1996 Toyota Camry Owners Manual

hear a loud knocking or pinging noise, the engine has probably overheated. You should follow this procedure… 1. Pull safely off the road, stop the vehicle and turn on your emergency flashers. Put the transmission in “P” (automatic) or neu- tral (manual) and apply the parking brake. Turn off the air conditioning if it is being used. 2. If coolant or steam is boiling out of the radiator or reservoir, stop the engine. Wait until the steam subsides before opening the hood. If there is no coolant boiling over or steam, leave the engine running.

CAUTION

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

3. Look for obvious coolant leaks from the radiator, hoses, and under the vehicle. However, note that water draining from the air conditioning is normal if it has been used.

CAUTION

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

4. If the coolant is leaking, stop the en- gine immediately. Call a Toyota dealer for assistance. 5. If there are no obvious leaks, check the coolant reservoir. If it is dry, add coolant to the reservoir while the engine is running. Fill it about half full.

CAUTION

Do not attempt to remove the en- gine coolant filler cap when the en- gine and radiator are hot. Serious injury could result from scalding hot fluid and steam blown out un- der pressure.

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

If you have a flat tire— 1. Reduce your speed gradually, keeping a straight line. Move cautiously off the road to a safe place well away from the traffic. Avoid stopping on the center divid- er of a highway. Park on a level spot with firm ground. 2. Stop the engine and turn on your emer- gency flashers. 3. Firmly set the parking brake and put the transmission in “P” (automatic) or re- verse (manual). 4. Have everyone get out of the vehicle on the side away from traffic. 5. Read the following instructions thor- oughly.

CAUTION

When jacking, be sure to observe the following to reduce the possibil- ity of personal injury: (cid:1) Follow jacking instructions. (cid:1) Use a jack only for lifting your ve-

hicle during wheel changing.

(cid:1) Never get beneath the vehicle

when supported by a jack.

(cid:1) Do not start or run the engine while your vehicle is supported by a jack.

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NOTICE

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

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Compact spare tire The compact spare tire is designed for temporary emergency use only. The compact spare tire is identified by the distinctive wording “TEMPORARY USE ONLY” molded into the side wall of the tire. The standard tire should be repaired and replaced as soon as possible.

The compact spare tire saves space in your trunk or luggage compartment, and its lighter weight helps to improve fuel economy and permits easier installation in case of a flat tire. The compact spare tire can be used many times, if necessary. It has tread life of up to 4800 km (3000 miles) depending on road conditions and your driving habits. When tread wear indicators appear on the tire, replace the tire. See also the tire section in Chapter 7-2 for details on the tread wear indicators and other service information.

CAUTION

(cid:1) The compact spare tire was de- signed especially for your Toyota. Do not use it on any other vehicle. (cid:1) Do not exceed 80 km/h (50 mph) when driving with the compact spare tire.

NOTICE

Your ground clearance is reduced when the compact spare tire is installed so avoid driving over ob- stacles and drive slowly on rough, unpaved roads and speed bumps. Also, do not attempt to go through an automatic car wash as the ve- hicle may get caught, resulting in damage.

—Required tools and spare tire (sedan and coupe)

1. Get the tool bag, jack and spare tire. To prepare yourself for an emergency, you should familiarize yourself with the use of the jack, each of the tools and their storage locations.

When removing the jack, turn the joint by hand towards the CONTRACT direction until the jack is free. When storing, turn the joint by hand towards the EXPAND di- rection until the jack is firmly secured to prevent it from flying forward during a col- lision or sudden braking.

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

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—Required tools and spare tire (wagon with third seat)

1. Get the tool bag, jack and spare tire. To prepare yourself for an emergency, you should familiarize yourself with the use of the jack, each of the tools and their storage locations.

When removing the jack, turn the joint by hand towards the CONTRACT direction until the jack is free. When storing, turn the joint by hand towards the EXPAND di- rection until the jack is firmly secured to prevent it from flying forward during a col- lision or sudden braking.

