2000 Toyota Avalon Owners Manual

from you (position 1). Pull the lever to- ward you (position 2) for low beams. The headlight high beam light indicator (blue light) on the instrument panel will tell you that the high beams are on. Flashing the high beam headlights (position 3)—Pull the way back. The high beam headlights turn off when you release the lever. You can flash the high beam headlights with the knob turned to “OFF”.

the lever all

TURN SIGNALS To signal a turn, push the headlight/ turn signal lever up or down to position 1. The key must be in the “ON” position. The lever automatically returns after you make a turn, but you may have to return it by hand after you change lanes. To signal a lane change, move the lever up or down to the pressure point (position 2) and hold it. If the turn signal indicator lights (green lights) on the instrument panel flash faster than normal, a front or rear turn signal bulb is burned out.

116

flashers,

turn on

the emergency

To push the switch. All the turn signal lights will flash. To turn them off, push the switch once again. Turn on the emergency flashers to warn other drivers if your vehicle must be stopped where it might be a traffic hazard. Always pull as far off the road as pos- sible. The turn signal light switch will not work when the emergency flashers are operat- ing.

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

Instrument panel light control

Front fog lights

NOTICE

To prevent the battery from being dis- charged, do not leave the switch on longer than necessary when the en- gine is not running.

To adjust the brightness of the instru- ment panel lights, turn the knob.

To turn on the front fog lights, twist the band of the headlight and turn sig- nal switch lever. They will come on only when the headlights are on low beam.

117

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

Interior light

Type C—To turn on the interior light, slide the switch. The interior light switch has the following positions: “ON”—Keeps the light on all the time. “OFF”—Turns the light off. “DOOR”—Turns the light on when any of the door is opened. The light remains on for some time after all of the doors are closed. To prevent the battery being discharged, the lights will automatically turn off when the key is removed and the door is left opened with the switch at “DOOR” position for 20 minutes or more.

Type A

Type C

Type A and B—The interior light turns on when any of the door is opened. The light goes off when all of the doors are closed. To prevent the battery being discharged, the light will automatically turn off when the key is removed and the door is left opened for 20 minutes or more. You cannot turn off the light when any of the doors is opened.

Type B

118

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

Front personal lights

Rear personal lights

To turn on the front personal lights, push the switch. To turn the lights off, push the switch once again.

With moon roof

Without moon roof

To turn on the rear personal light, push the switch. To turn the light off, push the switch once again.

119

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

Ignition switch light

Windshield wipers and washer

To squirt washer fluid, pull the lever toward you. If the windshield wipers are off, they will operate a couple of times after the washer squirts. For instructions on adding washer fluid, see “Adding washer fluid” in Section 7- 3. In freezing weather, warm the windshield with the defroster before using the washer. This will help prevent fluid from freezing on your windshield, which can block your vision.

the washer

NOTICE

Do not operate the wipers if the wind- shield is dry. It may scratch the glass.

For easy access to the ignition switch, the ignition switch light comes on when any of the doors are opened. The light remains on for some time after all the doors are closed. To prevent the battery being discharged, the light will automatically turn off when the key is removed and the door is left opened for 20 minutes or more.

To turn on the windshield wipers, move the lever to the desired setting. The key must be in the “ON” position.

Lever position

Speed setting

Position 1

Position 2

Position 3

Intermittent

Slow

Fast

The “INT TIME” band lets you adjust the wiping time interval when the wiper lever is in the intermittent position (position 1). Twist increase the time between sweeps, and downward to decrease it.

the band upward to

120

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

Shifting the windshield wiper position

the windshield,

The wiper blades retract under the hood when the wipers are turned off. If retrac- tion is obstructed by snow, etc., at the bottom of the wipers should be shifted from the retracted posi- tion (position 2) to the rest position (posi- tion 1) above the hood level. When the snow season is over, manually return the wipers to the retracted position following the procedure given below.

To pull up the windshield wipers to the rest position, hold the connection of the wiper arm and wiper blade and pull it upward along the windshield glass.

To replace the windshield wipers to the retracted position, push the connection of the wiper arm and wiper blade down- ward.

NOTICE

NOTICE

To prevent the wiper blades from be- ing deformed, be sure to hold the connection of the wiper arm and wip- er blade securely.

To prevent the wiper blades from be- ing deformed, be sure to hold the connection of the wiper arm and wip- er blade securely.

121

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

Rear window and outside rear view mirror defoggers

Type A

Type C

To defog or defrost the rear window, push the switch. The key must be in the “ON” position. The thin heater wires on the inside of the rear window will quickly clear the surface. An indicator light will illuminate to indicate the defogger is operating. Type C—The heater panels in the outside rear view mirrors will also quickly clear the surfaces. Keep your hands off the mirror faces when the switch is on. Push the switch once again to turn the defoggers off.

