into overdrive

possible)

3: Engine braking (shifting into overdrive

not possible)

2: Stronger engine braking L: Maximum engine braking

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With the brake pedal depressed (The ignition switch must be in “ON” position.)

Shift normally.

156

(b) Normal driving 1. Start the engine as instructed in “How to start the engine” on page 300 in Section 3. The transmission must be in “P” or “N”.

When the multi- mode control switch knob is in “L4” (low- speed position, four- wheel drive, center differential locked), the driv- ing pattern selector setting has no effect on gear shift timing. (See “Four- wheel drive system (multi- mode four- wheel drive models)” on page 163 in this Section for information of the multi- mode control.) 2. With your foot holding down the brake

pedal, shift the selector lever to “D”.

When the lever is in the “D” position, the automatic transmission system will select the most suitable gear for running condi- tions such as normal cruising, hill climb- ing, hard towing, etc.

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(c) Using engine braking To use engine braking, you can downshift the transmission as follows: (cid:1) Shift into the “3” position. The trans-

mission will downshift to third gear.

(cid:1) Shift into the “2” position. The trans- mission will downshift to second gear when the vehicle speed drops down to or lower than the following speed, and stronger engine braking will be en- abled.

Two- wheel drive models

123 km/h (76 mph)

Four- wheel drive models

Multi- mode control switch knob at “H4”

123 km/h (76 mph) Multi- mode control switch knob at “L4”

41 km/h (25 mph)

Always use the “D” position for better fuel economy and quieter driving. If the engine coolant temperature is low or when the multi- mode control switch knob is in “L4” (low- speed position, four- wheel drive, center differential locked), the transmission will not shift into the overdrive gear even in the “D” position. (See “Four- wheel drive system (multi- mode four- wheel drive mod- els)” on page 163 in this Section for in- formation of the multi- mode control.)

CAUTION

Never put your foot on the accelera- tor pedal while shifting.

3. Release the parking brake and brake the accelerator pedal

pedal. Depress slowly for smooth starting.

If the automatic locking operation linked with the shift position is set, all the side doors and back door are automatically locked when the shift lever is moved out of the “P” position with the engine running (including ignition switch in the “ON” posi- tion) and all the side doors and back door are closed. For details, see “—Automatic door locking and unlocking functions” on page 18 in Section 1- 2.

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Four-wheel drive models

Multi-mode control switch knob at “H2” or “H4”

“2” “L”

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

123 km/h (76 mph) 67 km/h (41 mph) Multi-mode control switch knob at “L4”

“2” “L”

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

48 km/h (29 mph) 26 km/h (16 mph) (cid:1) Do not continue hill climbing or hard towing for a long time in the “2” or “L” position. This may cause severe automatic transmission dam- age from overheating. To prevent such damage, “D” or “3” position should be used in hill climbing or hard towing.

(d) Using “2” and “L” positions The “2” and “L” positions are used for strong engine braking as described pre- viously. With the selector lever in “2” or “L”, you can start the vehicle in motion as with the lever in “D”. With the selector lever in “2”, the vehicle will start in first gear and automatically shift to second gear. With the selector lever in “L”, the trans- mission is engaged in first gear.

NOTICE

(cid:1) Be careful not to over-rev the en- gine. Watch the tachometer to keep engine rpm from going into the red zone. The approximate maximum al- lowable speed for each position is given below for your reference:

Two-wheel drive models

“2” “L”

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

123 km/h (76 mph) 67 km/h (41 mph)

(cid:1) Shift into the “L” position. The trans- mission will downshift first gear when the vehicle speed drops down to or lower than the following speed, and maximum engine braking will be en- abled.

to

Two- wheel drive models

59 km/h (36 mph)

Four- wheel drive models

Multi- mode control switch knob at “H4”

59 km/h (36 mph) Multi- mode control switch knob at “L4”

11 km/h

(6 mph) When the cruise control is being used, even if you downshift to “3”, engine braking will not be enabled be- cause the cruise control is not cancelled. For ways to decrease the vehicle speed, see “Cruise control” on page 190 in this Section.

from “D”

CAUTION

Be careful when downshifting on a slippery shifting could cause the vehicle to skid or spin.

surface. Abrupt

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(e) Backing up 1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop. 2. With the brake pedal held down with your foot, shift the selector lever to the “R” position.

NOTICE

Never shift into reverse while the ve- hicle is moving.

in

the

ignition switch

Vehicles with rear view monitor system— When the selector lever is shifted into “R” position with the “ON” position, rear view monitor system will activate. For instructions, see “Rear view monitor system” on page 246 in Sec- tion 1- 10. (f) Parking 1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop. 2. With

the brake pedal pressed down, fully depress the parking brake pedal to apply the parking brake securely.

3. With

the brake pedal pressed down, shift the selector lever to the “P” posi- tion.

’04 4Runner_U (L/O 0409)

CAUTION

CAUTION

Never attempt to move the selector lever into “P” position under any cir- cumstances while the vehicle is mov- ing. Serious mechanical damage and loss of vehicle control may result.

If the automatic unlocking operation linked with the shift position is set, all the side doors and back door are automatically un- locked when the selector lever is moved to the “P” position with the ignition switch is in the “ON” position. For details, see “—Automatic door locking and unlocking functions” on page 18 in Section 1- 2. (g) Good driving practice (cid:1) If the transmission repeatedly shifts up and down between third gear and over- drive when climbing a gentle slope, shift the selector lever to the “3” posi- tion. Be sure to shift the selector lever to the “D” position immediately after- ward.

