1997 Toyota Celica Owners Manual

3 Tool bag (Canada) 4 Spare tire 5 Wheel nut wrench (U.S.A.)

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

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

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

—Blocking the wheel

—Removing wheel ornament (steel wheels only)

—Loosening wheel nuts

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

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

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

CAUTION

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

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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—Positioning the jack

—Raising your vehicle

CAUTION

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

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

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

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—Changing wheels

—Reinstalling wheel nuts

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

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

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

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—Lowering your vehicle

—Reinstalling wheel ornament (steel wheels only)

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

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

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10. Reinstall the wheel ornament. Align the cutout of the wheel ornament- with the valve stem as shown. Then tap it firmly with the side or heel of hand to snap it into place.

CAUTION

CAUTION

Take due care ornament personal injury.

in handling the to avoid unexpected

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.

If your vehicle needs to be towed—

the

instructions given

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

(a) Towing with wheel lift type truck From front—Release the parking brake.

NOTICE

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

From rear— (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 towing from the rear without a towing dolly. The steering lock mechanism is not strong enough to hold the front wheels straight.

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(cid:1) Automatic transmission:

Use a towing dolly under the front wheels.

NOTICE

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

(b) Using flat bed truck

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—Emergency towing

(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 is necessary, we recommend you to have it done by your Toyota dealer or a commercial tow truck ser- vice. If towing service is not available in an emergency, your vehicle may be tem- porarily towed by a cable or chain se- cured to either emergency towing eye- lets under the vehicle. Use extreme caution when towing 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.

If you cannot shift automatic transmission selector lever

CAUTION

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

NOTICE

Use only a cable or chain specifically intended for use in towing vehicles. Securely fasten the cable or chain to the towing eyelet provided. Before towing, release the parking brake and put the transmission in neutral (manu- al) or “N” (automatic). The key must be in “ACC” (engine off) or “ON” (engine run- ning).

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.

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

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

Insert the cover.

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If the convertible top does not raise or lower

If the power mechanism for the con- vertible top should become inopera- tive, you may operate the convertible top manually. Have the system checked as soon as possible at your Toyota dealer. RAISING THE CONVERTIBLE TOP MANUALLY 1. Open the trunk and remove the cov- er from the front trim. Push the manual control switch on the “MANUAL” side. 2. Lower the sun visors. Check that all the side windows and quarter win- dows are lowered. If the battery is discharged and the win- dows cannot be lowered, open both side doors. 152

3. From the rear seat, place one hand on top of the rear seatback. With the other hand, grasp the convertible top edge at the center and slowly raise the top half way.

4. Move to the front seat, grasp the handle which is under the convertible top and pull the top fully forward.

5. While holding the convertible top against the windshield frame, push the latch handles fully forward till they are hooked. Visually check that the latch handles are fully seated in the strikers. Also, pull on the convertible top side rails to make sure the top is securely hooked.

6. Return the manual control switch to the opposite side of the “MANUAL” position, attach the cover, and close the trunk. Raise all the side windows, quarter windows, and sun visors.

LOWERING THE CONVERTIBLE TOP MANUALLY 1. Open the trunk and remove the cov- er from the front trim. Push the manual control switch on the “MANUAL” side.

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2. Lower all the side windows, quarter windows, and sun visors. Then pull the latch handles fully backward. If the battery is discharged and the win- dows cannot be lowered, open both side doors.

3. Place your palms under either front convertible top side rail around it’s center and lower the convertible top all the way down. Raise the sun visors.

4. Return the manual control switch to the opposite side of the “MANUAL” position, attach the cover, and close the trunk.

CAUTION

To prevent personal injury, do not grasp the convertible top side rails.

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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

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.

the

(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 corrosion to those components of the vehicle 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 winter or if you live near the ocean, you should hose off the undercarriage at least once a month to minimize corrosion.

(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 removing 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 water 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.

CAUTION

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

Convertible models-For washing instruc- tions for the convertible top, see “Convert- ible top”. 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.

