2004 Toyota RAV4 Owners Manual

Rear

258

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 tempo- rarily towed by a cable or chain se- cured to the emergency towing eyelets under the front of the vehicle or the left emergency towing eyelet under the rear of the vehicle. Use extreme caution when towing vehicle. Vehicles with an automatic transmis- sion, use only the front towing eyelet when towing your vehicle.

NOTICE

(cid:1) Only use specified towing eyelet; otherwise your vehicle may be dam- aged.

(cid:1) Vehicles with an automatic trans- mission, never tow a vehicle from the rear with four wheels on the ground. This may cause serious damage to the transmission.

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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 pow- er assist for the brakes and steering will not work so steering and braking will be much harder than usual.

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 the wheels, axles, drive train, steering and brakes must all be in good condition.

low speeds. Also,

CAUTION

Use extreme caution when towing ve- hicles. Avoid sudden starts or erratic driving maneuvers which would place excessive stress on the emergency towing eyelet and towing cable or chain. The 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.

—Emergency towing eyelet precautions (cid:1) Before emergency

towing, check

that the eyelet is not broken or damaged and that the installation bolts are not loose.

(cid:1) Fasten the towing cable or chain se-

curely to the eyelet.

(cid:1) Do not jerk the eyelet. Apply steady

and even force.

(cid:1) To avoid damaging the eyelet, do not the side or at a vertical

pull angle. Always pull straight ahead.

from

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CAUTION

towing eyelet

the emergency

If is used to get out when your vehicle becomes struck in mud, sand or oth- er condition from which the vehicle cannot be driven out under its own power, make sure to observe the pre- cautions mentioned below. Otherwise, excessive stress will be put on the eyelet and the towing cable or chain may break, causing serious injury or damage. the (cid:1) If

towing vehicle can hardly move, do not forcibly continue the towing. Contact your Toyota dealer or a commercial tow truck service for assistance.

(cid:1) Tow the vehicle as straight ahead

as possible.

(cid:1) Keep away from the vehicle during

towing.

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If you cannot shift automatic transmission selector lever

—Tips for towing a stuck vehicle The following methods are effective to get out when your vehicle is struck in mud, sand or other condition from which the vehicle cannot be driven out under its own power. Use extreme caution when towing vehicles. In addition, keep away from the vehicles and towing cable or chain when towing. (cid:1) Remove the soil and sand in the front

and the back of the tires.

(cid:1) Place a stone or wood under the tires.

though

If you cannot shift the selector lever out of “P” position to other positions even is de- pressed, use the shift lock override but- ton as follows: 1. Turn

the brake pedal

ignition key

the

to “LOCK” the parking

position. Make sure brake is applied.

2. Pry up the cover with a flat- bladed

screwdriver or equivalent.

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If you lose your keys You can purchase a new key at your Toyota dealer if you can give them the key number. If your vehicle is equipped with the engine immobilizer system, the dealer will also need your master key. Vehicles with engine immobilizer system— Even if you lose only one key, contact your Toyota dealer to make a new key. If you lose all your master keys, you cannot make new keys; the whole engine immobi- lizer system must be replaced. See page 10 in Section 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, using If you must break a window in, we suggest breaking the smallest side window be- cause it is the least expensive to replace. Be extremely cautious to avoid cuts from the glass.

the suggestion given in “Keys” on

their special

to get

tools.

If you lose your wireless remote control transmitter You can purchase a new wireless re- mote control transmitter at your Toyota dealer. Have the registered identification numbers of your transmitters deleted from your ve- hicle by your Toyota dealer as soon as possible to avoid the possibility of theft or an accident. Then, have the identification number of your new transmitter registered. At the same time, you must bring all of the remaining transmitters to have them registered again as well. You can use the wireless remote control system with the new transmitter. Contact your Toyota dealer for detailed information.

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3. Insert your finger into the hole to push down the shift lock override button. You can shift out of “P” position only while pushing the but- ton.

4. Shift into “N” position. 5. Insert the cover. 6. Start the engine. For your safety,

keep the brake pedal depressed.

Be sure to have the system checked by your Toyota dealer as soon as possible.

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SECTION 5

CORROSION PREVENTION AND APPEARANCE CARE Corrosion prevention and appearance care Protecting your Toyota from corrosion Washing and waxing your Toyota Cleaning the interior

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

264
265
267

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Protecting your Toyota from corrosion Toyota, through the diligent research, de- sign and use of the most advanced technology available, helps prevent corro- sion and provides you with the finest qual- ity 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 corrosion to your vehicle are: (cid:1) The accumulation of road salt, dirt and moisture in hard- to- reach areas under the vehicle.

