2001 Toyota RAV4 Owners Manual

position, align both seatbacks at the same angle.

CAUTION

(cid:1) Adjustments should not be made

while the vehicle is moving.

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

NOTICE

Do not fold the seatback forward while the luggage cover is set.

(cid:1) Adjust both seat cushions to the same position and align both seat- backs at the same angle when a person sits on the rear center posi- tion. Otherwise, the person cannot wear seat belt properly and this may cause serious injuries in a col- lision.

(cid:1) To reduce the risk of sliding under lap belt during a collision, the avoid reclining the seatback any more than needed. The seat belts provide maximum protection in a frontal or rear collision when the passengers are sitting up straight and well back in the seats. If you are reclined, the lap belt may slide past your hips and apply restraint forces directly the abdomen. Therefore, in the event of a frontal collision, the risk of personal injury may increase with increasing recline of the seatback.

to

(cid:1) After adjusting the seatback, exert body pressure to make sure it is locked in position.

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—Folding up rear seats

BEFORE FOLDING UP REAR SEAT Stow the rear center seat belt, do the following: 1. Pull the seat belt out of its cover a little and insert the concave end tab into the higher slot of the cover.

2. Insert the round end tab

into the cover. You will hear a click when the tabs are locked in the seat belt cov- er. Make sure the tabs are securely locked in the cover.

NOTICE

The seat belt must be stowed before you fold the seatback.

FOLDING UP REAR SEATS 1. Hold the center of the lever and pull it up. Then slide the front seat fully forward.

Folding up the rear seats will enlarge the luggage compartment. See “Luggage stow- age precautions” on page 162 in Section 2 for precautions in loading luggage.

32

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2. Hold the center of the lever and pull it up. Then slide the rear seat fully backward and pull it forward slightly till it locks.

3. Lower the head restraint to the low- est position. Pull up the strap to unlock the seatback forward until it locks.

the seatback and

fold

4. Pull up the seat cushion lock release lever and swing the whole seat up and forward.

NOTICE

Do not fold the seatback forward while the luggage cover is set.

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5. Make sure the front legs are locked and the seat is securely locked in position.

RETURNING REAR SEAT 1. To unlock the seat, hold the upper back of the seat with your hand and pull the lock release strap up. Swing the whole seat down and set the rear legs to the hooks on the floor. Make sure the rear legs are securely set to the hooks by trying to pull up the rear part of the seat.

2. Pull the seatback release strap and

swing the seatback up.

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—Removing rear seats

CAUTION

When returning seats to their original position: (cid:1) Make sure the seat belts are not twisted or caught under the seat and are arranged in their proper position and are ready to use.

(cid:1) Make sure

the seat

is securely locked by pushing forward and rear- ward on the top of the seatback or by trying to pull up the edge of the bottom cushion. Failure to do so will prevent seat belt from operat- ing properly.

1. Fold up rear seats. (See “—Folding up rear seats” on page 32 in this section for instructions.)

2. Unlock the seat by pulling the lock lever. Pull the seat toward

release you slightly and lift.

Removing the rear seats will enlarge the luggage compartment. See “Luggage stow- age precautions” on page 162 in Section 2 for precautions in loading luggage.

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

35

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

—Reinstalling rear seats

CAUTION

When removing the seat, observe the following to prevent personal injury: (cid:1) Be careful not to get your hands or

feet pinched in the seat.

(cid:1) Be careful not to hit the removed seat against a person or drop it on yourself.

NOTICE

Avoid putting heavy loads on the re- moved seat. The metallic tips of the seat leg may be damaged and the seat cannot be reinstalled.

1. While pulling up the lock release le- into the

ver, place the rear hinge rear hook on the floor.

2. Push the seat forward until it locks.

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CAUTION

When returning seats to their original position: (cid:1) Make sure the seat belts are not twisted or caught under the seat and are arranged in their proper position and are ready to use.

3. To unlock the seat, hold the upper back of the seat with your hand and pull the lock release strap up. Swing the whole seat down and set the rear legs to the hooks on the floor. Make sure the rear legs are securely set to the hooks by trying to pull up the rear part of the seat.

4. Pull the seatback release strap and

swing the seatback up.

(cid:1) Make sure

the seat

is securely locked by pushing forward and rear- ward on the top of the seatback or by trying to pull up the edge of the bottom cushion. Failure to do so will prevent seat belt from operat- ing properly.

reinstalling

When removing or the seat, observe the following to prevent personal injury: (cid:1) Do not fold or remove the seat

while the vehicle is moving.

(cid:1) Be careful not to get your hands or

feet pinched in the seat.

(cid:1) Be careful not to hit the removed seat against a person or drop it on yourself.

(cid:1) After folding or installing the seat, push it forward and backward to make sure it is locked in position.

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Flattening seatbacks (front seat only)

To prevent personal injury in a colli- sion or sudden stop: (cid:1) Do not sit on or place anything on

the folded seatback while driving.

(cid:1) Do not

the loose in the vehicle.

leave

removed seat

(cid:1) Do not try to sit on or place any-

thing on the removed seat.

