2008 Toyota Tacoma Owners Manual

FEATURES/OPERATIONS

Automatic Transmission 5-speed models

Park1
Park1
Reverse Reverse Neutral Neutral Drive Drive Fourth gear Fourth gear Third gear Third gear Second gear Second gear First gear First gear

4-speed models

Park1
Reverse Neutral Drive Third gear Second gear First gear

1 The engine switch must be ON, and the brake

pedal depressed to shift from “Park.”

Downshifting increases power going uphill, or provides engine braking downhill. For best fuel economy during normal driving conditions, always drive with the shift lever in the “D” position.

Manual Transmission Tacoma is available with optional 5-speed or 6-speed Manual Transmission. For safety, the engine will not start unless the clutch pedal is FULLY depressed. Refer to the Owner’s Manual for more details.

Four-wheel drive (if equipped)

Turn

Turn

Push and turn

High speed (2WD) High speed (4WD) Shift when speed is below 62 mph. Low speed (4WD) Shift into neutral while stopped, or depress clutch pedal at speeds below 2 mph.

For best fuel economy and performance under normal driving conditions, keep in “H2” position.

Tilt and telescopic steering wheel

Angle

Length

Lock release lever

Hold wheel, push lever down, set angle and length, and return lever. Note: Do not attempt to adjust while the vehicle

is in motion.

FEATURES/OPERATIONS

Seat adjustments-Front Separate seat

Bench seat

Position Lumbar support* Seatback angle * If equipped

Seats-Head restraints Separate seats-Front

Bench seat-Front

(2)

(1)

Lock release button

Lock release button

Clock

H- Hour set M- Minute set

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Lights & turn signals Headlights

Headlights

Parking lights

High beam

Low beam

High beam flasher

-Daytime Running Light system (DRL) Automatically turns on the turn signal lights at a reduced intensity. -Automatic light cut off system Automatically turns lights off when driver’s door is opened with the engine switch in the “ACC” or “LOCK” position.

Front fog lights (if equipped)

Push

Front fog lights come on only when the headlights are on low beam. Turn signals

Right turn

Lane change

Lane change

Left turn

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FEATURES/OPERATIONS

Windshield wipers & washers With intermittent wiper

Adjust interval

Single wipe

Pull to wash and wipe

Without intermittent wiper

Pull to wash and wipe

Interval wipe

Slow

Fast

Single wipe

Slow

Fast

Windows-Power (if equipped) Access cab models Driver side

Window lock switch

Up

Down

Up

Down

Double cab models Driver side

Up

Down

Window lock switch

Up Down

Automatic down operation (driver side only) Push the switch completely down and release to fully open. To stop window midway, lightly pull up on the switch. Window lock switch Deactivates all passenger windows. Driver’s window remains operable.

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Parking brake Automatic Transmission Set: Depress Release: Depress again

Manual Transmission Set

Power outlets 12V DC

Release

(2) Turn and push in lever

(1) Push button

Key must be in the “ACC” or “ON” position to be used. 115V AC (if equipped)

ON/OFF switch

Green indicator

Yellow indicator

Right side of bed The engine must be running for use.

Push

Yellow Light Only Max Capacity 115V AC/100W Green & Yellow Lights Max Capacity 115V AC/400W Refer to the Owner’s Manual for more details.

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FEATURES/OPERATIONS

Audio

Type 1

Eject CD

Preset buttons - functions in other modes indicated below number

View CD information

Push to adjust tone & balance

Station/CD track scan

Load CD(s)

View radio and CD information

View genre with RDS system

Push to turn ON/OFF Seek station/ CD track select

Mode

Type 2 additional functions

Type 3 additional functions

Traffic information

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CD PLAYER To scan tracks on a disc Push and hold “SCAN.” Push again to hold selection. CD changer (Types 2 and 3 only) -To load one disc Push “LOAD” and insert one disc. -To load multiple discs Push and hold “LOAD” until you hear a beep. Insert one disc. Shutter will close and then re-open for next disc. RADIO To preset stations Tune in the desired station and hold down a preset button (1-6) until you hear a beep. Push desired preset button (1-6) to select. To scan stations Push and hold “SCAN” to scan preset stations. Push again to hold selection. RDS (Radio Data System - FM, Type 3 only) -Push “TYPE” to select station genre. -Push steering wheel switches “ ” or “ ,” or preset button (1-6) to select stations within genre. -Push “TEXT” to receive information transmitted from radio stations. Steering wheel switches (if equipped)

> >

“ - + ” Volume control “ ” >> -In radio mode Push to select a preset station; push and hold to seek the next strong station. -In CD mode Push to skip up or down to the next/previous track. “MODE” Push to turn audio ON and select an audio mode. Push and hold to turn the audio system “OFF.”

