1997 Toyota Avalon Owners Manual

How to save fuel and make your vehicle last longer, too Getting more kilometers/mileage from a li- ter/gallon of fuel is easy-just take it easy. It will help make your vehicle last longer, too. Here are some specific tips on how to save money on both fuel and repairs: (cid:1) Keep your tires inflated at the cor- rect pressure. Underinflation causes tire wear and wastes fuel. See Chapter 7-2 for instructions.

(cid:1) Do not carry unneeded weight in your vehicle. Excess weight puts a heavier load on the engine, causing greater fuel consumption.

(cid:1) Avoid

lenghty warm-up

idling. Once the engine is running smoothly, begin driving—but gently. Remember, however, that on cold winter days this may take a little longer.

(cid:1) Accelerate slowly and smoothly.

Avoid jackrabbit starts.

(cid:1) Avoid long engine idling. If you have a long wait and you are not in traffic, it is better to turn off the engine and start again later.

(cid:1) Avoid engine lug or overrevving. Use a gear position suitable for the road on which you are travelling.

(cid:1) Avoid continuous speeding up and slowing down. Stop-and-go driving wastes fuel.

(cid:1) Avoid unnecessary stopping and braking. Maintain a steady pace. Try to time the traffic signals so you only need to stop as little as possible or take advantage of through streets to avoid traffic lights. Keep a proper distance from other vehicles to avoid sudden braking. This will also reduce wear on your brakes.

(cid:1) Avoid heavy traffic or traffic jams

whenever possible.

(cid:1) Do not rest your foot on the clutch or brake pedal. This causes needless wear, overheating and poor fuel econ- omy.

(cid:1) Maintain a moderate speed on highways. The faster you drive, the greater the fuel consumption. By re- ducing your speed, you will cut down on fuel consumption.

(cid:1) Keep the front wheels in proper alignment. Avoid hitting the curb and slow down on rough roads. Improper alignment not only causes faster tire wear but also puts an extra load on the engine, which, in turn, wastes fuel.

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(cid:1) Keep the bottom of your vehicle free from mud, etc. This not only lessens weight but also helps prevent corrosion.

(cid:1) Keep your vehicle tuned-up and in top shape. A dirty air cleaner, improp- er valve clearance, dirty plugs, dirty oil and grease, brakes not adjusted, etc. all lower engine performance and con- tribute to poor fuel economy. For lon- ger life of all parts and lower operating costs, keep all maintenance work on schedule, and if you often drive under severe conditions, see that your ve- hicle receives more frequent mainte- nance (For scheduled maintenance in- formation, please refer to the separate “Owner’s Manual Supplement/Main- tenance Schedule”).

CAUTION

Never turn off the engine to coast down hills. Your power steering and brake booster will not function without the engine running. Also, the system operates properly only when the engine is running.

emission

control

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Part 4
IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY (cid:1) If your vehicle will not start (cid:1) If your engine stalls while

driving

(cid:1) If your vehicle overheats (cid:1) If you have a flat tire (cid:1) If your vehicle needs to be

towed

(cid:1) If you cannot shift automatic

transmission selector lever

(cid:1) If you lose your keys (cid:1) If you lose your wireless remote

control transmitter

If your vehicle will not start— (a) Simple checks Before making these checks, make sure you have followed the correct starting pro- cedure given in “How to start the engine” in Part 3 and that you have sufficient fuel. If the engine is not turning over or is turning over too slowly— 1. Check that the battery terminals are

2.

3.

tight and clean. If the battery terminals are O.K., switch on the interior light. If the light is out, dim or goes out when the starter is cranked, the battery is discharged. You may try jump starting. See “(c) Jump starting” for further in- structions.

If the engine turns over at its normal speed but will not start— 1. Check that all the push-on connectors are tight. (For example, connectors at the spark plugs, ignition coil and/or dis- tributor) If the connectors are O.K., the engine may be flooded because of repeated cranking. See “(b) Starting a flooded engine” for further instructions.

2.

If the light is O.K., but the engine still will not start, it needs adjustment or repair. Call a Toyota dealer or qualified repair shop.

NOTICE

Do not pull— or push-start the vehicle. It may damage the vehicle or cause a collision when the engine starts. Also the three-way catalytic converter may overheat and become a fire hazard.

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(cid:1) The gas normally produced by a battery will explode if a flame or spark is brought near. Use only standardized jumper cables and do not smoke or light a match while jump starting.

NOTICE

The battery used for boosting must be 12 V. Do not jump start unless you are sure that the booster battery is correct.

(b) Starting a flooded engine If the engine will not start, your engine may be flooded because of repeated cranking. If this happens, turn the key to “START” with the accelerator pedal held down. Keep the key and accelerator pedal so for 15 seconds and release them. Then try starting the engine with your foot off the accelerator pedal. If the engine does not start after 15 sec- onds of cranking, release the key, wait a few minutes and try again. If the engine still will not start, it needs ad- justment or repair. Call a Toyota dealer or qualified repair shop for assistance.

NOTICE

Do not crank for more than 30
seconds at a time. This may overheat the starter and wiring systems.

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(c) Jump starting To avoid serious personal injury and damage to your vehicle which might result from battery explosion, acid burns, electrical burns, or damaged electronic components, these instruc- tions must be followed precisely. If you are unsure about how to follow this procedure, we strongly recommend that you seek the help of a competent me- chanic or towing service.

CAUTION

(cid:1) Batteries contain sulfuric acid which is poisonous and corro- sive. Wear protective safety glasses when jump starting, and avoid spilling acid on your skin, clothing, or vehicle.

(cid:1) If you should accidentally get acid on yourself or in you eyes, remove any contaminated clothing and flush the affected area with water immediately. Then get immediate medical attention. If possible, continue to apply water with a sponge or cloth while en route to the medical office.

JUMP STARTING PROCEDURE 1.

If the booster battery is installed in another vehicle, make sure the ve- hicles are not touching. Turn off all un- necessary lights and accessories. If required, remove all the vent plugs from the booster and discharged bat- teries. Lay a cloth over the open vents on the batteries. (This helps reduce the explosion hazard, personal injuries and burns.) If the engine in the vehicle with the booster battery is not running, start it and let it run for a few minutes. During jump starting, run the engine at about 2000 rpm with the accelerator pedal lightly depressed.

2.

3.

4. Make the cable connection in the order

a, b, c, d. a. Connect the clamp of the positive (red) jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal on the discharged battery. b. Connect the clamp at the other end of the positive (red) jumper cable to the positive (+) terminal on the booster battery.

c. Connect the clamp of the negative (black) cable to the negative (-) termi- nal on the booster battery. d. Connect the clamp at the other end of the negative (black) jumper cable to a solid, stationary, unpainted, metallic point of the vehicle with the discharged battery. The recommended connecting point is shown in the following illustration:

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5. Start your engine in the normal way. After starting, run it at about 2000 rpm for several minutes with the accelera- tor pedal lightly depressed.