To remove the spare tire: 1. Loosen the nut and remove it. 2. Remove the spare tire cover.

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—Required tools and spare tire (wagon without third seat)

3. Loosen and remove the bolt. 4. Take the spare tire out of the vehicle. When storing the spare tire, put it in place with the inner side of the wheel facing in- ward. Then secure the tire by repeating the above removal steps in reverse order to prevent it from flying forward during a collision or sudden braking.

1. Get the tool bag, jack and spare tire. To prepare yourself for an emergency, you should familiarize yourself with the use of the jack, each of the tools and their storage locations.

When removing the jack, turn the joint by hand towards the CONTRACT direction until the jack is free. When storing, turn the joint by hand towards the EXPAND di- rection until the jack is firmly secured to prevent it from flying forward during a col- lision or sudden braking.

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—Blocking the wheel

—Removing wheel ornament

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

2. Block the wheel diagonally oppo- site the flat tire to keep the vehicle from rolling when it is jacked up. When blocking the wheel, place a wheel block from the front for the front wheels or from the rear for the rear wheels.

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

CAUTION

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

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—Loosening wheel nuts

—Positioning the jack

5. Position the jack at the correct jack point as shown. Make sure the jack is positioned on a level and solid place.

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

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—Raising your vehicle

—Changing wheels

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

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

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

CAUTION

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

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—Reinstalling wheel nuts

—Lowering your vehicle

—Reinstalling wheel ornament

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

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

leverage other

10. Reinstall the wheel ornament. Put the wheel ornament into position and then tap it firmly with the side or heel of your hand to snap it into place.

CAUTION

Take due care in handling the orna- ment to avoid unexpected personal injury.

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—After changing wheels 11.Check the air pressure of the re- placed tire. Adjust the air pressure to the specification designated in Part 8. If the pressure is lower, drive slowly to the nearest service station and fill to the correct pressure. Do not forget to reinstall the tire inflation valve cap as dirt and moisture could get into the valve core and possibly cause air leakage. If the cap is missing, have a new one put on as soon as possible. 12. Restow all the tools, jack and flat tire securely. As soon as possible after changing wheels, tighten the wheel nuts to the torque specified in Part 8 with a torque wrench and have a technician repair the flat tire.

CAUTION

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

Wagon with third seat only—When storing the flat tire, install the tire with the bolt fitted in the upper hole of the tire stopper. At this time, the spare tire cover cannot be put on.

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If your vehicle needs to be towed—

If towing is necessary, we recommend you have it done by your Toyota dealer or a commercial tow truck service. Proper equipment will help ensure that your vehicle is not damaged while being towed. Commercial operators are gener- ally aware of the state/provincial and local laws pertaining to towing. Your vehicle can be damaged if it is towed incorrectly. Although most operators know the correct procedure, it is possible to make a mistake. To avoid damage to your vehicle, make sure the following few precautions are observed. If necessary, show this page to the tow truck driver. TOWING PRECAUTIONS: Use a safety chain system for all towing, and abide by the state/provincial and local laws. The wheels and axle on the ground must be in good condition. If they are damaged, use a towing dolly. (a) Using flat bed truck Toyota recommends this as the best method for your vehicle. (b) Towing with wheel lift type truck From front—Release the parking brake.

From rear— (cid:1) Manual transmission:

We recommend using a towing dolly under the front wheels. If you do not use a towing dolly, place the ignition key in the “ACC” position and put the transmission in neutral.

NOTICE

Do not tow with the key removed or in the “LOCK” position when tow- ing from the rear without a towing dolly. The steering lock mechanism is not strong enough to hold the front wheels straight. (cid:1) Automatic transmission:

Use a towing dolly under the front wheels.

NOTICE

Never tow a vehicle with an auto- matic transmission from the rear with the front wheels on the ground, as this may cause serious damage to the transmission.

