2003 Toyota Tacoma Owners Manual

TO USE THE ANCHOR BRACKET: Front outside position— 1. Remove

the passenger head

re-

straint. Lightly push down on the top sur- face of the anchor bracket cover with the symbol mark shown in the illustration, then pull it forward to remove.

2. Fix the child restraint system with

the seat belt. Latch the anchor bracket on the back panel and tight- en the top strap.

the hook onto

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

96

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

CAUTION

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

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

Front center position— Fix the child restraint system with the seat belt. Latch the hook onto the rear lower an- chor bracket and tighten the top strap. For instructions on installing the child re- straint system, see “Child restraint” in this section.

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

97

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

CAUTION

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

Symbol mark

Routing device

Rear outside position— 1. Lightly push down on the top sur- face of the anchor bracket cover with the symbol mark shown in the illustration, then pull it forward to remove.

98

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

2. Fix the child restraint system with

the seat belt. Route the routing device as shown in the il- lustration.

top strap

through

the

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

CAUTION

Make sure twisted.

the

top strap

is not

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

—Installation with child restraint lower anchorages (regular cab and xtra–cab models)

CAUTION

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

Separate seat

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

99

Bench seat

3. Latch the hook onto the rear lower anchor bracket and tighten the top strap.

Store the removed cover in a safe place such as the glove box. Be sure to replace the cover when the anchor bracket is not in use.

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

interfaced with

The lower anchorages for the child re- straint system the FMVSS225 specification are installed in the right side of the front seats (sepa- rate and split bench) or right position of the front seat (non–split bench seat). The anchorages are installed in the clear- ance between the seat cushion and seat- back on the right side of the front seats (separate and split bench seat) or right position of the front seat (non–split bench seat). 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.

100

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

Type A

Type B

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

SYSTEM

CAUTION

—Installation with child restraint lower anchorages (double cab models)

(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) After securing

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

(cid:1) Vehicles with passenger

airbag

manual on–off switch— Child restraint system should never be installed on the front passenger seat with the passenger airbag manual on–off switch in the “ON” position, because the force of the deploying airbag could cause death or serious injury to the child in for- ward seating position.

interfaced with

The lower anchorages for the child re- straint system the FMVSS225 specification are installed in the outside positions of the rear seat. The anchorages are installed in the clear- ance between the seat cushion and seat- back for outside positions of the rear seat. 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.

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

101

RESTRAINT

CHILD INSTALLATION Type A— 1. Widen

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

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

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

2. Latch the buckles onto the anchor-

ages.

it should be anchored. (For

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

the installation details, refer

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

RESTRAINT

SYSTEM

CHILD INSTALLATION Type A— 1. Widen

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

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

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

2. Latch the buckles onto the anchor-

ages.

it should be anchored. (For

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

the installation details, refer

Type A

102

Type B

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

Tilt steering wheel

CAUTION

(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

CAUTION

(cid:1) Do not adjust the steering wheel while the vehicle is moving. Doing so may cause the driver to mishan- dle the vehicle and an accident may occur resulting in death or serious injuries.

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

(cid:1) After securing

the child restraint

system, never recline the seat.

the

lock mechanism of

(cid:1) Do not install a child restraint sys- tem on the rear seat if it interferes with the front seats. This can cause death or serious injury to the child and front passenger in case of sudden brak- ing or a collision.

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

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

103

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

Outside rear view mirrors—

—Rear view mirror remote control

CAUTION

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

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.

To adjust the rear view mirror, simply operate the control lever.

NOTICE

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

104

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

—Power rear view mirror control

—Folding rear view mirrors (with power rear view mirror control)

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

be adjusted Push (right).

the switch to “L” (left) or “R”

2. Control switch—To move the mirror

Push the switch in the desired direc- tion.

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

NOTICE

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

for parking

The rear view mirrors can be folded backward restricted areas. To fold the rear view mirror, push back- ward.

in

CAUTION

Do not drive with the mirrors folded backward. Both the driver and pas- senger side rear view mirrors must be extended and properly adjusted before driving.

