Toyota Tundra (2020 year). Manual in english - part 4

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4-1. Before driving

Hitch receiver pin hole position:
46.4 in. (1179 mm)

Use the wire harness stored in the rear end of the vehicle.
The tow lighting system is designed for 64 watts/5 amps of electrical
current per side (right and left) for the trailer brake/turn light functions.
Please contact your Toyota dealer with any questions or concerns.

■

Service  connector  for  towing  brake  controllers  (vehicles  without  an
installed trailer brake controller)

Positions for towing hitch receiver

1

Connecting trailer lights



Vehicles  without  towing  pack-
age



Vehicles with towing package

Your  vehicle  is  equipped  with  a  service
connector  for  supplemental  trailer  brake
controllers.
Please  consult  your  dealer  on  how  to
access the service connector.

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Your vehicle will handle differently when towing a trailer. To help avoid
an accident, death or serious injury, keep the following in mind when
towing:

●

Speed limits for towing a  trailer  vary  by  state  or  province. Do not
exceed the posted towing speed limit.

●

Toyota  recommends  that  the  vehicle-trailer  speed  limit  is  65  mph
(104 km/h) on a flat, straight, dry road. Do not exceed this limit, the
posted towing speed limit or the speed limit for your trailer as set
forth in your trailer owner’s manual, whichever is lowest. Instability
of the towing vehicle-trailer combination (trailer sway) increases as
speed increases. Exceeding speed limits may cause loss of control.

●

Before  starting  out,  check  the  trailer  lights,  tires  and  the  vehicle-
trailer connections. Recheck after driving a short distance.

●

Practice turning, stopping and reversing with the trailer attached in
an area away from traffic until you become accustomed to the feel
of the vehicle-trailer combination.

●

Reversing  with  a  trailer  attached  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 is generally opposite to reversing
without a trailer attached.) Avoid sharp or prolonged turning. Have
someone guide you when reversing to reduce the risk of an acci-
dent.

●

As stopping distance is increased when towing a trailer, vehicle-to-
vehicle distance should be increased. For each 10 mph (16 km/h)
of speed, allow at least one vehicle and trailer length.

Trailer towing tips

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4-1. Before driving

●

Avoid sudden braking as you may skid, resulting in the trailer jack-
knifing and a loss of vehicle control. This is especially true on wet or
slippery surfaces.

●

Avoid jerky starts or sudden acceleration.

●

Avoid jerky steering and sharp turns, and slow down before making
a turn.

●

Note that when making a turn, the trailer wheels will be closer than
the vehicle wheels to the inside of the turn. Compensate by making
a wider than normal turning radius.

●

Slow down before making a turn, in crosswinds, on wet or slippery
surfaces, etc. 
Increasing vehicle speed can destabilize the trailer.

●

Take care when passing other vehicles. Passing requires consider-
able  distance. After  passing  a  vehicle,  do  not  forget  the  length  of
your trailer, and be sure you have plenty of room before changing
lanes.

●

To maintain engine braking efficiency and charging system perfor-
mance when using engine braking, do not use the transmission in
D.
Transmission shift range position must be in 4 in the S mode.

●

Instability happens more frequently when descending steep or long
downhill grades. Before descending, slow down and downshift. Do
not make sudden downshifts while descending steep or long down-
hill grades.

●

Avoid holding the brake pedal down too long or applying the brakes
too frequently. This could cause the brakes to overheat and result in
reduced braking efficiency.

●

Due to the added load of the trailer, your vehicle’s engine may over-
heat on hot days (at temperatures over 85°F [30°C]) when driving
up a long or steep grade. If the engine coolant temperature gauge
indicates overheating, immediately turn off the air conditioning (if in
use), pull your vehicle off the road and stop in a safe spot. 
(



P. 527)

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●

Always place wheel blocks under both the vehicle’s and the trailer’s
wheels  when  parking. Apply  the  parking  brake  firmly,  and  put  the
transmission in P. Avoid parking on a slope, but if unavoidable, do
so only after performing the following:

Apply the brakes and keep them applied.
Have someone place wheel blocks under both the vehicle’s and
trailer’s wheels.
When the  wheel blocks are  in place, release the brakes slowly
until the blocks absorb the load.
Apply the parking brake firmly.
Shift into P and turn off the engine.

●

When restarting after parking on a slope:

With the transmission in P, start the engine. Be sure to keep the
brake pedal pressed.
Shift into D or R (if reversing).
Release  the  parking  brake  and  brake  pedal,  and  slowly  pull  or
back away from the wheel blocks. Stop and apply the brakes.
Have someone retrieve the blocks.

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2

3

4

5

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4-1. Before driving

■

Trailer brake controller



P. 327

■

Matching trailer ball height to trailer coupler height

■

Before towing

Check that the following conditions are met:

●

Ensure that your vehicle’s tires are properly inflated. (



P. 546)

●

Trailer tires are inflated according to the trailer manufacturer’s recommen-
dation.

●

All trailer lights work as required by law.

●

All lights work each time you connect them.

●

The trailer ball is set at the proper height for the coupler on the trailer.

●

The trailer is level when it is hitched.
Do not drive if the trailer is not level, and check for improper tongue weight,
overloading, worn suspension, or other possible causes.

●

The trailer cargo is securely loaded.

●

The  rear  view  mirrors  conform  to  all  applicable  federal,  state/provincial  or
local regulations. If they do not, install rear view mirrors appropriate for tow-
ing purposes.