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—Emergency towing

CAUTION

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

(c) Towing with sling type truck

NOTICE

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

If towing service is not available in an emergency, your vehicle may be tem- porarily towed by a cable secured to one of the emergency towing eyelets under the front of the vehicle. A driver must be in the vehicle to steer it and operate the brakes. Towing in this manner may be done only on hard-surfaced roads for a short dis- tance and at low speeds. Also, the wheels, axles, drive train, steering and brakes must all be in good condition. Before towing, release the parking brake and put the transmission in neutral (manual) or “N” (automatic). The key must be in “ACC” (engine off) or “ON” (engine running).

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If you cannot shift automatic transmission selector lever

If you cannot shift the selector lever out of “P” position to other positions even though the brake pedal is de- pressed, use the shift lock override button as follows: 1. Turn the ignition key to “LOCK” position. Make sure the parking brake is on. 2. Pry up the cover with a flat-bladed screwdriver or equivalent.

3. Insert the screwdriver or equivalent into the hole to push down the shift lock override button. You can shift out of “P” position only while pushing the button. 4. Shift into “N” position. 5. Insert the cover. 6. Start the engine. For your safety, keep the brake pedal depressed. Be sure to have the system checked by your Toyota dealer as soon as possible.

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

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Part 5
CORROSION PREVENTION AND APPEARANCE CARE

(cid:1) Protecting your Toyota from

corrosion

(cid:1) Washing and waxing your

Toyota

(cid:1) Cleaning the interior

the

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

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

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

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

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

(cid:1)

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

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

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Do not park your vehicle in a damp, poorly ventilated garage. If you wash your vehicle in the garage, or if you drive it in covered with water or snow, your ga- rage may be so damp it will cause corro- sion. Even if your garage is heated, a wet vehicle can corrode if the ventilation is poor.

Washing and waxing your Toyota Washing your Toyota by hand Work in the shade and wait until the ve- hicle body is not hot to the touch. 1. Rinse off loose dirt with a hose. Re- move any mud or road salt from the un- derside of the vehicle or in the wheel wells. 2. Wash with a mild car-wash soap, mixed according to the manufacturer’s in- structions. Use a soft cotton mitt and keep it wet by dipping it frequently into the wash water. Do not rub hard—let the soap and water remove the dirt. Aluminum wheels: Use only a mild soap or neutral detergent. Plastic bumpers: Wash carefully. Do not scrub with abrasive cleaners. The bumper faces are soft. Road tar: Remove with turpentine or cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces.

NOTICE

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

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

(cid:1) Wash the underside of the vehicle

thoroughly when winter is over.

See “Washing and waxing your Toyota” for more tips. Check the condition of your vehicle’s paint and trim. If you find any chips or scratches in the paint, touch them up im- mediately to prevent corrosion from start- ing. If the chips or scratches have gone through the bare metal, have a qualified body shop make the repair. Check the interior of your vehicle. Wa- ter and dirt can accumulate under the floor mats and could cause corrosion. Occa- sionally check under the mats to make sure the area is dry. Be particularly careful when transporting chemicals, cleansers, fertilizers, salt, etc.; these should be transported in proper containers. If a spill or leak should occur, immediately clean and dry the area. Use mud shields on your wheels. If you drive on salted or gravel roads, mud shields help protect your vehicle. Full- size shields, which come as near to the ground as possible, are the best. We rec- ommend that the fittings and the area where the shields are installed be treated to resist corrosion. Your Toyota dealer will be happy to assist in supplying and instal- ling the shields if they are recommended for your area.