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

Care is especially important if you live in particular areas or operate your ve- hicle under certain environmental condi- tions: (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 es- pecially when temperatures range just above the freezing point.

264

(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 ambient temperatures can cause corrosion to those components of the vehicle which do not dry quickly 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 dam- age to paint or protective coatings as soon as possible. To help prevent corrosion on your Toyota, 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

the winter or if you live near the ocean, you should hose off the undercarriage at least once a month to minimize cor- rosion.

in

(cid:1) High pressure water or steam is effec- tive for cleaning the vehicle’s underside and wheel housings. Pay particular 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. 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.

(cid:1) Wash the underside of the vehicle thor-

oughly when winter is over.

See “Washing and waxing your Toyota” on page 265 for more tips. Check the condition of your vehicle’s paint and trim. If you find any chips or scratches in the paint, touch them up im- mediately to prevent corrosion from start- ing. If the chips or scratches have gone through the bare metal, have a qualified body shop make the repair.

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Check the interior of your vehicle. Wa- ter and dirt can accumulate under the floor mats and could cause corrosion. Oc- casionally check under the mats to make sure the area is dry. Be particularly care- ful when transporting chemicals, cleans- ers, fertilizers, salt, etc; these should be transported in proper containers. If a spill or leak should occur, immediately clean and dry the area. Use mud shields on your wheels. If you drive on salted or gravel roads, mud shields help protect your vehicle. Full- size shields, which come as near to the ground as possible, are the best. We recommend 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 installing the shields if they are recommended for your area. Keep your vehicle in a well ventilated garage or a roofed place. Do not park your vehicle in a damp, poorly venti- lated garage. If you wash your vehicle in the garage, or if you drive it covered with water or snow, your garage may be so damp as to cause corrosion. Even if your garage is heated, a wet vehicle can cor- rode if the ventilation is poor.

Washing and waxing your Toyota Washing your Toyota Keep your vehicle clean by regular washing. The following cases may cause weakness to the paint or corrosion to the body and parts. Wash your vehicle as soon as pos- sible. (cid:1) When driving in a coastal area (cid:1) When driving on a road sprinkled with

antifreeze

(cid:1) When exposed to coal tar, tree sap, bird droppings and carcass of an insect (cid:1) When driving in areas where there is a lot of smoke, soot, dust, iron dust or chemical substances

(cid:1) When the vehicle becomes remarkably

dirty with dust and mud Hand- washing your Toyota Work in the shade and wait until the vehicle body is not hot to the touch.

CAUTION

When cleaning under floor or chassis, be careful not to injure your hands.

1. Rinse off loose dirt with a hose. Re- move any mud or road salt from the underside of the wheel wells.

the vehicle or

in

2. Wash with a mild car- wash soap, mixed according to the manufacturer’s instructions. 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.

Plastic wheel ornaments: The plastic wheel ornaments are damaged easily by organic substances. If any organic sub- stances splashes an ornament, be sure to wash it off with water and check if the ornament is damaged.

CAUTION

Do not attach the heavily damaged plastic wheel ornament. It may fly off the wheel and cause accidents while the vehicle is moving.

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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 turpentine or cleaners that are marked safe for painted surfaces.

tar: Remove with

NOTICE

Do not use organic substances (gaso- line, kerosene, benzine or strong sol- vents), which may be toxic or cause damage.

3. Rinse

thoroughly—dried

can cause streaking. In hot weather you may need to rinse each section right after you wash it.

soap

4. To prevent water spots, dry the vehicle using a clean soft cotton towel. Do not rub or press hard—you might scratch the paint.

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Automatic car wash Your vehicle may be washed in an auto- matic car wash, but remember that the paint can be scratched by some types of brushes, unfiltered washing 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 wheth- er the process is safe for the paint on your vehicle.

NOTICE

To prevent damage to the antenna, make sure it is removed before driv- ing your Toyota through an automatic car wash.

Waxing your Toyota Polishing and waxing is recommended to maintain the original beauty of your Toyota’s finish. Apply wax once a month or if the vehicle surface does not repel water well. 1. Always wash and dry the vehicle be- fore you begin waxing, even if you are using 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, fol- lowed by a separate wax. Carefully fol- low the manufacturer’s instructions and precautions. Be sure to polish and wax the chrome trim as well as the paint. the vehicle again when water does not bead but remains on the sur- face in large patches.

3. Wax

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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Cleaning the interior

CAUTION

(cid:1) Vehicles with side airbags and cur-

tain shield airbags: Be careful not to splash water or spill liquid on the floor. This may prevent the side airbag and curtain shield airbag from activating cor- rectly, resulting in serious injury.

