2003 Toyota Avalon Owners Manual

CAUTION

the

D A forward−facing child restraint sys- to be tem should be allowed front seat only installed on when is unavoidable. Always move the seat as far back as pos- sible, because the force of the de- ploying airbag could cause death or serious injury to the child.

it

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(C) BOOSTER SEAT INSTALLATION A booster seat is used in forward−fac- ing position only.

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D If the seat belt does not function normally, it cannot protect your child injury. Contact your Toyota dealer immediately. Do not use the child restraint system until the seat belt is fixed.

from

CAUTION

D Always make sure the shoulder belt is positioned across the center of child’s shoulder. The belt should be kept away from child’s neck, but not falling off child’s shoulder. Fail- ure the amount of protection in an accident and cause serious injuries in a col- lision.

to do so could reduce

D Both high−positioned lap belts and loose−fitting belts could cause seri- ous injuries due to sliding under the lap belt during a collision or other unintended result. Keep the lap belt position as low on a child’s hips as possible.

D For child’s safety, do not place the

shoulder belt under child’s arm.

D After inserting the tab, make sure the tab and buckle are locked and that the lap and shoulder portions of the belt are not twisted.

D Do not insert coins, clips, etc. in the buckle as this may prevent your child from properly latching the tab and buckle.

1. Sit the child on a booster seat. Run the lap and shoulder belt through or around the booster seat and child fol- lowing the instructions provided by its manufacturer and into the buckle taking care not to twist the belt.

insert

tab

the

Make sure the shoulder belt is correctly across the child’s shoulder and that the lap belt is positioned as low as possible on child’s hips. See “Seat belts” for de- tails.

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—Installation with 2−point type seat belt

2. To remove the child restraint system, press the buckle−release button and al- low the belt to retract.

CONVERTIBLE SEAT INSTALLATION A convertible seat is used in forward− facing or rear−facing position depend- ing on the child’s age and size. When installing, the manufacturer’s instruction about the applicable child’s age and size as well as directions for installing the child restraint system.

follow

CAUTION

D Never install a rear−facing child re- straint system on the front passen- ger seat because the force of the rapid inflation of the front passen- ger airbag can cause death or seri- ous injury to the child.

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that

When installing a child restraint system in the front seat center position, move the driver and passenger seats as far back as possible, set both seatbacks to the same angle as the back of the child restraint system, and set both seat cushions at the same height so the child restraint system is securely restrained. With the child restraint system installed, check that your driving position is satis- factory and that the child restraint system does not interfere with your driving. If your driving position is not satisfactory, or interferes with your driving, install it at another posi- tion.

the child restraint system

CAUTION

D When using a forward−facing child restraint system, move the driver and passenger seats as far back as possible, set both seatbacks to the same angle as the back of the child restraint system, set both seat cushions at the same height and make sure your driving position is satisfactory.

D Ignoring the above instructions may result in a serious injury in case of on accident.

Same angle

Move seat fully back

Same height

Move seat fully back

the

D A forward−facing child restraint sys- tem should be allowed to be installed on front passenger seat only when it is unavoidable. Always move the seat as far back as possible, because the force of the deploying front passenger air- bag could cause death or serious injury to the child.

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CAUTION

D After inserting the tab, make sure the tab and buckle are locked and that the lap and shoulder portions of the belt is not twisted.

D Do not insert coins, clips, etc. in the buckle as this may prevent you from properly latching the tab and buckle.

D If the seat belt does not function it cannot protect your normally, child injury. Contact your Toyota dealer immediately. Do not use the child restraint system until the seat belt is fixed.

from

2. While pressing

the convertible seat firmly against the seat cushion and seatback, tighten the lap belt by pulling its free end to hold the convertible seat securely.

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1. Run

lap belt

the center

the convertible seat provided insert the

through or following around its by the instructions tab into manufacturer and the buckle taking care not to twist the belt. Keep the lap portion of the belt tight.

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—Using a top strap

CAUTION

Push and pull the child restraint sys- tem in different directions to be sure it is secure. Follow all the installation instructions provided by its manufac- turer.