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

NOTICE

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

4. To prevent water spots, dry the vehicle using a clean soft cotton towel. Do not rub or press hard—you might scratch the paint. Automatic car wash Your vehicle may be washed in an auto- matic car wash, but remember that the paint can be scratched by some type of brushes, unfiltered washing water, or the washing process itself. Scratching re- duces paint durability and gloss, especial- ly on darker colors. The manager of the car wash should be able to advise you whether the process is safe for the paint on your vehicle. Waxing your Toyota Polishing and waxing is recommend- ed to maintain the original beauty of your Toyota’s finish. 1. Always wash and dry the vehicle be- fore you begin waxing, even if you are us- ing a combined cleaner and wax. 2. Use a good quality polish and wax. If the finish has become extremely weath- ered, use a car-cleaning polish, followed by a separate wax. Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions and precau- tions. Be sure to polish and wax the chrome trim as well as the paint.

Cleaning the interior

CAUTION

Do not wash the vehicle floor with wa- ter, or allow water to get onto the floor when cleaning the vehicle interior or exterior. Water may get into audio components or other electrical com- ponents above or under the floor car- pet (or mat) and cause a malfunction; and it may cause body corrosion.

Vinyl interior The vinyl upholstery may be easily cleaned with a mild soap or detergent and water. First vacuum over the upholstery to remove loose dirt. Then, using a sponge or soft cloth, apply the soap solution to the vinyl. After al- lowing it to soak in for a few minutes to loos- en the dirt, remove the dirt and wipe off the soap with a clean damp cloth. If all the dirt does not come off, repeat the procedure. Commercial foaming- type vinyl cleaners are also available which work well. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

NOTICE

Do not use solvent, thinner, gasoline or window cleaner on the interior. Carpets Use a good foam-type shampoo to clean the carpets.

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

NOTICE

Do not use dye or bleach on the belts—it may weaken them. Windows The windows may be cleaned with any household window cleaner.

NOTICE

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

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

NOTICE

(cid:2)Do not use organic substances (sol- vents, kerosene, alcohol, gasoline, etc.) or alkaline or acidic solutions. These chemicals can cause discolor- ing, staining or peeling of the sur- face.

(cid:2)If you use cleaners or polishing agents, make sure their ingredients do not include the substances men- tioned above.

(cid:2)If you use a liquid car freshener, do not spill the liquid onto the vehicle’s interior surfaces. It may contain the ingredients mentioned above. Im- mediately clean any spill using the method mentioned above.

Leather Interior The leather upholstery may be cleaned with neutral detergent for wool. Remove dirt using a soft cloth dampened with 5% solution of neutral detergent for wool. Then thoroughly wipe off all traces of detergent with a clean damp cloth. After cleaning or whenever any part of the leather gets wet, dry with a soft clean cloth. Allow the leather to dry in a ventilated shaded area.

NOTICE

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

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

(cid:2)Use of a nylon brush or synthetic fi- ber cloth, etc. may scratch the fine grained surface of the leather.

(cid:2)Mildew may develop on soiled leath- er upholstery. Be especially careful to avoid oil spots. Try to keep your upholstery always clean.

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

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

(cid:2)Improper cleaning of the leather up- holstery could result in discolor- ation or staining.

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

Part 6
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND CARE

(cid:1) Maintenance requirements (cid:1) General maintenance (cid:1) Does your vehicle need

repairing?

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

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

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

control

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

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

CAUTION

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

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

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

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

Lights Make sure the headlights, stop lights, tail lights, turn signal lights, and other lights are all working. Check headlight aim. Service reminder indicators and warn- ing buzzers Check that all service reminder indicators and warning buzzers function properly. Steering wheel Be alert for changes in steering condition, such as hard steering or strange noise. Seats Check that all front seat controls such as seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. op- erate smoothly and that all latches lock securely in any position. Check that the head restraints move up and down smoothly and that the locks hold securely in any latched position. For folding-down or swing-up rear seatbacks or rear seat cushion, check that the latches lock se- curely. Seat belts Check that the seat belt system such as buckles, retractors and anchors operate properly and smoothly. Make sure that the belt webbing is not cut, frayed, worn or damaged.