●

Depress TOW/HAUL button (if equipped). (



P. 228)

●

The manual headlight leveling dial is correctly adjusted. (



P. 236)

No  matter  which  class  of  tow  hitch
applies,  for  a  more  safe  trailer  hookup,
the  trailer  ball  setup  must  be  the  proper
height for the coupler on the trailer.

Coupler 
Trailer ball

1

2

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■

Break-in schedule

If  your  vehicle  is  new  or  equipped  with  any  new  power  train  components
(such as an engine, transmission, differential or wheel bearing), Toyota rec-
ommends that you do not tow a trailer until the vehicle has been driven for
over 500 miles (800 km).
After the vehicle has been driven for over 500 miles (800 km), you can start
towing. However, for the next 500 miles (800 km), drive the vehicle at a speed
of  less  than  50  mph  (80  km/h)  when  towing  a  trailer,  and  avoid  full  throttle
acceleration.

■

Maintenance

●

If you tow a trailer, your vehicle will require more frequent maintenance due
to  the  additional  load.  (See  “Owner’s  Warranty  Information  Booklet”  or
“Scheduled Maintenance Guide”/“Owner’s Manual Supplement”.)

●

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

■

If trailer sway occurs

One  or  more  factors  (crosswinds,  passing  vehicles,  rough  roads,  etc.)  can
adversely affect handling of your vehicle and trailer, causing instability.

●

If trailer swaying occurs:
• Firmly grip the steering wheel. Steer straight ahead.

Do not try to control trailer swaying by turning the steering wheel.

• Begin releasing the accelerator pedal immediately but very gradually to

reduce speed.
Do not increase speed. Do not apply vehicle brakes.

If you make no extreme correction with the steering or brakes, your vehicle
and trailer should stabilize. (if enabled, Trailer Sway Control can also help to
stabilize the vehicle and trailer.)

●

After the trailer swaying has stopped:
• Stop in a safe place. Get all occupants out of the vehicle.
• Check the tires of the vehicle and the trailer.
• Check the load in the trailer.

Make sure the load has not shifted.
Make sure the tongue weight is appropriate, if possible.

• Check the load in the vehicle.

Make sure the vehicle is not overloaded after occupants get in.

If you cannot find any problems, the speed at which trailer swaying occurred
is beyond the limit of your particular vehicle-trailer combination.
Drive at a lower speed to prevent instability. Remember that swaying of the
towing vehicle-trailer increases as speed increases.

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4-1. Before driving

WARNING

■

Trailer towing precautions

To tow a trailer safely, use extreme care and drive the vehicle in accordance
with the trailer’s characteristics and operating conditions. Failure to do  so
could cause an accident resulting in death or serious injury. Vehicle stability
and braking performance are affected by trailer stability, brake setting and
performance, and the hitch. Your vehicle will handle differently when towing
a trailer.

■

To avoid accident or injury

●

Do not exceed the TWR, unbraked TWR, GCWR, GVWR or GAWR.

●

If the gross trailer weight is over 2000 lb. (907 kg), a sway control device
with sufficient capacity is required.

●

If the gross trailer weight is over 5000 lb. (2268 kg), a weight distributing
hitch with sufficient capacity is required.

●

Adjust the tongue weight within the appropriate range. Place heavier loads
as close to the trailer axle as possible.

●

Do not exceed 65 mph (104 km/h), the posted towing speed limit or the
speed  limit  for  your  trailer  as  set  forth  in  your  trailer  owner’s  manual,
whichever is lowest. Slow down sufficiently before making a turn, in cross-
winds,  on wet  or slippery surface,  etc., to help  avoid an  accident. If  you
experience a vehicle-trailer instability from reducing a certain speed, slow
down  and  make  sure  you  keep  your  vehicle  speed  under  the  speed  of
which you experience the instability.

●

Do not make jerky, abrupt or sharp turns.

●

Do not apply the brakes suddenly as you may skid, resulting in jackknifing
and loss of vehicle control. This is especially true on wet or slippery sur-
faces.

●

Do  not  exceed  the  trailer  hitch  assembly  weight,  gross  vehicle  weight,
gross axle weight and trailer tongue weight capacities.

●

Do not use cruise control when towing.

●

Slow  down  and  downshift  before  descending  steep  or  long  downhill
grades. Do not make sudden downshifts while descending steep or long
downhill grades.

●

Vehicle-trailer  instability  is  more  likely  on  steep  long  downhills.  Before
descending steep or long downhill grades, slow down and downshift. Do
not  make  sudden  downshifts  when  descending  steep  or  long  downhill
grades.  Avoid  holding  the  brake  pedal  down  too  long  or  applying  the
brakes too frequently. This could cause the brakes to overheat and result
in reduced braking efficiency.

●

Do not tow a trailer when the temporary spare tire is installed on your vehi-
cle.

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WARNING

■

Hitch

Trailer hitch assemblies have different weight capacities established by the
hitch manufacturer. Even though the vehicle may be physically capable of
towing a higher weight, the operator must determine the maximum weight
rating  of  the  particular  hitch  assembly  and  never  exceed  the  maximum
weight rating specified for the trailer-hitch. Exceeding the maximum weight
rating set by the trailer-hitch manufacturer can cause an accident resulting
in death or serious personal injuries.

■

When towing a trailer

Toyota recommends trailers with brakes that conform to any applicable fed-
eral and state/provincial regulations.

●

If  the  gross  trailer  weight  exceeds  unbraked  TWR,  trailer  brakes  are
required. Toyota recommends trailers with brakes that conform to all appli-
cable federal and state/provincial regulations.

●

Never tap into your vehicle’s hydraulic system, as this will lower the vehi-
cle’s braking effectiveness.