Type B

122

The system will automatically shut off af- ter the defogger has operated about 15
minutes.

CAUTION

Since the mirror surfaces can get hot, keep your hands off them when the defogger switch is on.

turn

Make sure you the defoggers off when the surfaces are clear. Leaving the defoggers on for a long time could cause the battery to discharge, especially during stop- and- go driving. The defoggers are not designed for drying rain water or for melting snow. If the outside rear view mirrors are heavi- ly coated with ice, use a spray de- icer before operating the switch.

NOTICE

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

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

123

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

SECTION 1- 5

OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS Gauges, Meters and Service reminder indicators

124

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

Fuel gauge

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

131

125

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

Engine coolant temperature gauge

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

131

126

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

Tachometer

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

132

127

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

Odometer and two trip meters

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

132

128

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

Multi- information display

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

134

129

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

Service reminder indicators and warning buzzers

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

143

130

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

Fuel gauge

Engine coolant temperature gauge

If the fuel tank is completely empty, the malfunction indicator lamp comes on. Fill the fuel tank immediately. The indicator light goes off after driving several times. If the indicator light does not go off, contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible.

the

The gauge works when ignition switch is on and indicates the approxi- mate quantity of fuel remaining in the tank. Nearly full—Needle at “F” Nearly empty—Needle at “E” It is a good idea to keep the tank over 1/4 full. If the fuel level approaches “E” or the low fuel level warning light comes on, fill the fuel tank as soon as possible. On inclines or curves, due to the move- ment of fuel in the tank, the fuel gauge needle may fluctuate or the low fuel level warning light may come on earlier than usual.

The gauge indicates the engine coolant temperature when the ignition switch is on. The engine operating temperature will vary with changes in weather and engine load. If the needle moves into the red zone, your engine is too hot. If your vehicle overheats, stop your vehicle and allow the engine to cool. Your vehicle may overheat during severe operating conditions, such as: (cid:1) Driving up a long hill on a hot day. (cid:1) Reducing speed or stopping after high

speed driving.

131

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

Tachometer

Odometer and two trip meters

(cid:1) Idling for a long period with the air conditioning on in stop- and- go traffic.

(cid:1) Towing a trailer.

NOTICE

(cid:1) Do not remove the thermostat in the engine cooling system as this may cause the engine to overheat. The thermostat is designed to con- trol the flow of coolant to keep the temperature of the engine within the specified operating range.

(cid:1) Do not continue driving with an overheated engine. See “If your ve- hicle overheats” in Section 4.

132

Type A

The tachometer indicates engine speed in thousands of rpm (revolutions per minute). Use it while driving to select correct shift points and to prevent en- gine lugging and overrevving. Driving with the engine running too fast causes excessive engine wear and poor fuel economy. Remember, in most cases the slower the engine speed, the greater the fuel economy.

NOTICE

Do not let the indicator needle get into the red zone. This may cause severe engine damage.

Type B

This meter displays the odometer and two trip meters. 1. Odometer—Shows

total distance

the

the vehicle has been driven.

2. Two

trip meters—Show

two different distances independently driven since the last time each trip meter was set to zero. You can use one trip meter to calculate the to measure the distance on each trip. All trip meter data is cancelled if the elec- trical power source is disconnected.

fuel economy and

the other

3. ”ODO/TRIP” button—Resets

the

two trip meters to zero, and also change the meter display. To change the meter display, quickly push and release the button. The meter display changes in the order from the odometer to trip meter A to trip meter B, then back the odometer each time you push. To reset the trip meter A to zero, dis- play the meter A reading, then push and hold the button until the meter is set to zero. The same process can be applied for resetting the trip meter B.

to

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

133

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

1. Outside temperature gauge 2. Clock 3. Compass 4. Calendar 5. Cruise information display 6. “LIGHT” button 7. “MODE” button 8. “RESET/ADJ” button 9. “DISPLAY” button

Multi- information display—

134

is

the

turned

ignition switch

the multi- information display

—Before using the multi- information display Operate with the ignition switch on. to When “ON”, the last previously used mode dis- played just before the ignition switch is turned off will appear. If the electrical power source has been disconnected the multi- information display, the display will automatically be set to the initial mode. When lights are turned on, the brightness of the display will be reduced.

instrument panel

from

the

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

“LIGHT” button This button is used to select the illumi- nation pattern of the display. Every time you push the “LIGHT” button, the display illuminates in the following or- der. 1. All the parts of the display are illumi-

nated.

2. Clock, outside temperature gauge and

compass are illuminated.

3. Illumination is off.

135

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

—Clock

CAUTION

Do not adjust the display while the vehicle is moving. Be sure to adjust the display only when the vehicle is stopped.