3. To remove the convertible seat, press the buckle−release button and allow the belt to retract completely. The belt will move to work for an adult or older child passen- ger.

freely again and be ready

Follow the procedure below for a child restraint system that requires the use of a top strap.

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Symbol

Anchor brackets

Use the anchor bracket on the package tray behind the rear seat to attach the top strap. Anchor brackets are rear seating position. This symbol indicates the location of user ready anchor brackets.

for each

installed

TO USE THE ANCHOR BRACKET: 1. Remove the head restraint.

2. Remove

the anchor bracket cover il-

in the

with the symbol shown lustration.

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—Installation with child restraint lower anchorages

4. Replace the head restraint. Store any removed covers in a safe place such as the glove box. Be sure to replace all covers when the anchor bracket is not in use.

Lower anchorages for the child restraint systems complying with the FMVSS225
specifications are installed in the rear seat. The anchorages are installed in the clear- ance between the seat cushion and seat- back of both outside rear seats. Child restraint systems complying with the FMVSS225 specification can be fixed to these anchorages. In this case, it is not necessary to fix the child restraint system with a seat belt on the vehicle.

3. Securely

fasten

the child restraint

system with the seat belt. Latch bracket and tighten the top strap.

the hook onto

the anchor

instructions

For the child re- straint system, see ”Child restraint” in this section.

install

to

CAUTION

Make sure the top strap is securely latched, and check that the child re- straint system is secure by pushing and pulling it in different directions. Follow all the installation instructions provided by its manufacturer.

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RESTRAINT

SYSTEM

CHILD INSTALLATION Type A— 1. Widen

the the clearance between seat cushion and seatback a little and confirm the position of the low- er anchorages near the tag on the seatback.

2. Latch the hooks of lower straps onto the anchorages and tighten the lower straps. Type B— 1. Widen

the the clearance between seat cushion and seatback a little and confirm the position of the low- er anchorages near the tag on the seatback.

2. Latch the buckles onto the anchor-

ages.

it should be anchored. (For

If your child restraint system has a top strap, the installation of the top strap, see “—Using a top strap” in this section.) For to the instruction manual equipped with each product.

the installation details, refer

Type A

Type B

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Tilt steering wheel

CAUTION

D When using the lower anchorages for the child restraint system, be sure that there are no irregular ob- jects around the anchorages and that the seat belt is not caught.

in different directions

D Push and pull the child restraint system to make sure it is secure. Follow all the instructions pro- vided by its manufacturer.

installation

CAUTION

D Do not adjust the steering wheel while the vehicle is moving. Doing so may cause the driver to mishan- dle the vehicle and an accident may occur resulting in death or serious injuries.

D After adjusting the steering wheel, try moving it up and down to make sure it is locked in position.

the

lock mechanism of

D Do not install a child restraint sys- tem on the rear seat if it interferes with the front seats. This can cause death or serious injury to a child and front passenger in case of a sudden braking or a collision.

To change the steering wheel angle, hold the steering wheel, pull the lock release lever toward you, tilt the steer- ing wheel to the desired angle and re- lease the lever. When the steering wheel is in a low posi- tion, it will spring up as you release the lock release lever.

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NOTICE

The outside rear view mirrors are fixed in place. Do not try to fold the mirrors. It may damage the mirrors.

Outside rear view mirrors—

Adjust the mirror so that you can just see the side of your vehicle in the mir- ror. Be careful when judging the size or dis- tance of any object seen in the outside rear view mirror on the passenger’s side. It is a convex mirror with a curved sur- face. Any object seen in a convex mirror will look smaller and farther away than when seen in a flat mirror.

the auto anti−glare inside Vehicles with inside rear rear view mirror—When the view mirror surface darkens in “AUTO” mode, the driver’s side outside rear view mirror surface also darkens to reduce the reflection of the headlights of the vehicle behind you. (For details, see “Auto anti− glare inside rear view mirror” in this sec- tion.) On some models, when you push the rear window defogger switch, the heater panels in the outside rear view mirrors will quick- ly clear the surface. (See “Rear window and outside rear view mirror defoggers” in Section 1−4.)