6. Carefully disconnect the cables in the exact reverse order: the negative cable and then the positive cable.

7. Carefully dispose of the battery cover cloths—they may now contain sulfuric acid. If removed, replace all the battery vent plugs.

8.

If the cause of your battery discharging is not apparent (for example, lights left on), you should have it checked.

If your engine stalls while driving If your engine stalls while driving… 1. Reduce your speed gradually, keeping a straight line. Move cautiously off the road to a safe place.

2. Turn on your emergency flashers. 3. Try starting the engine again. If the engine will not start, see “If your ve- hicle will not start”.

CAUTION

If the engine is not running, the power assist for the brakes and steering will not work so steering and braking will be much harder than usual.

Do not connect it to or near any part that moves when the engine is cranked.

CAUTION

When making the connections, to avoid serious injury, do not lean over the battery or accidentally let the jumper cables or clamps touch anything except the correct battery terminals or the ground.

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If your vehicle overheats If your engine coolant temperature gauge indicates overheating, if you experience a loss of power, or if you hear a loud knocking or pinging noise, the engine has probably overheated. You should follow this procedure… 1. Pull safely off the road, stop the ve- hicle and turn on your emergency flashers. Put the transmission in “P” (automatic) or neutral (manual) and apply the parking brake. Turn off the air conditioning if it is being used. If coolant or steam is boiling out of the radiator or reservoir, stop the engine. Wait until the steam subsides before opening the hood. If there is no coolant boiling over or steam, leave the engine running and make sure the electric cooling fan is operating. If it is not, turn the ignition off.

2.

CAUTION

To help avoid personal injury, keep the hood closed until there is no steam. Escaping steam or coolant is a sign of very high pressure.

3. Look for obvious coolant leaks from the radiator, hoses, and under the ve- hicle. However, note that water drain- ing from the air conditioning is normal if it has been used.

CAUTION

When the engine is running, keep hands and clothing away from the moving fan and engine drive belts.

4.

5.

If the coolant is leaking, stop the en- gine immediately. Call a Toyota dealer for assistance. If there are no obvious leaks, check the coolant reservoir. If it is dry, add coolant to the reservoir while the en- gine is running. Fill it about half full.

CAUTION

Do not attempt to remove the radiator cap when the engine and radiator are hot. Serious injury could result from scalding hot fluid and steam blown out under pressure.

in

level

6. After the engine coolant temperature has cooled to normal, again check the coolant If necessary, bring it up to half full again. Serious coolant loss indicates a leak in the system. You should have it checked as soon as possible at your Toyota dealer.

the reservoir.

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If you have a flat tire— 1. Reduce your speed gradually, keeping a straight line. Move cautiously off the road to a safe place well away from the traffic. Avoid stopping on the center di- vider of a highway. Park on a level spot with firm ground.

2. Stop the engine and turn on your

emergency flashers.

3. Firmly set the parking brake and put

the transmission in “P”.

4. Have everyone get out of the vehicle

on the side away from traffic.

5. Read the following instructions thor-

oughly.

CAUTION

to

following

When jacking, be sure to observe the reduce the possibility of personal injury: (cid:1) Follow jacking instructions. (cid:1) Do not start or run the engine while your vehicle is supported by the jack.

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(cid:1) Stop the vehilce at a level place and chock the wheel diagnonally opposite the one being changed. Otherwise, the vehicle will move and possibly cause un- expected accident.

to

(cid:1) Make sure to set the jack properly in the jack point. Raising the ve- hicle with jack improperly posi- tioned will damage the vehicle or may allow the vehicle to fall off the jack and cause injury to the per- son.

(cid:1) Never get under the vehicle when the vehicle is supported by the jack alone.

(cid:1) Use the jack only for lifting your

vehicle during wheel changing.

(cid:1) Do not raise the vehicle with some-

one in the vehicle.

(cid:1) When raising the vehicle, do not put an object on or under the jack.

NOTICE

Do not continue driving with a deflated tire. Driving even a short distance can damage a tire beyond repair.

—Required tools and spare tire

1. Get the required tools and spare

tire. 1. Tool bag 2. Jack 3. Jack handle 4. Spare tire

To prepare yourself for an emergency, you should familiarize yourself with the use of the jack, each of the tools and their storage locations.

—Blocking the wheel

Turn the jack joint by hand. To remove: turn the joint in direction 1 until the jack is free. To store: turn the joint in direction 2 until the jack is firmly secured to prevent it fly- ing forward during a collision or sudden braking.

To remove the spare tire: 1. Loosen the nut and remove it. 2. Remove the spare tire cover. 3. Loosen the bolt and remove it. 4. Remove the spacer. Then take the spare tire out of the vehicle. When storing the spare tire, put it in place with the outer side of the wheel facing up. Then secure the tire by repeating the above removal steps in reverse order to prevent it from flying forward during a col- lision or sudden braking.

2. Block the wheel diagnoally oppo- site the flat tire to keep the vehicle from rolling when it is jacked up.

When blocking the wheel, place a wheel block from the front for the front wheels or from the rear for the rear wheels.

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—Removing wheel ornament

—Loosening wheel nuts

3. Remove the wheel ornament. Pry off the wheel ornament, using the bev- eled end of the wheel nut wrench as shown.

CAUTION

Do not try to pull the ornament by hand. Take due care in handling the ornament to avoid unexpected personal injury.

Steel wheels

Aluminum wheels

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4. Loosen all the wheel nuts. Always loosen the wheel nuts before rais- ing the vehicle. The nuts turn counterclockwise to loosen. To get maximum leverage, fit the wrench to the nut so that the handle is on the right side, as shown above. Grab the wrench near the end of the handle and pull up on the handle. Be careful that the wrench does not slip off the nut. Do not remove the nuts yet—just unscrew them about one-half turn.

—Positioning the jack

—Raising your vehicle

CAUTION

Never get under the vehicle when the vehicle is supported by the jack alone.

5. Position the jack at the correct jack

point as shown

Make sure the jack is positioned on a level and solid place.

6. After making sure that no one is in the vehicle, raise it high enough so that the spare tire can be installed. Remember you will need more ground clearance when putting in the spare tire than when removing the flat tire. To raise the vehicle, insert the jack handle into the jack (it is a loose fit) and turn it clockwise. As the jack touches the vehicle and begins to lift, double-check that it is properly positioned.

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—Changing wheels

—Reinstalling wheel nuts

7. Remove the wheel nuts and change

tires.

Lift the flat tire straight off and put it aside. Roll the spare wheel into position and align the holes in the wheel with the bolts. Then lift up the wheel and get at least the top bolt started through its hole. Wiggle the tire and press it back over the other bolts.