(cid:1) When towing a trailer, in order to main- tain engine braking efficiency, do not use “D” position. The selector lever must be in the “3” position.

Always keep your foot on the brake pedal while stopped with the engine running. This prevents the vehicle from creeping.

NOTICE

Always use the brake pedal or the parking brake to hold the vehicle on an upgrade. Do not attempt to hold the vehicle using the accelerator ped- al, as this can cause the transmission to overheat.

(h) If you cannot shift the selector le-

ver out of “P” position

is depressed, use

If you cannot shift the selector lever from the “P” position even though the brake pedal lock override button. For instructions, see “If you cannot shift automatic transmission selector lever” on page 337 in Section 4.

the shift

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Four- wheel drive system (full- time four- wheel drive models)— (a) Four- wheel drive control

Four- wheel drive control switch knob

Use the four- wheel drive control switch knob and center differential lock switch to select the transfer and center differ- ential modes. The “H4” and “L4” positions of the four- wheel drive control switch knob provide either lock or unlock mode of the center differential depending on the center differ- ential lock switch position. Use the center differential lock system if your wheels get stuck in a ditch, or when you are driving on a slippery or bumpy surface. When is locked, the vehicle stability control system is automatically turned off and the center differential lock and “VSC OFF” indicator lights come on because the function that controls engine performance interferes with the process of freeing your wheels.

the center differential

Center differential lock switch

160

NOTICE

As soon as the center differential lock switch is turned on, the “VSC OFF” indicator light comes on. After the wheels are out of the ditch or off the slippery or bumpy surface, turn the center differential lock switch off. Make sure that the center differential lock indicator light and vehicle stabil- ity control system off indicator light turn off.

icy or snow- covered

from dry hard- surfaced roads

“H4” (high speed position, center differ- ential unlocked): Four- wheel drive control switch knob at “H4”, center differential lock switch left out Use this for normal driving on all types of to roads, wet, roads. This position gives greater economy, quietest ride, least wear and better vehicle control. “H4” (high speed position, center differ- ential locked): Four- wheel drive control switch knob at “H4”, center differential lock switch pushed in Use for greater experience a wheel slipping, unlock mode.

traction when you loss of power, such as in the center differential

this

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“L4” (low speed position, center differ- ential unlocked): Four- wheel drive control switch knob at “L4”, center differential lock switch left out The “4LO” (low speed four- wheel drive) indicator light comes on when the “L4” mode is selected. Use this for maximum power and traction. Use this for climbing or descending steep hills, off- road driving, and hard pulling in sand or mud. In this mode, the braking feeling that oc- curs when the wheels are negotiating a sharp corner is further reduced than in the “L4” center differential locked) mode. “L4” (low speed position, center differ- ential locked): Four- wheel drive control switch knob at “L4”, center differential lock switch pushed in The “4LO” (low speed four- wheel drive) indicator light comes on when the “L4” mode is selected.

(low position,

Use this for maximum power and traction. Use this for hard pulling in situations the vehicle cannot negotiate even in the “L4” (low speed position, center differential un- locked) mode. Also, using this mode when driving down steep off- road inclines will help contribute to increased vehicle stabil- ity. The indicator light tells when the differen- tial lock is engaged. Note that the differ- ential is not still locked as long as the indicator light remains off. When the operation is not completed, the indicator blinks. If the indicator light does not go off when you push out the center differential switch, drive straight ahead while accelerating or decelerating, or drive in reverse. If the center differential lock system op- eration is not completed within 5 seconds while is set, cancel the cruise control system. To can- cel the cruise control system, see “Cruise control” on page 190 in Section 1- 7. If the indicator blinks even if doing so, contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible. There may be a trouble in the center differential lock system. See “(b) Shifting procedure” for further in- structions.

the cruise control system

lock

the

“L” position of

Advice for driving on slippery roads in “L4” (low speed position) mode If the four- wheel drive control switch knob is in the “L4” and the automatic transmis- sion selector lever is in the “2” or “3” when you drive in steep off- road areas, the output of the brake can be controlled effectively by the active traction control system, which assists the driver to control the driving power of 4 wheels. Use the automatic transmission selector lever for maximum power and traction when your wheels get stuck or when you drive down a steep incline. In the following cases, the output of the active traction control system if the engine speed is under 3000 rpm (normally engine speed is under 3000 rpm when the wheels get unstuck). (cid:1) The

the brake can be controlled by

four- wheel drive control switch knob in the “L4” position and the auto- matic transmission selector lever in the “L” position

(cid:1) The

four- wheel drive control switch knob in the “L4” position and the auto- matic transmission selector lever in the “D”, “4”, “3” or “2” with the transmis- sion downshifting to first gear

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(b) Shifting procedure SHIFTING BETWEEN “H4” (UNLOCKED) AND “H4” (LOCKED) lock To shift between unlock and modes in “H4”, push the center differen- tial lock switch. SHIFTING BETWEEN “L4” (UNLOCKED) AND “L4” (LOCKED) To shift between unlock and lock modes in “L4”, push the center differen- tial lock switch. SHIFTING BETWEEN “H4” AND “L4” To shift from “H4” to “L4”, bring the vehicle to a complete stop with the brake pedal held down with your foot, shift the automatic transmission selector lever into “N” and push and four- wheel drive control switch knob fully clockwise. To shift from “L4” to “H4”, bring the vehicle to a complete stop with the brake pedal held down with your foot, shift the automatic transmission selector lever into “N” and turn the four- wheel drive control switch knob fully counterclockwise.

turn

the

(cid:1) The

four- wheel drive control switch knob in the “L4” position and the auto- matic transmission selector lever in the “R” position

(As for the automatic transmission selec- tor lever positions, see “Automatic trans- mission (5- speed)” on page 151 in this Section.)