The digital clock indicates the time. If the electrical power source has been disconnected, the time display will auto- matically be set to 1:00 a.m. To reset the hour: Push the “MODE” but- ton until the hour display appears and blinks. Then push the “RESET/ADJ” but- ton. To reset the minutes: Push the “MODE” button until the minute display appears and blinks. Then push the “RESET/ADJ” button. After resetting the clock, push the “MODE” button until the display returns to normal calendar mode.

“MODE” and “RESET/ADJ” buttons These buttons are used to select the item to be reset or adjusted. Every time you push the “MODE” button, the display toggles in the following order. 1. Hour 2. Minute 3. Year 4. Month 5. Day 6. English or metric unit selection of the outside temperature gauge and cruise information display

7. Compass deviation calibration (zone) 8. Compass circling calibration When the item desired to be corrected appears, reset or adjust it by pushing the “RESET/ADJ” button. “DISPLAY” button This button is used to toggle the func- tions of the cruise information display. Every time you push the “DISPLAY” but- ton, the display toggles. For more information display”.

“—Cruise

details,

see

136

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

—Calendar

—Outside temperature gauge

resetting

After the “MODE” button until the display returns to normal calendar mode.

the calendar, push

The digital calendar indicates the date. If the electrical power source has been disconnected, the calendar display will au- tomatically be set to “FRI JAN 1”. To reset the year: Push the “MODE” but- ton until the year display appears and blinks. Then push the “RESET/ADJ” but- ton. (After the number returns to 1999.) To reset the “MODE” button until the month display appears and blinks. Then push the “RESET/ADJ” but- ton. To reset the day: Push the “MODE” button until the day display appears and blinks. Then push the “RESET/ADJ” button.

the year 2018 appears,

the month: Push

indi-

temperature gauge

The outside cates outside air temperatures. To set the unit, push the “MODE” button until the unit display appears and blinks. Then push the “RESET/ADJ” button to se- lect “(cid:2)C” or “(cid:2)F”. (At time, cruise information and air conditioning displays also change.) After setting the unit, push the “MODE” button until the display returns to normal calendar mode.

this

137

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

—Cruise information display

The cruise information display indicates the following information. 1. Instantaneous fuel consumption 2. Average fuel consumption 3. Average vehicle speed 4. Driving range 5. Driving time Every time you push the “DISPLAY” but- ton, the display toggles through this infor- mation. The displayed values in the cruise infor- mation display indicate general driving conditions. Accuracy varies with driving habits and road conditions. If the electrical power source has been disconnected, the display will automatically be set to instantaneous fuel consumption. To set the unit, push the “MODE” button until the unit display appears and blinks. Then push the “RESET/ADJ” button to se- lect km/liter or mile/gallon. (At this time, the outside temperature and air condition- ing displays also change.) After setting the unit, push the “MODE” button until the display returns to normal calendar mode.

138

1. Instantaneous fuel consumption

(“INST ECON”)

The instantaneous fuel consumption is calculated and displayed based on dis- tance and fuel consumption for 2 sec- onds with the engine running. The displayed value is updated every 2
seconds. Note that an accurate figure may not be shown in the following cases. (cid:1) When the vehicle is stopped with the engine running, the display will indicate the extremely high fuel consumption.

(cid:1) When

the vehicle

is driving down a long slope, applying the engine brake, the display will indicate the extremely low fuel consumption.

The calculation is reset when the ignition switch is turned off.

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

2. Average fuel consumption

(“AVG ECON”)

4. Driving range

(“FUEL RANGE”)

—Compass

total

Average fuel consumption is calculated and displayed based on total driving distance and fuel consumption with the engine running. The displayed value is updated every 10
seconds. To “RESET/ADJ” button. The calculation is reset when the ignition switch is turned off. 3. Average vehicle speed

calculations, push

reset

the

the

(“AVG SPEED”)

Average vehicle speed is calculated and displayed based on total driving dis- tance and total driving time with the engine running. The displayed value is updated every 10
seconds. To “RESET/ADJ” button. The calculation is reset when the ignition switch is turned off.

calculations, push

reset

the

the

fuel

The distance the vehicle can travel with the remaining is calculated and displayed based on the quantity of re- maining fuel and past fuel consumption. The displayed value is updated every time when the fuel equivalent for 1 km or 1
mile is consumed. Every time you refuel the vehicle, the cal- culation is reset. The actual driving range varies with driv- ing habits and road conditions. If fuel con- sumption is good, the driving range will be longer. If fuel consumption is poor, the driving range will be shorter. 5. Driving time

(“TRIP TIME”)

The elapsed time after the engine starts is displayed. When the engine is started, driving time is counted from 0:00. Up to 99:59 (99
hours, 59 minutes) can be displayed. When the driving time exceeds 99:59, the counter returns to 0:00. To “RESET/ADJ” button. The calculation is reset when the ignition switch is turned off.

calculations, push

reset

the

the

indicates

the vehicle

the direction The compass that the above case, it shows that the vehicle is heading south.

is heading.