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

105

Type A

Type B

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

Anti–glare inside rear view mirror

Sun visors

CAUTION

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

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

106

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

To block out glare, move the sun visor. To block out glare from the front—Swing down the sun visor (position 1). To block out glare from the side—Swing down the sun visor, remove it from the hook and swing it to the lateral side (posi- tion 2). If glare comes from obliquely behind you, extend the plate at the end of the visor (position 3).

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

CAUTION

Do not extend the plate at the end of the sun visor when the visor is in the position 1. It can cover the anti–glare inside rear view mirror and obstruct the rear view.

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

107

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

108

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

SECTION 1– 4

OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS Lights and Wipers Headlights and turn signals Emergency flashers Instrument panel light control Interior lights Personal lights Windshield wipers and washer

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

110
111
112
112
113
113

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

109

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

Headlights and turn signals

HEADLIGHTS To turn on the following lights: Twist the headlight/turn signal lever knob. Position 1—Parking, tail, license plate and instrument panel lights Position 2—Headlights and all of above Automatic light cut off system The lights automatically turn off when the driver’s door is opened with the ignition turned off. To turn the lights on again, turn the key to the “ON” position or turn the headlight switch off, then on again.

the

lights also automatically

The turn off if they are left on for 30 minutes with the ignition switch off. If you are going to park for over one week, make sure the head- light switch is off.

NOTICE

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

Daytime running light system (all mod- els in Canada and some models in the U.S.A.) The headlights turn on at reduced intensi- ty when the parking brake is released with the engine started, even with light switch in the “OFF” position. They will not go off until the ignition switch is turned off. To turn on the other exterior lights and instrument panel lights, twist the knob to the position 1. Twist the knob to the position 2 to turn to full intensity for driving at night.

the

110

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

High–Low beams—For high beams, turn the headlights on and push the lever away from you (position 1). Pull the lever to- ward you (position 2) for low beams. The headlight high beam light indicator (blue light) on the instrument panel will tell you that the high beams are on. Flashing the high beam headlights (position 3)—Pull the way back. The high beam headlights turn off when you release the lever. You can flash the high beam headlights with the knob turned to “OFF”.

the lever all

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

Emergency flashers

NOTICE

To prevent the battery from being dis- charged, do not leave the switch on longer than necessary when the en- gine is not running.

TURN SIGNALS To signal a turn, push the headlight/ turn signal lever up or down to position 1. The key must be in the “ON” position. The lever automatically returns after you make a turn, but you may have to return it by hand after you change lanes. To signal a lane change, move the lever up or down to the pressure point (position 2) and hold it. If the turn signal indicator lights (green lights) on the instrument panel flash faster than normal, a front or rear turn signal bulb is burned out.

flashers,

turn on

the emergency

To push the switch. All the turn signal lights will flash. To turn them off, push the switch once again. Turn on the emergency flashers to warn other drivers if your vehicle must be stopped where it might be a traffic hazard. Always pull as far off the road as pos- sible. The turn signal light switch will not work when the emergency flashers are operat- ing.

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

111

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

Instrument panel light control

Interior lights

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

Front light (regular cab models)

To turn on the interior light, slide the switch. The interior light switch has the following positions: “ON”—Keeps the light on all the time. “OFF”—Turns the light off. “DOOR”—Turns the light on when any of the doors are opened. The light goes off when all the doors are closed. Vehicles without the power door lock sys- tem— To prevent from being dis- charged, the light will automatically turn off if the door is left open for 30 minutes with the switch at the “DOOR” position. Vehicles with the power door tem— To prevent from being dis- charged, the light will automatically turn off after 30 minutes in the following cases. (cid:1) The light is left at the “ON” position. (cid:1) The door is left open with the switch

the battery

the battery

lock sys-

112

Rear light (xtra–cab and double cab models)

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

at the “DOOR” position.

ILLUMINATED ENTRY SYSTEM When the switch is in the “DOOR” posi- tion and any door is opened, the light will come on. After all the doors are closed, the light remains on for about 15 seconds before fading out. However, in the following cases, the light goes out immediately: (cid:1) All the doors are closed when the igni- tion key is in the “ACC” or “ON” posi- tion.