Accelerator pedal Check the pedal for smooth operation and uneven pedal effort or catching. Clutch pedal Check the pedal for smooth operation. Brake pedal Check the pedal for smooth operation and that the pedal has the proper clearance. Check the brake booster function. Brakes At a safe place, check that the brakes do not pull to one side when applied. Parking brake Check that the lever (lever type) or pedal (pedal type) has the proper travel and that, on a safe incline, your vehicle is held securely with only the parking brake ap- plied. Automatic transmission “Park” mech- anism Check the lock release button of the se- lector lever for proper and smooth opera- tion. On a safe incline, check that your ve- hicle is held securely with the selector lever in “P” position and all brakes re- leased.

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Power steering fluid level Check the level through the reservoir. The level should be in the “HOT” or “COLD” range depending on the fluid temperature. See Chapter 7-2 for additional informa- tion. Exhaust system If you notice any change in the sound of the exhaust or smell exhaust fumes, have the cause located and corrected immedi- ately. (See engine exhaust cautions in Part 2.)

IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT Items listed below should be checked from time to time, e.g. each time when refueling. Washer fluid Make sure there is sufficient fluid in the tank. See Chapter 7-3 for additional infor- mation. Engine coolant level Make sure the coolant level is between the “FULL” and “LOW” lines on the see- through reservoir. See Chapter 7-2 for additional information. Battery electrolyte level Make sure the electrolyte level of all bat- tery cells is between upper and lower level lines on the case. Add only distilled water when replenishing. See Chapter 7-3 for additional information. Brake fluid level Make sure the brake fluid level is correct. See Chapter 7-2 for additional informa- tion. Engine oil level Check the level on the dipstick with the en- gine turned off and the vehicle parked on a level spot. See Chapter 7-2 for addition- al information.

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

CAUTION

Do not continue driving with the ve- hicle unchecked. It could result in serious vehicle damage and possi- bly personal injury.

Does your vehicle need repairing? Be on the alert for changes in perfor- mance, sounds, and visual tip-offs that in- dicate service is needed. Some important clues are as follows: (cid:1) Engine missing, stumbling, or pinging (cid:1) Appreciable loss of power (cid:1) Strange engine noises (cid:1) A leak under the vehicle (however, wa- ter dripping from the air conditioning after use is normal.)

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

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

when cornering; uneven tire wear

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

straight on a level road

(cid:1) Strange noises related to suspension

movement

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

(cid:1) Engine coolant temperature continual-

ly higher than normal

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Part 7
DO-IT-YOURSELF MAINTENANCE—

Chapter 7-1
Introduction

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

precautions

(cid:1) Parts and tools

177

Engine compartment overview (5S-FE engine)

178

Engine compartment overview (1MZ-FE engine)

179

Fuse locations

180

181

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

182

CAUTION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

reach of children.

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

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

surface with the wiper frame.

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

NOTICE

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

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

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

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

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

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

(cid:2)Do not drive with the air cleaner filter removed, or excessive en- gine wear could result. Also back- firing could cause a fire in the en- gine compartment.

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

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

brake fluid

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

183

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

RON -II or -III

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

clamp bolts)

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

clamp bolts)

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

Checking and replacing fuses Parts (if replacement is necessary): (cid:1) Genuine Toyota fuse or equivalent with same amperage rating as original

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

panel and instrument panel screw)

(cid:1) Conventional wrench (for passenger’s

side kick panel nut) Adding washer fluid Parts: (cid:1) Water (cid:1) Washer fluid containing antifreeze (for

winter use)

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

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

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Part 7
DO-IT-YOURSELF MAINTENANCE—

Chapter 7-2
Engine and Chassis

(cid:1) Checking the engine oil level (cid:1) Checking the engine coolant

level

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

Checking the engine oil level

With the engine at operating tempera- ture and turned off, check the oil level on the dipstick. 1. To get a true reading, the vehicle should be on a level spot. After turning off the engine, wait a few minutes for the oil to drain back into the bottom of the en- gine. 2. Pull out the dipstick, and wipe it clean with a rag. 3. Reinsert the dipstickpush it in as far as it will go, or the reading will not be cor- rect. 4. Pull the dipstick out and look at the oil level on the end.