●

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 into another lane.

NOTICE

■

When installing a trailer hitch

Use  only  the  position  recommended  by  your Toyota  dealer.  Do  not  install
the trailer hitch on the bumper; this may cause body damage.

■

Do not directly splice trailer lights

Do not directly splice trailer lights. Directly splicing trailer lights may damage
your vehicle’s electrical system and cause a malfunction.

■

When towing a fifth wheel trailer

Be careful not to hit the cabin or bed with
the trailer while making a sharp turn.

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4-1. Before driving

Dinghy towing

Your vehicle is not designed to be dinghy towed (with 4 wheels
on the ground) behind a motor home. 

NOTICE

■

To avoid serious damage to your vehicle

Do not tow your vehicle with the four wheels on the ground.

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Engine (ignition) switch (vehicles without a 

smart key system)

Check that the parking brake is set.
Check that the shift lever is set in P.
Firmly depress the brake pedal.
Turn the engine switch to the “START” position to start the engine.

OFF (“LOCK” position)

The  steering  wheel  is  locked  and
the key can be removed. (The key
can  be  removed  only  when  the
shift lever is in P.)

ACC (“ACC” position)

Some  electrical  components  such
as the audio system can be used.

ON (“ON” position)

All electrical components can be used.

START (“START” position)

For starting the engine.

■

Turning the key from ACC to OFF

Shift the shift lever to P.

■

If the engine does not start

The engine immobilizer system may not have been deactivated. (



P. 85)

Contact your Toyota dealer.

Starting the engine

Changing the engine switch positions

1

2

3

4

1

2

Push in the key and turn it to OFF.

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4

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2

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4-2. Driving procedures

■

When the steering lock cannot be released

■

Key reminder function

A buzzer sounds if the driver’s door is opened while the engine switch is in
ACC or OFF to remind you to remove the key.

When  starting  the  engine,  the  engine
switch  may  seem  stuck  in  the  OFF.  To
free it, turn the key while turning the steer-
ing wheel slightly left and right.

WARNING

■

When starting the engine

Always start the engine while sitting in the driver’s seat. Do not depress the
accelerator pedal while starting the engine under any circumstances.
Doing so may cause an accident resulting in death or serious injury.

■

Caution while driving

Do not turn the engine switch to OFF while driving. If, in an emergency, you
must turn the engine off while the vehicle is moving, turn the engine switch
only  to ACC  to  stop  the  engine. An  accident  may  result  if  the  engine  is
stopped while driving. (



P. 473)

NOTICE

■

To prevent battery discharge

Do not leave the engine switch in ACC or ON for long periods of time with-
out the engine running.

■

When starting the engine

●

Do  not  crank  the  engine  for  more  than  30  seconds  at  a  time. This  may
overheat the starter and wiring system.

●

Do not race a cold engine.

●

If the engine becomes difficult to start or stalls frequently, have your vehi-
cle checked by your Toyota dealer immediately.

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Engine (ignition) switch (vehicles with a 

smart key system)

Check that the parking brake is set.
Check that the shift lever is in P.
Firmly depress the brake pedal.

 and a message will be dis-

played on the multi-information dis-
play. 
If  it  is  not  displayed,  the  engine
cannot be started.

Press the engine switch shortly
and firmly. 

When operating the engine switch,
one  short,  firm  press  is  enough.  It
is not necessary to press and hold
the switch.
The engine will crank until it starts
or for up to 30 seconds, whichever
is less.
Continue  depressing  the  brake
pedal until the engine is completely
started.
The  engine  can  be  started  from
any engine switch mode.

Performing  the  following  operations  when  carrying  the  elec-
tronic key on your person starts the engine or changes engine
switch modes.

Starting the engine

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3

4

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4-2. Driving procedures

Stop the vehicle.
Set the parking brake (



P. 233), and shift the shift lever to P.

Press the engine switch.
Release the brake pedal and check that the display on the instru-
ment cluster is off.

Modes  can  be  changed  by  pressing  the  engine  switch  with  brake
pedal released. (The mode changes each time the switch is pressed.)

OFF

*

The  emergency  flashers  can  be
used.

ACC

Some  electrical  components  such
as the audio system can be used.
“ACCESSORY”  will  be  displayed
on the multi-information display.

ON

All  electrical  components  can  be
used.
“IGNITION  ON”  will  be  displayed
on the multi-information display.

*

: If  the  shift  lever  is  in  a  position

other  than  P  when  turning  off  the
engine,  the  engine  switch  will  be
turned to ACC, not to off.

Stopping the engine

Changing engine switch modes

1

2

3

4

1

2

3

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If the engine is stopped with the shift lever in a position other than P,
the engine switch will not be turned off but instead be turned to ACC.
Perform the following procedure to turn the switch off:

Check that the parking brake is set.
Shift the shift lever to P.
Check that “Turn Power OFF” is displayed on the multi-information
display and then press the engine switch once.
Check that “Turn Power OFF” on the multi-information display is off.

■

Auto power off function

If the vehicle is left in ACC for more than 20 minutes or ON (the engine is not
running) for more than an hour with the shift lever in P, the engine switch will
automatically turn off. However, this function cannot entirely prevent battery
discharge. Do not leave the vehicle with the engine switch in ACC or ON for
long periods of time when the engine is not running.

■

Automatic engine shut off feature (except for New Caledonia)

●

The  vehicle  is  equipped  with  a  feature  that  automatically  shuts  off  the
engine when the shift lever is in P with the engine running for an extended
period.