(cid:1) All the doors are closed and locked. (with power door lock system models only)

Vehicles with the power door tem— When any door is unlocked with key, the light will come on and remain on for 15
seconds before fading out.

lock sys-

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

Personal lights

Windshield wipers and washer (intermittent type)

The personal lights operate separately with each outer switch. To turn on the light, push the switch on your side. To turn the light off, push the switch once again. To prevent from being dis- charged, the light will automatically turn off after 30 minutes.

the battery

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

Lever position

Speed setting

Position 1

Position 2

Position 3

Intermittent

Slow

Fast

The “INT TIME” band lets you adjust the wiping time interval when the wiper lever is in the intermittent position (position 1). Twist increase the time between sweeps, and downward to decrease it.

the band upward to

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

113

To squirt washer fluid, pull the lever toward you and release it. If the windshield wipers are off, they will operate a couple of times after the washer squirts. For instructions on adding washer fluid, see “Adding washer fluid” in Section 7–3. In freezing weather, warm the windshield with the defroster before using the washer. This will help prevent fluid from freezing on your windshield, which can block your vision.

the washer

NOTICE

Do not operate the wipers if the wind- shield is dry. It may scratch the glass.

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

Windshield wipers and washer (mist type)

In freezing weather, warm the windshield with the defroster before using the washer. This will help prevent fluid from freezing on your windshield, which can block your vision.

the washer

NOTICE

Do not operate the wipers if the wind- shield is dry. It may scratch the glass.

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

Lever position

Speed setting

Position 1

Position 2

Slow

Fast

the windshield,

For a single sweep of push the lever up and release it. To squirt washer fluid, pull the lever toward you and release it. For instructions on adding washer fluid, see “Adding washer fluid” in Section 7–3.

114

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

SECTION 1– 5

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

116
116
117
118
119

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

115

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

Fuel gauge

Engine coolant temperature gauge

With tachometer

indicates

The gauge the approximate quantity of the fuel remaining in the tank when the ignition switch is on. Nearly full—Needle at “F” Nearly empty—Needle at “E” It is a good idea to keep the tank over 1/4 full. This fuel gauge has a non–return type needle which remains at the last indicated position when the ignition switch is turned off. If the fuel level approaches “E” or the low fuel level warning light comes on, fill the fuel tank as soon as possible. On inclines or curves, due to the move- ment of fuel in the tank, the fuel gauge needle may fluctuate or the low fuel level warning light may come on earlier than usual. If the fuel tank is completely empty, the malfunction indicator lamp comes on. Fill the fuel tank immediately. The indicator lamp goes off after driving several times. If the indicator lamp does not go off, contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible.

With tachometer

Without tachometer

116

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

Without tachometer

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

Tachometer

The gauge indicates the engine coolant temperature when the ignition switch is on. The engine operating temperature will vary with changes in weather and engine load. If the needle moves into the red zone, your engine is too hot. If your vehicle overheats, stop your vehicle and allow the engine to cool. Your vehicle may overheat during severe operating conditions, such as: (cid:1) Driving up a long hill on a hot day. (cid:1) Reducing speed or stopping after high

speed driving.

(cid:1) Idling for a long period with the air conditioning on in stop–and–go traffic.

(cid:1) Towing a trailer.

NOTICE

(cid:2) Do not remove the thermostat in the engine cooling system as this may cause the engine to overheat. The thermostat is designed to con- trol the flow of coolant to keep the temperature of the engine within the specified operating range.

(cid:2) Do not continue driving with an overheated engine. See “If your ve- hicle overheats” in Section 4.

The tachometer indicates engine speed in thousands of rpm (revolutions per minute). Use it while driving to select correct shift points and to prevent en- gine lugging and over–revving. Driving with the engine running too fast causes excessive engine wear and poor fuel economy. Remember, in most cases the slower the engine speed, the greater the fuel economy.

NOTICE

Do not let the indicator needle get into the red zone. This may cause severe engine damage.

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

117

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

3. Trip meter reset knob—Resets the two trip meters to zero, and also change the meter display. To change the meter display, quickly push and release the knob. The meter display changes in the order from the odometer to trip meter A to trip meter then back B, the odometer each time you push. To reset the trip meter A to zero, dis- play the meter A reading, then push and hold the knob until the meter is set to zero. The same process can be applied for resetting the trip meter B.

to

Odometer and two trip meters

This meter displays the odometer and two trip meters. 1. Odometer—Shows

total distance

the

the vehicle has been driven.