(cid:1) When reinstalling the seat, be care- ful not to hit the seat against you or inside of the vehicle.

(cid:1) Install each seat in the same posi- tion from which it was removed. Failure to do so will prevent rear seat occupants from using seat belts properly.

For flattening seatbacks, do the follow- ing: 1. Hold the center of the lever and pull it up. Then slide the rear seat fully backward and pull it forward slightly till it locks.

2. Remove the head restraint. Hold the center of the lever and pull it up. Then slide the seat further forward than the front–most lock position.

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Head restraints

CAUTION

(cid:1) After putting back

(cid:1) Do not allow passengers to ride on the flattened seat while driving; use the seat in the normal position. the seat,

try pushing the seat and seatback for- ward and rearward to make sure it is secured in place. Be certain to replace head restraint.

3. Pull the seatback angle adjusting le- ver to unlock and push down the seatback.

When returning the seatback upright, be careful not to make yourself hit by the seatback which will bound with consid- erable spring force. After returning the seat to its original position, be certain to replace the head restraint.

For your safety and comfort, adjust the head restraint before driving. To raise: Pull it up. To lower: Push it down while pressing the lock release button. The head restraint is most effective when it is close to your head. Therefore, using a cushion on the seatback is not recom- mended.

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

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’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

CAUTION

(cid:1) Adjust the center of the head re- straint so that it is closest to the top of your ears.

(cid:1) After adjusting the head restraint, make sure it is locked in position. the head re-

(cid:1) Do not drive with

straints removed.

Seat belts— —Seat belt precautions Toyota strongly urges that the driver and passengers in the vehicle be properly re- strained at all times with the seat belts provided. Failure to do so could increase the chance of injury and/or the severity of injury in accidents. Child. Use a child restraint system ap- propriate for the child until the child be- comes large enough to properly wear the vehicle’s seat belts. See “Child restraint” on page 57 for details. If a child is too large for a child restraint system, the child should sit in the rear seat and must be restrained using the vehicle’s seat belt. According to accident statistics, the child is safer when properly restrained in the rear seat than in the front seat. If a child must sit in the front seat, the seat belts should be worn properly. If an accident occurs and seat belts are not worn properly, the force of the rapid infla- tion of the airbag may cause death or serious injury to the child.

Do not allow the child to stand up or kneel on either rear or front seats. An unrestrained child could suffer serious in- jury or death during emergency braking or a collision. Also, do not let the child sit on your lap. It does not provide sufficient restraint. Pregnant woman. Toyota recommends the use of a seat belt. Ask your doctor for specific lap belt should be worn securely and as low as possible over the hips and not on the waist. Injured person. Toyota recommends the use of a seat belt. Depending on the inju- ry, first check with your doctor for specific recommendations.

recommendations. The

40

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—Front and rear seat belts

(cid:1) Inspect the belt system periodically. Check for cuts, fraying, and loose parts. Damaged parts should be re- placed. Do not disassemble or modify the system.

(cid:1) Keep the belts clean and dry.

If they need cleaning, use a mild soap solution or lukewarm water. Never use bleach, dye, or abrasive clean- ers—they may severely weaken the belts. (See “Cleaning the interior” on page 205 in Section 5.)

(cid:1) Replace the belt assembly (includ- ing bolts) if it has been used in a severe impact. The entire assembly should be replaced even if damage is not obvious.

CAUTION

the vehicle

in their seats Persons should ride their seat belts properly wearing whenever is moving. Otherwise, they are much more likely to suffer serious bodily injury or death in the event of sudden braking or a collision. When using the seat belts, observe the following: (cid:1) Use the belt for only one person at a time. Do not use a single belt for two or more people—even children. (cid:1) Avoid reclining the seatbacks too much. The seat belts provide maxi- mum protection when the seatbacks are in the upright position. (Refer to the seat adjustment instructions.) (cid:1) Be careful not to damage the belt webbing or hardware. Take care that they do not get caught or pinched in the seat or side doors.

tab

the

into

insert

Adjust the seat as needed and sit up straight and well back in the seat. To fasten your belt, pull it out of the re- tractor and the buckle. You will hear a click when the tab locks into the buckle. The seat belt length automatically adjusts to your size and the seat position. The retractor will lock the belt during a sudden stop or on impact. It also may lock if you lean forward too quickly. A slow, easy motion will allow the belt to extend, and you can move around freely.

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’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

CAUTION

Always make sure the shoulder belt is positioned across the center of your shoulder. The belt should be kept away from your neck, but not falling off your shoulder. Failure to do so could reduce the amount of protection in an accident and cause serious injuries in a collision.

If the seat belt cannot be pulled out of the retractor, firmly pull the belt and release it. You will then be able to smoothly pull the belt out of the retractor. When a passenger’s shoulder belt is com- pletely extended and retracted even slightly, the belt is locked in that position and cannot be extended. This fea- ture is used to hold the child restraint system securely. (For details, see “Child restraint” on page 57 in this section.) To free the belt again, fully retract the belt and then pull the belt out once more.

then

is

Seat belts with an adjustable shoulder anchor— Adjust the shoulder anchor position to your size. To raise: Slide the anchor up. To lower: Push in the lock release button and slide the anchor down. After adjustment, make sure the anchor is locked in position.