Before putting on wheels, remove any corrosion on the mounting surfaces with a wire brush or such. Installation of wheels without good metal-to-metal contact at the mounting surface can cause wheel nuts to loosen and eventually cause a wheel to come off while driving. Therefore after the first 1600 km (1000 miles), check to see that the wheel nuts are tight.

8. Reinstall all the wheel nuts finger

tight.

Reinstall the wheel nuts (tapered end in- ward) and tighten them as much as you can by hand. Press back on the tire back and see if you can tighten them more.

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—Lowering your vehicle

—Reinstalling wheel ornament

CAUTION

When lowering the vehicle, make sure all portions of your body and all other persons around will not be injured as the vehicle is lowered to the ground.

Steel wheels

9. Lower the vehicle completely and

tighten the wheel nuts.

Turn the jack handle counterclockwise to lower the vehicle. Use only the wheel nut wrench and turn it clockwise to tighten the nuts. Do not use other tools or any additional leverage oth- er than your hands, such as a hammer, pipe or your foot. Make sure the wrench is securely engaged over the nut. Tighten each nut a little at a time in the or- der shown. Repeat the process until all the nuts are tight.

Aluminum wheels

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10. Reinstall the wheel ornament. 1. Put the wheel ornament into position. On some models, align the cutout of the wheel ornamant with the valve stem as shown. 2. Then tap it firmly with the side or heel

of your hand to snap it into place.

CAUTION

Take due care ornament personal injury.

in handling the to avoid unexpected

—After changing wheels 11. Check the air pressure of the

replaced tire.

Adjust the air pressure to the specification designated in Part 8. If the pressure is lower, drive slowly to the nearest service station and fill to the correct pressure. Do not forget to reinstall the tire inflation valve cap as dirt and moisture could get into the valve core and possibly cause air leakage. If the cap is missing, have a new one put on as soon as possible. 12. Restow all the tools, jack and flat

tire securely.

As soon as possible after changing wheels, tighten the wheel nuts to the torque specified in Part 8 with a torque wrench, have a technician repair the flat tire and replace the spare tire with it.

CAUTION

Before driving, make sure all the tools, jack and flat tire are securely in place in their storage location to reduce the possibility of personal injury during a collision or sudden braking.

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If your vehicle needs to be towed—

the

instructions given

If towing is necessary, we recommend you to have it done by your Toyota dealer or a commercial tow truck ser- vice. In consultation with them, have your vehicle towed using either (a) or (b). Only when you cannot receive a tow- ing service from a Toyota dealer or commercial tow truck service, tow your vehicle carefully in accordance with in “—Emergency towing” in this part. Proper equipment will help ensure that your vehicle is not damaged while being towed. Commercial operators are gener- ally aware of the state/provincial and local laws pertaining to towing. Your vehicle can be damaged if it is towed incorrectly. Although most operators know the correct procedure, it is possible to make a mistake. To avoid damage to your vehicle, make sure the following few precautions are observed. If necessary, show this page to the tow truck driver.

TOWING PRECAUTIONS: Use a safety chain system for all towing, and abide by the state/provincial and local laws. The wheels and axle on the ground must be in good condition. If they are damaged, use a towing dolly. (a) Towing with wheel lift type truck From front— Release the parking brake.

NOTICE

When lifting wheels, take care to ensure adequate ground clearance for towing at the opposite end of the raised vehicle. Otherwise, the bumper and/or underbody of the towed vehicle will be damaged during towing.

From rear— Use a towing dolly under the front wheels.

NOTICE

(cid:2)Never tow a vehicle with the front wheels on the ground, as this may cause serious damage to the transmission.

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(cid:2)Do not tow with the key removed or in the “LOCK” position when towing from the rear without a towing dolly. The steering lock mechanism is not strong enough to hold the front wheels straight.

(b) Using flat bed truck

—Emergency towing

(c) Towing with sling type truck

Front

NOTICE

Do not tow with sling type truck, either from the front or rear. This may cause body damage.

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Rear (except U.S. mainland)

If towing is necessary, we recommend you to have it done by your Toyota dealer or a commercial tow truck ser- vice. If towing service is not available in an emergency, your vehicle may be tem- porarily towed by a cable or chain se- cured to either emergency towing eye- let under the vehicle. Use extreme caution when towing vehicles. A driver must be in the vehicle to steer it and operate the brakes. Towing in this manner may be done only on hard-surfaced roads for a short dis- tance and at low speeds. Also, the wheels, axles, drive train, steering and brakes must all be in good condition.

CAUTION

CAUTION

If the engine is not running, the power assist for the brakes and steering will not work so steering and braking will be much harder than usual.

Use extreme caution when towing vehicles. Avoid sudden starts or erratic driving maneuvers which would place excessive stress on the emergency towing eyelet and towing cable or chain. The eyelets and towing cable or chain may break and cause serious injury or damage.

NOTICE

Use only a cable or chain specifically intended for use in towing vehicles. Securely fasten the cable or chain to the towing eyelets provided.

Before towing, release the parking brake and put the transmission in “N”. The key must be in “ACC” (engine off) or “ON” (en- gine running).

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If you cannot shift automatic transmission selector lever (floor shift)

If you cannot shift automatic transmission selector lever (column shift)

If you cannot shift the selector lever out of “P” position to other positions even though the brake pedal is de- pressed, use the shift lock override button as follows: 1. Turn the ignition key to “LOCK” position. Make sure the parking brake is set.

2. Pry up the cover with a flat-bladed

screwdriver or equivalent.

3.

Insert your finger into the hole to push down the shift lock override button. You can shift out of “P” position only while pushing the button.

4. Shift into “N” position. 5. 6. Start the engine. For your safety,

Insert the cover.

keep the brake pedal depressed.

Be sure to have the system checked by your Toyota dealer as soon as possible.

If you cannot shift the selector lever out of “P” position to other postions even though the brake pedal is de- pressed, use the shift lock override button as follows: 1. Turn the ignition key to “LOCK” position. Make sure the parking brake is set.

2. Pry up the cover with a flat-bladed

screwdriver or equivalent.

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If you lose your wireless remote control transmitter If you lose your transmitter, you can purchase a new one at your Toyota dealer. You can use the wireless remote control system with the new transmitter. Contact your Toyota dealer for detailed informa- tion.

If you lose your keys Many Toyota dealers can make a new key if you can give them the key num- ber. See the suggestion given in “Keys” in Chapter 1-2. If your keys are locked in the vehicle and you cannot get a duplicate, many Toyota dealers can still open the door for you, us- ing their special tools. If you must break a window to get in, we suggest breaking the smallest side window because it is the least expensive to replace. Be extremely cautious to avoid cuts from the glass.

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3.

Insert the screwdriver or equivalent into the hole to pull down the shift lock override button. You can shift out of “P” position only while push- ing the button.