2. Two

trip meters—Show

two different distances independently driven since the last time each trip meter was set to zero. You can use one trip meter to calculate the to measure the distance on each trip. All trip meter data is cancelled if the elec- trical power source is disconnected.

fuel economy and

the other

118

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

Service reminder indicators and warning buzzers

If the indicator or buzzer comes on...

Do this.

(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

(e)

(f)

(g)

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

(indicator and buzzer)

Fasten seat belt.

Stop and check.

Stop and check.

Take vehicle to Toyota dealer.

Fill up tank.

or

Take vehicle to Toyota dealer.

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

119

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

If the indicator or buzzer comes on...

Do this.

(h)

(i)

(j)

(k)

(l)

Take vehicle to Toyota dealer immediately.

Shift front drive control lever out of “N”.

Stop and check.

Add washer fluid.

Key reminder buzzer

Remove key.

120

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

(a) Brake System Warning Light This light comes on in the following cases when the ignition key is in the “ON” posi- tion. (cid:1) When the parking brake is applied... (cid:1) When the brake fluid level is low...

CAUTION

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

Have your vehicle checked at your Toyota dealer in the following case: (cid:1) The light does not come on even if the parking brake is applied when the igni- tion key is in the “ON” position.

CAUTION

If the light does not turn off even after the parking brake is released while the engine is running, immedi- ately stop your vehicle at a safe place and contact your Toyota dealer. In this case, the brakes may not work properly and your stopping distance will become longer. Depress the brake pedal firmly and bring the vehicle to an immediate stop.

(b) Seat Belt Reminder Light and Buzz-

er

to

remind you

light and buzzer

This buckle up the driver’s seat belt. Once the ignition key is turned to “ON” or “START”, the reminder light flashes and buzzer comes on if the driver’s seat belt is not fastened. Unless the driver fastens the belt, the light stays on and the buzzer sounds for about 4 to 8 seconds. (c) Discharge Warning Light This light warns that the battery is being discharged. If it comes on while you are driving, there is a problem somewhere in the charging system.

The engine ignition will continue to oper- the battery ate, however, until is dis- charged. Turn off the air conditioning, blower, radio, etc., and drive directly to the nearest Toyota dealer or repair shop.

NOTICE

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

(d) Low Engine Oil Pressure Warning

Light

This light warns that the engine oil pres- sure is too low. If it flickers or stays on while you are driving, pull off the road to a safe place and stop the engine immediately. Call a Toyota dealer or qualified repair shop for assistance. The flicker when the engine is idling or it may come on briefly after a hard stop. There is no cause for concern if it then goes out when the engine is accelerated slightly. The light may come on when the oil level is extremely is not designed to indicate low oil level, and the oil level must be checked using the level dipstick.

light may occasionally

low. It

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

121

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

NOTICE

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

(e) Malfunction Indicator Lamp This lamp comes on when the ignition key is turned to the “ON” position and goes off after the engine starts. This means that the warning light system is operating properly. If the lamp remains on, or the lamp comes on while driving, first check the followings. (cid:1) Empty fuel tank

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

(cid:1) Loose fuel tank cap

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

These cases are temporary malfunctions. The malfunction indicator lamp will go off after taking several driving trips. If the lamp will not go off even after the several trips, contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible.

If the fuel tank is not empty or the fuel tank cap is not loose... (cid:1) There is a problem somewhere in the engine, emission control system, auto- matic transmission electrical system or warning light system itself.

Contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible to service the vehicle. Four–wheel drive models and Pre Runner with 5VZ–FE engine only— If the engine speed does not increase with the accelerator pedal depressed down to about the middle position, there may be a problem somewhere in your electronic throttle control system. At this time, if you depress the accelera- tor pedal more firmly and slowly, you can drive your vehicle at low speeds. Have your vehicle checked by your Toyota deal- er as soon as possible. Even if the abnormality of the electronic throttle control system is corrected during low speed driving, the system may not be recovered until the engine is stopped and the ignition key to “ACC” or “LOCK” position.

turned

is

CAUTION

Be especially careful to prevent erro- neous pedal operation.

if

control

system

inspection

Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) programs Your vehicle may not pass a state emission the malfunction indicator lamp remains on. Contact your to check your vehicle’s Toyota dealer emission and OBD (On–Board Diagnostics) system before taking your vehicle for the inspection. For details, see “Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) programs” in Section 6. (f) Low Fuel Level Warning Light This light comes on when the fuel level in the tank becomes nearly empty. Fill up the tank as soon as possible. On inclines or curves, due to the move- ment of fuel in the tank, the low fuel level warning light may come on earlier than usual.