CAUTION

(cid:1) After inserting the tab, make sure the tab and buckle are locked and that the belt is not twisted.

(cid:1) Do not insert coins, clips, etc. in the buckle as this may prevent you from properly latching the tab and buckle.

(cid:1) If the seat belt does not function normally, immediately contact your Toyota dealer. Do not use the seat until the seat belt is fixed. It cannot protect an adult occupant or your child from injury.

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CAUTION

Take up slack

Too high

lap

(cid:1) High–positioned

belts

and loose–fitting belts both could cause serious injuries due to sliding un- der the lap belt during a collision or other unintended result. Keep the lap belt positioned as low on hips as possible.

Keep as low on hips as possible

(cid:1) For your safety, do not place the

shoulder belt under your arm.

the

lap and

the position of

Adjust shoulder belts. Position the lap belt as low as possible on your hips—not on your waist, then ad- just it to a snug fit by pulling the shoulder portion upward through the latch plate.

To release the belt, press the buckle–re- lease button and allow the belt to re- tract. If the belt does not retract smoothly, pull it out and check for kinks or twists. Then make sure it remains untwisted as it re- tracts.

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

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’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

CAUTION

located and securely

Make sure the both buckles are cor- rectly latched. Failure to properly match the buckle and tab may cause severe injury in case of an accident or a collision.

SEAT BELT FOR REAR CENTER SEAT The rear center seat belt is a 3–point type restraint with 2 buckles. Both seat belt buckles must be correctly located and se- curely latched for proper operation. Make sure that buckle 1 (with light gray buckle–release button) is securely latched for ready use of the center seat belt.

Two buckles and tabs for rear center seat belt The 2 buckles for the rear center seat belt are distinguished with colors of the buckle release button. Also tabs have different shape for its end so that the belt is not buckled in the wrong place. Buckle 1 (with light gray buckle–re- lease button)—Properly matches with concave end tab Buckle 2 (with red buckle–release but- ton)—Properly matches with round end tab

the 2

44

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

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—Stowing the rear center seat belt

To release the concave end tab, insert the key into the hole on buckle 1 (with light gray buckle–release button) and allow the belt to retract.

CAUTION

Do not use the rear center seat belt with either buckle released. Fastening only the shoulder belt or lap belt may cause severe personal injury in case of sudden braking or a collision.

STOWING THE REAR CENTER SEAT BELT 1. To stow the rear center seat belt, pull the seat belt out of its cover a little and insert the concave end tab into the higher slot of the cover.

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

45

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

from your Toyota dealer

—Seat belt extender If your seat belt cannot be fastened se- curely because it is not long enough, a personalized seat belt extender is avail- able free of charge. Please contact your local Toyota dealer so that the dealer can order the proper re- quired length for the extender. Bring the heaviest coat you expect to wear for prop- er measurement and selection of length. Additional ordering information is available at your Toyota dealer.

2. Insert the round end tab

into the cover. You will hear a click when the tabs are locked in the seat belt cov- er. Make sure the tabs are securely locked in the cover.

PULLING OUT THE REAR CENTER SEAT BELT To use the rear center seat belt, pull the belt out a little and then pull the tabs out from the cover.

Seat belt must be stowed before you fold the seatback. rear seats” on page 32 or “—Removing rear seats” on page 35 in this section.)

“—Folding up

(See

NOTICE

Stow the rear center seat belt except when you are wearing it.

46

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

CAUTION

(cid:1) After inserting the tab, make sure the tab and buckle are locked and that the seat belt extender is not twisted.

(cid:1) Do not insert coins, clips, etc. in the buckle as this may prevent you from properly latching the tab and buckle.

(cid:1) If the seat belt does not function normally, immediately contact your Toyota dealer. Do not use the seat until the seat belt is fixed. It cannot protect an adult occupant or your child from injury.

CAUTION

When using the seat belt extender, observe the following. Failure to fol- low these instructions could result in less effectiveness of the seat belt re- straint system in case of vehicle acci- dent, increasing the chance of per- sonal injury. (cid:1) Never use the seat belt extender if you can fasten the seat belt without it.

(cid:1) Remember that the extender pro- vided for you may not be safe when used on a different vehicle, or for another person or at a different seating position than the one origi- nally intended for.