In

Displays

NE SE SW NW

Directions

North

Northeast

East

Southeast

South

Southwest

West

Northwest

139

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

the

from

CALIBRATING THE COMPASS (deviation calibration) the compass The direction display on deviates true direction deter- mined by the earth’s magnetic field. The angle of deviation varies according to the geographic position of the vehicle. To adjust for this deviation, stop the ve- hicle and push the “MODE” button several times until “ZONE XX” appears on the calendar display. Then push the “RESET/ ADJ” button, referring to the following map to select the number of the zone where the vehicle is.

The compass may not show the correct direction in the following conditions: (cid:1) The vehicle is stopped immediately af-

ter turning. The compass does not adjust while the vehicle is stopped.

(cid:1) The ignition switch is turned off imme-

diately after turning.

(cid:1) The vehicle is on an inclined surface. (cid:1) The vehicle is in a place where the earth’s magnetic field is subject to in- terference by artificial magnetic fields (underground parking, under a steel tower, between buildings, roof parking, near a crossing, near a large vehicle, etc.).

(cid:1) The vehicle is magnetized. (There is a magnet or a metal object on or near the roof.)

(cid:1) The battery has been disconnected. The compass works to calibrate the direc- tion automatically while the vehicle is in motion, if deviation is small. For additional precision or see calibrating, COMPASS” below.

for complete THE

“CALIBRATING

140

Compass sensor

NOTICE

Do not put magnets or a metal object on or near the roof of the vehicle. Doing this may cause malfunction of the compass sensor.

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

Hawaii, Samoa: 7
Guam, Saipan: 9

After calibration, push the “MODE” button several the calendar display returns to the normal mode.

times until

CAUTION

Do not adjust the display while the vehicle is moving. Be sure to adjust the display only when the vehicle is stopped.

Zone number

141

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

Perform circling calibration just after you have purchased your Toyota. And then always perform circling calibration after the battery has been removed, re- placed or disconnected. (cid:1) Do not perform circling calibration of the compass the earth’s magnetic field is subject to in- terference by artificial magnetic fields (underground parking, under a steel tower, between buildings, roof parking, near a crossing, near a large vehicle, etc.).

in a place where

(cid:1) During calibration, do not operate elec- tric systems (moon roof, power win- dows, etc.) as they may interfere with the calibration.

CAUTION

(cid:1) When doing the circling calibration, be sure to secure a wide space, and pay attention to people and ve- hicles in the neighborhood. Do not violate any local traffic rules while performing circling calibration.

(cid:1) Do not adjust the display while the vehicle is moving. Be sure to adjust the display only when the vehicle is stopped.

Drive the vehicle in a circle until the blink- ing stops. If there is not enough space to drive in a circle, drive around the block until the blinking stops. When the compass and the calendar dis- play return to normal mode, calibration is complete. If you want to cancel the calibration be- fore it is complete, push the “MODE” but- ton again.

the direction display on

CALIBRATING THE COMPASS (circling calibration) Sometimes the compass may not change after a turn. To rectify this, stop the vehicle and push the until “MODE” “COMPASS” appears and blinks on the display. Then push the “RESET/ADJ” but- ton. “CALIBRATE” appears and blinks to- gether with the compass display.

several

button

times

142

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

Service reminder indicators and warning buzzers

If the indicator or buzzer comes on...

Do this.

If the indicator or buzzer comes on...

Do this.

If the indicator or buzzer comes on...

Do this.

(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

(e)

(type A)

(type B)

If parking brake is off, stop immediately and contact Toyota dealer.

Fasten driver’s seat belt.

(indicator and buzzer)

Fasten front passenger’s seat belt.

Stop and check.

Stop and check.

(f)

(g)

(h)

(i)

(j)

(type A)

(type B)

(k)

(l)

(m)

(n)

(o)

Take vehicle to Toyota dealer.

Fill up tank.

Take vehicle to Toyota dealer. If brake system warning light is also on, stop immediately and contact Toyota dealer.

Close all doors.

Replace bulb.

Take vehicle to Toyota dealer immediately.

Take vehicle to Toyota dealer.

Take vehicle to Toyota dealer.

Add washer fluid.

Key reminder buzzer

Remove key.

143

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

(a) Brake System Warning Light This light comes on in the following cases when the ignition key is turned on. (cid:1) When the parking brake is applied... This light comes on for a few seconds with the ignition on even after the parking brake is released. (cid:1) When the brake fluid level is low... Have your vehicle checked at your Toyota dealer in the following cases: (cid:1) The light does not come on even if the parking brake is applied with the igni- tion “ON”.