162

the

four- wheel drive

If the “4LO” (low speed four- wheel drive) indicator light continues to blink when you operate control switch knob to the “H4” or “L4” position, drive forward or backward in a short dis- tance, then stop the vehicle completely, shift the automatic transmission selector lever securely into “N” and operate the switch knob again. If the indicator continues to blink even if doing so, contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible. There may be a trouble in the four- wheel drive system.

CAUTION

Never operate the four- wheel drive control switch knob if the wheels are slipping. Stop the slipping or spin- ning before operating.

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Four- wheel drive system (multi- mode four- wheel drive models)— (a) Multi- mode control

Center differential lock switch

Use the multi- mode control switch knob and center differential lock switch to select the transfer and center differ- ential modes. The “H4” and “L4” positions of the multi- mode control switch knob provide either lock or unlock mode of the center differen- tial depending on the center differential lock switch position.

Multi- mode control switch knob

the center differential

Use the center differential lock system if your wheels get stuck in a ditch, or when you are driving on a slippery or bumpy surface. When is locked, the vehicle stability control system is automatically turned off and the center differential lock and “VSC OFF” indicator lights come on because the function that controls engine performance interferes with the process of freeing your wheels.

NOTICE

As soon as the center differential lock switch is turned on, the “VSC OFF” indicator light comes on. After the wheels are out of the ditch or off the slippery or bumpy surface, turn the center differential lock switch off. Make sure that the center differential lock indicator light and vehicle stabil- ity control system off indicator light turn off.

163

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four- wheel drive)

“4LO” indicator

four- wheel drive and

“L4” (low speed position, four- wheel drive, center differential unlocked): Mul- ti- mode control switch knob at “L4”, cen- ter differential lock switch left out (low The speed lights come on when the “L4” mode is selected. Use this for maximum power and traction. Use this for climbing or descending steep hills, off- road driving, and hard pulling in sand or mud. In this mode, the braking feeling that oc- curs when the wheels are negotiating a sharp corner is further reduced than in the “L4” (low speed position, four- wheel drive, center differential locked) mode. “L4” (low speed position, four- wheel drive, center differential locked): Multi- mode control switch knob at “L4”, center differential lock switch pushed in The (low speed lights come on when the “L4” mode is selected.

four- wheel drive and

“4LO” indicator

four- wheel drive)

inclines will help contribute

Use this for maximum power and traction. Use this for hard pulling in situations the vehicle cannot negotiate even in the “L4” (low speed position, four- wheel drive, cen- ter differential unlocked) mode. Also, using this mode when driving down steep off- road to in- creased vehicle stability. The indicator light tells when the differen- tial lock is engaged. Note that the differ- ential is not still locked as long as the indicator light remains off. When the operation is not completed, the indicator blinks. If the indicator light does not go off when you push out the center differential switch, drive straight ahead while accelerating or decelerating, or drive in reverse. If the center differential lock system op- eration is not completed within 5 seconds while is set, cancel the cruise control system. To can- cel the cruise control system, see “Cruise control” on page 190 in Section 1- 7. If the indicator blinks even if doing so, contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible. There may be a trouble in the center differential lock system. See “(c) Shifting procedure” for further in- structions.

the cruise control system

lock

“H2” (high speed position, two- wheel drive, center differential unlocked): Mul- ti- mode control switch knob at “H2”, cen- ter differential lock switch left out Use this for normal driving on dry hard- surfaced roads. This position gives greater economy, quietest ride, least wear and better vehicle control. “H4” (high speed position, four- wheel drive, center differential unlocked): Mul- ti- mode control switch knob at “H4”, cen- ter differential lock switch left out The four- wheel drive indicator light comes on when the “H4” mode is selected. Use this for normal driving on all types of roads, to roads. This wet, position provides greater than two- wheel drive. “H4” (high speed position, four- wheel drive, center differential locked): Multi- mode control switch knob at “H4”, center differential lock switch pushed in The four- wheel drive indicator light comes on when the “H4” mode is selected. Use experience a wheel slipping, unlock mode.

traction when you loss of power, such as in the center differential

from dry hard- surfaced roads

icy or snow- covered

for greater

traction

this

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“L4” position and

(cid:1) The multi- mode control switch knob in the the automatic transmission selector lever in the “R” position

(As for the automatic transmission selec- tor lever positions, see “Automatic trans- mission (4- speed)” on page 156 in this Section.)