To connect the extender to the seat belt, insert the tab into the seat belt buckle so that the “PRESS” signs on the buckle–release buttons of the ex- tender and the seat belt are both facing outward as shown. You will hear a click when the tab locks into the buckle. When releasing the seat belt, press on the buckle–release button on the extender, not on the seat belt. This helps prevent damage to the vehicle interior and extend- er itself. When not and store in the vehicle for future use.

in use, remove the extender

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

47

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

—Front seat belt pretensioners

The driver and front passenger’s seat belt pretensioners are designed to be activated in response to a severe fron- tal impact. When the airbag sensor detects the shock of a severe frontal impact, the front seat belts are quickly drawn back in by the retractors so that the belts snugly restrain the front seat occupants. The front seat belt pretensioners are acti- vated even with no passenger in the front seat. Collisions occurring at certain speeds and angles may cause the seat belt preten- sioners and SRS airbags not to operate all together.

This indicator comes on when the igni- tion key is turned to the “ON” position. It goes off after about 6 seconds. This means the front seat belt pretensioners are operating properly. This warning the airbag sensor assembly, front airbag sen- sors, front seat belt pretensioner assem- blies, inflators, warning light, interconnect- ing wiring and power sources. (For details, see indicators and warning buzzers” on page 90 in Section 1–5.)

light system monitors

reminder

“Service

The front seat belt pretensioner system mainly consists of the following compo- nents and their locations are shown in the illustration. 1. Front airbag sensors 2. SRS warning light 3. Front seat belt pretensioner assemblies 4. Airbag sensor assembly The front seat belt pretensioners are con- trolled by the airbag sensor assembly. The airbag sensor assembly consists of a saf- ing sensor and airbag sensor.

48

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When the front seat belt pretensioners are activated, an operating noise may be heard and a small amount of smoke–like gas may be released. This gas is harm- less and does not indicate that a fire is occurring. Once front seat belt pretensioners the have been activated, the seat belt retrac- tors remain locked.

CAUTION

Do not modify, remove, strike or open the front seat belt pretensioner as- semblies, airbag sensor or surround- ing area or wiring. Doing any of these may cause sudden operation of the front seat belt pretensioners or disable the system, which could re- sult in death or serious injury. Failure to follow these instructions can result in death or serious inju- ries.

NOTICE

Do not perform any of the following changes without consulting your Toyota dealer. Such changes can interfere with proper operation of the front seat belt pretensioners in some cases. (cid:2) Installation of electronic devices such as a mobile two–way radio, cassette tape player or compact disc player

(cid:2) Repairs on or near the front seat

belt retractor assemblies

(cid:2) Modification of the suspension sys-

tem

(cid:2) Modification of the front end struc-

ture

(cid:2) Attachment of a grille guard (bull bar, kangaroo bar, etc.), snowplow, winches or any other equipment to the front end

(cid:2) Repairs made on or near the front fenders, front end structure or con- sole

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

following

conditions occurs,

This front seat belt pretensioner system has a service reminder indicator to inform the driver of operating problems. If any of the this indicates a malfunction of the airbags or pretensioners. Contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible the vehicle. (cid:1) The light does not come on when the ignition key is turned to the “ON” posi- tion, or the light remains on.

to service

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

driving.

(cid:1) If either front seat belt does not retract or cannot be pulled out due to a mal- function or activation of the relevant front seat belt pretensioner.

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’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

SRS driver and front passenger airbags

The SRS (Supplemental Restraint Sys- tem) airbags are designed to provide further protection for the driver and front passenger in addition to the pri- mary safety protection provided by the seat belts. In response to a severe frontal impact, the SRS airbags work together with the seat belts to help reduce injury by inflat- ing. The SRS airbags help to reduce inju- ries mainly to the driver’s or front passen- ger’s head or chest caused by directly hitting the steering wheel or dashboard. The is activated even with no passenger in the front seat. Be sure to wear your seat belt properly.

front passenger airbag

Your vehicle is equipped with a crash sensing and diagnostic module, which will record the use of the seat belt restraint system by the driver and front passenger when the SRS airbags are inflated.

CAUTION

A driver or front passenger too close to the steering wheel or dashboard during airbag deployment can be killed or seriously injured. Toyota strongly recommends that: (cid:1) The driver sit as far back as pos- sible from the steering wheel while still maintaining control of the ve- hicle.

(cid:1) The front passenger sit as far back

as possible from the dashboard.

(cid:1) All vehicle occupants be properly restrained using the available seat belts.

In the following cases, contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible: (cid:1) The front part of the vehicle (shaded in the illustration) was involved in an accident that was not severe enough to cause the front seat belt pretensioners to operate.

(cid:1) Either front seat belt pretensioner as- sembly is scratched, cracked, or otherwise dam- aged.

surrounding

area

or

50

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

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this

However, threshold velocity will be considerably higher if the vehicle strikes an object, such as a parked vehicle or sign pole, which can move or deform on impact, or if it is involved in an underride collision (e.g. a collision in which the nose of the vehicle “underrides”, or goes under, the bed of a truck, etc.). It is possible that in some collisions at the lower zone of airbag sensor detection and activation the SRS airbags and front seat belt pretensioners will not operate all toge- ther. For the safety of all occupants, always wear your seat belts properly.