4. Shift into “N” position. 5. 6. Start the engine. For your safety,

Insert the cover.

keep the brake pedal depressed.

Be sure to have the system checked by your Toyota dealer as soon as possible.

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Part 5
CORROSION PREVENTION AND APPEARANCE CARE (cid:1) Protecting your Toyota from

corrosion

(cid:1) Washing and waxing your

Toyota

(cid:1) Cleaning the interior

the

Protecting your Toyota from corrosion Toyota, through its diligent research, de- sign and use of the most advanced technology available, has done its part to help prevent corrosion and has provided you with finest quality vehicle construction. Now, it is up to you. Proper care of your Toyota can help ensure long- term corrosion prevention. The most common causes of corro- sion to your vehicle are: (cid:1) The accumulation of road salt, dirt and moisture in hard-to-reach areas un- der the vehicle.

(cid:1) Chipping of paint, or undercoating caused by minor accidents or by stones and gravel.

Care is especially important if you live in particular areas or operate your ve- hicle under certain environmental conditions: (cid:1) Road salt or dust control chemicals will accelerate corrosion, as will the pres- ence of salt in the air near the sea- coast or in areas of industrial pollution. (cid:1) High humidity accelerates corrosion especially when temperatures range just above the freezing point.

(cid:1) Wetness or dampness to certain parts of your vehicle for an extended period of time, may cause corrosion even though other parts of the vehicle may be dry.

(cid:1) High temperatures will cause corro- sion to those components of the ve- hicle which are prevented from quick- drying due to lack of proper ventilation. The above signifies the necessity to keep your vehicle, particularly the underside, as clean as possible and to repair any damage to paint or protective coatings as soon as possible. To help prevent corrosion on your Toyota, follow these guidelines: Wash your vehicle frequently: It is, of course, necessary to keep your vehicle clean by regular washing, but to prevent corrosion, the following points should be observed:

(cid:1)

If you drive on salted roads in the win- ter or if you live near the ocean, you should hose off the undercarriage at least once a month to minimize corro- sion.

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(cid:1) High pressure water or steam is effec- tive for cleaning the vehicle’s under- side and wheel housings. Pay particu- lar attention to these areas as it is difficult to see all the mud and dirt. It will do more harm than good to simply wet the mud and debris without remov- ing them. The lower edge of doors, rocker panels and frame members have drain holes which should not be allowed to clog with dirt as trapped wa- ter in these areas can cause corrosion. (cid:1) Wash the underside of the vehicle

thoroughly when winter is over.

See “Washing and waxing your Toyota” for more tips. Check the condition of your vehicle’s paint and trim. If you find any chips or scratches in the paint, touch them up im- mediately to prevent corrosion from start- ing. If the chips or scratches have gone through the bare metal, have a qualified bodyshop make the repair.

Check the interior of your vehicle. Wa- ter and dirt can accumulate under the floor mats and could cause corrosion. Occa- sionally check under the mats to make sure the area is dry. Be particularly careful when transporting chemicals, cleansers, fertilizers, salt, etc; these should be trans- ported in proper containers. If a spill or leak should occur, immediately clean and dry the area. Use mud shields on your wheels. If you drive on salted or gravel roads, mud shields help protect your vehicle. Full- size shields, which come as near to the ground as possible, are the best. We rec- ommend that the fittings and the area where the shields are installed be treated to resist corrosion. Your Toyota dealer will be happy to assist in supplying and instal- ling the shields if they are recommended for your area. Do not park your vehicle in a damp, poorly ventilated garage. If you wash your vehicle in the garage, or if you drive it in covered with water or snow, your ga- rage may be so damp it will cause corro- sion. Even if your garage is heated, a wet vehicle can corrode if the ventilation is poor.

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Washing and waxing your Toyota Washing your Toyota by hand Work in the shade and wait until the ve- hicle body is not hot to the touch.

CAUTION

When cleaning under floor or chas- sis, be careful not to injure your hands.

1. Rinse off loose dirt with a hose. Re- move any mud or road salt from the underside of the vehicle or in the wheel wells.

2. Wash with a mild car-wash soap, mixed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use a soft cotton mitt and keep it wet by dipping it frequently into the wash water. Do not rub hard-let the soap and water remove the dirt.

Aluminum wheels: Use only a mild soap or neutral detergent. Plastic bumpers: Wash carefully. Do not scrub with abrasive cleaners. The bumper faces are soft. Road tar: Remove with turpentine or cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces.

NOTICE

Do not use gasoline or strong solvents, which may be toxic or cause damage.

3. Rinse thoroughly — dried soap can cause streaking. In hot weather you may need to rinse each section right after you wash it.

4. To prevent water spots, dry the vehicle using a clean soft cotton towel. Do not rub or press hard — you might scratch the paint.

Automatic car wash Your vehicle may be washed in an auto- matic car wash, but remember that the paint can be scratched by some type of brushes, unfiltered washing water, or the washing process itself. Scratching re- duces paint durability and gloss, especial- ly on darker colors. The manager of the car wash should be able to advise you whether the process is safe for the paint on your vehicle.

Waxing your Toyota Polishing and waxing is recommend- ed to maintain the original beauty of your Toyota’s finish. 1. Always wash and dry the vehicle be- fore you begin waxing, even if you are using a combined cleaner and wax.

2. Use a good quality polish and wax. If the finish has become extremely weathered, use a car-cleaning polish, followed by a separate wax. Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions and precautions. Be sure to polish and wax the chrome trim as well as the paint.

3. Wax the vehicle again when water does not bead but remains on the sur- face in large patches.

NOTICE

Always remove the plastic bumpers if your vehicle is re-painted and placed in a high heat paint waxing booth. High temperatures could damage the bumpers.

Cleaning the interior

CAUTION

Do not wash the vehicle floor with water, or allow water to get into the floor when cleaning the vehicle in- terior or exterior. Water may get into audio components or other electri- cal components above or under the floor carpet (or mat) and cause a malfunction; and it may cause body corrosion.

Vinyl interior The vinyl upholstery may be easily cleaned with a mild soap or detergent and water. First vacuum over the upholstery to re- move loose dirt. Then, using a sponge or soft cloth, apply the soap solution to the vi- nyl. After allowing it to soak in for a few minutes to loosen the dirt, remove the dirt and wipe off the soap with a clean damp cloth. If all the dirt does not come off, re- peat the procedure. Commercial foam- ing-type vinyl cleaners are also available which work well. Follow the manufactur- er’s instructions.

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NOTICE

Do not use solvent, thinner, gasoline or window cleaner on the interior.