(b) A.D.D. (automatic disconnecting differential) The A.D.D. can be engaged or disen- gaged by the shifting operations de- scribed in “(c) Shifting procedure”. You should drive in four- wheel drive for at least 16 km (10 miles) each month. This will assure that the front drive com- ponents are lubricated.

the

“L” position of

Advice for driving on slippery roads in “L4” (low speed position) mode If the multi- mode control switch knob is in the “L4” and the automatic transmission selector lever is in the “2” when you drive in steep off- road areas, the output of the brake can be controlled effectively by the active traction control system, which as- sists the driver to control the driving pow- er of 4 wheels. Use the automatic transmission selector lever for maximum power and traction when your wheels get stuck or when you drive down a steep incline. In the following cases, the output of the active traction control system if the engine speed is under 3000 rpm (normally engine speed is under 3000 rpm when the wheels get unstuck). (cid:1) The multi- mode control switch knob in the automatic the transmission selector lever in the “L” position

the brake can be controlled by

“L4” position and

“L4” position and

(cid:1) The multi- mode control switch knob in the the automatic transmission selector lever in the “D”, “3” or “2” with the transmission down- shifting to first gear

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To shift from “H4” (unlocked) to “H2”, turn the multi- mode control switch knob fully counterclockwise. This can be done at any speed. If the four- wheel drive indicator light con- tinues to blink when you operate the mul- ti- mode control switch knob from the “H4” to the “H2” position, this reminds you that the transfer mode is not securely in “H2” mode. Drive straight ahead while acceler- ating or decelerating, or drive forward or backward in a short distance. to blink If even if doing so, contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible. There may be a trouble in the four- wheel drive system.

light continues

indicator

the

CAUTION

Never operate the multi- mode control switch knob if the wheels are slip- ping. Stop the slipping or spinning before operating.

(c) Shifting procedure SHIFTING BETWEEN “H2” AND “H4” (UNLOCKED) To shift from “H2” to “H4” (unlocked), reduce the vehicle speed to less than 100
km/h (62 mph) and turn the multi- mode control switch knob fully clockwise. If the four- wheel drive indicator light con- tinues to blink when you operate the mul- ti- mode control switch knob from the “H2” to the “H4” position, this reminds you that the transfer mode is not securely in “H4” mode. Drive straight ahead while acceler- ating or decelerating. If the four- wheel drive indicator light con- tinues the buzzer sounds when you operate the multi- mode control switch knob from the “H2” to the “H4” position, this reminds you that the transfer mode is not in “H4” mode. Stop the ve- hicle or reduce the vehicle speed to less than 100 km/h (62 mph). Operate the switch knob again.

to blink and

166

SHIFTING BETWEEN “H4” (UNLOCKED) AND “H4” (LOCKED) lock To shift between unlock and modes in “H4”, push the center differen- tial lock switch. SHIFTING BETWEEN “L4” (UNLOCKED) AND “L4” (LOCKED) To shift between unlock and lock modes in “L4”, push the center differen- tial lock switch. SHIFTING BETWEEN “H4” AND “L4” To shift from “H4” to “L4”, bring the vehicle to a complete stop with the brake pedal held down with your foot, shift the automatic transmission selector lever into “N” and push and the multi- mode control switch knob fully clockwise. To shift from “L4” to “H4”, bring the vehicle to a complete stop with the brake pedal held down with your foot, shift the automatic transmission selector lever into “N” and turn the multi- mode control switch knob counterclockwise.

turn

2004 4RUNNER from Sep. ’04 Prod. (OM35847U)

If the “4LO” (low speed four- wheel drive) indicator light continues to blink when you operate the multi- mode control switch knob to the “H4” or “L4” position, drive forward or backward in a short distance, then stop the vehicle completely, shift the automatic transmission selector lever se- curely the switch knob again. If the indicator continues to blink even if doing so, contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible. There may be a trouble in the four- wheel drive system.

into “N” and operate

CAUTION

Never operate the multi- mode control switch knob if the wheels are slip- ping. Stop the slipping or spinning before operating.

’04 4Runner_U (L/O 0409)

Traction control system (two- wheel drive models) The traction control system automatical- ly helps prevent the spinning of rear wheels when the vehicle is started or accelerated on slippery road surfaces. When the ignition key is turned to “ON”, the system automatically turns on.

CAUTION

Under certain slippery road condi- tions, full traction of the vehicle and power to the rear wheels cannot be maintained, even though the traction control system is in operation. Do not drive the vehicle under any speed or maneuvering conditions which may cause traction control. In situations where the road surface is covered with ice or snow, your vehicle should be fitted with snow tire chains. Always drive at an appropriate and cautious speed the present road condi- tions.

the vehicle

tires or

lose

for

to

in

NORMAL DRIVING MODE Leave the system on during ordinary driving so that it can operate when needed. You may hear a sound the engine compartment for a few seconds when the engine is started or just after the vehicle begins to move. This means that the trac- tion control system is in the self- check mode, but does not indicate a malfunction. When the traction control system is oper- ating, the following conditions occur: (cid:1) The system controls the spinning of the rear wheels. At this time, the slip indi- cator light blinks.

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(cid:1) You may feel vibration or noise in your the is

vehicle, caused by operation of brakes. This functioning properly.

the system

indicates

The slip indicator light comes on for a few seconds when the ignition key is turned to “ON”. If the indicator light does not come on when the ignition is turned on, contact your Toyota dealer.

the process of

TRACTION CONTROL OFF MODE If your wheels get stuck in an ditch when you are driving on a severe off road and sand, turn off the traction control system. This system that con- trols engine performance may interfere with freeing your wheels. To turn off: Push “TRAC OFF” switch. The “TRAC OFF” indicator light will come on. The vehicle stability control system is al- ways activated, even if the traction control system is turned off.