(cid:1) Do not wash the vehicle floor with water, or allow water to get onto the floor when cleaning the vehicle interior or exterior. Water may get into audio components or other electrical components above or un- der 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 vinyl. 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 do not come off, re- peat the procedure. Commercial foaming- type vinyl cleaners are also available which work well. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

NOTICE

Do not use solvent, thinner, gasoline or window cleaner on the interior.

to

foam- type shampoo

Carpets Use a good clean the carpets. Begin by vacuuming thoroughly to remove 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 water to pro- duce 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

(cid:1) Do not use dye or bleach on the

belts—it may weaken them.

(cid:1) Do not use the belts until they be-

come dry.

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

NOTICE

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

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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 dirt.

NOTICE

(cid:1) Do not use organic substances (sol- vents, kerosene, alcohol, gasoline, etc.) or alkaline or acidic solutions. These chemicals can cause discol- oring, staining or peeling of the surface.

(cid:1) If you use cleaners or polishing agents, make sure their ingredients do not include the substances men- tioned above.

(cid:1) If you use a liquid car freshener, do not apply the liquid onto the ve- hicle’s interior surfaces. It may con- tain the ingredients mentioned above. Immediately clean any spill using the method mentioned above.

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

NOTICE

(cid:1) If a stain should fail to come out with a neutral detergent, apply a cleaner that does not contain an organic solvent.

(cid:1) Never use organic substances such as benzine, alcohol or gasoline, or alkaline or acid solutions for clean- ing the leather as these could cause discoloring.

(cid:1) Use of a nylon brush or synthetic fiber cloth, etc. may scratch the fine grained surface of the leather.

(cid:1) Mildew may develop on soiled leath- er upholstery. Be especially careful to avoid oil spots. Try to keep your upholstery always clean.

(cid:1) 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:1) 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:1) Improper cleaning of the leather up- holstery could result in discolor- ation or staining.

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

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SECTION 6

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND CARE Vehicle maintenance and care Maintenance requirements General maintenance Does your vehicle need repairing? Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) programs

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270
271
273
274

For scheduled maintenance information, please refer to the “Sched- uled Maintenance Guide” or “Owner’s Manual Supplement”.

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Maintenance requirements Your Toyota vehicle has been designed for fewer maintenance requirements with long- er service intervals to save both your time and money. However, each regular mainte- nance, as well as day- to- day care, is more important than ever before to ensure smooth, trouble- free, safe, and economical drivings. It is the owner’s responsibility to make sure the specified maintenance, including general maintenance service, is performed. Note that both the new vehicle and emis- sion control system warranties specify that proper maintenance and care must be per- formed. See “Owner’s Warranty Informa- tion Booklet” or “Owner’s Manual Supple- ment” for complete warranty information. General maintenance General maintenance items are those day- to- day care practices that are important 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.

270

Scheduled maintenance The scheduled maintenance items listed in the “Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or “Owner’s Manual Supplement” are those required to be serviced at regular inter- vals. For details of your maintenance schedule, read the “Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or “Owner’s Manual Supplement”. It is recommended that any replacement parts used for maintenance or for the repair of the emission control system be Toyota supplied. The owner may elect to use non- Toyota supplied parts replacement pur- poses without invalidating the emission control system warranty. However, use of replacement parts which are not of equivalent quality may impair the effec- tiveness of the emission control sys- tems. You may also elect to have mainte- nance, replacement, or repair of the emission control devices and system performed by any automotive repair es- tablishment or individual without invali- dating this warranty. See “Owner’s War- ranty Information Booklet” or “Owner’s Manual Supplement” for complete war- ranty information.

for

Where to go for service? Toyota technicians are well- trained spe- cialists and are kept up to date with the latest 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. If any prob- lems 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 maintenance? 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 on page 275 in Section 7.

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If you are a skilled do- it- yourself mechan- ic, the Toyota service manuals are recom- mended. Please be aware that do- it- your- self maintenance can affect your warranty coverage. See “Owner’s Warranty Informa- tion Booklet” or “Owner’s Manual Supple- ment” for the details.

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the

items

listed,

General maintenance Listed below are the general maintenance items that should be performed as fre- quently as specified. In addition to check- ing if you notice any unusual noise, smell or vibration, you should investigate the cause or take your vehicle to your Toyota dealer or a quali- fied service shop immediately. It is recom- mended 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 with ade- quate ventilation if you run the en- gine.

IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT Items listed below should be checked from time to time, e.g. each time when refueling. Washer fluid Make sure there is sufficient fluid in the tank. See page 303 in Section 7- 3 for additional information.