Carpets Use a good foam-type shampoo to clean the carpets. Begin by vacuuming thoroughly to re- move as much dirt as possible. Several types of foam cleaners are available; some are in aerosol cans and others are powders or liquids which you mix with wa- ter to produce a foam. To shampoo the carpets, use a sponge or brush to apply the foam. Rub in overlapping circles. Do not apply water – the best results are obtained by keeping the carpet as dry as possible. Read the shampoo instructions and follow them closely. Seat belts The seat belts may be cleaned with mild soap and water or with lukewarm water.

Use a cloth or sponge. As you are clean- ing, check the belts for excessive wear, fraying, or cuts.

NOTICE

Do not use dye or bleach on the belts—it may weaken them.

Windows The windows may be cleaned with any household window cleaner.

NOTICE

When cleaning the inside of the windows, be careful not to scratch or damage the heater wires on the rear window.

Air conditioning control panel, car au- dio, instrument panel, console panel, and switches Use a soft damp cloth for cleaning. Soak a clean soft cloth in water or luke- warm water then lightly wipe off any dirt.

NOTICE

(cid:2)Do not use organic substances (solvents, kerosene, alcohol, gas- oline, etc.) or alkaline or acidic solutions. These chemicals can cause discoloring, staining or peeling of the surface.

(cid:2)If you use cleaners or polishing agents, make sure their ingredi- ents do not include the sub- stances mentioned above.

(cid:2)If you use a liquid car freshener, do not apply the liquid onto the ve- hicle’s interior surfaces. It may contain the ingredients men- tioned above. Immediately clean any spill using the method men- tioned above.

Leather Interior The leather uphostery may be cleaned with neutral detergent for wool. Remove dirt using a soft cloth dampened with 5 % Solution of neutral detergent for wool. Then thoroughly wipe off all traces of detergent with a clean damp cloth.

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(cid:2)The interior of your vehicle is apt to heat up on hot summer days, so avoid placing on the upholstery items made of vinyl or plastic or containing wax as these tend to stick to leather when warm.

(cid:2)Improper cleaning of the leather upholstery could result in discol- oration or staining.

If you have any questions about the cleaning of your Toyota, your local Toyota dealer will be pleased to answer them.

After cleaning or whenever any part of the leather gets wet, dry with a soft clean cloth. Allow the leather to dry in a vente- lated shaded area.

NOTICE

(cid:2)If a stain should fail to come out with a neutral detergent, apply a cleaner that does not contain an organic solvent.

(cid:2)Never use organic substances such as benzine, alcohol or gaso- line, or alkaline or acid solutions for cleaning the leather as these could cause discoloring.

(cid:2)Use of a nylon brush or synthetic fiber cloth, etc. may scratch the fine grained surface of the leather. (cid:2)Mildew may develop on soiled leather upholstery. Be especially careful to avoid oil spots. Try to keep your upholstery always clean.

(cid:2)Long exposure to direct sunlight may cause the leather surface to harden and shrink. Keep your ve- hicle in a shaded area, especially in the summer.

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Part 6
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND CARE (cid:1) Maintenance requirements (cid:1) General maintenance (cid:1) Does your vehicle need

repairing?

For scheduled maintenance information, please refer to the separate “Owner’s Manual Supplement/Maintenance Schedule”.

Maintenance requirements Your Toyota vehicle has been designed to for fewer maintenance requirements with longer service intervals to save both your time and money. However, each regular maintenance, as well as day-to-day care, is more important than ever before to ensure smooth, and trouble-free, safe, and economical drivings. It is the owner’s responsibility to make sure the specified maintenance, including general maintenance service, is per- formed. Note that both the new vehicle and emission control system warranties specify that proper maintenance and care must be performed. See Owner’s Guide, Owner’s Manual Supplement or Warranty Booklet for complete warranty informa- tion. General maintenance General maintenance items are those day-to-day care practices that are impor- tant to your vehicle for proper operation. It is the owner’s responsibility to insure that the general maintenance items are performed regularly. These checks or inspections can be done either by yourself or a qualified technician, or if you prefer, your Toyota dealer will be pleased to do them at a nominal cost.

Scheduled maintenance The scheduled maintenance items listed in the “Owner’s Manual Supplement” are those required to be serviced at regular in- tervals. For details of your maintenance Sched- ule, read the separate ”Owner’s Manual Supplement”. It is recommended that any replace- ment parts used for maintenance or for the repair of the emission control system be Toyota supplied. The owner may elect to use non-Toyo- ta supplied parts for replacement pur- poses without invalidating the emis- sion system warranty. However, use of replacement parts which are not of equivalent quality may impair the effectiveness of the emission control systems. You may also elect to have mainte- nance, replacement, or repair of the emission control devices and system performed by any automotive repair establishment or individual without invalidating this warranty. See Own- er’s Guide, Owner’s Manual Supple- ment or Warranty Booklet for complete warranty information.

control

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Where to go for service? Toyota technicians are well-trained spe- cialists and are kept up to date with the lat- est service information through technical bulletins, service tips, and in-dealership training programs. They learn to work on Toyotas before they work on your vehicle, rather than while they are working on it. You can be confident that your Toyota dealer’s service department performs the best job to meet the maintenance require- ments on your vehicle—reliably and eco- nomically. Your copy of the repair order is proof that all required maintenance has been per- formed for warranty coverage. And if any problems should arise with your vehicle while under warranty, your Toyota dealer will promptly take care of it. Again, be sure to keep a copy of the repair order for any service performed on your Toyota. What about do-it-yourself mainte- nance? Many of the maintenance items are easy to do yourself if you have a little mechani- cal ability and a few basic automotive tools. Simple instructions for how to per- form them are presented in Part 7.

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If you are a skilled do-it-yourself me- chanic, the Toyota service manuals are recommended. Please be aware that do- it-yourself maintenance can affect your warranty coverage. See Owner’s Guide, Owner’s Manual Supplement or Warranty Booklet for the details.

General maintenance Listed below are the general maintenance items that should be performed as fre- quently as specified. In addition to check- ing the items listed, if you notice any un- usual noise, smell or vibration, you should investigate the cause or take your vehicle to your Toyota dealer or a qualified service shop immediately. It is recommended that any problem you notice be brought to the attention of your dealer or the qualified service shop for their advice.

CAUTION

Make these checks only where adequate ventilation can be ob- tained if you run the engine.

OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE Items listed below should be per- formed from time to time, unless otherwise specified. Tire pressure Check the pressure with a gauge every two weeks, or at least once a month. See Chapter 7-2 for additional information.