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FEATURES/OPERATIONS

Air Conditioning (if equipped)/Heating

Fan speed Temperature Airflow vent In “ ” or “ ” mode, use fresh air (“ ” indicator “OFF”) to reduce window fogging. Fresh or recirculated cabin air Air Conditioning ON/OFF (if equipped) Use fresh air to quickly cool interior, then change to recirculate for cooler air.

Accessory meter (if equipped)

E/M (English/Metric) button To select Fahrenheit or Celsius. Compass Outside temperature display

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Cruise control (if equipped) Turning system ON/OFF

System ON/OFF

Functions

Cancel1

Resume2/Increase speed

Set/Decrease speed

1 The set speed may also be cancelled by depressing the brake pedal. 2 The set speed may be resumed once vehicle speed

exceeds 25 mph. Rear differential lock (if equipped)

Rear differential Lock/Unlock

Use ONLY when wheel spinning occurs in a ditch, or on slippery or unpaved surfaces. DO NOT USE THE REAR DIFFERENTIAL LOCK IN CONDITIONS OTHER THAN SPECIFIED IN THE OWNER’S MANUAL. UNLOCK THE DIFFERENTIAL ONCE THE VEHICLE MOVES OUT OF THE TROUBLE SPOT. Refer to your Owner’s Manual for complete details on this system before attempting to use it.

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FEATURES/OPERATIONS

Bottle holders Front door

Center console-Rear

Rear door (double cab only)

Cup holders Front console Bench seat

Separate seats (Automatic Transmission)

Center console Separate seats (Automatic Transmission)

Separate seats (Manual Transmission)

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Door locks-Power (if equipped)

Lock

Unlock

Auto LSD (Auto Limited Slip Differential)(if equipped)

VSC OFF

Briefly push the “VSC OFF” switch to activate Auto LSD. To deactivate, briefly push the switch again. Note: ONLY works in 2-wheel drive at speeds

under 62 mph. Should ONLY be used when wheel spinning occurs on slippery or unpaved surfaces.

Refer to the Owner‘s Manual for more details on this system before attempting to use it. Light control-Instrument panel

Brightness control

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SAFETY AND EMERGENCY FEATURES Seat belts

Take up slack Too high

Keep as low on hips as possible

If belt is fully extended, then retracted even slightly, it cannot be re-extended beyond that point, unless fully retracted again. This feature is used to help hold child restraint systems securely.

To find more information about seat belts, and how to install a child restraint system, refer to the Owner's Manual. Seat belts-Shoulder belt anchor

Push up, or squeeze lock release to lower

Tire Pressure Warning System reset

If tire pressure becomes critically low on any of the tires (including spare), indicator comes on. Pushing “ SET” button should not turn off the light. Correctly adjusting tire inflation will turn off the light after a few minutes. After replacing/rotating tire or wheels, the system must be initialized. Refer to the Owner’s Manual for details on system reset initialization.

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Doors-Child safety locks (double cab only)

Rear door

Moving the lever to “LOCK” will allow the door to be opened only from the outside.

Spare tire & tools Tool location Regular cab models -behind the seatback

Double cab models -under the rear seat

Jack

Tool bag

Tool bag

Front

Jack

Access cab models -under the rear seat

Tool bag

Front

Jack

Removing the spare tire (1)

(2)

(3)

(1) Assemble the jack handle. (2) Insert the jack handle end into the lowering

screw.

(3) Turn the jack handle counterclockwise. Refer to the Owner’s Manual for tire changing and jack positioning procedures.

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Customer Experience Center

1-800-331-4331

MN 00505-QRG08-TAC Printed in the USA 7/07

08 02.19

SECTION 3

STARTING AND DRIVING Before starting the engine How to start the engine Tips for driving in various conditions Driving in the rain Off−road driving precautions Winter driving tips Dinghy towing Trailer towing How to save fuel and make your vehicle last longer

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

304
304
305
306
307
309
310
310
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Before starting the engine 1. Check the area around the vehicle be-

fore entering it.