To turn on: Push “TRAC OFF” switch once again. The “TRAC OFF” indicator light will go off. The traction control system will automati- cally go on, and the “TRAC OFF” indicator light will go off when you drive over 30
km/h (19 mph) even if the “TRAC OFF” switch is pushed to cancel the traction control system. “TRAC OFF” indicator light comes on for a few seconds when the ignition key is turned It will come on again when you push the “TRAC OFF” switch to turn off the system. The light may come on for 60 seconds after the ignition key is turned to “ON”. It is normal if they go out after a while. repeatedly Depressing may turn on the “TRAC OFF” indicator light. It is normal if it goes out after a few seconds.

the brake pedal

to “ON”.

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In the following cases, contact your Toyota dealer: (cid:1) The indicator light does not come on to

ignition key

turned

the

is

when “ON”.

(cid:1) The indicator light remains on after the

ignition key is turned to “ON”.

(cid:1) The indicator light comes on with the

normal driving mode while driving.

“VSC TRAC” warning light This light warns that there is a problem somewhere in the following. (cid:1) Traction control system (cid:1) Vehicle stability control system (cid:1) Hill- start assist control system When the system is normal and the igni- tion key is turned to “ON”, the warning light will come on and will go off after a few seconds. It is not a malfunction that the warning light may stay on for 60 seconds after the ignition key is turned to “ON”.

to

that

indicate

intermittently

the brake pedal

Depressing repeatedly may turn on the light. It is normal if it goes out after a few seconds. The brake actuator temperature increases during continuous operation of the above mentioned systems such as on slippery roads. If the brake actuator temperature becomes too high while any of the sys- tems is operating, a buzzer will start to sound the traction control system can no longer op- erate. In this case, immediately stop your vehicle at a safe place. If the system continues to operate, the buzzer sound changes from intermittent to continuous. buzzer sounds for about 3 seconds.) At the time the “VSC TRAC” warning light will come on and the traction control sys- tem temporarily stops operating in order to protect the brake actuator. (Although the traction control system does not operate, there is no problem to continue your driv- ing.) The system will be automatically re- stored after a short time and the “VSC TRAC” warning light goes out.

continuous

(The

169

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If the light comes on while driving, the traction control system does not work. However, as normal braking operates when being applied, there is no problem to continue your driving. In the following cases, contact your Toyota dealer: (cid:1) The warning light does not come on after the ignition key is turned to “ON”. (cid:1) The warning light remains on after the

ignition key is turned to “ON”.

(cid:1) The warning light comes on while driv-

ing.

The “TRAC OFF” indicator light will come on when the “VSC TRAC” warning light comes on even if the “TRAC OFF” switch is not pushed.

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’04 4Runner_U (L/O 0409)

Active traction control system

(four- wheel drive models) The active traction control system auto- matically helps prevent the spinning of 4 wheels when the vehicle is started or accelerated on slippery road surfaces. When the ignition key is turned to “ON”, the system automatically turns on.

CAUTION

to

Under certain slippery road condi- tions, full traction of the vehicle and power the 4 wheels cannot be maintained, even though the traction control system is in operation. Do not drive the vehicle under any speed or maneuvering conditions which may cause traction control. In situations where the road surface is covered with ice or snow, your vehicle should be fitted with snow tire chains. Always drive at an appropriate and cautious speed the present road condi- tions.

the vehicle

tires or

lose

for

to

in

that

Leave the system on during the ordi- nary driving so it can operate when needed. the engine You may hear a sound compartment for a few seconds when the engine is started or just after the vehicle begins to move. This means that the ac- tive traction control system is in the self- check mode, but does not indicate a mal- function. When the active traction control system is operating, the following conditions occur: (cid:1) The system controls the spinning of the 4 wheels. At this time, the slip indica- tor light blinks.

2004 4RUNNER from Sep. ’04 Prod. (OM35847U)

’04 4Runner_U (L/O 0409)

(cid:1) You may feel vibration or noise in your the is

vehicle, caused by operation of brakes. This functioning properly.

the system

indicates

The slip indicator light comes on for a few seconds when the ignition key is turned to “ON”. If the indicator light does not come on when the ignition is turned on, contact your Toyota dealer.

“VSC TRAC” warning light This light warns that there is a problem somewhere in the following. (cid:1) Active traction control system (cid:1) Vehicle stability control system (cid:1) Downhill assist control system (cid:1) Hill- start assist control system When the system is normal and the igni- tion key is turned to “ON”, the warning light will come on and will go off after a few seconds. It is not a malfunction that the warning light may stay on for 60 seconds after the ignition key is turned to “ON”.

to

that

indicate

intermittently

the brake pedal

Depressing repeatedly may turn on the light. It is normal if it goes out after a few seconds. The brake actuator temperature increases during continuous operation of the above mentioned systems such as on slippery roads. If the brake actuator temperature becomes too high while any of the sys- tems is operating, a buzzer will start to sound the active traction control system can no lon- ger operate. In this case, immediately stop your vehicle at a safe place. If the system continues to operate, the buzzer sound changes from intermittent to continuous. buzzer sounds for about 3 seconds.) At the time, the “VSC TRAC” warning light will come on and the active traction con- trol system temporarily stops operating in order to protect the brake actuator. (Al- though the active traction control system does not operate, there is no problem to continue your driving.) The system will be automatically restored after a short time and the “VSC TRAC” warning light goes out.

continuous

(The

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If the light comes on while driving, the active traction control system does not work. However, as normal braking oper- ates when being applied, there is no prob- lem to continue your driving. In the following cases, contact your Toyota dealer: (cid:1) The warning light does not come on after the ignition key is turned to “ON”. (cid:1) The warning light remains on after the

ignition key is turned to “ON”.