Tire surface and wheel nuts Check the tires carefully for cuts, damage or excessive wear. See Chapter 7-2 for additional information. When checking the tires, make sure no nuts are missing, and check the nuts for looseness. Tighten them if necessary. Tire rotation Rotate the tires every 12000 km (7500
miles). See Chapter 7-2 for additional in- formation. Fluid leaks Check underneath for leaking fuel, oil, wa- ter or other fluid after the vehicle has been parked for a while. If you smell fuel fumes or notice any leak, have the cause found and corrected immediately. Doors and engine hood Check that all doors including trunk lid op- erate smoothly and all latches lock se- curely. Make sure the engine hood secon- dary latch secures the hood from opening when the primary latch is released. INSIDE THE VEHICLE Items listed below should be checked regularly, e.g. while performing peri- odic services, cleaning the vehicle, etc.

Lights Make sure the headlights, stop lights, tail lights, turn signal lights, and other lights are all working. Check headlight aim. Service reminder indicators and warn- ing buzzers Check that all service reminder indicators and warning buzzers function properly. Steering wheel Check that it has the specified freeplay. Be alert for changes in steering condition, such as hard steering or strange noise. Seats Check that all front seat controls such as seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. op- erate smoothly and that all latches lock securely in any position. Check that the head restraints move up and down smoothly and that the locks hold securely in any latched position. Seat belts Check that the seat belt system such as buckles, retractors and anchors operate properly and smoothly. Make sure the belt webbing is not cut, frayed, worn or dam- aged. Accelerator pedal Check the pedal for smooth operation and uneven pedal effort or catching.

Brake pedal Check the pedal for smooth operation and that the pedal has the proper clearance. Check the brake booster function. Brakes At a safe place, check that the brakes do not pull to one side when applied. Parking brake Check that the pedal has the proper travel and that, on a safe incline, your vehicle is held securely with only the parking brake applied. Automatic transmission “Park” mech- anism Check the lock release button of the se- lector lever for proper and smooth opera- tion. On a safe incline, check that your ve- hicle is held securely with the selector lever in ”P” position and all brakes re- leased. IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT Items listed below should be checked from time to time, e.g. each time when refueling. Washer fluid Make sure there is sufficient fluid in the tank. See Chapter 7-3 for additional infor- mation.

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Does your vehicle need repairing? Exhaust system If you notice any change in the sound of the exhaust or smell exhaust fumes, have the cause located and corrected immedi- ately. (See engine exhaust cautions in Part 2.) Be on the alert for changes in perfor- mance, sounds, and visual tip-offs that in- dicate service is needed. Some important clues are as follows: (cid:1) Engine missing, stumbling, or pinging (cid:1) Appreciable loss of power (cid:1) Strange engine noises (cid:1) A leak under the vehicle (however, wa- ter dripping from the air conditioning after use is normal.)

(cid:1) Change in exhaust sound (This may indicate a dangerous carbon monox- ide leak. Drive with the windows open and have the exhaust system checked immediately.)

(cid:1) Flat-looking tire; excessive tire squeal

when cornering; uneven tire wear

(cid:1) Vehicle pulls to one side when driving

straight on a level road

Engine coolant level Make sure the coolant level is between the ”FULL” and ”LOW” lines on the see- through reservoir when the engine is cold. See Chapter 7-2 for additional informa- tion. Battery electrolyte level Make sure the electrolyte level of all bat- tery cells is between upper and lower level lines on the case. Add only distilled water when replenishing. See Chapter 7-3 for additional information. Brake fluid level Make sure the brake fluid level is correct. See Chapter 7-2 for additional informa- tion. Engine oil level Check the level on the dipstick with the en- gine turned off and the vehicle parked on a level spot. See Chapter 7-2 for addition- al information. Power steering fluid level Check the level through the reservoir. The level should be in the “HOT” or “COLD” range depending on the fluid temperature. See Chapter 7-2 for additional informa- tion.

178

(cid:1) Strange noises related to suspension

movement

(cid:1) Loss of brake effectiveness; spongy feeling brake or clutch pedal; pedal al- most touches floor; vehicle pulls to one side when braking

(cid:1) Engine coolant temperature continual-

ly higher than normal

If you notice any of these clues, take your vehicle to your Toyota dealer as soon as possible. It probably needs adjustment or repair.

CAUTION

Do not continue driving with the vehicle unchecked. It could result in serious vehicle damage and possibly personal injury.

Part 7
DO-IT-YOURSELF MAINTENANCE—

Chapter 7-1
Introduction (cid:1) Engine compartment overview (cid:1) Fuse locations (cid:1) Do-it-yourself service

precautions

(cid:1) Parts and tools

179

Engine compartment overview

1. Engine coolant reservoir 2. Power steering fluid reservoir 3. Engine oil filler cap 4. Brake fluid reservoir 5. Fuse blocks 6. Battery 7. Engine cooling fans 8. Engine oil level dipstick 9. Windshield washer and headlight

cleaner fluid tank

180

Fuse locations

Canada only

181

Do-it-yourself service precautions If you perform maintenance by your- self, be sure to follow the correct pro- cedure given in this part. You should be aware that improper or in- complete servicing may result in operat- ing problems. Performing do-it-yourself maintenance during the warranty period may affect your warranty coverage. Read the sepa- rate Toyota Warranty statement for details and suggestions. This part gives instructions only for those items that are relatively easy for an owner to perform. As explained in Part 6, there are still a number of items that must be done by a qualified technician with special tools. For information on tools and parts for do- it-yourself maintenance, see “Parts and tools”. Utmost care should be taken when work- ing on your vehicle to prevent accidental injury. Here are a few precautions that you should be especially careful to ob- serve:

182

CAUTION

(cid:1) When the engine is running, keep hands, clothing, and tools away from the moving fan and engine drive belts. (Removing rings, watches, and ties is advisable.)

(cid:1) Right after driving, the engine compartment—the engine, radia- tor, exhaust manifold, power steering fluid reservoir and spark plug boots, etc.—will be hot. So be careful not to touch them. Oil, fluids and spark plugs may also be hot.

(cid:1) If the engine is hot, do not remove the radiator cap or loosen the drain plugs to prevent burning yourself.

(cid:1) Do not smoke, cause sparks or al- low open flames around fuel or the battery. Their fumes are flam- mable.

(cid:1) Be extremely cautious when work- ing on the battery. It contains poi- sonous and corrosive sulfuric acid.

(cid:1) Do not get under your vehicle with just the body jack supporting it. Always use automotive jack stands or other solid supports.

(cid:1) Be sure that the ignition is off if you work near the electric cooling fans or radiator grille. With the ignition on, the electric cooling fans will automatically start to run if the engine coolant temperature is high and/or the air conditioning is on.

(cid:1) Use eye protection whenever you work on or under you vehicle where you may be exposed to fly- ing or falling material, fluid spray, etc.

(cid:1) Used engine oil contains poten- tially harmful contaminants which may cause skin disorders such as inflammation or skin cancer, so care should be taken to avoid pro- longed and repeated contact with it. To remove used engine oil from your skin, wash thoroughly with soap and water.

(cid:1) Do not leave used oil within the

reach of children.