2. Adjust seat position, seatback angle, restraint

seat cushion angle, head height and steering wheel angle.

3. Adjust the inside and outside rear view

mirrors.

4. Lock all doors. 5. Fasten seat belts.

How to start the engine— (a) Before cranking 1. Apply the parking brake firmly. 2. Turn off unnecessary lights and acces-

sories.

into neutral. Hold

3. Manual transmission: Press the clutch pedal to the floor and shift the trans- mission the clutch pedal to the floor until the engine is started. A starter safety device will pre- vent the starter from operating if the clutch pedal is not fully depressed. Automatic transmission: Put the se- lector lever in “P”. If you need to re- start the engine while the vehicle is moving, put the selector lever in “N”. A starter safety device will prevent the starter the selector lever is in any drive position.

from operating if

4. Automatic

transmission only: De- press the brake pedal and hold it to the floor until driving off.

in

the

instructions

the engine, be sure

to “(a) Before

(b) Starting the engine Before starting follow cranking”. Normal starting procedure The multiport fuel injection system/sequen- tial multiport fuel injection system in your engine automatically controls the proper air−fuel mixture for starting. You can start a cold or hot engine as follows: With your foot off the accelerator pedal, crank the engine by turning the engine switch to “START”. Release it when the engine starts. Engine should be warmed up by driving, not in idle. For warming up, drive with smoothly turning engine until engine cool- ant temperature is within normal range. If the engine stalls... Simply restart it, using the correct proce- dure given in normal starting. If the engine will not start... See “If your vehicle will not start” on page 324 in Section 4.

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NOTICE

z Do not crank for more than 30 se- conds at a time. This may overheat the starter and wiring systems.

z Do not race a cold engine. z If the engine becomes difficult to start or stalls frequently, have the engine checked immediately.

Tips for driving in various conditions D Always slow down in gusty crosswinds. This will allow you much better control. D Drive slowly onto curbs and, if pos- sible, at a right angle. Avoid driving onto high, sharp−edged objects and other road hazards. Failure to do so can lead to severe tire damage such as a tire burst. Drive slowly when passing over bumps or travelling on a bumpy road. Other- wise, the impact could cause severe damage to the tires and/or wheels.

they

D When parking on a hill, turn the front wheels until touch the curb so that the vehicle will not roll. Apply the parking brake, and place the transmis- sion in “P” (automatic) or in first or reverse (manual). If necessary, block the wheels.

D Washing your vehicle or driving through deep water may get the brakes wet. To see whether they are wet, check that there is no traffic near you, and then press the pedal lightly. If you do not feel a normal braking force, the brakes are probably wet. To dry them, drive the vehicle cautiously while lightly pressing the brake pedal with the park- ing brake applied. If they still do not work safely, pull to the side of the road and call a Toyota dealer for assistance. D Four−wheel drive models—Toyota rec- ommends not using four−wheel drive on dry hard−surfaced roads, because four− wheel driving will cause unnecessary noise and wear, and poor fuel econo- my.

D Four−wheel drive models—In cold tem- peratures, noise may occur when driv- ing in two−wheel drive before the trans- fer is warmed up. Therefore, first drive in four−wheel drive until the transfer is warmed up.

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CAUTION

D Before driving off, make sure that the parking brake is fully released and reminder light is off.

the parking brake

D Do not

leave your vehicle unat- tended while the engine is running. D Do not rest your foot on the brake pedal while driving. It can cause dangerous overheating, needless wear, and poor fuel economy.

D To drive down a long or steep hill, reduce your speed and downshift. Remember, if you ride the brakes excessively, they may overheat and not work properly.

D Be careful when accelerating, up- shifting, downshifting or braking on a slippery surface. Sudden accelera- tion or engine braking, could cause the vehicle to skid or spin.

Driving in the rain Driving on a slippery road surface Drive carefully when it is raining, because visibility will be reduced, the windows may become fogged−up, and the road will be slippery. D Drive carefully when it starts to rain, because the road surface will be espe- cially slippery.