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 page 286 in Section 7- 2 for addition- al information. Radiator, condenser and hoses Check that the front of the radiator and condenser are clean and not blocked with leaves, dirt, or insects. See page 287 in Section 7- 2 for additional information. Battery electrolyte level Your Toyota has a maintenance free bat- tery. You do not have to add distilled wa- ter. For longer life of the battery, however, see page 300 for additional information. Brake fluid level Make sure the brake fluid level is correct. See page 288 in Section 7- 2 for addition- al information. Engine oil level Check the level on the dipstick with the engine turned off and the vehicle parked on a level spot. See page 284 in Section 7- 2 for additional information.

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Power steering fluid level Check the level through the reservoir. The level should be in the “HOT” or “COLD” range depending on the fluid temperature. See page 288 in Section 7- 2 for addition- al 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” on page 201 in Section 2.) INSIDE THE VEHICLE Items listed below should be checked regularly, e.g. while performing periodic services, cleaning the vehicle, etc. Lights Make sure the headlights, stop lights, tail lights, turn signal lights, and other lights are all working. Service reminder indicators and warning buzzers Check that all service reminder indicators and warning buzzers function properly. Steering wheel Check that it has the specified free play. Be alert for changes in steering condition, such as hard steering or strange noise. 272

Seats Check that all seat controls such as seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. operate smoothly and that all latches lock securely in any position. For folding- up rear seat- backs, check that the latches lock secure- ly. 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 In 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” mecha- nism Check the lock release button of the se- lector lever for proper and smooth opera- tion. On a safe incline, check that your vehicle is held securely with the selector lever in “P” position and all brakes re- leased. OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE Items listed below should be performed from time, unless otherwise specified. Fluid leaks Check underneath for leaking fuel, oil, wa- ter or other 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.

fluid after

time

to

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Tire inflation pressure Check the pressure with a gauge ev- ery two weeks, or at least once a month. See page 291 in Section 7- 2
for additional information. Tire surface and wheel nuts Check the tires carefully for cuts, damage or excessive wear. See page 293 in Section 7- 2 for additional in- formation. 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 according to the maintenance schedule. (For sched- uled maintenance information, please refer to the “Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or “Owner’s Manual Supple- ment”.) See page 295 in Section 7- 2
for additional information.

tip- offs

for changes

Does your vehicle need repairing? Be on the alert in perfor- mance, sounds, and visual that indicate service is needed. Some impor- tant 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 monoxide leak. Drive with the windows open and have the exhaust system checked im- mediately.)

(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 continually

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 ve- hicle unchecked. It could result in se- rious vehicle damage and possibly personal injury.

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The malfunction indicator lamp will go off after taking several driving trips, but the error code in the OBD system will not be cleared unless about 40 trips or more are taken. If your vehicle does not pass the I/M test even the malfunction indicator lamp does not come on, contact your Toyota dealer to prepare the vehicle for re- testing.

indicator

the malfunction

in- include OBD

Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) programs Some states have vehicle emission spection programs which (On- Board Diagnostics) checks. The OBD system monitors the operation of the emission control system. When the OBD system determines that a problem exists somewhere in the emission control system, lamp comes on. In this case, your vehicle may the I/M test and need to be not pass repaired. Contact your Toyota dealer to service the vehicle. Even lamp does not come on, your vehicle may not pass readiness codes have not been set in the OBD system. Readiness codes are automatically set during ordinary driving. However, when the battery is disconnected or run down, the codes are erased. Also, depending on your driving habits, the codes may not be completely set. Also, if the malfunction indicator lamp had come on recently due to temporary mal- function such as a loose fuel tank cap, your vehicle may not pass the I/M test.

the malfunction

indicator

test as

I/M

the

if

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SECTION 7- 1

DO- IT- YOURSELF MAINTENANCE Introduction Engine compartment overview Fuse locations Do- it- yourself service precautions Parts and tools Positioning the jack

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

276
277
277
279
280

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Engine compartment overview

1. Battery 2. Power steering fluid reservoir 3. Engine oil filler cap 4. Brake fluid reservoir 5. Fuse block 6. Engine coolant reservoir 7. Radiator 8. Condenser 9. Electric cooling fans 10. Engine oil level dipstick 11. Windshield and rear window washer

fluid tank

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Fuse locations

Spare fuses

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Do- it- yourself service precautions If you perform maintenance by yourself, be sure to follow the correct procedure given in this Section. You should be aware that improper or in- complete servicing may result in operating problems. Performing do- it- yourself maintenance during the warranty period may affect your warranty coverage. Read the separate Toyota Warranty statement for details and suggestions. This Section gives for those items that are relatively easy for an owner to perform. As explained in Section 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” on page 279 in this Section. 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:

instructions only

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CAUTION

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

(Removing

belts.