The SRS airbag system is designed to activate in response to a severe frontal impact within the shaded area between the arrows in the illustration. The SRS airbags will deploy if the severi- ty of the impact is above the designed threshold level, comparable to an approxi- mate 25 km/h (15 mph) collision when impacting straight into a fixed barrier that does not move or deform. If the severity of the impact is below the above threshold the SRS airbags may not deploy.

level,

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

51

This indicator comes on when the igni- tion key is turned to the “ON” position. It goes off after about 6 seconds. This means the SRS airbags are operating properly. This warning the airbag sensor assembly, front airbag sen- sors, front seat belt pretensioner assem- blies, inflators, warning light, interconnect- ing wiring and power sources. (For details, see indicators and warning buzzers” on page 90 in Section 1–5.)

light system monitors

reminder

“Service

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

Collision from the rear

Hitting a curb, edge of pavement or hard material

Falling into or jumping over a deep hole

Collision from the side

Vehicle rollover

Landing hard or vehicle falling

The SRS airbags are not designed to inflate if the vehicle is involved in a side or rear collision, if it rolls over, or if it is involved in a low–speed frontal collision.

The SRS airbags may deploy if a seri- ous impact occurs to the underside of your vehicle. Some examples are shown in the illustration.

52

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

The SRS airbag system consists mainly of the following components, and their loca- tions are shown in the illustration. 1. Front airbag sensors 2. SRS warning light 3. Airbag module for front passenger

(airbag and inflator)

4. Airbag sensor assembly 5. Airbag module for driver

(airbag and inflator)

The airbag sensor assembly consists of a safing sensor and airbag sensor.

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

the windshield as

A crash severe enough to inflate the air- bags may break the vehicle buckles. In vehicles with a pas- senger airbag the windshield may also be damaged by absorbing some of the force of the inflating airbag.

In a severe frontal impact, the sensors detect deceleration and the system trig- gers the airbag inflators. Then a chemical reaction in the inflators quickly fills the airbags with non–toxic gas to help restrain the forward motion of the occupants. When the airbags inflate, they produce a fairly loud noise and release some smoke and residue along with non–toxic gas. This does not indicate a fire. This gas is nor- mally harmless; however, for those who have delicate skin, it may cause a minor skin irritation. Be sure to wash off any residue as soon as possible to prevent any potential skin irritation. Deployment of the airbags happens in a fraction of a second, so the airbags must inflate with considerable force. While the system is designed to reduce serious inju- ries, it may also cause minor burns or abrasions and swelling. Parts of the airbag module (steering wheel hub, dashboard) may be hot for several minutes, but the airbags themselves will not be hot. The airbags are designed to inflate only once.

CAUTION

(cid:1) The SRS airbag system is designed only as a supplement to the prima- ry protection of the driver side and front passenger side seat belt sys- tems. The front seat occupants can be killed or seriously injured by the inflating airbags if they do not wear the available seat belts properly. During sudden braking just before a collision, an unrestrained driver or front passenger can move for- ward into direct contact with or close proximity to the airbag which may then deploy during the colli- sion. To ensure maximum protection in an accident, the driver and all passengers the vehicle must wear their seat belts properly. Wear- ing a seat belt properly during an the chances of accident reduces death or serious injury or being thrown out of the vehicle. For instructions and precautions con- cerning the seat belt system, see “Seat belts” on page 40 in this sec- tion.

in

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

53

restraint

(cid:1) Improperly seated and/or restrained infants and children can be killed or seriously injured by the deploy- ing airbags. An infant or child who is too small to use a seat belt should be properly secured using a child Toyota strongly recommends in- fants and children be placed in the rear seat of the vehicle and proper- ly restrained. The rear seat is the safest for infants and children. For instructions concerning the installa- tion of a child restraint system, see “Child restraint” on page 57 in this section.

that all

system.

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

Move seat fully back

(cid:1) Never put a rear–facing child re- straint system on the front passen- ger seat because the force of the rapid inflation of the front passen- ger airbag can cause death or seri- ous injury to the child.

(cid:1) A forward–facing child restraint sys- tem should be allowed to be put on the front passenger seat only when it is unavoidable. Always move the seat as far back as possible, be- cause the force of the deploying front passenger airbag could cause death or serious injury to the child. the installation of a child restraint sys- tem, see “Child restraint” on page 57 in this section.

instructions concerning

(cid:1) For

54

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(cid:1) Do not sit on the edge of the seat or lean over the dashboard when the vehicle is in use. The airbags inflate with considerable speed and force; you may be killed or serious- ly injured. Sit up straight and well back in the seat, and always use your seat belt properly.

(cid:1) Do not allow a child to stand up, or to kneel on the front passenger seat. The airbag inflates with con- siderable speed and force; the child may be killed or seriously injured. (cid:1) Do not hold a child on your lap or in your arms. Use a child restraint system in the rear seat. For instruc- tions concerning the installation of a child restraint system, see “Child restraint” on page 57 in this sec- tion.

(cid:1) Do not put objects or your pets on or in front of the dashboard or steering wheel pad that houses the airbag system. They might restrict inflation or cause death or serious injury as they are projected rear- ward by the force of the deploying airbags. Likewise, the driver and front passenger should not hold things in their arms or on their knees.