D Refrain from high speeds when driving on an expressway in the rain, because there may be a layer of water between the tires and the road surface, prevent- ing the steering and brakes from oper- ating properly.

tire dealer

D Do not drive in excess of the speed limit. Even if the legal speed limit permits it, do not drive over 140
km/h (85 mph) unless your vehicle has high−speed capability tires. Driving over 140 km/h (85 mph) may result in tire failure, loss of control and possible injury. Be sure to con- sult a to determine whether the tires on your vehicle are high−speed capability tires or not before driving at such speeds. D Do not continue normal driving when the brakes are wet. If they are require a wet, your vehicle will it longer stopping distance, and may pull the brakes are applied. Also, the park- ing brake will not hold the vehicle securely.

to one side when

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CAUTION

D Sudden braking, acceleration and steering when driving on a slippery road surface may cause tire slip- page and reduce your ability to control the vehicle, resulting in an accident.

D Sudden changes

in engine speed, such as sudden engine braking, may cause the vehicle to skid, re- sulting in an accident.

D After driving

through a puddle, lightly depress the brake pedal to make sure that the brakes are func- tioning properly. Wet brake pads may prevent the brakes from func- tioning properly. If the brakes on only one side are wet and not func- tioning properly, steering control may be affected, resulting in an ac- cident.

When encountering flooded roads Do not drive on a road that has flooded after heavy rain etc. Doing so may cause serious damage to the vehicle.

NOTICE

the event

road and

Driving on a flooded road may cause the engine to stall as well as cause serious vehicle malfunctions such as shorts in electrical components and engine damage from water immersion. In that you drive on a flooded is flooded, be sure to have your Toyota dealer check brake function, changes in quantity and quality of oil and fluid used transmission, transfer (4WD vehicles), differentials, etc. and lubricant condition for the propeller shaft, bearings and suspen- sion joints (where possible) and the function of all joints and bearings.

the vehicle

the engine,

for

Off−road driving precautions (four−wheel drive models and PreRunner) When driving your vehicle off−road, please observe the following precautions to en- sure your driving enjoyment and to help prevent the closure of areas to off−road vehicles. a. Drive your vehicle only in areas where off−road vehicles are permitted to trav- el.

b. Respect private property. Get owner’s permission before entering private prop- erty.

c. Do not enter areas

that are closed. Honor gates, barriers and signs that re- strict travel.

d. Stay on established roads. When condi- tions are wet, driving techniques should be changed or travel delayed to pre- vent damage to roads.

For owners in U.S. mainland, Hawaii and Puerto Rico: To obtain additional information pertaining to driving your vehicle off−road, consult the following organizations. D State and Local Parks and Recreation

Departments

D State Motor Vehicle Bureau D Recreational Vehicle Clubs

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D U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of

Land Management

CAUTION

Always observe the following precau- tions to minimize the risk of serious personal injury or damage to your ve- hicle: D Drive carefully when off the road. Do not take unnecessary risks by driving in dangerous places.

D Do not grip

the steering wheel spokes when driving off−road. A bad bump could jerk the wheel and injure your hands. Keep both hands and especially your thumbs on the outside of the rim.

D Always check your brakes for effec- tiveness immediately after driving in sand, mud, water or snow.

D After driving

through

tall grass, mud, rock, sand, rivers, etc., check that there is no grass, bush, paper, rags, stone, sand, etc. adhering or trapped on the underbody. Clear off any such matter from the under- body. If the vehicle is used with these materials trapped or adhering to the underbody, a breakdown or fire could occur.

D In a rollover crash, an unbelted per- son is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt. Therefore, the driver and all passengers should fasten their seat belts whenever the vehicle is mov- ing.

jump, make sharp

D When driving off−road or in rugged terrain, do not drive at excessive speeds, turns, strike objects, etc. This may cause loss of control or vehicle rollover causing death or serious injury. You are also risking expensive damage to your vehicle’s suspension and chassis.