(cid:1) Right after driving,

the engine compartment—the engine, radiator, exhaust manifold, power steering fluid reservoir and spark plug boots, etc.—will be hot. So be care- ful not to touch them. Oil, fluids and spark plugs may also be hot.

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

(cid:1) Do not

leave anything

that may burn easily, such as paper or rags, in the engine compartment.

(cid:1) Do not smoke, cause sparks or al- low open flames around fuel or the battery. Their fumes are flammable. (cid:1) Do not get under your vehicle with just the body jack supporting it. Al- ways use automotive jack stands or other solid supports.

278

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

(cid:1) Use eye protection whenever you work on or under your vehicle where you may be exposed to flying or falling material, fluid spray, etc. (cid:1) Used engine oil contains potentially harmful contaminants which may cause skin disorders such as in- flammation or skin cancer, so care should be taken to avoid prolonged and repeated contact with it. To re- move used engine oil from your skin, wash thoroughly with soap and water.

(cid:1) Do not

leave used oil within the

reach of children.

(cid:1) Dispose of used oil and filter only in a safe and acceptable manner. Do not dispose of used oil and fil- ter in household trash, in sewers or onto the ground. Call your dealer or a service station information concerning recycling or disposal.

for

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

NOTICE

(cid:1) Remember that battery and ignition cable carry high currents or volt- ages. Be careful of accidentally causing a short circuit.

(cid:1) Add only “Toyota Super Long Life Coolant” or similar high quality eth- ylene glycol based non-silicate, non-amine, non-nitrite, and non-bo- rate coolant with long-life hybrid organic acid technology to fill the radiator. “Toyota Super Long Life Coolant” is a mixture of 50% cool- ant and 50% deionized water.

(cid:1) If you spill some of the coolant, be sure to wash it off with water to prevent it from damaging the parts or paint.

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(cid:1) Do not allow dirt or anything else to fall through the spark plug holes. (cid:1) Use only spark plugs of the speci- fied type. Using other types will cause engine damage, loss of per- formance or radio noise.

(cid:1) Do not reuse iridium-tipped spark

plugs by cleaning or regapping.

(cid:1) Do not overfill automatic transmis- sion fluid, or the transmission could be damaged.

(cid:1) Do not drive with the air cleaner filter removed, or excessive engine wear could result. Also backfiring could cause a fire in the engine compartment.

(cid:1) Be careful not to scratch the glass

surface with the wiper frame.

(cid:1) 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 to perform do- it- yourself mainte- nance. Remember all Toyota parts are de- signed in metric sizes, so your tools must be metric. CHECKING THE ENGINE OIL LEVEL Parts (if level is low): (cid:1) “Toyota Genuine Motor Oil” or equiva-

lent See page 284 in Section 7- 2 for de- tails about engine oil selection.

Tools: (cid:1) Rag or paper towel (cid:1) Funnel (only for adding oil) CHECKING THE ENGINE COOLANT LEVEL Parts (if level is low): (cid:1) “Toyota Super Long Life Coolant” or similar high quality ethylene glycol based non- silicate, non- amine, non- ni- trite, and non- borate coolant with long- life hybrid organic acid technology. “Toyota Super Long Life Coolant” is a mixture of 50% coolant and 50% deion- ized water.

Tools: (cid:1) Funnel (only for adding coolant)

CHECKING BRAKE FLUID Parts (if level is low): (cid:1) SAE J1703 or FMVSS No.116 DOT 3

brake fluid

Tools: (cid:1) Rag or paper towel (cid:1) Funnel (only for adding fluid) CHECKING POWER STEERING FLUID Parts (if level is low): (cid:1) Automatic transmission fluid DEXRON(cid:2)II

or III

Tools: (cid:1) Rag or paper towel (cid:1) Funnel (only for adding fluid) CHECKING BATTERY CONDITION Tools: (cid:1) Warm water (cid:1) Baking soda (cid:1) Grease (cid:1) Conventional wrench

(for

terminal

clamp bolts)

CHECKING AND REPLACING FUSES Parts (if replacement is necessary): (cid:1) Fuse with same amperage rating as

original

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Positioning the jack

ADDING WASHER FLUID Parts: (cid:1) Water (cid:1) Washer fluid containing antifreeze

(for winter use)

Tools: (cid:1) Funnel REPLACING LIGHT BULBS Parts: (cid:1) Bulb with same number and wattage rating as original in “Replacing light bulbs” on page 304 in Section 7- 3.)

charts

(See

Tools: (cid:1) Screwdriver

280

Front

Rear (four- wheel drive models)

Rear (two- wheel drive models)

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When jacking up your vehicle with the jack, position jack correctly as shown in the illustrations.

the

CAUTION

When jacking, be sure to observe the following to reduce the possibility of personal injury: (cid:1) Follow jacking instructions. (cid:1) Do not put any part of your body under the vehicle supported by the jack. Personal injury may occur.