●

The  engine  will  automatically  shut  off  after  approximately  1  hour  if  it  has
been left running while the shift lever is in P.

●

The  timer  for  the  automatic  engine  shut  off  feature  will  reset  if  the  brake
pedal is depressed or if the shift lever is in a position other than P.

●

After  the  vehicle  is  parked,  if  the  door  is  locked  with  the  door  lock  switch
(



P. 130) from the inside or the mechanical key (



P. 521) from the outside,

the automatic engine shut off feature will be disabled. The timer for the auto-
matic  engine  shut  off  feature  will  be  re-enabled  if  the  driver’s  door  is
opened.

When stopping the engine with the shift lever in a position other
than P

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3

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4-2. Driving procedures

■

Electronic key battery depletion



P. 124

■

Conditions affecting operation



P. 142

■

Note for the entry function



P. 142

■

If the engine does not start

●

The engine immobilizer system may not have been deactivated. (



P. 85)

Contact your Toyota dealer.

●

Check that the shift lever is securely set in P. The engine may not start if the
shift lever is displaced out of P. “Shift to P Position” will be displayed on the
multi-information display.

■

Steering lock

After  turning  the  engine  switch  off  and  opening  and  closing  the  doors,  the
steering wheel will be locked due to the steering lock function. Operating the
engine switch again automatically cancels the steering lock.

■

When the steering lock cannot be released

■

Steering lock motor overheating prevention

To prevent the steering lock motor from overheating, operation of the motor
may  be  suspended  if  the  engine  is  turned  on  and  off  repeatedly  in  a  short
period  of  time.  In  this  case,  refrain  from  running  the  engine.  After  about
10 seconds, the steering lock motor will resume functioning.

■

When  “Smart  Entry  &  Start  System  Check”  is  displayed  on  the  multi-
information display

The  system  may  be  malfunctioning.  Have  the  vehicle  inspected  by  your
Toyota dealer immediately.

■

If the electronic key battery is depleted



P. 449

A message will be displayed on the multi-
information display. 
Check that the shift lever is in P. Press the
engine  switch  while  turning  the  steering
wheel left and right.

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■

Operation of the engine switch

●

If the switch is not pressed shortly and firmly, the engine switch mode may
not change or the engine may not start.

●

If  attempting  to  restart  the  engine  immediately  after  turning  the  engine
switch off, the engine may not start in some cases. After turning the engine
switch off, please wait a few seconds before restarting the engine.

■

If the smart key system has been deactivated by a customized setting



P. 521

WARNING

■

When starting the engine

Always start the engine while sitting in the driver’s seat. Do not depress the
accelerator pedal while starting the engine under any circumstances. 
Doing so may cause an accident resulting in death or serious injury.

■

Caution while driving

If engine failure occurs while the vehicle is moving, do not lock or open the
doors  until  the  vehicle  reaches  a  safe  and  complete  stop.  Otherwise,  the
steering lock function will activate and this may lead to an accident, result-
ing in death or serious injury.

■

Stopping the engine in an emergency

If  you  want  to  stop  the  engine  in  an  emergency  while  driving  the  vehicle,
press and hold the engine switch for more than 2 seconds, or press it briefly
3 times or more in succession. (



P. 473)

However, do not touch the engine switch while driving except in an emer-
gency. Turning the engine off while driving will not cause loss of steering or
braking control, however, power assist to the steering will be lost. This will
make it more difficult to steer smoothly, so you should pull over and stop the
vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.

■

When parking (except for New Caledonia)

Exhaust gases  include harmful  carbon  monoxide  (CO), which is colorless
and odorless. Observe the following precautions.
Failure  to  do  so  may  cause  exhaust  gases  to  enter  the  vehicle  and  may
lead to an accident caused by light-headedness, or may lead to death or a
serious health hazard.

●

If  the  vehicle  is  in  a  poorly  ventilated  area  or  a  closed  area,  such  as  a
garage, stop the engine.

●

Do not leave the vehicle with the engine running for a long time. If such a
situation cannot be avoided, park the vehicle in an open space and ensure
that exhaust fumes do not enter the vehicle interior.

●

Do not leave the engine running in an area with snow build-up, or where it
is snowing. If snowbanks build up around the vehicle while the engine is
running, exhaust gases may collect and enter the vehicle.

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4-2. Driving procedures

NOTICE

■

To prevent battery discharge

●

Do not leave the engine switch in ACC or ON for long periods of time with-
out the engine running.

●

If “ACCESSORY” or “IGNITION ON” is displayed on the multi-information
display while the engine is not running, the engine switch is not off. Exit the
vehicle after turning the engine switch off.

●

Do not stop the engine when the shift lever is in a position other than P. If
the engine is stopped in another shift lever position, the engine switch will
not be turned off but instead be turned to ACC. If the vehicle is left in ACC,
battery discharge may occur.

■

When starting the engine

●

Do not race a cold engine.

●

If the engine becomes difficult to start or stalls frequently, have your vehi-
cle checked by your Toyota dealer immediately.

■

Symptoms indicating a malfunction with the engine switch

If the engine switch seems to be operating somewhat differently than usual,
such  as  the  switch  sticking  slightly,  there  may  be  a  malfunction.  Contact
your Toyota dealer immediately.

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4-2. Driving procedures

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Automatic transmission



Floor shift type

While the engine switch  is in ON, move the  shift  lever with the
brake pedal depressed.

When shifting the shift lever between P and D, make sure that the vehi-
cle is completely stopped. 

Shifting the shift lever

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4-2. Driving procedures



Column shift type

While the engine switch  is in ON, move the  shift  lever with the
brake pedal depressed.