NOTICE

z If driving through water, such as when crossing shallow streams, first check the depth of the water and the bottom of the river bed for firmness. Drive slowly and avoid deep water.

z Take all necessary safety measures to ensure that water damage to the engine or other components does not occur.

z Water entering the engine air intake

will cause severe engine damage.

z Water entering the automatic trans- mission will cause deterioration in shift quality, locking up of your transmission accompanied by vibra- tion, and ultimately damage.

z Water can wash the grease from wheel bearings, causing rusting and premature failure, and may also en- ter transmission and transfer case, reducing the gear oil’s lubricating qualities.

the differentials,

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z Sand and mud that has accumulated in brake drums and around brake discs may affect braking efficiency and may damage brake system com- ponents.

z Always perform a maintenance in- spection after each day of off−road driving that has taken you through rough terrain, sand, mud, or water. For in- formation, refer to the “Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or “Owner’s Manual Supplement”.

scheduled maintenance

Winter driving tips Make sure your coolant is properly pro- tected against freezing. 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 hy- brid organic acid technology. (Coolant with long−life hybrid organic acid technology is a combination of low phosphates and or- ganic acids.) See “Checking the engine coolant level” on page 372 in Section 7−2 for details of coolant type selection. For the U.S.A.—“Toyota Super Long Life Coolant” is a mixture of 50% coolant and 50% deionized water. This coolant pro- vides protection down to about −35_C (−31_F). For Canada—“Toyota Super Long Life Coolant” is a mixture of 55% coolant and 45% deionized water. This coolant pro- vides protection down to about −42_C (−44_F).

NOTICE

Do not use plain water alone.

Check the condition of the battery and cables.

Cold temperatures reduce the capacity of any battery, so it must be in top shape to provide enough power for winter start- ing. Section 7−3 tells you how to visually inspect the battery. Your Toyota dealer and most service stations will be pleased to check the level of charge. Make sure the engine oil viscosity is suitable for the cold weather. See page 370 in Section 7−2 for recom- mended viscosity. Leaving a heavy sum- mer oil in your vehicle during winter months may cause harder starting. If you are not sure about which oil to use, call your Toyota dealer—they will be pleased to help. Keep the door locks from freezing. Squirt lock de−icer or glycerine into the locks to keep them from freezing. Use a washer fluid containing an anti− freeze solution. This product is available at your Toyota dealer and most auto parts stores. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for how much to mix with water.

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NOTICE

Do not use engine antifreeze or any other substitute because it may dam- age your vehicle’s paint.

into

in and around

Do not use your parking brake when there is a possibility it could freeze. When parking, put the transmission into “P” (automatic) or first or reverse (manual) and block the front wheels. Do not use the parking brake, or snow or water accumulated the parking brake mechanism may freeze, making it hard to release. Keep ice and snow from accumulating under the fenders. Ice and snow built up under your fenders can make steering difficult. During bad winter driving, stop and check under the fenders occasionally. Depending on where you are driving, we recommend you carry some emer- gency equipment. Some of the things you might put in the vehicle are tire chains, window scraper, bag of sand or salt, flares, small shovel, jumper cables, etc.

Dinghy towing

LS30001a

Your vehicle to be dinghy towed (with four wheels on the ground) behind a motorhome.

is not designed

NOTICE

Do not tow your vehicle with four wheels on the ground. This may cause serious damage to your vehicle.

Trailer towing Your vehicle is designed primarily as a passenger−and−load−carrying vehicle. Tow- ing a trailer will have an adverse effect on handling, performance, braking, durability and driving economy (fuel consumption, etc.). Your safety and satisfaction depend on the proper use of correct equipment and cautious driving habits. For your safe- ty and the safety of others, you must not overload your vehicle or trailer. Ask your local Toyota dealer for further details be- fore towing. We recommend you use a weight distribut- ing hitch when towing to keep your ve- hicle level with the ground.

NOTICE

When towing a trailer, be sure to con- sult your Toyota dealer for further in- formation on additional requirements such as a towing kit, etc.

WEIGHT LIMITS Before towing, make sure the total trail- er weight, gross combination weight, gross vehicle weight, gross axle weight and trailer tongue load are all within the limits.

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The total trailer weight and tongue load can be measured with platform scales found at a highway weighing station, build- ing supply company, trucking company, junk yard, etc.

CAUTION

D The maximum gross trailer weight (trailer weight plus cargo weight) must never exceed the following.

Without towing package

1587 kg (3500 lb.)

With towing package

2948 kg (6500 lb.) If towing a trailer and cargo weigh- ing over 907 kg (2000 lb.), it is nec- essary to use a sway control device with sufficient capacity. The com- bination of the gross trailer weight added to the total weight of the vehicle, occupants and vehicle car- go must never exceed a total of the following.