(cid:1) The light does not come on even if the ignition key is turned on with the park- ing brake released.

If the light lit during driving goes out and does not come again, it is a normal op- eration.

CAUTION

If either of the following conditions occurs, immediately stop your vehicle at a safe place and contact your To- yota dealer.

144

(cid:1) The light does not go out even af- is released

ter the parking brake during the engine running. In this case, the brakes might be failing and your stopping distance will be longer. Depress the brake pedal firmly and bring the vehicle to an immediate stop.

(cid:1) The brake system warning light re- mains on together with the “ABS” warning light. In this case, the vehicle may be- come harder to control or skid dur- ing hard braking or braking on slip- pery road surfaces.

(b) Driver’s Seat Belt Reminder Light

and Buzzer

to

remind you

light and buzzer

This buckle up the driver’s seat belt. Once the ignition key is turned to “ON” or “START”, the reminder light flashes and buzzer sounds if the driver’s seat belt is not fastened. Unless the driver fastens the belt, the light keep flashing and the buzz- er sounds for about 4 to 8 seconds.

(c) Front outside Passenger’s Seat Belt

Reminder Light

the

load

luggage

is placed on

This light reminds you to buckle up the front outside passenger’s seat belt. Once the ignition key is turned to ”ON” or ”START”, the reminder light flashes if a passenger sits in the front outside passen- ger seat and does not fasten the seat belt. Unless the front passenger fastens the belt, the light stays on. This light re- minds you to buckle up the front passen- ger’s seat belt. If front outside passenger seat, depending on its weight and how it is placed on the seat, built- in sensors in the seat cushion may detect the pressure, causing the reminder light to come on. (d) Discharge Warning Light This light warns that the battery is being discharged. If it comes on while you are driving, there is a problem somewhere in the charging system. The engine ignition will continue to oper- the battery ate, however, until is dis- charged. Turn off the air conditioning, blower, radio, etc., and drive directly to the nearest Toyota dealer or repair shop.

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

NOTICE

Do not continue driving if the engine drive belt is broken or loose.

(e) Low Oil Pressure Warning Light This light warns that the engine oil pres- sure is too low. If it flickers or stays on while you are driving, pull off the road to a safe place and stop the engine immediately. Call a Toyota dealer or qualified repair shop for assistance. The flicker when the engine is idling or it may come on briefly after a hard stop. There is no cause for concern if it then goes out when the engine is accelerated slightly. The light may come on when the oil level is extremely is not designed to indicate low oil level, and the oil level must be checked using the level dipstick.

light may occasionally

low. It

NOTICE

Do not drive the vehicle with the warning light on—even for one block. It may ruin the engine.

in

following

tank cap”

lamp comes on

(f) Malfunction indicator lamp This the cases. a. The fuel tank is completely empty. (See “Fuel gauge” in Section 1- 5 for instruc- tions.) b. The fuel tank cap is not tightened se- curely. (See “Fuel in Section 1- 2 for instructions.) c. There is a problem somewhere in your engine or automatic transmission electrical system. If it comes on while you are driving in case c, have your vehicle checked/re- paired by your Toyota dealer as soon as possible. (g) Low Fuel Level Warning Light This light comes on when the fuel level in the tank becomes nearly empty. Fill up the tank as soon as possible. On inclines or curves, due to the move- ment of fuel in the tank, the low fuel level warning light may come on earlier than usual.

(h) “ABS” Warning Light The light comes on with the ignition key turned to “ON”. If the anti- lock brake sys- tem and the brake assist system work properly, the light goes out after a few seconds. Thereafter, if either of the sys- tems malfunctions, the light comes on. When the “ABS” warning light is on (and the brake system warning light is off), the anti- lock brake system, the brake assist system, the traction control system and/or the vehicle skid control system do/does not operate, but the system still operate conventionally. When the “ABS” warning light is on (and the brake system warning light is off), the anti- lock brake system does not operate so that the wheels could lock up during a sudden brake or braking on slippery road surfaces. If the following conditions occur, this indicates a malfunction somewhere in the parts monitored by the warning light system. Contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible to service the vehicle. (cid:1) The light does not come on with the ignition key turned to “ON”, or remains on.

(cid:1) The light comes on while driving.

145

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

light system monitors

(k) SRS Warning Light This light will come on when the igni- tion key is turned to the “ACC” or “ON” position. After about 6 seconds, the light will go off. This means the system of the airbags and front seat belt pretensioners are operating proper- ly. This warning the airbag sensor assembly, front airbag sen- sors, side airbag sensors, inflators, front, seat belt pretensioner assemblies, warning light, interconnecting wiring and power sources. If either of the following conditions occurs, this indicates a malfunction somewhere in the parts monitored by the warning light system. Contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible to service the vehicle. (cid:1) The light does not come on when the ignition key is turned to the “ACC” or “ON” position or remains on.