(cid:1) The warning light comes on while driv-

ing.

Vehicle stability control system The vehicle stability control system helps provide integrated control of the systems such as anti- lock brake sys- tem, traction control, engine control, etc. This system automatically controls the output of the brakes or engine to help prevent the vehicle from skidding when cornering on a slippery road sur- face or operating steering wheel abrupt- ly. This vehicle stability control activates when the vehicle speed is more than 15
km/h (9 mph). You may hear a sound the engine compartment for a few seconds when the engine is started or just after the vehicle begins to move. This means that the sys- tem is in the self- check mode, but does not indicate a malfunction.

in

CAUTION

If

the slip

indicator

(cid:1) Do not rely excessively on the ve- hicle stability control system. Even if the vehicle stability control sys- tem is operating, you must always drive carefully and attentively to avoid serious injury. Reckless driv- ing will result in an unexpected ac- cident. light blinks and an alarm sounds, special care should be taken while driving. (cid:1) Only use tires of specified size. The size, manufacturer, brand and tread pattern for all 4 tires should be the same. If you use the tires other than specified, or different type or size, the vehicle stability control system may not function correctly. When replacing the tires or wheels, contact your Toyota dealer. (See “Checking and replacing tires” on page 372 in Section 7- 2.)

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In the following cases, contact your Toyota dealer: (cid:1) The indicator light does not come on to

ignition key

turned

the

is

when “ON”.

If the vehicle is going to skid during driv- ing, the slip indicator light blinks and an alarm sounds intermittently. Special care should be taken while driving. The slip indicator light comes on for a few seconds when the ignition key is turned to “ON”. If the indicator light does not come on when the ignition is turned on, contact your Toyota dealer.

the center differential

Four- wheel drive models only— Pushing lock switch automatically turns the vehicle stability control system off. At this time, the “VSC OFF” indicator comes on with the center differential lock indi- cator light. The “VSC OFF” indicator light comes on for a few seconds when the ignition key is turned to “ON”. It will come on again when you push the center differential lock switch to turn off the system.

(cid:1) The indicator light remains on after the

ignition key is turned to “ON”.

(cid:1) The indicator light comes on when the

system is on while driving.

NOTICE

Make sure that the center differential lock indicator light goes off before normal driving.

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the brake pedal

The light may come on for 60 seconds after the ignition key is turned to “ON”. It is normal if they go out after a while. Depressing repeatedly may turn on the light. It is normal if they go out after a few seconds. If the light comes on while driving, the vehicle stability control system does not work. However, as normal braking oper- ates when being applied, there is no prob- lem to continue your driving. In the following cases, contact your Toyota dealer: (cid:1) The warning light does not come on after the ignition key is turned to “ON”. (cid:1) The warning light remains on after the

ignition key is turned to “ON”.

(cid:1) The warning light comes on while driv-

ing.

Two- wheel drive models only—The “TRAC OFF” indicator light will come on when the “VSC TRAC” warning light comes on even if the “TRAC OFF” switch is not pushed.

Downhill assist control system (four- wheel drive models) The downhill assist control system is a system that assists the deceleration of the engine brake when you drive down a steep hill. When you are driving down a hill with the four- wheel drive control switch knob (full- time four- wheel drive models) or multi- mode control switch knob four- wheel drive models) in the “L4” position, push the “DAC” switch to limit the vehicle’s ac- celeration. If the vehicle is traveling at a speed of 25 km/h (15 mph) or less, you can descend at a constant speed.

(multi- mode

CAUTION

Do not rely excessively on the down- hill assist control system. It may not be able to maintain a low speed over road surfaces or off- road surfaces on which sliding can easily occur, such as extremely steep slopes or icy or muddy roads.

2004 4RUNNER from Sep. ’04 Prod. (OM35847U)

“VSC TRAC” warning light This light warns that there is a problem somewhere in the following. (cid:1) Vehicle stability control system (cid:1) Traction control system

(two- wheel drive models)

(cid:1) Active traction control system

(four- wheel drive models)

(cid:1) Downhill assist control system

(four- wheel drive models)

(cid:1) Hill- start assist control system The light will come on when the ignition key is turned to “ON”, and will go off after about a few seconds.

174

’04 4Runner_U (L/O 0409)

If the indicator light does not come on when the switch is pushed, contact your Toyota dealer.

TO ACTIVATE THE DOWNHILL ASSIST CONTROL SYSTEM 1. Full- time four- wheel drive models— four- wheel drive control

Turn switch knob to the “L4” position.

the

The system will not operate if the four- wheel drive control switch knob is in the “H4” position.

Multi- mode els—Turn switch knob to the “L4” position.

four- wheel drive mod- the multi- mode control

The system will not operate if the multi- mode control switch knob is in the “H4” position. 2. In order to make full use of the en- gine brake, putting the transmission in “L” or “2” is recommended.