Two−wheel drive models except Pre- Runner

(7500 lb.) Four−wheel drive models and Pre- Runner

3402 kg

2.7 L 4−cylinder (2TR−FE) engine

3628 kg

(8000 lb.)

4.0 L V6 (1GR−FE) engine Without towing package

3674 kg

(8100 lb.)

With towing package

5034 kg (11100 lb.) Exceeding the maximum weight of the trailer, the vehicle, or the ve- hicle and trailer combination, can cause an accident resulting in seri- ous personal injuries.

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LS20008b

Regular and double cab models

LS20009b

Access cab models

312

D The load on either the front or rear axle resulting from distribution of the gross vehicle weight on both axles must not exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) listed on the Certification Label.

D Trailer hitch assemblies have differ- ent weight capacities established by the hitch manufacturer. Even though the vehicle may be physically capa- ble of towing a higher weight, the operator must determine the maxi- mum weight rating of the particular hitch assembly and never exceed the maximum weight rating speci- fied for the trailer−hitch. Exceeding the maximum weight rating set by the trailer hitch manufacturer can cause an accident resulting in seri- ous personal injuries.

indicated on

D The gross vehicle weight must not the Gross Vehicle Weight exceed (GVWR) the Rating Certification Label. The gross ve- hicle weight is the sum of weights of the unloaded vehicle, driver, pas- sengers, luggage, hitch and trailer tongue includes the weight of any special equipment installed on your vehicle.

It also

load.

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Total trailer weight

Tongue load

Tongue load

Total trailer weight

100 = 9 to 11%

if

towing with a

However, fifth wheel trailer, the cargo load must be distributed so that the tongue load is 19 to 21% of the total trailer weight. Never load the trailer with more weight in the back than in the front. About 60% of the trailer load should be in the front half of the trailer and the remaining 40% in the rear.

D The trailer cargo

to 11% of

load should be distributed so that the tongue load is 9 trailer weight, not exceeding the maximum load of the following. Without towing package

total

the

158 kg (350 lb.)

With towing package

294 kg (650 lb.)

HITCHES D If you wish to install a trailer hitch, you should consult with your Toyota dealer. D Use only a hitch recommended by the hitch manufacturer and the one which conforms trailer weight requirement.

total

the

to

D The hitch must be bolted securely to the vehicle frame and installed accord- ing to the hitch manufacturer’s instruc- tions.

D The hitch ball and king pin should have

a light coat of grease.

trailer

D Toyota recommends removing the trail- er hitch whenever you are not towing to reduce the possibility of additional damage caused by the hitch if your vehicle is struck from behind. After the hitch, seal any mounting holes in the vehicle body to prevent entry of pollutants such as ex- haust fumes, dirt, water, etc.

removing

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NOTICE

Do not use axle−mounted hitches as they can cause damage to the axle housing, wheel bearings, wheels or tires. Also, never install a hitch which may interfere with the normal function of an Energy Absorbing Bumper, if so equipped.

LS30011

1 Trailer ball load rating 2 Ball diameter 3 Shank length 4 Shank diameter

TRAILER BALL Follow these easy steps to properly deter- mine the correct trailer ball for your ap- plication: 1. Determine the correct trailer ball size for the trailer coupler. Most couplers are stamped with the required trailer ball size. The sizes you will most likely find stamped on the coupler are:

Trailer class

Typical trailer ball size

IV

II and III

2 5/16 in.

2 in.

1 7/8 in.

2. Select

trailer ball

the appropriate

to trailer match or exceed weight rating of the trailer. The trailer ball load rating should be printed on the top of the ball.

the gross

3. When mounted in the ball mount, the threaded ball shank must protrude be- yond the bottom of the lock washer and nut at least 2 threads. The trailer ball shank must be matched to the ball mount hole diameter size.

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LS30004

LS30005

LS30007

rear bumper of your vehicle

BUMPER TOWING The is equipped with a hole to install a trailer ball. The maximum gross trailer weight is 1587 kg (3500 lb.).

CAUTION

The maximum gross trailer weight (trailer weight plus cargo weight) when towing with the bumper must never exceed 1587 kg (3500 lb.).

FIFTH WHEEL TRAILER

NOTICE

When towing a fifth wheel trailer, be careful not to hit the cabin or deck by the trailer while making a sharp turn.