(cid:1) Dispose of used oil and filter only in a safe and acceptable manner. Do not dispose of used oil and fil- ter in household trash, in sewers or onto the ground. Call your deal- er or a service station for informa- tion concerning recycling or dis- posal.

NOTICE

(cid:2)Remember that battery and igni- tion cables carry high currents or voltages. Be careful of accidental- ly causing a short circuit.

(cid:2)Add only demineralized or dis- tilled water to fill the radiator. And if you spill some of the coolant, be sure to wash it off with water to prevent it from damaging the parts or paint.

(cid:2)Do not allow dirt or anything else to fall through the spark plug holes.

(cid:2)Do not pry the outer electrode of a spark plug against the center elec- trode.

(cid:2)Use only spark plugs of the speci- fied type. Using other types will cause engine damage, loss of per- formance or radio noise.

(cid:2)Do not reuse platinum-tipped spark plugs by cleaning or regap- ping.

(cid:2)Do not overfill automatic trans- mission fluid, or the transmission could be damaged.

(cid:2)Do not drive with the air cleaner fil- ter removed, or excessive engine wear could result. Also backfiring could cause a fire in the engine compartment.

(cid:2)Be careful not to scratch the glass

surface with the wiper frame.

(cid:2)When closing the engine hood, check to see that you have not for- gotten any tools, rags, etc.

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Parts and tools Here is a list of parts and tools you will need on performing do-it-yourself main- tenance. Remember all Toyota parts are designed in metric sizes, so your tools must be metric. Checking the engine oil level Parts (if level is low): (cid:1) Engine oil API SH, “Energy-Conserv- ing II” multigrade or ILSAC multigrade having viscosity proper for your cli- mate

Tools: (cid:1) Rag or paper towel (cid:1) Funnel (only for adding oil) Checking the engine coolant level Parts (if level is low): (cid:1) Ethylene-glycol antifreeze (cid:1) Demineralized or distilled water Tools: (cid:1) Funnel (only for adding coolant) Checking brake fluid Parts (if level is low): (cid:1) SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3

brake fluid

Tools: (cid:1) Rag or paper towel (cid:1) Funnel (only for adding fluid)

184

Checking power steering fluid Parts (if level is low): (cid:1) Automatic transmission fluid DEX-

RON-II or III

Tools: (cid:1) Rag or paper towel (cid:1) Funnel (only for adding fluid) Checking battery condition Non-maintenance batteries— Tools: (cid:1) Warm water (cid:1) Baking soda (cid:1) Grease (cid:1) Conventional wrench (for terminal

clamp bolts)

Maintenance type batteries— Parts (if level is low): (cid:1) Distilled water Tools: (cid:1) Warm water (cid:1) Baking soda (cid:1) Grease (cid:1) Conventional wrench (for terminal

clamp bolts)

(cid:1) Coin (for vent plugs) (cid:1) Funnel (only for adding distilled water)

Checking and replacing fuses Parts (if replacement is necessary): (cid:1) Fuse or equivalent with same amper-

age rating as original

Tools: (cid:1) Screwdriver (for passenger’s side kick

panel screw)

Adding washer fluid Parts: (cid:1) Water (cid:1) Washer fluid containing antifreeze (for

winter use)

Tools: (cid:1) Funnel Replacing light bulbs Parts: (cid:1) Bulb with same number and wattage rating as original (See charts in “Re- placing light bulbs” in Chapter 7-3.)

Tools: (cid:1) Screwdriver (cid:1) Conventional wrench

Part 7
DO-IT-YOURSELF MAINTENANCE—

Chapter 7-2
Engine and Chassis (cid:1) Checking the engine oil level (cid:1) Checking the engine coolant

level

(cid:1) Checking brake fluid (cid:1) Checking power steering fluid (cid:1) Checking tire pressure (cid:1) Checking and replacing tires (cid:1) Rotating tires (cid:1) Installing snow tires and chains (cid:1) Replacing wheels (cid:1) Aluminum wheel precautions

Checking the engine oil level

With the engine at operating tempera- ture and turned off, check the oil level on the dipstick. 1. To get a true reading, the vehicle should be on a level spot. After turning off the engine, wait a few minutes for the oil to drain back into the bottom of the engine.

2. Pull out the dipstick, and wipe it clean

with a rag.

3. Reinsert the dipstickpush it in as far as it will go, or the reading will not be correct.

4. Pull the dipstick out and look at the oil

level on the end.

CAUTION

Be careful not to touch the hot exhaust manifold.

If the oil level is below or only slightly above the low level, add engine oil of the same type as already in the engine. Remove the oil filler cap and add engine oil in small quantities at a time, checking the dipstick. The approximate quantity of oil needed to fill between the low level and the full level on the dipstick is indicated below for refer- ence. When the level reaches within the correct range, install the filler cap hand-tight. Oil quantity, L (qt., Imp. qt.):

1.5 (1.6, 1.3)

NOTICE

(cid:3)Avoid overfilling, or the engine

could be damaged.

(cid:3)Check the oil level on the dipstick

once again after adding the oil.

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Engine oil selection Use API SH, “Energy-Conserving II” mul- tigrade engine oil or ILSAC multigrade en- gine oil. Recommended viscosity (SAE):

API service symbol

SAE 5W-30 is the best choice for your vehicle, for good fuel economy and good starting in cold weather. If you use SAE 10W-30 engine oil in extremely low temperatures, the en- gine may become difficult to start, so SAE 5W-30 engine oil is recom- mended.

186

ILSAC certification mark

Oil identification marks Either or both API registered marks are added to some oil containers to help you select the oil you should use. The API Service Symbol is located any- where on the outside of the container. The top portion of the label shows the oil quality by API (American Petroleum Insti- tute) designations such as SH. The cen- ter portion of the label shows the SAE vis- cosity grade such as SAE 5W-30. “Energy-Conserving II” shown in the low- er portion, indicates that the oil has fuel- saving capabilities. Oils marked “Ener- gy-Conserving II” will have higher fuel-saving capabilities than oil marked “Energy-Conserving”. The ILSAC (International Lubricant Stan- dardization and Approval Committee) Certification Mark is displayed on the front of the container.

Checking the engine coolant level Look at the see-through coolant res- ervoir when the engine is cold. The coolant level is satisfactory if it is be- tween the “FULL” and “LOW” lines on the reservoir. If the level is low, add ethylene-glycol type coolant. The coolant level in the reservoir will vary with engine temperature. However, if the level is on or below the “LOW” line, add coolant. Bring the level up to the “FULL” line. Use only ethylene-glycol type coolant. See information in the next column. If the coolant level drops within a short time after replenishing, there may be a leak in the system. Visually check the ra- diator, hoses, radiator cap and drain cock and water pump. If you can find no leak, have your Toyota dealer test the cap pressure and check for leaks in the cooling system.