When shifting the shift lever between P and D, make sure that the vehi-
cle is completely stopped.

*

1

: To improve fuel efficiency and reduce noises, set the shift lever in the D

position for normal driving.

*

2

: Selecting shift ranges using S mode restricts the upper limit of the possible

gear  ranges,  controls  engine  braking  forces,  and  prevents  unnecessary
upshifting.

Shift position purpose

Shift position

Function

P

Parking the vehicle/starting the engine

R

Reversing

N

Neutral

(Condition in which the power is not transmitted)

D

Normal driving

*

1

S

S mode driving

*

2

 (



P. 227)

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To enter S mode, shift the shift lever to S. Shift ranges can be selected
by operating the shift lever, allowing you to drive in the shift range of
your choosing. The shift range can be selected by the shift lever.

Upshifting
Downshifting

The selected shift range, from 1 to 6, will be displayed in the meter.
The initial shift range in S mode is set automatically to 5 or 4 accord-
ing to vehicle speed. However, the initial shift range may be set to 3 or
2 if the AI-SHIFT (



P. 229) has operated while the shift lever was in

the D position.

Selecting shift ranges in the S position



Floor shift type



Column shift type

1

2

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4-2. Driving procedures

■

Shift ranges and their functions

●

Automatically selecting gears between 1 and 6 according to vehi-
cle speed and driving conditions.

●

You can choose from 6 levels of accelerating force and engine
braking force.

●

A  lower  shift  range  will  provide  greater  accelerating  force  and
engine  braking  force  than  a  higher  shift  range,  and  the  engine
revolutions will also increase.

Use TOW/HAUL mode when pulling a trailer or hauling a heavy load.
Press the TOW/HAUL switch. The indicator will come on.

Press the switch once more to cancel the mode.

TOW/HAUL switch (vehicles with towing package)



Floor shift type



Column shift type

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■

AI-SHIFT

AI-SHIFT automatically selects the suitable gear according to the driver per-
formance and driving conditions.
AI-SHIFT  automatically  operates  when  the  shift  lever  is  in  the  D  position.
(Shifting the shift lever to the S position cancels the function.)

■

When driving with cruise control activated (if equipped)

Even when performing the following actions with the intent of enabling engine
braking, engine braking will not activate while driving in S mode and down-
shifting to 5 or 4 because cruise control will not be canceled. (



P. 280



294)

■

Shift lock system

The shift lock system is a system to prevent accidental operation of the shift
lever in starting.
The shift lever can be shifted from P only when the engine switch is in ON
and the brake pedal is being depressed.

■

If the shift lever cannot be shifted from P

First, check whether the brake pedal is being depressed.
If the shift lever cannot be shifted with your foot on the brake pedal, there may
be a problem with the shift lock system. Have the vehicle inspected by your
Toyota dealer immediately.
The following steps may be used as an emergency measure to ensure that
the shift lever can be shifted.
Releasing the shift lock:

Set the parking brake.
Turn the engine switch to OFF.
Depress the brake pedal.

1

2

3

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4-2. Driving procedures

Pry the cover up with a flathead screwdriver or equivalent tool.
To prevent damage to the cover, cover the tip of the screwdriver with a rag.

Press the shift lock override button.
The shift lever can be shifted while the button is pressed.

4



Floor shift type



Column-shift type

5



Floor shift type



Column-shift type

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■

If the “S” indicator does not come on even after shifting the shift lever to
S

This may indicate a malfunction in the automatic transmission system. Have
the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer, immediately. 
(In this situation, the transmission will operate in the same manner as when
the shift lever is in D.)

■

Downshifting restrictions warning buzzer (S mode)

To help ensure safety and driving performance, downshifting operation may
sometimes  be  restricted.  In  some  circumstances,  downshifting  may  not  be
possible even when the shift lever is operated. (A buzzer will sound twice.)

■

Transmission protection function

If  the  tires  spin  continually  when  the  vehicle  becomes  stuck  in  mud,  dirt  or
snow,  the  automatic  transmission  temperature  may  become  too  high  and
cause damage.
To avoid the damaging the automatic transmission, the system may tempo-
rarily lock the gear in 1st.
If the automatic transmission temperature falls, the gear locking is canceled
and returns the automatic transmission to the normal operation.

WARNING

■

When driving on slippery road surfaces

Do not accelerate or shift gears suddenly.
Sudden changes in engine braking may cause the vehicle to spin or skid,
resulting in an accident.

■

To prevent an accident when releasing the shift lock

Before pressing the shift lock override button, make sure to set the parking
brake and depress the brake pedal. 
If the accelerator pedal is accidentally depressed instead of the brake pedal
when the shift lock override button is pressed and the shift lever is shifted
out  of  P,  the  vehicle  may  suddenly  start,  possibly  leading  to  an  accident
resulting in death or serious injury.

232

4-2. Driving procedures

Turn signal lever

Right turn
Lane change to the right (move
the  lever  partway  and  release
it)

The  right  hand  signals  will  flash
3 times.

Lane  change  to  the  left  (move
the  lever  partway  and  release
it)

The  left  hand  signals  will  flash
3 times.

Left turn

■

Turn signals can be operated when

The engine switch is in ON.

■

If the indicator flashes faster than usual

Check that a light bulb in the front or rear turn signal lights has not burned
out.

Operating instructions

1

2

3

4

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Parking brake

To  set  the  parking  brake,  fully
depress  the  parking  brake  pedal
with  your  left  foot  while  depress-
ing the brake pedal with your right
foot. 
(Depressing  the  pedal  again
releases the parking brake.)