LS30008

1 Coupler 2 Trailer ball

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MATCHING TRAILER BALL HEIGHT TO TRAILER COUPLER HEIGHT No matter which class of tow hitch ap- plies, for a safe trailer hookup, the trailer ball setup on must be the proper height for the coupler on the trailer. BRAKES AND SAFETY CHAINS D Toyota

trailers with brakes that conform to any applica- ble federal and state/provincial regu- lations.

recommends

D A safety chain must always be used between the towing vehicle and the trailer. Leave sufficient slack in the chain for turns. The chain should cross under to prevent the tongue from dropping to the ground in case it becomes dam- aged or separated. For correct safety chain procedures, follow the hitch or trailer manufacturer’s recommenda- tions.

tongue

trailer

the

316

CAUTION

D If the total trailer weight exceeds 453 kg (1000 lb.), trailer brakes are required.

D Never tap

into your vehicle’s hy- draulic system as it would lower its braking effectiveness.

D Never tow a trailer without using a safety chain securely attached to both the trailer and the vehicle. If damage occurs to the coupling unit or hitch ball, there is danger of the trailer wandering over into another lane.

LS30009

SERVICE CONNECTOR FOR TOWING BRAKE CONTROLLER Your vehicle is equipped with a service connector for the trailer brake controller as shown. Link the connector to the trailer brake controller via the sub wire harness stored in the glove box. The detailed ex- planation of the sub wire harness circuit is packed together with the sub wire har- ness. Be sure to position the trailer brake con- troller where it does not prevent the driver from operating the pedal. Toyota recommends that the sub wire har- ness be stored in the glove box when it is not in use.

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TIRES D Ensure

that your vehicle’s

tires are properly inflated. See page 376 in Sec- tion 7−2 and page 410 in Section 8 for instructions.

D The trailer tires should be inflated to the pressure recommended by the trail- er manufacturer in respect to the total trailer weight.

LS30010

the

trailer

lights. However,

TOWING CONNECTOR FOR TRAILER LIGHTS D Your vehicle is equipped with a wire harness stored in the rear under body. Some models are fitted with a socket for trailer lights under the rear bumper. Use either of them to connect and op- erate the trailer lights must comply with federal, state/provincial and regulations. See your recreational vehicle dealer or rental agency for the correct type of wiring and relays for your trail- er. Check for correct operation of the turn signals and stop lights each time you hitch up. Direct splicing may dam- age your vehicle’s electrical system and cause a malfunction of your lights. The towing connector can be also con- nected to the trailer brake and trailer sub battery.

local

local

BREAK−IN SCHEDULE D Toyota recommends

that you do not tow a trailer with a new vehicle or a vehicle with any new power train com- ponent (engine, transmission, differen- tial, wheel bearing, etc.) for the first 800 km (500 miles) of driving.

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MAINTENANCE D If you tow a trailer, your vehicle will require more frequent maintenance due this to the information, scheduled maintenance in the “Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or “Owner’s Manual Supplement”.

load. For to

additional please

information

refer

the

D Retighten all fixing bolts of the towing ball and bracket after approximately 1000 km (600 miles) of trailer driving.

PRE−TOWING SAFETY CHECK D Check that your vehicle remains level when a loaded or unloaded trailer is hitched. Do not drive if the vehicle has an abnormal nose−up or nose−down condition, and check improper tongue load, overload, worn suspension or other possible causes.

for

D Make sure the trailer cargo is securely

loaded so that it cannot shift.

to any applicable

D Check that your rear view mirrors con- form federal state/ provincial or local regulations. If not, install the rear view mirrors required for towing purpose.

318

TRAILER TOWING TIPS When towing a trailer, your vehicle will handle differently than when not tow- ing. The three main causes of vehicle− trailer accidents are driver error, exces- sive speed and improper trailer loading. Keep these in mind when towing: D Before starting out, check operation of the lights and all vehicle−trailer connec- tions. After driving a short distance, stop and recheck the lights and con- nections. Before actually towing a trail- er, practice turning, stopping and back- ing with a trailer in an area away from traffic until you learn the feel.