5- speed automatic transmission—The sys- tem will operate even if the transmission selector lever is in “D”, “4”, “3” or “N”. However, when it is in “L” or “2” the en- gine brake can also be utilized enabling the system to operate more effectively. 4- speed automatic transmission—The sys- tem will operate even if the transmission selector lever is in “D”, “3” or “N”. Howev- er, when it is in “L” or “2” the engine brake can also be utilized enabling the system to operate more effectively.

3. Push the “DAC” switch to turn the system on. The downhill assist con- trol system indicator light on the in- strument panel will come on.

Full- time four- wheel drive models—If the downhill assist control system indicator light flashes, the selector lever may be in “N” or the four- wheel drive control switch knob may be in the “H4” position. If the indicator light does not come on when the switch is pushed, contact your Toyota dealer. four- wheel drive models—If Multi- mode the downhill assist control system indica- tor light flashes, the selector lever may be in “N” or the multi- mode control switch knob may be in the “H2” or “H4” position.

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’04 4Runner_U (L/O 0409)

to “ON”.

If any of

The slip indicator light and downhill assist control system indicator light come on for a few seconds when the ignition key is turned the indicator lights does not come on when the ignition is turned on, contact your Toyota dealer. If the system is used frequently, the brake actuator temperature may become too high and a buzzer will sound inter- mittently. If this happens, the downhill assist control system flash and a buzzer will sound intermittently. When the temperature of the brake actuator goes down, the system will begin to operate again. Until it restarts, the active traction control system and hill- start assist control system will not operate; however, the con- ventional brake can be operated.

light will

indicator

With the vehicle traveling at a speed of 25 km/h (15 mph) or less, release your foot from the accelerator or brake pedal to activate the system. The vehicle will descend the hill at a low speed. While the system is operating, the slip indicator light on the instrument panel will flash and the stop lights and high mounted stoplight will be lit. If you push the “DAC” switch to turn the system off while it is in operation, the system will stop operating gradually. The downhill assist control system indicator light will flash to alert the driver. To con- tinue driving at a low speed, push the “DAC” switch to turn the system on.

176

If there is any abnormality in the sys- tem, the “VSC TRAC” warning light will come on. When the “DAC” switch is pushed, the downhill assist control sys- tem indicator light also flash. If the “VSC TRAC” warning light comes on, there may be an abnormality in any of the following systems in addition to the downhill assist control system. (cid:1) Hill- start assist control system (cid:1) Active traction control system (cid:1) Vehicle stability control system

2004 4RUNNER from Sep. ’04 Prod. (OM35847U)

the brake pedal

“VSC TRAC” warning light When the system is normal and the igni- tion key is turned to “ON”, the warning light will come on and will go off after a few seconds. It is not a malfunction that the warning light may stay on for 60 seconds after the ignition key is turned to the “ON” position. Depressing repeatedly may turn on the light. It is normal if it goes out after a few seconds. The brake actuator temperature increases during continuous operation of the above mentioned system on such as slippery roads. If the brake actuator temperature becomes too high while any of the sys- tems is operating, a buzzer will start to sound the downhill assist control system can no lon- ger operate. In this case, stop your ve- hicle immediately at a safe place. If the system continues to operate, the buzzer sound changes from intermittent to continuous. buzzer sounds for about 3 seconds.)

intermittently

continuous

indicate

(The

that

to

’04 4Runner_U (L/O 0409)

this

time,

At the “VSC TRAC” warning light will come on and the downhill assist control system stops operating temporarily in order to protect the brake actuator. (Al- though the downhill assist control system does not operate, it is no problem to con- tinue your driving.) The system will be automatically restored after a short time and the “VSC TRAC” warning light goes out. If the warning light comes on while driv- ing, the system does not work. However, as normal braking operates when being applied, it is no problem to continue your driving. In the following cases, contact your Toyota dealer: (cid:1) The warning light does not come on after the ignition key is turned to “ON”. (cid:1) The warning light remains on after the

ignition key is turned to “ON”.

(cid:1) The warning light comes on while driv-

ing.

Hill- start assist control system The hill- start assist control system as- sists you in starting to move up a steep or slippery hill. When you start to move up the hill slope, the system helps to prevent the vehicle from roll- ing backward in the interval while you move your foot from the brake pedal to the accelerator pedal.

CAUTION

(cid:1) Do not rely excessively on the hill- start assist control system. The ve- hicle may not be able to start smoothly on road surfaces or off- road surfaces such as extremely steep slopes or icy roads, on which sliding can occur very easily.

(cid:1) Do not use the hill- start assist con- trol system to stop the vehicle. This system is not designed as a func- tion for stopping the vehicle on a uphill slope.

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automatic

The hill- start assist control system will operate for 5 seconds maximally when all of the following conditions apply. (cid:1) 5- speed

transmission— When the transmission is in any of positions “D”, “4”, “3”, “2” or “L” 4- speed transmission— When the transmission is in any of positions “D”, “3”, “2” or “L”

automatic

(cid:1) When the brake pedal

pressed

is not de-

The system is designed to operate when the vehicle is starting on an uphill slope; therefore, if the transmission is in “P” or “N” it will not operate. It will not operate either in reverse on a slope with the transmission in the “R”.

the vehicle starts

to move

if

178

Keep in mind the following when driv- ing. (cid:1) The hill- start assist control system op- erates for 5 seconds maximally. If both the brake and accelerator pedals re- main undepressed than 5
seconds, the buzzer will sound at more frequent intervals and the system will gradually stop operating.

longer

for

time,

the stop

When the hill- start assist control system is operating, the slip indicator light flashes and an alarm sounds intermittently. At the same lamps and high mounted stoplight are lit. The slip indicator light comes on for a few seconds when the ignition key is turned to “ON”. If the indicator light does not come on when the ignition is turned on, contact your Toyota dealer.