CAUTION

D Do not adjust the mirror while the vehicle is moving. Doing so may cause the driver to mishandle the vehicle and an accident may occur resulting in death or serious inju- ries.

D On some models, since the mirror surfaces can get hot, do not touch them when the defogger switch is on.

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—Power rear view mirror control

Anti−glare inside rear view mirror

NOTICE

If ice should jam the mirror, do not operate the control or scrape the mir- ror face. Use a spray de−icer to free the mirror.

To adjust a mirror, use the switches. 1. Master switch—To select the mirror to

be adjusted Place the switch at “L” (left) or “R” (right).

2. Control switch—To move the mirror

Push the switch in the desired direc- tion.

Mirrors can be adjusted when the key is in the “ACC” or “ON” position.

Adjust the mirror so that you can just see the rear of your vehicle in the mir- ror. To reduce glare from the headlights of the vehicle behind you during night driving, operate the lever on the lower edge of the mirror. Daylight driving—Lever at position 1
The reflection in the mirror has greater clarity at this position. Night driving—Lever at position 2
Remember that by reducing glare you also lose some rear view clarity.

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CAUTION

Do not adjust the mirror while the vehicle is moving. Doing so may cause the driver to mishandle the ve- hicle and an accident may occur re- sulting in death or serious injuries.

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Auto anti−glare inside rear view mirror

In “AUTO” mode, if the mirror detects light from the headlights of the vehicle behind you, the mirror surface darkens slightly to reduce the reflected light. When the inside rear view mirror surface darkens the driver’s side outside rear view mirror surface also darkens. To turn off the automatic function, press the switch on the “OFF” side. To turn on the automatic function again, press the switch on the “AUTO” side. Adjust it before driving so that the rear view is optimized. When the outside air temperature is low, it may take little longer for the mirror to darken the detection of headlights.

in response

to

CAUTION

Do not adjust the mirror while the vehicle is moving. It may cause the driver to mishandle the vehicle and an accident may occur resulting in death or serious injuries.

Adjust the mirror so that you can just see the rear of your vehicle in the mir- ror. This mirror is equipped with auto anti− glare function. The function is designed to reduce glare from the headlights of the vehicle behind you during night driving. When inserted and turned on, the inside rear view mirror al- ways turns on in the “AUTO” mode. The “AUTO” indicator illuminates to show you that the function is on.

ignition key

the

is

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Vanity mirrors

To ensure correct functioning of an anti−glare mirror sensor located on the back side of the mirror, do not touch or cover the sensor with your finger or a piece of cloth, etc.

To use the vanity mirrors, swing down the sun visor and open the cover. The vanity lights come on when you open the cover.

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SECTION 1− 4

OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS Lights, Wipers and Defogger Headlights and turn signals Emergency flashers Instrument panel light control Front fog lights Interior light Front personal and interior lights Rear personal lights Ignition switch light Windshield wipers and washer Shifting the windshield wiper position Rear window and outside rear view mirror defoggers

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

98
103
103
104
104
105
106
106
107
109
110

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Headlights and turn signals (for U.S.A.)

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Automatic operation— To turn on or off the lights automatical- ly, twist the headlight/turn signal lever knob to the “AUTO” position when the ignition key is in the “ON” position. The headlights and/or all of the lights in position 1 automatically turn on or off de- pending on the darkness of the surround- ings. Manually twist the knob to the position 2
to turn on the headlights if they are need- ed immediately when entering a dark tun- nel, parking structure, etc.

HEADLIGHTS Manual operation— To turn on the following lights: Twist the headlight/turn signal lever knob. Position 1—Parking, side marker and instrument panel lights Position 2—Headlights and all of above

license plate,

tail,

the

top of

the driver’s side

The automatic light control sensor is on the instrument panel. Do not place anything on the instrument panel, and/or do not affix anything on the windshield to block this sensor.

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To turn off the DRL system, twist the knob to the position 3 (“DRL OFF”) or turn the ignition switch off.