D Backing with a trailer is difficult and requires practice. Grip the bottom of the steering wheel and move your hand to the left to move the trailer to the left. Move your hand to the right to move the trailer to the right. (This pro- cedure that when backing without a trailer.) Also, just turn the steering wheel a little at time, avoiding sharp or prolonged turning. Have someone guide you when backing to reduce the risk of an acci- dent.

is generally opposite

to

towing a

D Because stopping distance may be in- creased, following distance should be increased when trailer. For each 16 km/h (10 mph) of speed, allow at least one vehicle and trailer length between you and the vehicle ahead. Avoid sudden braking as you may skid, resulting in jackknifing and loss of con- trol. This is especially true on wet or slippery surfaces.

D Avoid jerky starts or sudden accelera- tion. If your vehicle has a manual transmission, prevent excessive clutch slippage by keeping engine rpm low and not racing the engine. Always start out in first gear.

D Avoid jerky steering and sharp turns. The trailer could hit your vehicle in a tight turn. Slow down before making a turn to avoid the necessity of sudden braking.

D Remember that when making a turn, the trailer wheels will be closer than the vehicle wheels to the inside of the turn. Therefore, compensate for this by making a turning radius with your vehicle.

than normal

larger

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D Crosswinds and rough roads will ad- versely affect handling of your vehicle and trailer, causing sway. Pay attention to the rear from time to time to pre- pare yourself for being passed by large trucks or buses, which may cause your vehicle and trailer to sway. If swaying happens, firmly grip the steering wheel and immediately but gradually. Never increase speed. Steer straight ahead. If you make no extreme correction with the steering or brakes, the vehicle and trailer will stabilize.

reduce speed

D Be careful when passing other ve- hicles. Passing requires considerable distance. After passing a vehicle, do not forget the length of your trailer and be sure you have plenty of room be- fore changing lanes.

D In order to maintain engine braking effi- ciency, do not use fifth gear (5−speed manual transmission) or sixth gear (6−speed manual transmission), or do not put the transmission in “D” (auto- matic transmission).

(at

D Because of the added load of the trail- er, your vehicle’s engine may overheat on hot days temperatures over 30_C [85_F]) when going up a long or steep grade with a trailer. If the engine coolant indicates overheating, immediately turn off the air conditioning (if in use), pull off the road and stop in a safe spot. Refer to “If your vehicle overheats” on page 328 in Section 4.

temperature gauge

D Always place wheel blocks under both trailer wheels when the vehicle and parking. Apply the parking brake firmly. Put the transmission in “P” (automatic) or in first or reverse (manual). Avoid parking on a slope with a trailer, but if it cannot be avoided, do so only after performing the following:

1. Apply the brakes and hold. 2. Have someone place wheel blocks un- der both the vehicle and trailer wheels. 3. When the wheel blocks are in place, the

release your brakes slowly until blocks absorb the load.

4. Apply the parking brake firmly. 5. Shift into first or reverse (manual) or “P” (automatic) and turn off the engine.

When restarting out after parking on a slope: 1. With the transmission in “P” position the clutch pedal de- the engine. transmission, be the brake pedal de-

(automatic) or pressed (With an automatic sure pressed.)

(manual), start

to keep

2. Shift into gear. 3. Release the parking brake (also foot brake on automatic transmission ve- hicles) and slowly pull or back away from the wheel blocks. Stop and apply your brakes.

4. Have someone retrieve the blocks.

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CAUTION

towing speed

D Do not exceed 72 km/h (45 mph) or the posted limit, whichever is lower. Because insta- bility (swaying) of a towing vehicle− trailer in- creases as the speed increases, ex- ceeding 72 km/h (45 mph) may cause loss of control.

combination

usually

D Slow down and downshift before descending steep or long downhill grades. Do not make sudden down- shifts.

long or

D Avoid holding the brake pedal down too frequently. This could cause the brakes to overheat and result in reduced braking effi- ciency.

too

320

How to save fuel and make your vehicle last longer Improving fuel economy is easy—just take it easy. It will help make your vehicle last longer, too. Here are some specific tips on how to save money on both fuel and repairs: D Keep your tires inflated at the cor- rect pressure. Underinflation causes tire wear and wastes fuel. See page 376 in Section 7−2 for instructions. D Do not carry unneeded weight

in your vehicle. Excess weight puts a heavier the engine, causing greater fuel consumption.

load on

D Avoid lengthy warm−up idling. Once the engine is running smoothly, begin driving—but gently. Remember, howev- er, that on cold winter days this may take a little longer.

D Put the selector lever into the “D” when engine braking is not required. 5−speed automatic transmission—Driv-