CAUTION

To prevent burning yourself, do not remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot.

Coolant type selection Your coolant must contain ethylene-gly- col antifreeze. In addition to preventing freezing and subsequent damage to the engine, this will also prevent corrosion. Further supplemental inhibitors or addi- tives are neither needed nor recom- mended. Read the antifreeze container for informa- tion on freeze protection. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for how much to mix with water. The total capacity of the cooling system is given in Part 8. We rec- ommend 50% solution be used for your Toyota, or a sufficient quantity to provide protection to about -35(cid:2)C (-31(cid:2)C).

NOTICE

Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or plain water alone.

Checking brake fluid

To check the fluid level, simply look at the see through reservoir. The level should be between the “MAX” and “MIN” lines on the reservoir. It is normal for the brake fluid level to go down slightly as the brake pads wear. So be sure to keep the reservoir filled. If the reservoir needs frequent refilling, it may indicate a serious mechanical prob- lem.

187

Checking power steering fluid

Check the fluid level through the reser- voir. If necessary, add automatic trans- mission fluid DEXRONII or -III. If the vehicle has been driven around 80
km/h (50 mph) for 20 minutes (a little more in frigid temperatures), the fluid is hot (60(cid:2)C80(cid:2)C or 140(cid:2)F175(cid:2)F). You may also check the level when the fluid is cold (about room temperature, 10(cid:2)C 30(cid:2)C or 50(cid:2)F85(cid:2)F) if the engine has not been run for about five hours.

Clean all dirt from outside of the reservoir tank and look at the fluid level. If the fluid is cold, the level should be in the “COLD” range. Similarly, if it is hot, the fluid level should be in the “HOT” range. If the level is at the low side of either range, add auto- matic transmission fluid DEXRON-II or -III to bring the level within range. To remove the filler cap, turn it counter- clockwise and lift up. To reinstall it, turn it clockwise. After replacing the filler cap, visually check the steering box case, vane pump and hose connections for leaks or damage.

CAUTION

The reservoir tank may be hot so be careful not to burn yourself.

NOTICE

Avoid overfilling, or the power steering could be damaged.

If the level is low, add SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3 brake fluid to the brake reservoir. Remove and replace the reservoir cover by hand. Fill the brake fluid to the dotted line. This brings the fluid to the correct lev- el when you put the cover back on. Use only newly opened brake fluid. Once opened, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air, and excess moisture can cause a dangerous loss of braking.

CAUTION

Take care when filling the reservoir because brake fluid can harm your eyes and damage painted surfaces. If fluid gets in your eyes, flush your eyes with clean water.

NOTICE

If you spill the fluid, be sure to wash it off with water to prevent it from damaging the parts or paint.

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Checking tire pressure

Keep your tire pressures at the proper level. The recommended cold tire pressures, tire size and the vehicle capacity weight are also given in Part 8. They are also on the tire pressure label as shown. You should check the tire pressures every two weeks, or at least once a month. And don’t forget the spare! Incorrect tire pressure can reduce tire life and make your vehicle less safe to drive.

Low tire pressure results in excessive wear, poor handling, reduced fuel econo- my, and the possibility of blowouts from overheated tires. Also, low tire pressure can cause poor sealing of the tire bead. If the tire pressure is excessively low, there is the possibility of wheel deforma- tion and/or tire separation. High tire pressure produces a harsh ride, handling problems, excessive wear at the center of the tire tread, and a greater pos- sibility of tire damage from road hazards. If a tire frequently needs refilling, have it checked by your Toyota dealer. The following instructions for check- ing tire pressure should be observed: (cid:1) The pressure should be checked only when the tires are cold. If your vehicle has been parked for at least 3
hours and has not been driven for more than 1.5 km or 1 mile since, you will get an accurate cold tire pressure reading.

(cid:1) Always use a tire pressure gauge. The appearance of a tire can be mis- leading. Besides, tire pressure that are even just a few pounds off can de- grade handling and ride.

(cid:1) Do not bleed or reduce tire pres- sure after driving. It is normal for the tire pressure to be higher after driving. (cid:1) Never exceed the vehicle capacity weight. The passenger and luggage weight should be located so that the vehicle is balanced.

(cid:1) Be sure to reinstall the tire inflation valve caps. Without the valve caps, dirt or moisture could get into the valve core and cause air leakage. If the caps have been lost, have new ones put on as soon as possible.

189

Checking and replacing tires

CHECKING YOUR TIRES Check the tire tread for the tread wear indicators. If the indicators show, re- place the tires. The tires on your Toyota have built-in tread wear indicators to help you know when the tires need replacement. When the tread depth wears to 1.6 mm (0.06 in.) or less, the indicators will appear. If you can see the indicators in two or more adja- cent grooves, the tire should be replaced. The lower the tread, the higher the risk of skidding. The effectiveness of snow tires is lost if the tread wears down below 4 mm (0.16 in.). 190

Check the tires regularly for damage such as cuts, splits and cracks. If any damage is found, consult with a tech- nician and have the tire repaired or re- placed. Even if the damage does not appear seri- ous, a qualified technician should ex- amine the damage. Objects which have penetrated the tire may have caused in- ternal damage. Any tires which are over six years old must be checked by a qualified techni- cian even if damage is not obvious. Tires deteriorate with age even if they have never or seldom been used. This also applies to the spare tire and tires stored for future use. REPLACING YOUR TIRES When replacing a tire, use only the same size and construction as origi- nally installed and with the same or greater load capacity. Using any other size or type of tire may se- riously affect handling, ride, speedomeet- er/odometer calibration, ground clear- ance, and clearance between the body and tires or snow chains.

CAUTION

(cid:1) Do not mix radial, bias belted, or bias-ply tires on your vehicle. It can cause dangerous handling characteristics, resulting in loss of control.

(cid:1) Do not use tire or wheels other than the manufacturer’s recom- mended size.

Toyota recommends all four tires, or at least both of the front or rear tires be replaced at a time as a set. See “If you have a flat tire” in Part 4 for tire change procedure. When a tire is replaced, the wheel should always be balanced. An unbalanced wheel may affect vehicle handling and tire life. Wheels can get out of balance with regular use and should therefore be balanced occasionally. When replacing a tubeless tire, the air valve should also be replaced with a new one.

Rotating tires

To equalize tire wear and help extend tire life, Toyota recommends that you rotate your tires every 12000 km (7500
miles). However, the most appropriate timing for tire rotation may vary ac- cording to your driving habits and road surface conditions. See “If you have a flat tire” in Part 4 for tire change procedure. When rotating tires, check for even wear and damage. Abnormal wear is usually caused by incorrect tire pressure, improp- er wheel alignment, out-of-balance wheels, or severe braking.

Installing snow tires and chains WHEN TO USE SNOW TIRES OR