■

Parking the vehicle



P. 184

■

Usage in winter time



P. 332

U.S.A. Canada

NOTICE

■

Before driving

Fully release the parking brake. 
Driving the vehicle with the parking brake set will lead to brake components
overheating,  which  may  affect  braking  performance  and  increase  brake
wear.

234

4-3. Operating the lights and wipers

Headlight switch

Operating the 

 switch turns on the lights as follows:



For U.S.A.

The headlights, daytime
running lights 
(



P.  237)  and  all  the

lights  listed  above  turn
on and off automatically.
(When 

the 

engine

switch is in ON.)
The  side  marker,  park-
ing,  tail,  license  plate,
instrument  panel  lights,
and  daytime  running
lights (



P. 237) turn on.

The  headlights  and  all
lights 

listed 

above

(except  daytime  run-
ning lights) turn on.
The daytime running lights turn off.

The headlights can be operated manually or automatically. 

Operating instructions

1

2

3

4

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4-3. Operating the lights and wipers

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

For Canada

The headlights, daytime
running lights 
(



P.  237)  and  all  the

lights  listed  above  turn
on and off automatically. 
(When 

the 

engine

switch is in ON.)
The  side  marker,  park-
ing,  tail,  license  plate,
instrument  panel  lights,
and  daytime  running
lights (



P. 237) turn on.

The  headlights  and  all
lights 

listed 

above

(except  daytime  run-
ning lights) turn on.

With  the  headlights  on,  push
the lever away from you to turn
on the high beams. 

Pull  the  lever  toward  you  to  the
center  position  to  turn  the  high
beams off.

Pull  the  lever  toward  you  and
release  it  to  flash  the  high
beams once.

You can flash the high beams with the headlights on or off.

1

2

3

Turning on the high beam headlights

1

2

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4-3. Operating the lights and wipers

The level of the headlights can be adjusted according to the number
of passengers and the loading condition of the vehicle.

Raises  the  level  of  the  head-
lights
Lowers  the  level  of  the  head-
lights

■

Guide to dial settings

Manual headlight leveling dial

1

2

Loading condition

Control switch position

Towing Hitch 

(Towing 

package)

Payload

Double Cab

CrewMax

Standard

Long

Short

None

None

0

0

0

None

Maximum 

load

2.5

2

2.5

Maximum 

load

None

3.5

3

3.5

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■

Daytime running light system

●

The daytime running lights illuminate using the same lights as the parking
lights and illuminate brighter than the parking lights.

●

To make your vehicle more visible to other drivers during daytime driving,
the  daytime  running  lights  turn  on  automatically  when  all  of  the  following
conditions are met. (The daytime running lights are not designed for use at
night.)
• The engine is running
• The parking brake is released
• The headlight switch is in the 

 (Canada only), 

 or 

* position

*

: When the surroundings are bright

The daytime running lights remain on after they illuminate, even if the parking
brake is set again.

●

For  the  U.S.A.:  Daytime  running  lights  can  be  turned  off  by  operating  the
switch.

●

For the Canada: Daytime running lights are not designed for use at night.

●

Compared  to  turning  on  the  headlights,  the  daytime  running  light  system
offers greater durability and consumes less electricity, so it can help improve
fuel economy.

■

Headlight control sensor (vehicles with automatic headlight system)

The sensor may not function properly if an
object is placed on the sensor, or anything
that  blocks  the  sensor  is  affixed  to  the
windshield. 
Doing  so  interferes  with  the  sensor
detecting  the  level  of  ambient  light  and
may  cause  the  automatic  headlight  sys-
tem to malfunction.

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4-3. Operating the lights and wipers

■

Automatic light off system

●

When the headlights come on: The headlights and tail lights turn off 30 sec-
onds after a door is opened and closed if the engine switch is turned to ACC
or  OFF.  (The  lights  turn  off  immediately  if  the 

  button  on  the  key  is

pressed after all the doors are locked.)

●

When only the tail lights come on: The tail lights turn off automatically if the
engine switch is tuned to ACC or OFF and the driver’s door is opened.

Vehicles with automatic headlight system: If any of the doors is kept open, the
lights automatically turn off after 20 minutes.
To  turn  the  lights  on  again,  turn  the  engine  switch  to  ON,  or  turn  the  light
switch off once and then back to 

 or 

.

■

Light reminder buzzer

A buzzer sounds  when the key is removed  from the engine switch and the
driver’s door is opened while the lights are turned on.

■

Customization that can be configured at Toyota dealer

Settings (automatic light off system) can be changed. 
(Customizable features: 



P. 562)

NOTICE

■

To prevent battery discharge

Do  not  leave  the  lights  on  longer  than  necessary  when  the  engine  is  not
running.

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Automatic High Beam



Push  the  lever  away  from  you
with the headlight switch in the

 or 

 position.

Press  the  Automatic  High
Beam switch.

The Automatic  High  Beam  indica-
tor  will  come  on  when  the  head-
lights  are  turned  on  automatically
to  indicate  that  the  system  is
active.



: If equipped

The Automatic High Beam uses an in-vehicle camera sensor to
assess  the  brightness  of  streetlights,  the  lights  of  vehicles
ahead etc., and automatically turns the high beam on or off as
necessary.

WARNING

■

Limitations of the Automatic High Beam

Do not rely on the Automatic High Beam. Always drive safely, taking care to
observe your surroundings and turning the high beam on or off manually if
necessary.

■

To prevent incorrect operation of the Automatic High Beam system

Do not overload the vehicle.