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’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

(cid:1) Do not modify or remove any wir- ing. Do not modify, remove, strike or open any components, such as the steering wheel pad, steering wheel, column cover, front passen- ger airbag cover, front passenger airbag or airbag sensor assembly. Doing any of these may cause sud- den SRS airbag inflation or disable the system, which could result in death or serious injury. instructions Failure to follow these can result in death or serious injury.

NOTICE

Do not perform any of the following changes without consulting your Toyota dealer. Such changes can interfere with proper operation of the SRS airbag system in some cases. (cid:2) Installation of electronic devices such as a mobile two–way radio, cassette tape player or compact disc player

(cid:2) Modification of the suspension sys-

tem

(cid:2) Modification of the front end struc-

ture

(cid:2) Attachment of a grille guard (bull bar, kangaroo bar, etc.), snowplow, winches or any other equipment to the front end

(cid:2) Repairs made on or near the front fenders, front end structure, con- sole, steering column, steering wheel or dashboard near the front passenger airbag

56

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

This SRS airbag system has a service reminder indicator to inform the driver of operating problems. If either of the follow- ing conditions occurs, indicates a malfunction of the airbags. Contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible to service the vehicle. (cid:1) The light does not come on when the ignition key is turned to the “ON” posi- tion, or the light remains on.

this

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

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

Child restraint— —Child restraint precautions Toyota strongly urges the use of child restraint systems for children small enough to use them. The laws of all fifty states in the U.S.A. and Canada now require the use of a child restraint system. Your vehicle conforms to SAEJ1819. If a child is too large for a child restraint system, the child should sit in the rear seat and must be restrained using the vehicle’s seat belt. See “Seat belts” on page 40 for details.

CAUTION

(cid:1) For effective protection in automo- bile accidents and sudden stops, child must be properly restrained using a seat belt or child restraint system depending on the age and size of the child. Holding a child in your arms is not a substitute for a child restraint system. In an acci- dent, the child can be crushed against the windshield, or between you and the vehicle’s interior.

(cid:1) Toyota strongly urges use of a proper child restraint system which conforms to the size of the child, and is put on the rear seat. Accord- ing to accident statistics, the child is safer when properly restrained in the rear seat than in the front seat. (cid:1) Never put a rear–facing child re- straint system on the front seat. In the event of an accident, the force of the rapid inflation of the airbag can cause death or serious injury if a rear–facing child restraint system is put on the front seat.

(cid:1) Unless it is unavoidable, do not put a forward–facing child restraint sys- tem on the front seat.

(cid:1) A forward–facing child restraint sys- tem should be allowed to put on the front seat only when it is un- avoidable. Always move the seat as far back as possible, because the force of the deploying airbag could cause death or serious injury to the child.

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

57

In the following cases, contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible: (cid:1) The SRS airbags have been inflated. (cid:1) The front part of the vehicle (shaded in the illustration) was involved in an accident that was not severe enough to cause the SRS airbags to inflate.

front

(cid:1) The pad section of the steering wheel or cover (shaded in the illustration) is scratched, cracked, or otherwise damaged.

passenger

airbag

NOTICE

Do not disconnect the battery cables before contacting your Toyota dealer.

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

(cid:1) Make sure that you have complied with all installation instructions pro- vided restraint manufacturer and that the system is properly secured.

child

the

by

—Child restraint system A child restraint system for a small child or baby must itself be properly restrained on the seat with the lap por- tion of the lap/shoulder belt. You must carefully consult the manufacturer’s instructions which accompany the child restraint system. To provide proper restraint, use a child restraint system following the manufactur- er’s instructions about the appropriate age and size of the child for the child restraint system. Install the child restraint system correctly following the instructions provided by its manufacturer. General directions are also provided under the following illustrations. restraint system should be The child installed on the rear seat. According to accident statistics, the child is safer when properly restrained in the rear seat than in the front seat.

58

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

CAUTION

(cid:1) Never put a rear–facing child re- straint system on the front seat. In the event of an accident, the force of the rapid inflation of the airbag can cause death or serious injury if a rear–facing child restraint system is put on the front seat.

(cid:1) Unless it is unavoidable, do not put a forward–facing child restraint sys- tem on the front seat.

(cid:1) A forward–facing child restraint sys- tem should be allowed to put on the front seat only when it is un- avoidable. Always move the seat as far back as possible, because the force of the deploying airbag could cause death or serious injury to the child. (cid:1) After

installing the child restraint system, make sure it is secured in place following the manufacturer’s instructions. If it is not restrained securely, it may cause death or se- rious the event of a sudden stop or accident.

the child

injury

to

in

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

When not using the child restraint system, keep it secured with the seat belt or place it somewhere other the passenger compartment. This will prevent it from in- juring passengers in the event of a sud- den stop or accident.

than

—Types of child restraint system Child restraint systems are classified into the following 3 types depending on the child’s age and size. (A) Infant seat (B) Convertible seat (C) Booster seat Install the child restraint system following the instructions provided by its manufac- turer. Your vehicle has anchor brackets for se- curing the top strap of a child restraint system. For instructions about how to use the an- chor bracket, see “—Using a top strap” on page 69 in this section. The child restraint lower anchorages ap- proved for your vehicle may also be used. See “—Installation with child restraint low- er anchorages” on page 72 in this section.