122

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

(g) “ABS” Warning Light The light comes on when the ignition key is turned to the “ON” position. If the anti– lock brake system works properly, the light turns off after a few seconds. There- after, if the system malfunctions, the light comes on again. When the “ABS” warning light is on (and the brake system warning light is off), the anti–lock brake system does not operate, but the brake system still operates con- ventionally. When the “ABS” warning light is on (and the brake system warning light is off), the anti–lock brake system does not operate so that the wheels could lock up during a sudden braking or braking on slippery road surfaces. the following conditions If either of occurs, indicates a malfunction this somewhere in the parts monitored by the warning light system. 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.

(cid:1) The light comes on while you are driv-

ing.

A warning light turning on briefly during operation does not indicate a problem. With rear differential lock: However, it is a normal operation for the light to be on with rear differential locked. At this time, the anti–lock brake system does not oper- ate. (h) SRS Warning Light This light will come on when the igni- tion key is turned to the “ON” position. After about 6 seconds, the light will go off. This means the system of the air- bag and 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. If either of the following conditions occurs, this indicates a malfunction somewhere in the parts monitored by the warning light system. Contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible to service the vehicle. (cid:1) The light does not come on when the ignition key is turned to the “ON” posi- tion or remains on.

light system monitors

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

driving.

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

(i) Unengaged “Park” Warning Light

(vehicles with automatic transmis- sion)

the

that

light warns

This transmission “Park” mechanism is not engaged. If the front drive control lever is in the “N” posi- tion while the selector lever is in the “P” position, the transmission will disengage and the wheels will not lock.

CAUTION

To restore the park function, shift the front drive control lever out of “N”, or the vehicle can move.

123

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

light

SERVICE

CHECKING REMINDER INDICATORS (except the low fuel level warning low windshield washer fluid level warning light) 1. Apply the parking brake. 2. Turn the ignition key to “ON”, but do

and

reminder

the service

not start the engine. All indicators should come on. The “ABS” warning light goes off after a few seconds. The SRS warning light goes off after about 6 seconds.

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

(j) Automatic Transmission Fluid Tem-

perature Warning Light

This light warns that the automatic trans- mission fluid temperature is too high. If this light comes on while you are driv- ing, slow down and pull off the road. Stop the vehicle at a safe place and put the selector lever in “P”. With the engine id- ling, wait until the light goes off. If the light goes off, you may start the vehicle again. If the light does not go off, call a Toyota dealer or qualified repair shop for assistance. (k) Low Windshield Washer Fluid Level

Warning Light (on some models)

The light warns that the windshield washer fluid level is too low. Add washer fluid at your earliest opportunity. (For instructions, see “Adding washer fluid” in Section 7–3.) (l) Key Reminder Buzzer This buzzer reminds you to remove the key when you open the driver’s door with the ignition key in the “ACC” or “LOCK” position.

124

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

SECTION 1– 6

OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS Ignition switch, Transmission and Parking brake Ignition switch with steering lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Automatic transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Manual transmission Four–wheel drive system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Rear differential lock system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Parking brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cruise control Clutch start cancel switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

126
127
132
134
138
139
140
142

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

125

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

Ignition switch with steering lock

Vehicles with manual transmission— You must push in the key to turn the key from “ACC” to the “LOCK” position. Vehicles with automatic transmission— You must shift the selector lever into the “P” position before turning the key from “ACC” to the “LOCK” position. When starting the engine, the key may seem stuck at the “LOCK” position. To free it, first be sure the key is pushed all the way in, and then rock the steering wheel slightly while turning the key gently.

CAUTION

For manual transmission: Never remove the key when the ve- hicle is moving, as this will lock the steering wheel and result in loss of steering control.