Automatic light cut off system Position 1 or “AUTO” position with the tail lights on— The lights automatically turn off when the driver’s door is opened with the ignition key in the “ACC” or “LOCK” position. Position 2 or “AUTO” position with the headlights on— The lights automatically turn off after 30
seconds when any of the door or trunk lid is opened and closed with the ignition key in the “ACC” or “LOCK” position. Vehicles with wireless remote control sys- tem—The lights can be turned off immedi- ately by pushing the “LOCK” switch on the wireless remote control transmitter with all the doors locked and the trunk lid closed. If any of the door or trunk lid is kept opened, the lights automatically turn off after 20 minutes. To turn on the lights again, turn the igni- tion key to the “ON” position or actuate the headlight switch. If you are going to park for over one week, make sure the knob is in the “AUTO” position.

NOTICE

To prevent the battery from being dis- charged, do not leave the lights on for a long period when the engine is not running.

Daytime running light (DRL) system Daytime Running Light (DRL) System can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. The DRL system can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be espe- cially helpful the short periods after dawn and before sunset. The DRL system will make your headlights come on at a reduced brightness when: D The ignition is on with the engine run-

in

ning.

D The light switch is in the “AUTO” posi-

tion.

D The parking brake is released. To turn on the other exterior lights and instrument panel lights, twist the knob to the position 1. Twist the knob to the position 2 to turn the headlights for night driving.

to full intensity

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Headlights and turn signals (for Canada)

High−Low beams—For high beams, turn the headlights on and push the lever away 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 even when the headlight switch is off.

the lever all

100

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. See “Replacing light bulbs” in Section 7−3.

2003 AVALON (OM41401U)

HEADLIGHTS Manual operation— To turn on the following lights: Twist the headlight/turn signal lever knob. Position 1—Parking, side marker and instrument panel lights Position 2—Headlights and all of above

license plate,

tail,

the

Automatic operation— To turn on or off the lights automatical- ly, twist the headlight/turn signal lever knob to the position 3 (“AUTO”) when the ignition key is in the “ON” position. The headlights and/or all of the lights in position 1 automatically turn on or off de- pending on the darkness of the surround- ings. Manually twist the knob to the position 2
to turn on the headlights if they are need- ed immediately when entering a dark tun- nel, parking structure, etc.

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Position 2 or position 3 with the head- lights on— The lights automatically turn off after 30
seconds when any of the door or trunk lid is opened and closed with the ignition key in the “ACC” or “LOCK” position. Vehicles with wireless remote control sys- tem—The lights can be turned off immedi- ately by pushing the “LOCK” switch on the wireless remote control transmitter with all the doors locked and the trunk lid closed. If any of the door or trunk lid is kept opened, the lights automatically turn off after 20 minutes. To turn on the lights again, turn the igni- tion key to the “ON” position or actuate the headlight switch. If you are going to park for over one week, make sure the headlight switch is off.

NOTICE

To prevent the battery from being dis- charged, do not leave the lights on for a long period when the engine is not running.

top of

the driver’s side

The automatic light control sensor is on the instrument panel. Do not place anything on the instrument panel, and/or do not affix anything on the windshield to block this sensor. Automatic light cut off system Position 1 or position 3 with the tail lights on— The lights automatically turn off when the driver’s door is opened with the ignition key in the “ACC” or “LOCK” position.

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Daytime running light (DRL) system Daytime Running Light System (DRL) can make it easier for others to see the front of your vehicle during the day. The DRL system can be helpful in many different driving conditions, but they can be espe- cially helpful the short periods after dawn and before sunset. The DRL system will make your headlights come on at a reduced brightness when: D The ignition is on with the engine run-

in

ning.

D The headlight switch is off. D The parking brake is released. To turn on the other exterior lights and instrument panel lights, twist the knob to the position 1. Twist the knob to the position 2 to turn the headlights for night driving.

to full intensity

High−Low beams—For high beams, turn the headlights on and push the lever away 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 even when the headlight switch is 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. See “Replacing light bulbs” in Section 7−3.

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Emergency flashers

Instrument panel light control

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.

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.