(cid:1) The light comes on or flashes while

driving.

If the light lit during driving goes out and does not come on again, it is a normal operation.

CAUTION

If the “ABS” warning light remains on together with the brake system warn- ing light, immediately stop your ve- hicle at a safe place and contact your Toyota dealer. In this case, the vehicle may become harder to control or skid during hard braking or braking on slippery road surfaces.

(i) Open Door Warning Light This light remains on until all the doors are completely closed. (j) Rear Light Failure Warning Light If this light comes on when the headlight switch is turned on (at the position 1 or position 2), it indicates that one or more of the tail lights are burned out. If it comes on when the brake pedal is depressed, one or more stop lights are burned out. Have defective bulbs replaced as soon as possible.

146

(l) “VSC” Warning Light The light warns that when there is a prob- lem somewhere in the vehicle skid control system or traction control system. The light will come on when the ignition key is turned to “ON”, and will go off after about a few seconds. If the “VSC” warning light comes on, the vehicle skid control system and traction control system do not work. However, as conventional braking operates when ap- plied, there is no problem to continue your driving. If either of the following conditions occurs, this indicates a malfunction somewhere in the parts monitored by the warning light system. Contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible to service the vehicle: (cid:1) The “VSC” warning light does not come

on after the ignition is turned to on.

(cid:1) The “VSC” warning light is left on after

the ignition is turned to on.

(cid:1) The

“VSC” warning

while driving without pushing OFF” switch.

light comes on “VSC

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

(n) Low Windshield Washer Fluid Level

Warning Light

The light warns that the windshield washer fluid level is too low. Add washer fluid at your earliest opportunity. (For instructions, see “Adding washer fluid” in Section 7- 3.) (o) Key Reminder Buzzer This buzzer reminds you to remove the key when you open the driver’s door with the ignition key in the “ACC” or “LOCK” position.

(m) “VSC OFF” Indicator Light The light warns that when there is a prob- lem somewhere in the vehicle skid control system or traction control system. The light will come on when the ignition key is turned to “ON”, and will go off after about a few seconds. If the “VSC OFF” indicator light comes on, the vehicle skid control system and trac- tion control system do not work. However, as conventional braking operates when ap- plied, there is no problem to continue your driving. If either of the following conditions occurs, this indicates a malfunction somewhere in the parts monitored by the warning light system. Contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible to service the vehicle: (cid:1) The “VSC OFF” indicator light does not come on after the ignition is turned to on.

(cid:1) The “VSC OFF” indicator light is left on

after the ignition is turned to on.

(cid:1) The “VSC OFF” indicator light comes on while driving without pushing “VSC OFF” switch.

light

SERVICE

CHECKING REMINDER INDICATORS (except the low fuel level warning low windshield washer fluid level warning light) 1. Apply the parking brake. 2. Open one of the doors.

and

The open door warning come on.

light should

3. Close the door.

The open door warning light should go off.

4. Turn the ignition key to “ACC”.

The SRS warning light should come on. It goes off after about 6 seconds.

5. Turn the ignition key to “ON”, but do

not start the engine. All the service reminder indicators ex- cept the open door warning light and SRS warning light should come on. The “ABS”, “VSC”, “VSC OFF” and slip indi- cator lights go off after a few seconds. If any service reminder indicator or warn- ing buzzer does not function as described above, either the bulb is burned out or the circuit it checked by your Toyota dealer as soon as possible.

repair. Have

in need of

is

147

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

SECTION 1- 6

OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS Ignition switch, Transmission and Parking brake

148

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

Ignition switch with steering lock

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

155

149

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

Automatic transmission

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

156

150

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

Traction control system

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

164

151

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

Vehicle skid control system

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

166

152

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

Parking brake

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

168

153

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

Cruise control

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

168

154

Ignition switch with steering lock

“START”—Starter motor on. The key will return to the “ON” position when released. For starting tips, see Section 3. “ON”—Engine on and all accessories on. This is the normal driving position. “ACC”—Accessories such as the radio operate, but the engine is off. the “ACC” or If you “LOCK” position and open the driver’s door, a buzzer will remind you to remove the key. “LOCK”—Engine is off and the steering wheel is locked. The key can be re- moved only at this position.

the key

leave

in

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

You must push in the key to turn the key from “ACC” to the “LOCK” position. The selector lever must be in the “P” position before pushing the key. Vehicles with engine immobiliser system— Once you remove the key, the engine im- mobiliser system is automatically set. (See “Engine in Section 1- 2.) When starting the engine, the key may seem stuck at the “LOCK” position. To free it, first be sure the key is pushed all the way in, and then rock the steering wheel slightly while turning the key gently.

immobiliser system”

NOTICE

Do not leave the key in the “ON” position if the engine is not running. The battery will discharge and the ignition could be damaged.