NOTICE

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

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

“START”—Starter motor on. The key will return to the “ON” position when released. For starting tips, see Section 3. “ON”—Engine on and all accessories on. This is the normal driving position. “ACC”—Accessories such as the radio operate, but the engine is off. the “ACC” or If you “LOCK” position and open the driver’s door, a buzzer will remind you to remove the key. “LOCK”—Engine is off and the steering wheel is locked. The key can be re- moved only at this position. 126

the key

leave

in

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

Automatic transmission

Lock release button

To prevent misshifting

Selector lever

Your automatic transmission has a shift lock system to minimize the possibility of incorrect operation. This means you can only shift out of “P” position when the brake pedal is depressed (with the ignition switch in “ON” position and the lock re- lease button depressed). (a) Selector lever P: Parking, engine starting and

key removal

R: Reverse N: Neutral D: Normal driving (with overdrive on) 2: Stronger engine braking L: Maximum engine braking

With the brake pedal depressed, shift while holding the lock release button in. (The ignition switch must be in “ON” position.)

Shift while holding the lock release button in.

Shift normally.

Overdrive switch

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

127

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

Vehicles with cruise control—When the cruise control is being used, even if you downshift the transmission by pushing and releasing the overdrive switch, engine braking will not be enabled because the cruise control is not cancelled. For ways to decrease the vehicle speed, see “Cruise control” in this section. (c) Normal driving 1. Start the engine as instructed in “How to start the engine” in Section 3. The transmission must be in “P” or “N”.

position,

(low–speed

When the front drive control lever is in “L4” four–wheel drive), the driving pattern selector setting has no effect on gear shift timing. (See “Four–wheel drive system” in this section for information of the front drive control lever.) 2. With your foot holding down the brake

pedal, shift the selector lever to “D”.

When the lever is in the “D” position, the automatic transmission system will select the most suitable gear for running condi- tions such as normal cruising, hill climb- ing, hard towing, etc.

(low–speed

Always turn the overdrive switch on for better fuel economy and quieter driving. If the engine coolant temperature is low or when the front drive control lever is in “L4” four–wheel drive), the transmission will not shift into the overdrive gear even with the overdrive on. (See “Four–wheel drive system” in this section for information of the front drive control lever.)

position,

CAUTION

Never put your foot on the accelera- tor pedal while shifting.

3. Release the parking brake and brake the accelerator pedal

pedal. Depress slowly for smooth starting.

(d) Using engine braking To use engine braking, you can downshift the transmission as follows: (cid:1) Push the overdrive switch. The “O/D OFF” indicator light will come on and the transmission will downshift to third gear.

(b) Overdrive switch You can select either third gear (with overdrive off) or fourth gear (with over- drive on) by pushing this switch. To turn the overdrive off, push the switch. The “O/D OFF” indicator light should come on. To turn the overdrive on again, push the switch again. The “O/D OFF” indicator light should go off. Always drive your vehicle with the over- drive on fuel economy and quieter driving. If the engine is turned off when the over- drive is off and restarted, the overdrive will be on automatically.

for better

128

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

(cid:1) Shift into the “2” position. The trans- mission will downshift to second gear when the vehicle speed drops down to or lower than the following speed, and stronger engine braking will be en- abled. Two–wheel drive models except Pre Runner

2RZ–FE engine . . . . . . . . . . . . .

105 km/h (65 mph) Four–wheel drive models and Pre Run- ner

to

(cid:1) Shift into the “L” position. The trans- mission will downshift first gear when the vehicle speed drops down to or lower than the following speed, and maximum engine braking will be en- abled. Two–wheel drive models except Pre Runner

2RZ–FE engine

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

55 km/h (34 mph) Four–wheel drive models and Pre Run- ner

Front drive control lever in “H2” and “H4”

Front drive control lever in “H2” and “H4”

3RZ–FE engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5VZ–FE engine . . . . . . . . . . . . .