(cid:1) Do not start or run the engine while is supported by the

your vehicle jack.

(cid:1) Never get under the vehicle when the vehicle is supported by the jack alone; use vehicle support stands. (cid:1) Do not raise the vehicle with some-

one in the vehicle.

(cid:1) When raising the vehicle, do not place any objects on top of or un- derneath the jack.

NOTICE

Make sure to place the jack correctly, or your vehicle may be damaged.

(cid:1) Stop the vehicle on a

the transmission

level firm ground, firmly set the parking brake in “P” and put (automatic) or (manual). Block the wheels on the opposite side of the jack up point if neces- sary.

reverse

(cid:1) Make sure to set the jack properly in the jack point. Raising the ve- hicle with improperly posi- tioned will damage the vehicle or may allow the vehicle to fall off the jack and cause personal injury.

jack

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SECTION 7- 2

DO- IT- YOURSELF MAINTENANCE Engine and Chassis Checking the engine oil level Checking the engine coolant level Checking the radiator and condenser Checking brake fluid Checking power steering fluid Checking and replacing the air conditioning filter Checking tire inflation pressure Checking and replacing tires Rotating tires Installing snow tires and chains Replacing wheels Aluminum wheel precautions

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

284
286
287
288
288
289
291
293
295
296
298
298

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Checking the engine oil level

Low level

Full level

Add oil

O.K.

Too full

With the engine at operating tempera- ture and turned off, check the oil level on the dipstick. 1. To get a correct reading, the vehicle should be on level ground. After turning off the engine, wait a few minutes for the oil to drain back into the bottom of the engine.

2. Pull the dipstick out, hold a rag under

the end and wipe it clean.

3. Reinsert the dipstick—push it in as far as it will go, or the reading will not be correct.

4. Pull the dipstick out and look at the oil the

level while holding a rag under end.

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CAUTION

NOTICE

(cid:1) Be careful not to spill engine oil on

the vehicle components.

(cid:1) Avoid overfilling, or the engine

could be damaged.

(cid:1) Check the oil level on the dipstick

once again after adding the oil.

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

NOTICE

Be careful not to drop engine oil on the vehicle components.

If the oil level is below or only slightly above the low level, add engine oil of the same type as already in the engine. Remove the oil filler cap and add engine oil in small quantities at a time, checking the dipstick. We recommend that you use a funnel when adding oil. The approximate quantity of oil needed to raise the level between low and full 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.):

1.0 (1.1, 0.9)

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ENGINE OIL SELECTION “Toyota Genuine Motor Oil” in your Toyota vehicle. Use Toyota approved “Toyota Genuine Motor Oil” or equivalent to grade and viscosity. Oil grade:

following

is used

satisfy

the

API grade SL “Energy- Conserving” or ILSAC multigrade engine oil

Recommended viscosity:

SAE 5W- 30

Outside temperature

’04 Rav4_U (L/O 0403)

SAE 5W- 30 is the best choice for good fuel economy and good starting in cold weather. is not available, SAE If SAE 5W- 30 10W- 30 may be used. However, it should be replaced with SAE 5W- 30 at the next oil change.

API service symbol

ILSAC certification mark

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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 SL. The center portion of the label shows the SAE viscos- ity grade such as SAE 5W- 30. “Energy- Conserving” shown in the lower portion, indicates that the oil has fuel- saving ca- pabilities. The ILSAC (International Lubricant Stan- dardization and Approval Committee) Certi- fication Mark is displayed on the front of the container.

286

To ensure excellent lubrication perfor- mance for your engine, “Toyota Genuine Motor Oil” is available, which has been specifically for all Toyota engines. Please contact your Toyota dealer for fur- ther details about “Toyota Genuine Motor Oil”.

tested and approved

(For

the coolant

Checking the engine coolant level Look at the see- through coolant reser- voir when the engine is cold. The cool- ant level is satisfactory if it is between the “FULL” and “LOW” lines on the reservoir. If the level is low, add the coolant. type, see “Coolant type selection” described be- low.) 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. If the coolant level drops within a short time after replenishing, there may be a leak the radiator, 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.

the system. Visually check

in

CAUTION

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

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improper coolants may damage

Coolant type selection Use of your engine cooling system. Only use “Toyota Super Long Life Coolant” or similar high quality ethylene glycol based non- silicate, non- amine, non- nitrite, and non- borate coolant with long- life technology. (Coolant hybrid organic acid acid with technology low phosphates and organic acids.) “Toyota Super Long Life Coolant” is a mix- ture of 50% coolant and 50% deionized water. This coolant provides protection down to about -35(cid:2)C (- 31(cid:2)F).

combination of

long- life

organic

hybrid

is a

NOTICE

Do not use plain water alone.