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

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Front fog lights

Interior light

light comes on when any door

ILLUMINATED ENTRY SYSTEM With the switch in the “DOOR” position, the is opened. After all the doors are closed, the light remains on for about 15 seconds and then goes out. However, in the following cases, the light goes off immediately. D All the doors are closed when the igni- tion key is in the “ACC” or “ON” posi- tion.

D The ignition key is turned to the “ACC” or “ON” after all the doors are closed.

the

light comes on

D All the doors are closed and locked. When all the doors are unlocked with the key or wireless remote control transmitter for simultaneously, about 15 seconds and fades out, even if the door is not opened. INTERIOR LIGHT CUT OFF OPERATION To prevent from being dis- charged, the light 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.

the battery

then

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.

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 doors is opened. The light goes off when all the doors are closed.

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Front personal and interior lights

With moon roof

Without moon roof

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Front personal lights— To turn on the front personal lights, push the switch. To turn the lights off, push the switch once again. Interior lights— The interior lights turn on when any of the door is opened. The lights go off when all of the doors are closed. You cannot turn off the lights when any of the doors is opened.

lights come on when any door

ILLUMINATED ENTRY SYSTEM The is opened. After all the doors are closed, the lights remain on for about 15 seconds and then go out. However, in the following cases, the lights go off immediately. D All the doors are closed when the igni- tion key is in the “ACC” or “ON” posi- tion.

D The ignition key is turned to the “ACC” or “ON” after all the doors are closed.

the

lights come on

D All the doors are closed and locked. When all the doors are unlocked with the key or wireless remote control transmitter simultaneously, for about 15 seconds and then fade out, even if the door is not opened. INTERIOR LIGHT CUT OFF OPERATION To prevent from being dis- charged, the lights will automatically turn off when the key is removed and the door is left opened for 20 minutes or more.

the battery

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Rear personal lights

Ignition switch light

the

light comes on

When all the doors are unlocked with the key or wireless remote control transmitter for simultaneously, about 15 seconds and fades out, even if the door is not opened. To prevent from being dis- charged, the light will automatically turn off when the key is removed and the door is left opened for 20 minutes or more.

the battery

then

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

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 about 15 seconds after all the doors are closed. However, in the following cases, the light go off immediately. D All the doors are closed when the igni- tion key is in the “ACC” or “ON” posi- tion.

D The ignition key is turned to the “ACC” or “ON” after all the doors are closed.

D All the doors are closed and locked.

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Windshield wipers and washer

(intermittent operation type)

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

Lever position

Position 1

Position 2

Position 3

Position 4

Operation

Intermittent operation Low speed operation High speed operation Washer on

the band upward to

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. To squirt washer fluid, pull the lever toward you (position 4). 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 or may damage wiper blades.

Windshield wipers and washer

(raindrop detection type)

Automatic control adjuster

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

Lever position

Position 1

Position 2

Position 3

Position 4

Operation

Automatic operation Low speed operation High speed operation Washer on

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Even if the wiper lever is in the position 1, the system will switch to intermittent operations in the following conditions: D When

the windshield gets extremely

cold (at less than −10_C or 14_F)

if

D When the system malfunctions However, when the windshield gets ex- tremely hot (at more than 90_C or 194_F), the wipers do not operate even the wiper lever is in the position 1. When the ignition switch is turned off with the wiper lever in the position 1, and then the ignition switch is turned on again, the automatic operation may not work even if raindrops are on the windshield. In this case, move the lever to another position and return it to the position 1
again.

CAUTION

Be careful not to get your fingers caught between the wipers and wind- shield. When the wiper lever is in the posi- tion 1 with the ignition switch on, the wipers could operate automatically in the following cases: D If you touch the upper center of the

windshield adjacent to the sensor.

D If you wipe the upper center of the windshield (adjacent to which the sensor is located) with a towel or other object.

D If the windshield vibrates. D If you touch the sensor.

NOTICE

Do not apply detergent to or wet the automatic wiper control sensor when cleaning the inside of the windshield.

is determined by

Automatic operation (position 1) The wiper speed the amount of raindrops and sunlight detected by the automatic wiper control sensor. The automatic wiper control sensor is on the the windshield as shown above. If you feel that the operation of the auto- matic wiper control is too fast or too slow, twist the automatic control adjuster in the “−” direction to lower sensitivity, and “+” direction to boost the sensitivity.

inside of

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To squirt washer fluid, pull the lever toward you (position 4). 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 or may damage wiper blades.