(cid:1) Wash the underside of the vehicle

thoroughly when winter is over.

See “Washing and waxing your Toyota” for more tips. Check the condition of your vehicle’s paint and trim. If you find any chips or scratches in the paint, touch them up im- mediately to prevent corrosion from start- ing. If the chips or scratches have gone through the bare metal, have a qualified bodyshop make the repair. Check the interior of your vehicle. Wa- ter and dirt can accumulate under the floor mats and could cause corrosion. Occa- sionally check under the mats to make sure the area is dry. Be particularly careful when transporting chemicals, cleansers, fertilizers, salt, etc; these should be trans- ported in proper containers. If a spill or leak should occur, immediately clean and dry the area. Use mud shields on your wheels. If you drive on salted or gravel roads, mud shields help protect your vehicle. Full- size shields, which come as near to the ground as possible, are the best. We rec- ommend that the fittings and the area where the shields are installed be treated to resist corrosion. Your Toyota dealer will be happy to assist in supplying and instal- ling the shields if they are recommended for your area. 158

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

NOTICE

Do not use gasoline or strong solvents, which may be toxic or cause damage. 3. Rinse thoroughly — dried soap can cause streaking. In hot weather you may need to rinse each section right after you wash it. 4. To prevent water spots, dry the ve- hicle using a clean soft cotton towel. Do not rub or press hard — you might scratch the paint. Automatic car wash Coupe and liftback models may be washed in an automatic car wash, but re- member that the paint can be scratched by some type of brushes, unfiltered wash- ing water, or the washing process itself. Scratching reduces paint durability and gloss, especially 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.

NOTICE (convertible models): Do not run convertible models through automatic car washer or possible damage to the convertible top may result. 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. 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.

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Convertible models: Spray water on the side windows or top seals from above, at a 45° angle to the ground. NOTICE (convertible models): Do not spray water at side windows and top seals in a way which may cause water to enter the vehicle.

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.

Convertible top Wash using mild soap suds, lukewarm water and a sponge.

NOTICE

Do not use harsh or abrasive cleaners or bleaching agents on the top material or damage may result.

If further cleaning is required after using soap and water, a mild foaming cleaner can be used. First, rinse the top, then use a mild foaming cleaner on the entire top. Scrub with a small soft bristle handbrush. Add water as needed until the cleaner gets soapy. Use a cloth or sponge to re- move dirt so it will not be ground into the top. Be careful to keep any cleaner from drying on the body paint as it may cause streaks. After the top has been cleaned, rinse ve- hicle with clean water to remove all traces of cleaner. After cleaning, always make sure the top is completely dry before your lowered it. Lowering the top while wet or damp may cause interior water damage, water stains or mildew of the top material.

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Cleaning the interior

CAUTION

Do not wash the vehicle floor with water, or allow water to get into the floor when cleaning the vehicle in- terior or exterior. Water may get into audio components or other electri- cal components above or under the floor carpet (or mat) and cause a malfunction; and it may cause body corrosion. Vinyl interior The vinyl upholstery may be easily cleaned with a mild soap or detergent and water. First vacuum over the upholstery to re- move loose dirt. Then, using a sponge or soft cloth, apply the soap solution to the vi- nyl. After allowing it to soak in for a few minutes to loosen the dirt, remove the dirt and wipe off the soap with a clean damp cloth. If all the dirt does not come off, re- peat the procedure. Commercial foam- ing-type vinyl cleaners are also available which work well. Follow the manufactur- er’s instructions.

NOTICE

Do not use solvent, thinner, gas- oline or window cleaner on the in- terior.

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

NOTICE

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

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

NOTICE

When cleaning the inside of the windows, be careful not to scratch or damage the heater wires on the rear window. Air conditioning control panel, car au- dio, instrument panel, console panel, and switches Use a soft damp cloth for cleaning. Soak a clean soft cloth in water or luke- warm water then lightly wipe off any dirt.