155

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

Automatic transmission (cid:1)Floor shift type

Lock release button To prevent misshifting

Selector lever

Overdrive switch

With the brake pedal depressed, shift while holding the lock release button in. (The ignition switch must be in “ON” position.)

Shift while holding the lock release button in.

Shift normally.

156

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 and the lock re- lease button depressed). (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 (with overdrive on) 2: Stronger engine braking L: Maximum engine braking

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

releasing

When the cruise control is being used, even if you downshift the transmission by pushing and the overdrive switch, engine braking will not applied be- cause the cruise control is not cancelled. For ways to decrease the vehicle speed, see “Cruise control” in this section. (c) Normal driving 1. Start the engine as instructed in “How to start the engine” in Section 3. The transmission must be in “P” or “N”.

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. Always turn the overdrive on for better fuel economy and quieter driving. If the engine coolant the transmission will not shift into the over- drive gear even with the overdrive on.

temperature

low,

is

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.

(d) Using engine braking To use engine braking, you can downshift the transmission as follows: (cid:2) Push the overdrive switch. The “O/D OFF” indicator light will come on and the transmission will downshift to the third gear.

(cid:2) Shift into the “2” position. The trans- the second mission will downshift gear when the vehicle speed drops down to or lower than 132 km/h (82
mph), and stronger engine braking will be enabled.

to

(cid:2) Shift into the “L” position. The trans- mission will downshift to the first gear when the vehicle speed drops down to or lower than 59 km/h (36 mph), and maximum engine braking will be en- abled.

releasing

When the cruise control is being used, even if you downshift the transmission by pushing and the overdrive switch, engine braking will not applied be- cause the cruise control is not cancelled. For ways to decrease the vehicle speed, see “Cruise control” in this section.

157

(b) Overdrive switch You can select either a third gear (with overdrive off) or fourth gear (with over- drive on) by pushing this switch. To turn the overdrive off, push the switch. The “O/D OFF” indicator light should come on. To turn the overdrive on again, push the switch again. The “O/D OFF” indicator light should go off. Always drive your vehicle with the over- drive on fuel economy and quieter driving. If the engine is turned off when the over- drive is off and restarted, the overdrive will automatically be on.

for better

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

CAUTION

NOTICE

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

surface. Abrupt

(e) 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 the first gear and automatical- ly shift to second gear. With the selector lever in “L”, the trans- mission is engaged in first gear.

158

(cid:1) Be careful not to overrev 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:

“2” “L”

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

139 km/h (86 mph) 76 km/h (47 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” position should be used in hill climbing or hard towing.

(f) 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.

(g) 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.

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.

(h) Good driving practice (cid:2) If the transmission repeatedly shifts up and down between third gear and over- drive when climbing a gentle slope, the overdrive should be turned off. Be sure to turn the switch on immediately after- ward.

(cid:2) When towing a trailer, in order to main- tain engine braking efficiency, do not use overdrive.

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

CAUTION

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

NOTICE

Do not hold the vehicle on an up- grade with the accelerator pedal. It can cause the transmission to over- heat. Always use the brake pedal or parking brake.

(i) Rocking your vehicle if stuck

CAUTION

If your vehicle becomes stuck in snow, mud, sand, etc., then you may attempt to rock the vehicle free by moving it forward and backward. Do not attempt this procedure if people or objects are anywhere near the ve- hicle. During the rocking operation the vehicle may suddenly move for- ward or backward as it becomes un- stuck, causing injury or damage to nearby people or objects.

NOTICE

If you rock your vehicle, observe the following precautions to prevent dam- age to the transmission and other parts. (cid:1) Do not depress the accelerator ped- al while shifting the selector lever or before the transmission is com- pletely shifted to forward or reverse gear.

(cid:1) Do not race the engine and avoid

spinning the wheels.

(cid:1) If your vehicle remains stuck after rocking the vehicle several times, consider other ways such as tow- ing.

(j)

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” in Section 4.

the shift

159

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

(cid:1)Column shift type

Selector lever

Overdrive switch

With the brake pedal depressed, shift while pilling the selector lever toward you. (The ignition switch must be in “ON” position.)

Shift while pulling the selector lever toward you.

Shift normally.

160

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 and the selector lever pulled toward you). (a) Selector lever The shift position is displayed on the in- strument cluster. P: Parking, engine starting and

key removal

R: Reverse N: Neutral D: Normal driving (with overdrive on) 2: Stronger engine braking L: Maximum engine braking

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

releasing

When the cruise control is being used, even if you downshift the transmission by pushing and the overdrive switch, engine braking will not applied be- cause the cruise control is not cancelled. For ways to decrease the vehicle speed, see “Cruise control” in this section. (c) Normal driving 1. Start the engine as instructed in “How to start the engine” in Section 3. The transmission must be in “P” or “N”.