(A) Infant seat

(B) Convertible seat

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

59

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—Installation with seat belt

(C) Booster seat

(A) INFANT SEAT INSTALLATION An infant seat is used in rear–facing position only.

CAUTION

(cid:1) Never put a rear–facing child re- straint system on the front passen- ger seat because the force of the rapid inflation of the front passen- ger airbag can cause death or seri- ous injury to the child.

60

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

Same position

Same angle

(cid:1) When

installing a child restraint system in the rear center position, adjust both seat cushions to the same position and align both seat- backs at the same angle. Otherwise, the child restraint system cannot be securely restrained and this may cause serious injuries in a collision.

1. Run the lap and shoulder belt through or around the infant seat following the instructions provided by its manufactur- er and insert the tab into the buckle taking care not to twist the belt. Keep the lap portion of the belt tight.

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

61

(cid:1) Do not put a rear–facing child re- straint system on the rear seat if it interferes with the lock mechanism of the front seats. This can cause severe injury to the child and front passenger in case of sudden brak- ing or a collision.

(cid:1) If your driving position is not satis- the child restraint

factory, system at another position.

install

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

CAUTION

(cid:1) After inserting the tab, make sure the tab and buckle are locked and that the lap and shoulder portions of the belt are not twisted.

(cid:1) Do not insert coins, clips, etc. in the buckle as this may prevent you from properly latching the tab and buckle.

(cid:1) If the seat belt does not function it cannot protect your normally, child injury. Contact your Toyota dealer immediately. Do not use the seat until the seat belt is fixed.

from

2. Fully extend the shoulder belt to put it in the lock mode. When the belt is then retracted even slightly, it cannot be extended.

the

To hold infant seat securely, make sure the belt is in the lock mode before letting the belt retract.

3. While pressing the infant seat

firmly against the seat cushion and seatback, let the shoulder belt retract as far as it will go to hold the infant seat secure- ly.

62

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

CAUTION

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

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

freely again and be ready

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

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

63

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

Move seat fully back

CAUTION

(cid:1) Never put a rear–facing child re- straint system on the front passen- ger seat because the force of the rapid inflation of the front passen- ger airbag can cause death or seri- ous injury to the child.

(cid:1) A forward–facing child restraint sys- tem should be allowed to be put on the front passenger seat only when it is unavoidable. Always move the seat as far back as possible, be- cause the force of the deploying front passenger airbag could cause death or serious injury to the child.

64

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

(cid:1) Do not put a rear–facing child re- straint system on the rear seat if it interferes with the lock mechanism of the front seats. This can cause severe injury to the child and front passenger in case of sudden brak- ing or a collision.

(cid:1) If your driving position is not satis- the child restraint

factory, system at another position.

install

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

Same position

Same angle

(cid:1) When

installing a child restraint system in the rear center position, adjust both seat cushions to the same position and align both seat- backs at the same angle. Otherwise, the child restraint system cannot be securely restrained and this may cause serious injuries in a collision.

1. Run the lap and shoulder belt through or around the convertible seat following its the instructions manufacturer and into the buckle taking care not to twist the belt. Keep the lap portion of the belt tight.

provided insert the

by tab

CAUTION

(cid:1) After inserting the tab, make sure the tab and buckle are locked and that the lap and shoulder portions of the belt are not twisted.

(cid:1) Do not insert coins, clips, etc. in the buckle as this may prevent you from properly latching the tab and buckle.

(cid:1) If the seat belt does not function it cannot protect your normally, child injury. Contact your Toyota dealer immediately. Do not use the seat until the seat belt is fixed.

from

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

65

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

2. Fully extend the shoulder belt to put it in the lock mode. When the belt is then retracted slightly, it cannot be ex- tended. To hold the convertible seat securely, make sure the belt is in the lock mode before letting the belt retract.

3. While pressing

the convertible seat firmly against the seat cushion and seatback, let the shoulder belt retract as far as it will go to hold the convert- ible seat securely.

CAUTION

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

66

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

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

freely again and be ready

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

Move seat fully back

CAUTION

(cid:1) A forward–facing child restraint sys- tem should be allowed to be put on the front passenger seat only when it is unavoidable. Always move the seat as far back as possible, be- cause the force of the deploying front passenger airbag could cause death or serious injury to the child.

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

67

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

Same position

Same angle

(cid:1) When

installing a child restraint system in the rear center position, adjust both seat cushions to the same position and align both seat- backs at the same angle. Otherwise, the child restraint system cannot be securely restrained and this may cause serious injuries in a collision.

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

insert

tab

the

Make sure the shoulder belt is correctly across the child’s shoulder and that the lap belt is positioned as low as possible on child’s hips. See “Seat belts” on page 40 for details.