NOTICE

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

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

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

Leather Interior The leather uphostery may be cleaned with neutral detergent for wool. Remove dirt using a soft cloth dampened with 5 % solution of neutral detergent for wool. Then throughly 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 vente- lated shaded area.

NOTICE

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

repairing?

For scheduled maintenance infor- mation, please refer to the sep- arate “Owner’s Manual Supple- ment/Maintenance Schedule”.

Maintenance requirements Your Toyota vehicle has been designed to for fewer maintenance requirements with longer service intervals to save both your time and money. However, each regular maintenance, as well as day-to-day care, is more important than ever before to ensure smooth, and trouble-free, safe, and economical drivings. It is the owner’s responsibility to make sure the specified maintenance, including general maintenance service, is per- formed. Note that both the new vehicle and emission control system warranties specify that proper maintenance and care must be performed. See Owner’s Guide, Owner’s Manual Supplement or Warranty Booklet for complete warranty informa- tion. General maintenance General maintenance items are those day-to-day care practices that are impor- tant to your vehicle for proper operation. It is the owner’s responsibility to 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” are those required to be serviced at regular in- tervals. 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 control system warranty. Howev- er, use of replacement parts which are not of equivalent quality may impair the effectiveness of the emission con- trol 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.

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Where to go for service? Toyota technicians are well-trained spe- cialists and are kept up to date with the lat- est service information through technical bulletins, service tips, and in-dealership training programs. They learn to work on Toyotas before they work on your vehicle, rather than while they are working on it. You can be confident that your Toyota dealer’s service department performs the best job to meet the maintenance require- ments on your vehicle—reliably and eco- nomically. Your copy of the repair order is proof that all required maintenance has been per- formed for warranty coverage. And if any problems should arise with your vehicle while under warranty, your Toyota dealer will promptly take care of it. Again, be sure to keep a copy of the repair order for any service performed on your Toyota. What about do-it-yourself mainte- nance? Many of the maintenance items are easy to do yourself if you have a little mechani- cal ability and a few basic automotive tools. Simple instructions for how to per- form them are presented in Part 7. 164

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 obtain- ed if you run the engine.

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

Tire surface and wheel nuts Check the tires carefully for cuts, damage or excessive wear. See Chapter 7-2 for additional information. When checking the tires, make sure no nuts are missing, and check the nuts for looseness. Tighten them if necessary. Tire rotation Rotate the tires every 12000 km (7500
miles). See Chapter 7-2 for additional in- formation. Fluid leaks Check underneath for leaking fuel, oil, wa- ter or other fluid after the vehicle has been parked for a while. If you smell fuel fumes or notice any leak, have the cause found and corrected immediately. Doors and engine hood Check that all doors and back door oper- ate smoothly and all latches lock securely. Make sure the engine hood secondary 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 postiion. For folding-down rear seatbacks, check that the latches lock securely. Seat belts Check that the seat belt system such as buckles, retractors and anchors operate properly and smoothly. Make sure the belt webbing is not cut, frayed, worn or dam- aged.

Accelerator pedal Check the pedal for smooth operation and uneven pedal effort or catching. 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 has the proper travel and that, on a safe incline, your vehicle is held securely with only the parking brake applied. Automatic transmission “Park” mech- anism Check the lock release button of the se- lector lever for proper and smooth opera- tion. On a safe incline, check that your ve- hicle is held securely with the selector lever in “P” position and all brakes re- leased. IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT Items listed below should be checked from time to time , e.g. each time when refueling.

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Power steering fluid level Check the level on the dipstick (vehicles with 7A-FE engine), or check the level through the reservoir (vehicles with 5S- FE engine). The level should be in the “HOT” or “COLD” range depending on the fluid temperature. See Chapter 7-2 for additional information. 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.)

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 when the engine is cold. See Chapter 7-2 for additional informa- tion. Battery electrolyte level Make sure the electrolyte level of all bat- tery cells is between upper and lower level lines on the case. Add only distilled water when replenishing. See Chapter 7-3 for additional information. Brake fluid level Make sure the brake fluid level is correct. See Chapter 7-2 for additional informa- tion. Engine oil level Check the level on the dipstick with the en- gine turned off and the vehicle parked on a level spot. See Chapter 7-2 for addition- al information.