Activating the Automatic High Beam system

1

2

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4-3. Operating the lights and wipers

■

Switching to low beam

Pull  the  lever  to  the  original
position.

The Automatic  High  Beam  indi-
cator will turn off.
Push the lever away from you to
activate  the  Automatic  High
Beam system again.

■

Switching to high beam

Press  the  Automatic  High
Beam switch.

The Automatic  High  Beam  indi-
cator  will  turn  off  and  the  high
beam indicator will turn on.
Press  the switch to  activate the
Automatic  High  Beam  system
again.

Turning the high beam on/off manually

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■

High beam automatic turning on or off conditions

●

When all of the following conditions are fulfilled, the high beam will be auto-
matically turned on (after approximately 1 second):
• Vehicle speed is above approximately 21 mph (34 km/h).
• The area ahead of the vehicle is dark.
• There are no vehicles ahead with headlights or tail lights turned on.
• There are few streetlights on the road ahead.

●

If any of the following conditions are fulfilled, the high beam will be automat-
ically turned off:
• Vehicle speed drops below approximately 17 mph (27 km/h).
• The area ahead of the vehicle is not dark.
• Vehicles ahead have headlights or tail lights turned on.
• There are many streetlights on the road ahead.

■

Camera sensor detection information

●

The  high  beam  may  not be  automatically turned  off in  the  following  situa-
tions:
• When oncoming vehicles suddenly appear from a curve
• When the vehicle is cut off in front of by another vehicle
• When vehicles ahead are hidden from sight due to repeated curves, road

dividers or roadside trees

• When vehicles ahead appear from the faraway lane on wide road
• When vehicles ahead have no lights

●

The high beam may be turned off if a vehicle ahead that is using fog lights
without using the headlights is detected.

●

House lights, street lights, traffic signals, and illuminated billboards or signs
may cause the high beam to switch to the low beams, or the low beams to
remain on.

●

The following factors may affect the amount of time taken to turn the high
beam on or off:
• The brightness of headlights, fog lights, and tail lights of vehicles ahead
• The movement and direction of vehicles ahead
• When a vehicle ahead only has operational lights on one side
• When a vehicle ahead is a two-wheeled vehicle
• The condition of the road (gradient, curve, condition of the road surface,

etc.)

• The number of passengers and amount of luggage

242

4-3. Operating the lights and wipers

●

The high beam may be turned on or off when the driver does not expect it.

●

Bicycles or similar objects may not be detected.

●

In  the  situations  shown  below,  the  system  may  not  be  able  to  accurately
detect  surrounding  brightness  levels.  This  may  cause  the  low  beams  to
remain  on or the  high beams to  cause problems  for pedestrians, vehicles
ahead or other parties. In these cases, manually switch between the high
and low beams.
• In bad weather (rain, snow, fog, sandstorms, etc.)
• The windshield is obscured by fog, mist, ice, dirt, etc.
• The windshield is cracked or damaged.
• The camera sensor is deformed or dirty.
• The camera sensor temperature is extremely high.
• Surrounding brightness levels are equal to those of headlights, tail lights

or fog lights.

• Vehicles  ahead  have  headlights  that  are  either  switched  off,  dirty,  are

changing color, or are not aimed properly.

• When driving through an area of intermittently changing brightness and

darkness.

• When frequently and repeatedly driving ascending/descending roads, or

roads  with  rough,  bumpy  or  uneven  surfaces  (such  as  stone-paved
roads, gravel tracks, etc.).

• When  frequently  and  repeatedly  taking  curves  or  driving  on  a  winding

road.

• There is a highly reflective object ahead of the vehicle, such as a sign or

a mirror.

• The back of a vehicle ahead is highly reflective, such as a container on a

truck.

• The vehicle’s headlights are damaged or dirty.
• The vehicle is listing or tilting, due to a flat tire, a trailer being towed etc.
• The high beam and low beam are repeatedly being switched between in

an abnormal manner.

• The driver believes that the high beam may be causing problems or dis-

tress to other drivers or pedestrians nearby.

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■

Temporarily lowering sensor sensitivity

The sensitivity of the sensor can be temporarily lowered.

Turn the engine switch off while the following conditions are met.

• The headlight switch is in 

 or 

.

• The headlight switch lever is in high beam position.
• Automatic High Beam switch is on.
Turn the engine switch to ON.
Within 30 seconds after 

, repeat pulling the headlight switch lever to the

original position then pushing it to the high beam position quickly 10 times,
then leave the lever in high beam position.
If the sensitivity is changed, the Automatic High Beam indicator is turn on
and off 3 times.

Automatic High Beam (headlights) may turn on even the vehicle is stopped.

■

If “Headlight System Malfunction. Visit Your Dealer.” is displayed on the
multi-information display

The  system  may  be  malfunctioning.  Have  the  vehicle  inspected  by  your
Toyota dealer.

1

2

3

2

4

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4-3. Operating the lights and wipers

Fog light switch



(U.S.A.) or 

 (Canada) 

Turns  the  front  fog  lights
off

Turns  the  front  fog  lights
on

■

Fog lights can be used when

The parking lights are on or the headlights are on in low beam.



: If equipped

The fog lights secure excellent visibility in difficult driving con-
ditions, such as in rain and fog.

1

2

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Windshield wipers and washer 

Operating the 

 lever operates the wipers or washer as follows.



Vehicles without intermittent type

(U.S.A.) or 

 (Canada) 

Off

(U.S.A.) or 

 (Canada) 

Low  speed  windshield
wiper operation

(U.S.A.) or 

 (Canada) 

High  speed  windshield
wiper operation

(U.S.A.) or 

 (Canada) 

Temporary operation

Washer operation 

Pulling  the  lever  operates  the
washer.