CAUTION

Be careful not to touch the hot ex- haust manifold.

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

5S-FE engine 1MZ-FE engine

1.0 (1.1, 0.9) 1.5 (1.6, 1.3)

NOTICE

(cid:3)Avoid overfilling, or the engine

could be damaged.

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

once again after adding the oil.

185

ENGINE OIL SELECTION 5S-FE engine—Use API SH, “Energy- Conserving II” multigrade engine oil or IL- SAC multigrade engine oil. Recommended viscosity (SAE):

1MZ-FE engine—Use API SH, “Energy- Conserving II” multigrade engine oil or IL- SAC multigrade engine oil. Recommended viscosity (SAE):

If you use SAE 10W-30 engine oil in extremely low temperatures, the en- gine may become difficult to start, so SAE 5W-30 engine oil is recom- mended.

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

186

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

II” will

have

The ILSAC (International Lubricant Stan- dardization and Approval Committee) Certification Mark is displayed on the front of the container.

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

CAUTION

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

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

NOTICE

Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or plain water alone.

187

Checking brake fluid

Checking power steering fluid

If the level is low, add SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3 brake fluid to the brake reservoir. Remove and replace the reservoir cover by hand. Use only newly opened brake fluid. Once opened, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air, and excess moisture can cause a dangerous loss of braking.

CAUTION

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

NOTICE

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

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

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

188

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

CAUTION

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

NOTICE

Avoid overfilling, or the power steering could be damaged.

Checking tire pressure

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

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

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

189

(cid:1) Take special care when adding air to the compact spare tire. The small- er tire size can gain pressure very quickly. Add compressed air in small quantities and check the pressure often until it reaches the specified pressure.

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

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

Checking and replacing tires

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

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

190

Rotating tires

CAUTION

Do not mix radial, bias belted, or bias-ply tires on your vehicle. It can cause dangerous handling charac- teristics, resulting in loss of control.

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

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

CAUTION

Do not include a compact spare tire when rotating the tires. It is de- signed for temporary use only.

191

Installing snow tires and chains WHEN TO USE SNOW TIRES OR CHAINS Snow tires or chains are recom- mended when driving on snow or ice. On wet or dry roads, conventional tires provide better traction than snow tires. SNOW TIRE SELECTION If you need snow tires, select the same size, construction and load capacity as the original tires on your Toyota. Do not use tires other than those men- tioned above. Do not install studded tires without first checking local regulations for possible restrictions. SNOW TIRE INSTALLATION Snow tires should be installed on all wheels. Installing snow tires on the front wheels only can lead to an excessive difference in road grip capability between the front and rear tires which could cause loss of vehicle control. When storing removed tires, you should store them in a cool dry place. Mark the di- rection of rotation and be sure to install them in the same direction when replac- ing.

192

CAUTION

CAUTION

(cid:1) Do not exceed 50 km/h (30 mph) or the chain manufacturer’s recom- mended speed limit, whichever is lower.

(cid:1) Drive carefully avoiding bumps, holes, and sharp turns, which may cause the vehicle to bounce.

(cid:1) Avoid sharp turns or

locked- wheel braking, as use of chains may adversely affect vehicle han- dling.

NOTICE

Do not attempt to use a tire chain on the compact spare tire, as it may result in damage to the vehicle as well as the tire.

(cid:1) Do not drive with the snow tires in-

correctly inflated.

(cid:1) Never drive over 120 km/h (75
mph) with any type of snow tires.

TIRE CHAIN SELECTION Use the tire chains of correct size and type. Use SAE Class “S” type radial tire chains except radial cable chains or V-bar type chains. Regulations regarding the use of tire chains vary according to location or type of road, so always check them be- fore installing chains. CHAIN INSTALLATION Install the chains on the front tires as tightly as possible. Do not use tire chains on the rear tires. Retighten chains after driving 0.51.0 km (1/41/2 mile). When installing chains on your tires, care- fully follow the instructions of the chain manufacturer. If wheel covers are used, they will be scratched by the chain band, so remove the covers before putting on the chains.