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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

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

CAUTION

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

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Part 7
DO-IT-YOURSELF MAINTENANCE—

Chapter 7-1
Introduction (cid:2) Engine compartment overview (cid:2) Fuse locations (cid:2) Do-it-yourself service

precautions

(cid:2) Parts and tools

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

fluid tank

Engine compartment overview (cid:1)7A-FE engine

170

(cid:1)5S-FE engine

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

fluid tank

171

Fuse locations

1 Passenger’s side kick panel 2 Instrument panel 3 Engine compartment (left) 4 Engine compartment (front-Canada

only)

172

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

CAUTION

(cid:2) 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:2) Right after driving, the engine compartment—the engine, radia- tor, exhaust manifold, power steering fluid reservoir and spark plug boots, etc.—will be hot. So be careful not to touch them. Oil, fluids and spark plugs may also be hot.

(cid:2) If the engine is hot, do not remove the radiator cap or loosen the drain plugs to prevent burning yourself.

(cid:2) Do not smoke, cause sparks or al- low open flames around fuel or the battery. Their fumes are flam- mable.

(cid:2) Be extremely cautious when work- ing on the battery. It contains poi- sonous and corrosive sulfuric acid.

(cid:2) Do not get under your vehicle with just the body jack supporting it. Always use automotive jack stands or other solid supports.

(cid:2) 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 au- tomatically start to run if the engine coolant temperature is high and/or the air conditioning is on.

(cid:2) Use eye protection whenever you work on or under you vehicle where you may be exposed to fly- ing or falling material, fluid spray, etc.

(cid:2) Used engine oil contains potential- ly 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:2) Do not leave used oil within the

reach of children.

(cid:2) Dispose of used oil and filter only in a safe and acceptable manner. Do not dispose of used oil and filter in household trash, in sewers or onto the ground. Call your dealer or a service station for information concerning recycling or disposal.

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NOTICE

(cid:3)Remember that battery and igni- tion cable carry high currents or voltages. Be careful of accidental- ly causing a short circuit.

(cid:3)Add only demineralized or dis- tilled water to fill the radiator. And if you spill some of the coolant, be sure to wash it off with water to prevent it from damaging the parts or paint.

(cid:3)Do not allow dirt or anything else to fall through the spark plug holes.

(cid:3)Do not pry the outer electrode of a spark plug against the center elec- trode.

(cid:3)Use only spark plugs of the speci- fied type. Using other types will cause engine damage, loss of per- formance or radio noise.

(cid:3)Do not reuse platinum-tipped spark plugs by cleaning or regap- ping.

(cid:3)Do not overfill automatic trans- mission fluid, or the transmission could be damaged.

174

(cid:3)Do not drive with the air cleaner fil- ter removed, or excessive engine wear could result. Also backfiring could cause a fire in the engine compartment.

(cid:3)Be careful not to scratch the glass

surface with the wiper frame.

(cid:3)When closing the engine hood, check to see that you have not for- gotten any tools, rags, etc.

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:2) Engine oil API SH, “Energy-Conserv- ing II” multigrade or ILSAC multigrade having viscosity proper for your cli- mate

Tools: (cid:2) Rag or paper towel (cid:2) Funnel (only for adding oil) Checking the engine coolant level Parts (if level is low): (cid:2) Ethylene-glycol antifreeze (cid:2) Demineralized or distilled water Tools: (cid:2) Funnel (only for adding coolant) Checking brake fluid Parts (if level is low): (cid:2) SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3

brake fluid

Tools: (cid:2) Rag or paper towel (cid:2) Funnel (only for adding fluid)

Checking power steering fluid Parts (if level is low): (cid:2) Automatic transmission fluid DEX-