106 km/h (66 mph)

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

51 km/h (32 mph)

3RZ–FE engine

5VZ–FE engine

114 km/h (71 mph)

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

55 km/h (34 mph)

Front drive control lever in “L4”

Front drive control lever in “L4”

3RZ–FE engine

3RZ–FE engine

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

36 km/h (22 mph)

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

9 km/h

(6 mph)

5VZ–FE engine

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

38 km/h (24 mph)

5VZ–FE engine

10 km/h

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

(6 mph) Vehicles with cruise control—When the cruise control is being used, even if you downshift the transmission by pushing and releasing the overdrive switch, engine braking will not be enabled because the cruise control is not cancelled.

For ways to decrease the vehicle speed, see “Cruise control” in this section.

CAUTION

Be careful when downshifting on a slippery shifting could cause the vehicle to spin or skid.

surface. Abrupt

(e) Using “2” and “L” positions The “2” and “L” positions are used for strong engine braking as described pre- viously. With the selector lever in “2” or “L”, you can start the vehicle in motion as with the lever in “D”. With the selector lever in “2”, the vehicle will start in first gear and automatically shift to the second gear. With the selector lever in “L”, the trans- mission is engaged in first gear.

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

129

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

NOTICE

Front drive control lever in “L4”—

(cid:2) Be careful not to over–rev the en- gine. Watch the tachometer to keep engine rpm from going into the red zone. The approximate maximum al- lowable speed for each position is given below for your reference: Two–wheel drive models except Pre Runner

2RZ–FE engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

“2” “L”

122 km/h (75 mph) 64 km/h (39 mph)

Four–wheel drive models

Front drive control lever in “H2” or “H4”—

3RZ–FE engine

“2” “L”

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5VZ–FE engine

113 km/h (70 mph) 62 km/h (38 mph)

“2” “L”

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

119 km/h (73 mph) 65 km/h (40 mph)

44 km/h (27 mph) 24 km/h (14 mph)

65 km/h (40 mph) 25 km/h (16 mph)

“2” “L”

“2” “L”

3RZ–FE engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5VZ–FE engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pre Runner models 3RZ–FE engine Regular cab . . . . . . . . . . .

“2” “L”

“2” “L”

. . . . . . . . . . . 5VZ–FE engine

Xtra–cab and double cab

119 km/h (73 mph) 65 km/h (40 mph)

113 km/h (70 mph) 62 km/h (38 mph)

“2” “L”

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

119 km/h (73 mph) 65 km/h (40 mph) (cid:2) Do not continue hill climbing for a long time in the “2” or “L” posi- tion. This may cause severe auto- matic transmission damage from overheating. To prevent such dam- age, use “D” position for hill climb- ing or hard towing.

(f) Backing up 1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop. 2. With the brake pedal held down with your foot, shift the selector lever to the “R” position.

NOTICE

Never shift into reverse while the ve- hicle is moving.

(g) Parking 1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop. 2. Pull

the parking brake lever

fully

to

securely apply the parking brake.

3. With

the brake pedal pressed down, shift the selector lever to the “P” posi- tion.

CAUTION

Never attempt to move the selector lever into “P” position under any cir- cumstances while the vehicle is mov- ing. Serious mechanical damage and loss of vehicle control may result.

130

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

(h) Good driving practice (cid:1) If the transmission repeatedly shifts up and down between third gear and over- drive when climbing a gentle slope, the overdrive should be turned off. Be sure to turn the switch on immediately after- ward.

(cid:1) When towing a trailer, in order to main- tain engine braking efficiency, do not use overdrive.

CAUTION

Always keep your foot on the brake pedal while stopped with the engine running. This prevents the vehicle from creeping.

NOTICE

Always use the brake pedal or the parking brake to hold the vehicle on an upgrade. Do not attempt to hold the vehicle using the accelerator ped- al, as this can cause the transmission to overheat.

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

(j)

If you cannot shift the selector le- ver out of “P” position

is depressed, use

If you cannot shift the selector lever from the “P” position even though the brake pedal lock override lever. For instructions, see “If you cannot shift automatic transmission selec- tor lever” in Section 4.

the shift

(i) Driving in “POWER” mode

(four–wheel drive models and Pre Runner)

In the “POWER” mode, the transmission is shifted up and down at a higher vehicle speed than in the “NORMAL” mode and a more powerful acceleration is achieved. To set the “POWER” mode, push in the driv- ing pattern selector button. The POWER mode indicator light comes on. For ordinary driving, Toyota recommends using the “NORMAL” mode to improve fuel economy.