Replacement with used wheels is not rec- ommended as they may have been sub- jected to rough treatment or high mileage and could fail without warning. Also, bent wheels which have been straightened may have structural damage and there- fore should not be used. Never use an in- ner tube in a leaking wheel which is de- signed for a tubeless tire.

Aluminum wheel precautions (cid:1) After driving your vehicle the first 1600
km (1000 miles), check that the wheel nuts are tight. If you have rotated, repaired, or changed your tires, check that the wheel nuts are still tight after driving 1600 km (1000 miles).

(cid:1)

(cid:1) When using tire chains, be careful not

to damage the aluminum wheels.

(cid:1) Use only the Toyota wheel nuts and wrench designed for your aluminum wheels.

(cid:1) When balancing your wheels, use only Toyota balance weights or equivalent and a plastic or rubber hammer.

(cid:1) As with any wheel, periodically check your aluminum wheels for damage. If damaged, replace immediately.

Replacing wheels WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR WHEELS If you have wheel damage such as bending, cracks or heavy corrosion, the wheel should be replaced. If you fail to replace damaged wheels, the tire may slip off the wheel or they may cause loss of handling control. WHEEL SELECTION When replacing wheels, care should be taken to ensure that the wheels are replaced by ones with the same load capacity, diameter, rim width, and off- set. This must be observed on compact spare tires, too. Correct replacement wheels are available at your Toyota dealer. A wheel of a different size or type may ad- versely affect handling, wheel and bear- ing life, brake cooling, speedometer/ odometer calibration, stopping ability, headlight aim, bumper height, vehicle ground clearance, and tire or snow chain clearance to the body and chassis.

193

194

Part 7
DO-IT-YOURSELF MAINTENANCE—

Chapter 7-3
Electrical components

(cid:1) Checking battery condition (cid:1) Battery recharging precautions (cid:1) Checking and replacing fuses (cid:1) Adding washer fluid (cid:1) Replacing light bulbs

Checking battery condition— —Precautions

CAUTION

BATTERY PRECAUTIONS

The battery produces flammable and explosive hydrogen gas. (cid:1) Do not cause a spark from the bat-

tery with tools.

(cid:1) Do not smoke or light a match near

the battery.

The electrolyte contains poisonous and corrosive sulfuric acid. (cid:1) Avoid contact with eyes, skin or

clothes.

(cid:1) Never ingest electrolyte. (cid:1) Wear protective safety glasses

when working near the battery.

(cid:1) Keep children away from the bat-

tery.

(cid:1) If electrolyte gets on your skin, thoroughly wash the contact area. If you feel pain or burning, get medical attention immediately.

(cid:1) If electrolyte gets on your clothes, there is a possibility of its soaking through to your skin, so immedi- ately take off the exposed clothing and follow the procedure above, if necessary.

(cid:1) If you happen to swallow electro- lyte, drink a large quantity of water or milk. Follow with milk of magne- sia, beaten raw egg or vegetable oil. Then go immediately for emer- gency help.

EMERGENCY MEASURES (cid:1) If electrolyte gets in your eyes, flush your eyes with clean water for at least 15 minutes and get im- mediate medical attention. If pos- sible, continue to apply water with a sponge or cloth while en route to the medical office.

195

NOTICE

(cid:2)Be sure the engine and all acces- sories are off before performing maintenance.

(cid:2)When checking the battery, re- move the ground cable from the negative terminal (“-” mark) first and reinstall it last.

(cid:2)Be careful not to cause a short cir-

cuit with tools.

(cid:2)Take care no solution gets into the

battery when washing it.