RON II or III

Tools: (cid:2) Rag or paper towel (cid:2) Funnel (only for adding fluid) Checking battery condition Non-maintenance batteries— Tools: (cid:2) Warm water (cid:2) Baking soda (cid:2) Grease (cid:2) Conventional wrench (for terminal

clamp bolts)

Maintenance type batteries— Parts (if level is low): (cid:2) Distilled water Tools: (cid:2) Warm water (cid:2) Baking soda (cid:2) Grease (cid:2) Conventional wrench (for terminal

clamp bolts)

(cid:2) Coin (for vent plugs) (cid:2) Funnel (only for adding distilled water)

Checking and replacing fuses Parts (if replacement is necessary): (cid:2) Fuse with the same amperage rating

as original

Tools: (cid:2) Screwdriver (for passenger’s side kick

panel screw)

Adding washer fluid Parts: (cid:2) Water (cid:2) Washer fluid containing antifreeze (for

winter use)

Tools: (cid:2) Funnel Replacing light bulbs Parts: (cid:2) Bulb with same number and wattage rating as original (See charts in “Re- placing light bulbs” in Chapter 7-3.)

Tools: (cid:2) Screwdriver (cid:2) 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

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 filter 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 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.):

7A-FE engine 5S-FE engine

1.2 (1.3, 1.1) 1.0 (1.1, 0.9)

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.

177

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.

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

Temperature range anticipated before next oil change 60040-L03U 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.

API service symbol

178

ILSAC certification mark

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

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

CAUTION

To prevent burning yourself, do not remove the radiator cap when the en- gine is hot.

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

NOTICE

Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or plain water alone.

Checking brake fluid

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

179

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

CAUTION

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

NOTICE

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

180

Checking power steering fluid (with 7A-FE engine)

Check the fluid level through the reser- voir. If necessary, add automatic trans- mission fluid DEXRONII or III. If the vehicle has been driven around 80
km/h (50 mph) for 20 minutes (a little more in frigid temperatures), the fluid is hot (60(cid:2)C80(cid:2)C or 140(cid:2)F175(cid:2)F). You may also check the level when the fluid is cold temperature, 10(cid:2)C30(cid:2)C or 50(cid:2)F85(cid:2)F) if the en- gine has not been run for about five hours. a. Clean all dirt from outside of the reser- voir tank. b. Remove the filler cap by turning it coun- terclockwise and wipe the dipstick clean.

(about

room

c. Reinstall the filler cap. d. Remove the filler cap again and look at the fluid level. If the fluid is cold, the level should be in the “COLD” range on the dip- stick. 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. e. After replacing the filler cap, visually check the steering box case, vane pump and hose connections for leaks or dam- age.

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 power steering fluid (with 5S-FE engine)

Checking tire pressure

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. Similiarly, 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.

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

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

181

(cid:1) Take special care when adding air to the compact spare tire. The smaller tire size can gain pressure very quickly. Add compressed air in small quantities and check the pres- sure 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.

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

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

182

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 also applies to the spare tire and tires stored for future use. REPLACING YOUR TIRES When replacing a tire, use only the same size and construction as origi- nally installed and with the same or greater load capacity. Using any other size or type of tire may se- riously affect handling, ride, speedomeet- er/odometer calibration, ground clear- ance, and clearance between the body and tires or snow chains.

CAUTION

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

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

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

Rotating tires

Without a compact spare tire

With a compact spare tire

183

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

CAUTION

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

184

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 tires of 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 would cause loss of vehicle control. When storing removed tires, you should store them in a cool dry place. Mark the direction of rotation and be sure to install them in the same direction when replacing.

CAUTION

(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.

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 ad- versely affect vehicle handling.

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.

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.

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.

185

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.

186

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) Checking headlight aims (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-

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

tery with tools.

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 mag- nesia, 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 immediately and get immediate medical attention. If possible, con- tinue to apply water with a sponge or cloth while en route to the medi- cal office.

187

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.

188

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.

189

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

NOTICE

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

type batteries—Re-

Battery recharging precautions During recharging, the battery is pro- ducing hydrogen gas. Therefore, before recharging: 1. Maintenance move 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