’03 AVALON U (L/O 0206)

Shifting the windshield wiper position

The wiper blades retract under the hood when the wipers are turned off. In the following cases, the wipers should be shifted retracted position (position 2) to the rest position (position 1) above the hood level. D When cleaning the windshield D When inspecting or replacing the wip-

from

the

ers

D When the retraction may be obstructed the bottom of the

by snow, etc., at windshield

than

Other wipers in the retracted position.

the above cases, keep

the

SHIFTING TO THE REST POSITION Hold the connection of the wiper arm and wiper blade and pull it upward for more than 10 cm (3.9 in.) along the windshield glass with force of the about 98 N (10 kgf, 22 lbf).

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.

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Rear window and outside rear view mirror defoggers

Type A

Type C

TO

THE RETRACTED

RETURNING POSITION Push the connection of the wiper arm and wiper blade downward.

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.

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Type B

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.

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

CAUTION

Type C—Since the mirror surfaces can get hot, do not touch 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. On some models, if the outside rear view mirrors are heavily 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 or connec- tors.

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SECTION 1− 5

OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS Gauges, Meters and Service reminder indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fuel gauge Engine coolant temperature gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Odometer and two trip meters Service reminder indicators and warning buzzers . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

114
114
115
115
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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 lamp goes off after driving several times. If the indicator lamp does not go off, contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible.

indicates

The gauge the approximate quantity of the fuel remaining in the tank when the ignition switch is on. 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.

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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: D Driving up a long hill on a hot day. D Reducing speed or stopping after high

speed driving.

D Idling for a long period with the air conditioning on in stop−and−go traffic.

D Towing a trailer.

NOTICE

z 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.

z Do not continue driving with an overheated engine. See “If your ve- hicle overheats” in Section 4.

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Tachometer

Odometer and two trip meters

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 over−revving. 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

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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 then back B, 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

Type C

trip meters when

This meter displays the odometer and two ignition switch is on. 1. Odometer—Shows

total distance

the

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

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Service reminder indicators and warning buzzers

If the indicator or buzzer comes on...

Do this.

(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

(e)

or

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

Fasten driver’s seat belt.

(indicator and buzzer)

Fasten front outside passenger’s seat belt.

Stop and check.

Stop and check.

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If the indicator or buzzer comes on...

Do this.

If the indicator or buzzer comes on...

Do this.

(k)

(l)

(m)

Take vehicle to Toyota dealer immediately.

Take vehicle to Toyota dealer.

Add washer fluid.

(n)

Key reminder buzzer

Remove key.

or

(f)

(g)

(h)

(i)

(j)

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.

(a) Brake System Warning Light This light comes on in the following cases when the ignition key is in the “ON” posi- tion. D When the parking brake is applied... This light comes on for a few seconds when to the “ON” position even after the parking brake is released. D When the brake fluid level is low...

ignition key

turned

the

is

CAUTION

It is dangerous to continue driving normally when the brake fluid level is low.

Have your vehicle checked at your Toyota dealer in the following cases: D The light does not come on even if the parking brake is applied when the igni- tion key is in the “ON” position.

D The light does not come on even if the ignition key is turned on with the park- ing brake released.

A warning light turning on briefly during operation does not indicate a problem.

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CAUTION

(b) Driver’s Seat Belt Reminder Light

and Buzzer

If either of the following conditions occurs, immediately stop your vehicle at a safe place and contact your Toyota dealer. D The

light does not turn off even after the parking brake is released while the engine is running. In this case, the brakes may not work properly and your stopping distance will become longer. De- press the brake pedal firmly and bring the vehicle to an immediate stop.

D The brake system warning light re- mains on together with the “ABS” warning light. In this case, not only the anti−lock brake system will fail but also the vehicle will become extremely un- stable during braking.