Toyota recommends “Toyota Super Long Life Coolant”, which has been tested to ensure that it will not cause corrosion nor result in malfunction of your engine coolant system with proper usage. “Toyota formulated Super Long Life Coolant” with acid technology and has been specifically designed to avoid engine cooling system malfunction on Toyota vehicles. Please contact your Toyota dealer further details.

is organic

long- life

hybrid

for

Checking the radiator and condenser If any of the above parts are extremely dirty or you are not sure of their condi- tion, take your vehicle to a Toyota dealer.

CAUTION

To prevent burning yourself, be care- ful not to touch the radiator or con- denser when the engine is hot.

NOTICE

To prevent damage to the radiator and condenser, do not perform the work by yourself.

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Checking brake fluid

Checking power steering fluid

Remove and replace the reservoir cap by hand. Fill the brake fluid to the dotted line. This brings the fluid to the correct level when you put the cap 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 immediately. If you still feel uncomfortable with your eyes, go to the doctor.

NOTICE

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

reservoir. The

To check the fluid level, simply look at the see- through 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 prob- lem. If the level is low, add SAE J1703 or FMVSS No.116 DOT 3 brake fluid to the brake reservoir.

288

Open

If hot O.K.

If hot add

Close

If cold O.K.

If cold add

Check the fluid level through the reser- voir. If necessary, add automatic trans- mission fluid DEXRON(cid:3)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 (80(cid:2)C or 175(cid:2)F). You may also check the level when the fluid is cold (about room or 50(cid:2)F—85(cid:2)F) if the engine has not been run for about five hours.

temperature,

10(cid:2)C—30(cid:2)C

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Clean all dirt from the outside of the res- ervoir tank and look at the fluid level. If the fluid is cold, the level should be in the “COLD” range. Similarly, if it is hot, the fluid level should be in the “HOT” range. If the level is at the low side of either range, add automatic fluid DEXRON(cid:3)II or III to bring the level within the range. To remove the reservoir cap, turn it coun- terclockwise and it, turn it clockwise. After replacing the reser- voir cap, visually check the steering box case, vane pump and hose connections for leaks or damage.

lift up. To reinstall

transmission

CAUTION

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

NOTICE

Avoid overfilling, or the power steer- ing could be damaged.

’04 Rav4_U (L/O 0403)

Checking and replacing the air conditioning filter

The air conditioning filter information label is placed inside of the glove box as shown and indicates that a filter has been installed. The air conditioning filter prevents dust from entering the vehicle through the air conditioning vent.

The air conditioning filter is behind the glove box. The air conditioning filter may clog af- ter long use. The filter may need to be replaced if the air flow of the air condi- tioning and heater experiences extreme reductions in operating efficiency, or if the windows begin to fog up easily.

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To maintain the air conditioning efficiency, inspect and replace the air conditioning filter according to the maintenance sched- ule. In dusty areas or areas with heavy traffic flow, such as inner city or desert areas, early replacement may be required. (For scheduled maintenance information, please refer the “Scheduled Mainte- nance Guide” or “Owner’s Manual Supple- ment”.)

to

1. Push in each side of the glove box

to disconnect the claws.

2. Remove the filter case from the filter

outlet as shown in the illustration.

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Checking tire inflation pressure

Keep your tire inflation pressures at the proper level. The recommended cold tire inflation pressures, tire sizes and the com- bined weight of occupants and cargo (vehicle capacity weight) are de- scribed on page 312 and 316. They are also on the tire and loading infor- mation label. You should check the tire inflation pressure every two weeks, or at least once a month. And do not forget the spare!

291

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3. Remove

case.

the

filter

from

the

filter

4. Inspect the filter on the surface. If it is dirty, it should be replaced.

INFORMATION

The air filter should be installed prop- erly in position. The use of air condi- tioning with the air filter removed may cause deteriorated dustproof per- formance and then affect air condi- tioning performance.

’04 Rav4_U (L/O 0403)

Tire pressure gauge

should

pressure

following

instructions

The for checking tire inflation pressure should be observed: (cid:1) The

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 inflation pres- sure reading.