(cid:1) The hill- start assist control system is not designed as a function for stopping the vehicle on a uphill slope. When stopping the vehicle, be sure to de- press the brake pedal.

If the system is used frequently, the brake actuator temperature may become too high and a buzzer will sound inter- mittently. In this case, a buzzer will sound intermit- tently. When the temperature of the brake actuator goes down, the system will begin to operate again. Until it restarts, the trac- tion control system (two- wheel drive mod- els), active traction control system (four- wheel drive models) and downhill assist control system will not operate; however, the conventional brake can be operated.

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“VSC TRAC” warning light When the system is normal and the igni- tion key is turned to “ON”, the warning light will come on and will go off after a few seconds. It is not a malfunction that the warning light may stay on for 60 seconds after the ignition key is turned to “ON”. Depressing repeatedly the brake pedal may turn on the light. It is normal if it goes out after a few seconds. The brake actuator temperature increases during continuous operation of the above mentioned system on such as slippery roads. If the brake actuator temperature becomes too high while any of the sys- tems is operating, a buzzer will start to sound the hill- start assist control system can no lon- ger operate. In this case, stop your ve- hicle immediately at a safe place. If the system continues to operate, the buzzer sound changes from intermittent to continuous. buzzer sounds for about 3 seconds.)

intermittently

continuous

indicate

(The

that

to

this

time,

At the “VSC TRAC” warning light will come on and the hill- start assist control system stops operating temporarily in order to protect the brake actuator. (Al- though the hill- start assist control system does not operate, it is no problem to con- tinue your driving.) The system will be automatically restored after a short time and the “VSC TRAC” warning light goes out. If the warning light comes on while driv- ing, the system does not work. However, as normal braking operates when being applied, it is no problem to continue your driving. In the following cases, contact your Toyota dealer: (cid:1) The warning light does not come on after the ignition key is turned to “ON”. (cid:1) The warning light remains on after the

ignition key is turned to “ON”.

(cid:1) The warning light comes on while driv-

ing.

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2004 4RUNNER from Sep. ’04 Prod. (OM35847U)

the system malfunctions,

If there is any abnormality in the sys- tem, the “VSC TRAC” warning light will come on. the If TRAC” warning light will come on. If the “VSC TRAC” warning light comes on, there may be an abnormality in any of the following systems in addition to the hill- start assist control system. (cid:1) Downhill assist control system

“VSC

(four- wheel drive models)

(cid:1) Traction control system

(two- wheel drive models)

(cid:1) Active traction control system

(four- wheel drive models)

(cid:1) Vehicle stability control system

’04 4Runner_U (L/O 0409)

than

“HI” (high) mode— The vehicle height is about 40 mm (1.6
in.) higher at rear the “N” mode height. This mode is suitable when driving on the bumpy roads and through water. However, when the vehicle speed exceeds about 30 km/h (19 mph) or over in the “HI” mode, the “N” mode is automatically selected.

CAUTION

The “HI” mode should be used for severe off- road driving condition only. Because the vehicle’s center of gravity is higher in this setting, the vehicle may become unstable when turning abruptly, resulting in accident.

Rear height control air suspension

(normal) and “LO”

This rear height control air suspension controls the vehicle height depending on the vehicle driving conditions. Select your desired height among the “HI” (high), “N” (low) modes with the height select switch. (a) Vehicle height modes “N” (normal) mode— The vehicle height in this mode is stan- dard. Regardless of the number of occu- pants or the luggage loading condition, the vehicle height is always automatically ad- justed to a fixed height in this mode while the engine is running. This mode is suitable for ordinary driving.

180

the

rear

than

lower at

“LO” (low) mode— The vehicle height is about 20 mm (0.8
in.) “N” mode height. This mode allows you easy access to the vehicle (getting in and out) and easy load- ing and unloading operation. This mode is available when the vehicle speed is under about 12 km/h (7 mph).

NOTICE

Use the “LO” mode when the vehicle is stopped. Otherwise, when the ve- hicle speed exceeds about 12 km/h (7
mph), “N” mode is selected automati- cally. So be careful when you drive in any place where the overhead height is limited.

(b) Vehicle height mode changing con-

dition

To change the vehicle height, it is neces- sary to meet the following conditions. (cid:1) The engine should be running. (cid:1) The height control “OFF” indicator light

should go off.

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(cid:1) When selecting a mode, there is a ve- hicle speed limit. Refer to the following table.

Yes = The mode can be selected. No = The mode cannot be selected.

If the vehicle is moved to its usual loca- tion or the ice is removed and the height select switch the vehicle height control cannot be operated. In this case, turn off and restart the engine, then push the control switches.

is pressed,

“LO” mode

“N” mode

“HI” mode

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

No

Under about 12 km/h (7 mph) Under about 30 km/h (19 mph)

About 30 km/h (19 mph) or over

In the following cases, the rear height control suspension will not operate. (cid:1) The underbody of