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

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 outside passenger fastens the belt, the light stays on. This light reminds you to buckle up the front outside passenger’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.

is placed on

luggage

load

the

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(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.

NOTICE

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

(e) Low Engine 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.

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light may occasionally

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.

low. It

NOTICE

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

the vehicle with

(f) Malfunction Indicator Lamp This lamp comes on when the ignition key is turned to the “ON” position and goes off after the engine starts. This means that the warning light system is operating properly. If the lamp remains on, or the lamp comes on while driving, first check the followings. D Empty fuel tank

If the fuel tank is empty, refuel immedi- ately.

D Loose fuel tank cap

If the fuel tank cap is loose, securely tighten it.

These cases are temporary malfunctions. The malfunction indicator lamp will go off after taking several driving trips. If the lamp will not go off even after the several trips, contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible. If the fuel tank is not empty or the fuel tank cap is not loose... D There is a problem somewhere in the engine, emission control system, auto- matic transmission electrical system or warning light system itself.

inspection

Contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible to service the vehicle. Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) programs Your vehicle may not pass a state emission the malfunction indicator lamp remains on. Contact your to check your vehicle’s Toyota dealer emission and OBD (On−Board Diagnostics) system before taking your vehicle for the inspection. For details, see “Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) programs” in Section 6.

system

control

if

few seconds. Thereafter,

(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 when the ignition key is turned to the “ON” position. If the anti− lock brake system and the brake assist system work properly, the light turns off after a the system malfunctions, the light comes on again. 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 the vehicle skid control system do not operate, but the brake system still oper- ates 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 braking or braking on slippery road surfaces.

if

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the following conditions If either of occurs, indicates a malfunction this somewhere in the parts monitored by the warning light. Contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible to service the vehicle. D The light does not come on when the ignition key is turned to the “ON” posi- tion, or remains on.

D The light comes on while you are driv-

ing.

A warning light turning on briefly during operation does not indicate a problem.

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, not only the anti−lock brake system will fail but also the vehicle will become extremely unsta- ble during braking.

(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, 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. (k) SRS Warning Light This light will come on when the igni- tion key is turned to the “ON” position. After about 6 seconds, the light will go off. This means the system of the air- bags and front seat belt pretensioners are operating properly. This warning the airbag sensor assembly, front airbag sen- sors, side airbag sensors, driver’s seat position sensor, driver’s seat belt buckle switch, front seat belt pretensioner assem- blies, inflators, warning light, interconnect- ing wiring and power sources.

light system monitors

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. D The light does not come on when the ignition key is turned to the “ON” posi- tion or remains on.

D The light comes on or flashes while

driving.

(l) “VSC” Warning Light The light warns that there is a problem somewhere in the vehicle skid control sys- tem 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 light comes on while driving, 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.

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In the following cases, contact your Toyota dealer: D The light does not come on after the

ignition is turned to on.

D The light is left on after the ignition is

turned to on.

D The light comes on while driving. The “TRAC OFF” indicator light will come on when the “VSC” warning light comes on even if the “TRAC OFF” switch is not pushed. (m) 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.) (n) 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.

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 “ON”, but do

not start the engine. All the service reminder indicators ex- cept the open door warning light should come on. The “ABS” and “VSC” warn- ing lights, “TRAC OFF” and slip indica- tor lights go off after a few seconds. The SRS warning light goes off after about 6 seconds.

If any service reminder indicator or warn- ing buzzer does not function as described above, have it checked by your Toyota dealer as soon as possible.

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SECTION 1− 6

OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS Ignition switch, Transmission and Parking brake Ignition switch with steering lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Automatic transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Traction control system Vehicle skid control system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Parking brake Cruise control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

124
125
132
135
136
137

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Ignition switch with steering lock

immobiliser system”

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. If the automatic unlocking operation linked with the ignition switch is set, all doors are automatically unlocked when the igni- tion switch is turned from the “ON” posi- tion to the “ACC” or “LOCK” position. For details, see “—Automatic door locking and unlocking functions” in Section 1−2.

NOTICE

leave the key

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

2003 AVALON (OM41401U)

“START”—Starter motor on. The key will return to the “ON” position when released.