(cid:1) Always use a tire pressure gauge. The appearance of a tire can be misleading. Besides, tire inflation pressures that are even just a few pounds off can degrade ride and handling.

(cid:1) Do not bleed or reduce tire inflation pressure after driving. It is normal for the tire inflation pressure to be higher after driving. (cid:1) Never exceed the vehicle capac- ity weight. Passenger and lug- gage weight should be located so that the vehicle is balanced.

INSPECTION AND ADJUSTMENT PROCEDURE 1. Remove the tire valve cap. 2. Press the tip of the tire pressure

gauge to the tire valve.

3. Read the pressure using the grad-

uations of the gauge.

4. In case the tire inflation pressure is not within the prescribed range, insert the compressed air from the valve. In case of applying too much air, press the center of the valve and release the air to adjust.

292

5. After completing the tire inflation pressure measurement and ad- justment, apply soapy water to the valve and check for leakage.

6. Install the tire valve cap. If a gauge and air pump are not avail- able, have your vehicle checked by your Toyota dealer.

CAUTION

Be sure to reinstall the tire 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 pos- sible.

Incorrect tire inflation pressure may waste fuel, reduce the comfort of driv- ing, reduce tire life and make your ve- hicle less safe to drive. If a tire frequently needs refilling, have it checked by your Toyota deal- er.

2004 RAV4 from Mar. ’04 Prod. (OM42568U)

CAUTION

Keep your tires properly inflated. Otherwise, the following condi- tions may occur and cause an ac- cident resulting in death or seri- ous injuries. Low tire pressure (underinfla- tion)— (cid:1) Excessive wear (cid:1) Uneven wear (cid:1) Poor handling (cid:1) Possibility of blowouts from an

overheated tire

(cid:1) Poor sealing of the tire bead (cid:1) Wheel deformation and/or tire

separation

(cid:1) A greater possibility of tire

damage from road hazards

’04 Rav4_U (L/O 0403)

Checking and replacing tires

Tread wear indicator

High tire pressure (overinfla- tion)— (cid:1) Poor handling (cid:1) Excessive wear (cid:1) Uneven wear (cid:1) A greater possibility of tire

damage from road hazards

CHECKING YOUR TIRES Check the tire’s tread for tread wear indicators. If the indicators show, replace the tires. The loca- tion of tread wear indicators is shown by the “TWI” or “D ” marks, etc., molded on the sidewall of each tire.

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If air loss occurs while driving, do not continue driving. Driving even a short distance can damage a tire beyond repair. Any tires which are over 6 years old must be checked by a qualified technician even if damage is not obvious. Tires deteriorate with age even if they have never or seldom been used. This applies also to the spare tire and tires stored for future use.

The tires on your Toyota have built- in tread wear indicators to help you know when the tires need replace- ment. When the tread depth wears to 1.6 mm (0.06 in.) or less, the indica- tors will appear. If you can see the indicators in two or more adjacent 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.). If you have tire damage such as cuts, splits, cracks deep enough to expose the fabric, or bulges indi- cating internal damage, the tire should be replaced. If a tire often goes flat or cannot be properly repaired due to the size or location of a cut or other damage, it should be replaced. If you are not sure, consult with your Toyota dealer.

294

REPLACING YOUR TIRES When replacing a tire, use a tire of the same size and construction, and the same or greater maximum load as the originally installed tires. Also, on four- wheel drive models, all the tires must be the same brand and have the same tread patterns. Using any other size or type of tire may seriously affect handling, ride, speedometer/odometer calibration, ground clearance, and clearance be- tween the body and tires or snow chains. Check that the maximum load of the replaced tire is greater than 1/2 of the Gross Axle Weight Ratings (GAWR) of either the front axle or the rear axle, whichever is greater. As for the maximum load of the tire, see the load limit at maximum cold tire inflation pressure mentioned on the sidewall of the tire, and as for the Gross Axle Weight Ratings (GAWR), see the Cer- tification Label.

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For details about the side wall of the tire and the Certification Label, see pages 208 and 211.

CAUTION

Observe the following instruc- tions. Otherwise, an accident may occur resulting in death or serious injuries. (cid:1) Do not mix radial, bias belted, or bias- ply tires on your ve- hicle, as this may cause dan- gerous handling characteris- tics resulting in loss of control. (cid:1) Do not use tires other than the manufacturer’s recommended size, as this may cause danger- ous handling characteristics resulting in loss of control.

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Rotating tires

(cid:1) Four- wheel drive models:

Do not use tires of different brands, sizes, construction or tread patterns, as this may