CAUTION

(cid:1) Always make sure the shoulder belt is positioned across the center of child’s shoulder. The belt should be kept away from child’s neck, but not falling off child’s shoulder. Fail- ure the amount of protection in an accident and cause serious injuries in a col- lision.

to do so could reduce

(cid:1) Both high–positioned lap belts and loose–fitting belts could cause seri- ous injuries due to sliding under the lap belt during a collision or other unintended. Keep the lap belt positioned as low on a child’s hips as possible.

(cid:1) For child’s safety, do not place the

shoulder belt under child’s arm.

(cid:1) After inserting the tab, make sure the tab and buckle are locked and that the lap and shoulder portions of the belt are not twisted.

(cid:1) Do not insert coins, clips, etc. in the buckle as this may prevent your child from properly latching the tab and buckle.

68

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

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—Using a top strap

(cid:1) If the seat belt does not function normally, it cannot protect your child injury. Contact your Toyota dealer immediately. Do not use the seat until the seat belt is fixed.

from

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

Outside position

Center position (U.S.A. only)

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

69

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

For U.S.A.— Use the anchor brackets behind the rear seatbacks and on the luggage compart- ment to attach the top strap. Anchor brackets are rear seating position. For Canada— Use the anchor brackets behind the rear seatbacks to attach the top strap. Anchor brackets are installed for both out- side rear seating positions.

installed

for each

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

Anchor brackets

Anchor brackets

U.S.A.

Canada

70

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

2. Fix the child restraint system with

the seat belt. Center anchor bracket only— Run the top strap through between both seatbacks. Latch bracket and tighten the top strap.

the hook onto

the anchor

instructions

For the child re- straint system, see “Child restraint” on page 57 in this section.

install

to

TO USE THE ANCHOR BRACKET: 1. Outside anchor brackets only—

Remove the head restraint.

Outside position

Center position (U.S.A. only)

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

CAUTION

(cid:1) When you use the center anchor bracket, make sure the top strap runs through between both seat- backs and tighten it. The top strap on seatback could cause death or serious to abnormal moving of the child restraint system in case of sudden braking or a col- lision.

injury due

(cid:1) Make sure the top strap is securely latched, and check that the child restraint system is secure by push- ing and pulling it in different direc- tions. Follow all the installation in- structions provided by its manufac- turer.

71

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

—Installation with child restraint lower anchorages

3. Outside anchor brackets only—

Replace the head restraint.

interfaced with

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

72

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

Type A

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

RESTRAINT

SYSTEM

CAUTION

CHILD INSTALLATION Type A— 1. Widen

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

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

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

2. Latch the buckles onto the anchor-

ages.

it should be anchored. (For

If your child restraint system has a top strap, the installation of the top strap, see “—Using a top strap” on page 69 in this section.) For to the instruction manual equipped with each product.

the installation details, refer

Type B

(cid:1) When using the lower anchorages for the child restraint system, be sure that there are no irregular ob- jects around the anchorages or that the seat belt is not caught.

(cid:1) Push and pull the child restraint system in different directions to be sure is secure. Follow all the installation instructions provided by its manufacturer.

it

(cid:1) When using the lower anchorages for the child restraint system, en- sure that the seat is moved to the rear–most position, with the seat- back close to the child restraint system.

(cid:1) After securing

the child restraint system, never slide or recline the seat.

(cid:1) Do not put a child restraint system on the rear seat if it interferes with the lock mechanism of the front seats. This can cause severe injury to the child and front passenger in case of sudden braking or a colli- sion.

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

73

’01 Rav4_U (L/O 0008)

Tilt steering wheel

Outside rear view mirrors—

CAUTION

(cid:1) Do not adjust the steering wheel while the vehicle is moving. It may cause the driver to mishandle the vehicle and an accident may occur resulting in death or serious inju- ries.

(cid:1) After adjusting the steering wheel, try moving it up and down to make sure it is locked in position.

To change the steering wheel angle, hold the steering wheel, push down the lock the steering wheel to the desired angle and return the lever to its original position.

release

lever,

tilt

Adjust the mirror so that you can just see the side of your vehicle in the mir- ror. Be careful when judging the size or dis- tance of any object seen in the outside rear view mirror on the passenger’s side. It is a convex mirror with a curved sur- face. Any object seen in a convex mirror will look smaller and farther away than when seen in a flat mirror. On some models, when you push the rear window defogger switch, the heater panels in the outside rear view mirrors will quick- ly clear the mirror surface.

74

2001 RAV4 (OM42483U)

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—Power rear view mirror control

—Folding rear view mirrors

CAUTION

(cid:1) Do not adjust the mirror while the vehicle is moving. It may cause the driver to mishandle the vehicle and an accident may occur resulting in death or serious injuries.

(cid:1) Since the mirror surfaces can get hot, keep your hands off them when the defogger switch is on.

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

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

2. Control switch—To move the mirror

Push the switch in the desired direc- tion.