—Checking battery fluid There are two types of batteries: main- tenance type and non-maintenance type. A non-maintenance battery has “MAIN- TENANCE FREE BATTERY” on its top. A maintenance type battery does not have such indication. Maintenance type battery— Check the fluid condition by the fluid level lines on the side of the battery. Or if the battery has a hydrometer on its top, you can also check the hydrometer. Non-maintenance battery— Check the battery condition by hydrometer on the top of the battery.

the

—Checking battery exterior

Check the battery for corroded or loose terminal connections, cracks, or loose hold-down clamp. a. If the battery is corroded, wash it off with a solution of warm water and baking soda. Coat the outside of the terminals with grease to prevent further corrosion. b. If the terminal connections are loose, tighten their clamp nuts—but do not over- tighten. c. Tighten the hold-down clamp only enough to keep the battery firmly in place. Overtightening may damage the battery case.

196

CHECKING BY THE FLUID LEVEL LINES (MAINTENANCE TYPE BAT- TERY ONLY) The fluid (electrolyte) level must be be- tween the upper and lower lines. When checking the fluid level, look at all six cells, not just one or two. If the level is lower than the lower line, add distilled water. (See “ADDING DIS- TILLED WATER”.)

CHECKING BY THE HYDROMETER Check the battery condition by the hydrometer color. Maintenance type battery

Hydrometer color

Type A

GREEN

Type B

BLUE

DARK

WHITE

Condition Condition

Good

Charging necessary. Have battery checked by your Toyota dealer.

CLEAR or LIGHT YELLOW *: See “ADDING DISTILLED WATER”.

Add distilled water*

RED

Non-maintenance battery

Hydrometer color

Type A

GREEN

Type B

BLUE

DARK

WHITE

Condition Condition

Good

Charging necessary. Have battery checked by your Toyota dealer.

CLEAR or LIGHT YELLOW

RED

Have battery checked by your Toyota dealer.

NOTICE

Do not refill the battery with water.

197

NOTICE

Never recharge the battery while the engine is running. Also, be sure all accessories are turned off.

Battery recharging precautions During recharging, the battery is pro- ducing hydrogen gas. Therefore, before recharging: 1. Maintenance type batteries—Remove the vent plugs. 2. If recharging with the battery installed on the vehicle, be sure to disconnect the ground cable. 3. Be sure the power switch on the re- charger is off when connecting the char- ger cables to the battery and when dis- connecting them.

CAUTION

(cid:1) Always charge the battery in an unconfined area. Do not charge the battery in a garage or closed room where there is not sufficient ventilation.

(cid:1) Non-maintenance batteries: Only do a slow charge (5A or less). Charging at a quicker rate is dan- gerous. The battery may explode, causing personal injuries. Maintenance type batteries: Be sure to remove the vent plugs be- fore recharging.

ADDING DISTILLED WATER (MAINTE- NANCE TYPE BATTERY ONLY) 1. Remove the vent plugs. 2. Add distilled water to cells needing fluid. If the side of your battery is covered, check the water level by looking down di- rectly above the cell as illustrated above. 3. Retighten the vent plugs securely.

NOTICE

Do not overfill the cells. Excess electrolyte could squirt out of the battery during heavy charging, causing corrosion or damage.

198

Checking and replacing fuses

If you are not sure whether the fuse has blown, try replacing the suspected fuse with one that you know is good. If the fuse has blown, push a new fuse into the clip. Only install a fuse with the amperage rat- ing designated on the fuse box lid. If you do not have a spare fuse, in an emergency you can pull out the “CIG/RA- DIO”, “DOME” or “A/C” fuse, which may be dispensable for normal driving, and use it if its amperage rating is the same. If you cannot use one of the same amper- age, use one that is lower, but as close as possible to the rating. If the amperage is lower than that specified, the fuse might blow out again but this does not indicate anything wrong. Be sure to get the correct fuse as soon as possible and return the substitute to its original clip. It is a good idea to purchase a set of spare fuses and keep them in your vehicle for emergencies. If the new fuse immediately blows out, there is a problem with the electrical sys-