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. Always turn the overdrive on for better fuel economy and quieter driving. If the engine coolant the transmission will not shift into the over- drive gear even with the overdrive on.

temperature

low,

is

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.

(d) Using engine braking To use engine braking, you can downshift the transmission as follows: (cid:2) Push the overdrive switch. The “O/D OFF” indicator light will come on and the transmission will downshift to the third gear.

(cid:2) Shift into the “2” position. The trans- the second mission will downshift gear when the vehicle speed drops down to or lower than 132 km/h (82
mph), and stronger engine braking will be enabled.

to

(cid:2) Shift into the “L” position. The trans- mission will downshift to the first gear When the vehicle speed drops down to or lower than 59 km/h (36 mph), and maximum engine braking will be ap- plied.

releasing

When the cruise control is being used, even if you downshift the transmission by pushing and the overdrive switch, engine braking will not applied be- cause the cruise control is not cancelled. For ways to decrease the vehicle speed, see “Cruise control” in this section.

161

(b) Overdrive switch You can select either a third gear (with overdrive off) or fourth gear (with over- drive on) by pushing this switch. To turn the overdrive off, push the switch. The “O/D OFF” indicator light should come on. To turn the overdrive on again, push the switch again. The “O/D OFF” indicator light should go off. Always drive your vehicle with the over- drive on fuel economy and quieter driving. If the engine is turned off when the over- drive is off and restarted, the overdrive will automatically be on.

for better

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

CAUTION

NOTICE

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

surface. Abrupt

(e) 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 the first gear and automatical- ly shift to the second gear. With the selector lever in “L”, the trans- mission is engaged in the first gear.

162

(cid:1) Be careful not to overrev 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:

“2” “L”

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

139 km/h (86 mph) 76 km/h (47 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” position should be used in hill climbing or hard towing.

(f) 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.

(g) 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.

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.

(h) Good driving practice (cid:2) If the transmission repeatedly shifts up and down between third gear and over- drive when climbing a gentle slope, the overdrive should be turned off. Be sure to turn the switch on immediately after- ward.

(cid:2) When towing a trailer, in order to main- tain engine braking efficiency, do not use overdrive.

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

CAUTION

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

NOTICE

Do not hold the vehicle on an up- grade with the accelerator pedal. It can cause the transmission to over- heat. Always use the brake pedal or parking brake.

(i) Rocking your vehicle if stuck

CAUTION

If your vehicle becomes stuck in snow, mud, sand, etc., then you may attempt to rock the vehicle free by moving it forward and backward. Do not attempt this procedure if people or objects are anywhere near the ve- hicle. During the rocking operation the vehicle may suddenly move for- ward or backward as it becomes un- stuck, causing injury or damage to nearby people or objects.

NOTICE

If you rock your vehicle, observe the following precautions to prevent dam- age to the transmission and other parts. (cid:1) Do not depress the accelerator ped- al while shifting the selector lever or before the transmission is com- pletely shifted to forward or reverse gear.

(cid:1) Do not race the engine and avoid

spinning the wheels.

(cid:1) If your vehicle remains stuck after rocking the vehicle several times, consider other ways such as tow- ing.

(j)

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” in Section 4.

the shift

163

’00 AVALON U (L/O 9908)

in

You may hear a sound the engine compartment for a few seconds when the engine is started or just after the vehicle is started. This means that the traction control system is in the self- check mode, and does not indicate malfunction. When the traction control system is oper- ating, you may feel vibration or noise of your vehicle, caused by operation of the brakes. This indicates the system is func- tioning properly. When getting the vehicle out of mud or new snow, etc. the traction control system will help operate to prevent the wheels from spinning.

Traction control system

The traction control system automatical- ly helps control the spinning of the front wheels which may occur when ac- celerating on slippery road surfaces, thus assisting driver to control the driv- ing power of the front wheels. Leave the system on during ordinary it can operate when driving so that needed. When traction control is ap- plied, the slip indicator light blinks. While the “VSC” warning light and “VSC OFF” indicator light come on, the traction control system cannot be operated.

164

You can turn off the traction control system by pushing the “VSC OFF” switch. The “VSC OFF” indicator light will come on. Pushing the “VSC OFF” switch a second time turns on the trac- tion control system again and the “VSC OFF” indicator light will go off. At this time, the vehicle skid control also turns off and on simultaneously.

’00 AVALON U (L/O9908)

If either of the following conditions occurs, this indicates a malfunction somewhere in the parts monitored by the warning light system. Contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible to service the vehicle: (cid:2) The “VSC” warning light and/or “VSC OFF” indicator light do/does not come