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

131

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

Manual transmission

2RZ–FE engine

3RZ–FE engine

Low altitude —1219 m (4000 ft.) or lower

gear

1 to 2 or 2 to 1
2 to 3 or 3 to 2
3 to 4 or 4 to 3
4 to 5 or 5 to 4

km/h (mph) 24 (15) 40 (25) 64 (40) 72 (45)

High altitude —Higher than 1219 m (4000 ft.)

Upshifting gear 1 to 2
2 to 3
3 to 4
4 to 5

Downshifting

km/h (mph) 24 (15) 40 (25)/58 (36)* 64 (40)/72 (45)* 72 (45)/88 (55)*

gear 2 to 1
3 to 2
4 to 3
5 to 4

km/h (mph) (15) (25) (40) (45)

24
40
64
72

* : Applicable under heavy acceleration

conditions.

The shift pattern is as shown above. Press the clutch pedal down fully while shifting, and then release it slowly. Do not rest your foot on the pedal while driving, because it will cause clutch trouble. And do not use the clutch to hold the vehicle when stopped on an uphill grade–use the parking brake. Recommended shifting speeds The transmission is fully synchronized and upshifting or downshifting is easy. For fuel economy and vehicle performance, you should upshift or downshift at the following speeds:

the best compromise between

132

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

Upshifting gear 1 to 2
2 to 3
3 to 4
4 to 5

Downshifting

km/h (mph) 24 (15) 40 (25)/58 (36)* 64 (40)/72 (45)* 72 (45)/88 (55)*

gear 2 to 1
3 to 2
4 to 3
5 to 4

km/h (mph) (15) (25) (40) (45)

24
40
64
72

* : Applicable under heavy acceleration

conditions. 5VZ–FE engine

gear

1 to 2 or 2 to 1
2 to 3 or 3 to 2
3 to 4 or 4 to 3
4 to 5 or 5 to 4

km/h (mph) (15) (25) (40) (45)

24
40
64
72

Downshift to the appropriate gear if accel- eration is needed when you are cruising below the above downshifting speeds.

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

too soon or downshifting

Upshifting too late will cause lugging, and possibly ping- ing. Regularly revving the engine to maxi- mum speed in each gear will cause ex- cessive engine wear and high fuel consumption. Maximum allowable speeds To get on a highway or to pass slower traffic, maximum acceleration may be nec- essary. Make sure you observe the follow- ing maximum allowable speeds in each gear: Two–wheel drive models

2RZ–FE engine

gear

5VZ–FE engine

gear

km/h (mph) 48 (29) 89 (55) 137 (85) 165 (103)

km/h (mph) 54 (33) 101 (62) 146 (90) 180 (111)

Four–wheel drive models 3RZ–FE engine

gear

km/h (mph)

“H2” and “H4”

46 (28) 85 (52) 132 (81) 165 (102)

“L4”

17 (10) 33 (20) 51 (31) 70 (43)

5VZ–FE engine

gear

km/h (mph)

“H2” and “H4”

47 (29) 88 (54) 127 (78) 165 (102)

NOTICE

“L4”

18 (11) 34 (21) 49 (30) 70 (44)

Good driving practice (cid:1) If it is difficult to shift into reverse, put the transmission in neutral, release the clutch pedal momentarily, and then try again.

(cid:1) When towing a trailer, in order to main- tain engine braking efficiency, do not use fifth gear.

CAUTION

Be careful when downshifting on a slippery shifting could cause the vehicle to spin or skid.

surface. Abrupt

Do not downshift if you are going faster than the maximum allowable speed for the next lower gear.

NOTICE

Make sure the vehicle is completely stopped before shifting into reverse.

2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)

133

’03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)

Four–wheel drive system— (a) Front drive control (lever type)

(a) Front drive control (lever/button type)

“N” (neutral position): Lever at “N” No power is delivered to the wheels. The vehicle must be stopped. “L4” (low speed position, four–wheel drive): Lever at “L4” Use this for maximum power and traction. Use “L4” for climbing or descending steep hills, off–road driving, and hard pulling in