Operating the wiper lever

1

2

3

4

5

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4-3. Operating the lights and wipers



Vehicles with intermittent type

(U.S.A.) or 

 (Canada) 

Off

(U.S.A.) or 

 (Canada) 

Intermittent 

windshield

wiper operation

(U.S.A.) or 

 (Canada) 

Low  speed  windshield
wiper operation

(U.S.A.) or 

 (Canada) 

High  speed  windshield
wiper operation

(U.S.A.) or 

 (Canada) 

Temporary operation

Wiper  intervals  can  be  adjusted  when  intermittent  operation  is
selected.

Increases the intermittent wind-
shield wiper frequency
Decreases 

the 

intermittent

windshield wiper frequency

Washer/wiper dual 
operation

Pulling the lever operates the wip-
ers and washer.
Wipers will automatically operate a
couple  of  times  after  the  washer
squirts.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

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■

The windshield wipers and washer can be operated when

The engine switch is in ON.

■

If no windshield washer fluid sprays

Check that the washer nozzles are not blocked if there is washer fluid in the
windshield washer fluid reservoir.

WARNING

■

Caution regarding the use of washer fluid

When it is cold, do not use the washer fluid until the windshield becomes
warm. The fluid may freeze on the windshield and cause low visibility. This
may lead to an accident, resulting in death or serious injury.

NOTICE

■

When the windshield is dry

Do not use the wipers, as they may damage the windshield.

■

When the washer fluid tank is empty

Do not operate the switch continually as the washer fluid pump may over-
heat.

■

When a nozzle becomes blocked

In this case, contact your Toyota dealer. 
Do not try to clear it with a pin or other object. The nozzle will be damaged.

248

4-4. Refueling

Opening the fuel tank cap

●

Turn  the  engine  switch  to  OFF and  ensure  that  all  the  doors  and
windows are closed.

●

Confirm the type of fuel.

■

Fuel types



P. 540

■

Fuel tank opening for unleaded gasoline

To  help  prevent  incorrect  fueling,  your  vehicle  has  a  fuel  tank  opening  that
only accommodates the special nozzle on unleaded fuel pumps.

■

If the malfunction indicator lamp illuminates

The malfunction indicator lamp may illuminate erroneously if refueling is  per-
formed repeatedly when the fuel tank is nearly full.

Perform the following steps to open the fuel tank cap: 

Before refueling the vehicle

249

4-4. Refueling

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WARNING

■

When refueling the vehicle

Observe the following precautions while refueling the vehicle. Failure to do
so may result in death or serious injury.

●

After  exiting  the  vehicle  and  before  opening  the  fuel  door,  touch  an
unpainted metal surface to discharge any static electricity. It is important to
discharge static electricity before refueling because sparks resulting from
static electricity can cause fuel vapors to ignite while refueling.

●

Always hold the grips on the fuel tank cap and turn it slowly to remove it. 
A  whooshing  sound  may  be  heard  when  the  fuel  tank  cap  is  loosened.
Wait until the sound cannot be heard before fully removing the cap. In hot
weather, pressurized fuel may spray out the filler neck and cause injury.

●

Do  not  allow  anyone  that  has  not  discharged  static  electricity  from  their
body to come close to an open fuel tank.

●

Do not inhale vaporized fuel.
Fuel contains substances that are harmful if inhaled.

●

Do not smoke while refueling the vehicle.
Doing so may cause the fuel to ignite and cause a fire.

●

Do not return to the vehicle or touch any person or object that is statically
charged.
This may cause static electricity to build up, resulting in a possible ignition
hazard.

■

When refueling

Observe the following precautions to prevent fuel overflowing from the fuel
tank:

●

Securely insert the fuel nozzle into the fuel filler neck.

●

Stop filling the tank after the fuel nozzle automatically clicks off.

●

Do not top off the fuel tank.

NOTICE

■

Refueling

Do not spill fuel during refueling. 
Doing  so  may  damage  the  vehicle,  such  as  causing  the  emission  control
system to operate abnormally or damaging fuel system components or the
vehicle’s painted surface.

250

4-4. Refueling

Open the fuel filler door.

Turn  the  fuel  tank  cap  slowly
open,  and  hang  the  fuel  tank
cap on the back of the fuel filler
door.

After  refueling,  turn  the  fuel  tank
cap  until  you  hear  a  click.  Once
the  cap  is  released,  it  will  turn
slightly in the opposite direction.

Opening the fuel tank cap

1

2

Closing the fuel tank cap

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■

Closing the fuel tank cap

Tighten the fuel tank cap until 1 click is heard. Otherwise a malfunction indica-
tor lamp may come on.

WARNING

■

When replacing the fuel tank cap

Do not use anything but a genuine Toyota fuel tank cap designed for your
vehicle.  Doing  so  may  cause  a  fire  or  other  incident  which  may  result  in
death or serious injury.

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4-5. Using the driving support systems

Toyota Safety Sense P



◆

PCS (Pre-Collision System)





P. 259

◆

LDA (Lane Departure Alert)





P. 272

◆

Automatic High Beam





P. 239

◆

Dynamic radar cruise control





P. 280



: If equipped

The Toyota Safety Sense P consists of the following drive assist
systems and contributes to a safe and comfortable driving expe-
rience:

WARNING

■

Toyota Safety Sense P

The Toyota  Safety  Sense  P  is  designed  to operate  under  the  assumption
that the driver will drive safely, and is designed to help reduce the impact to
the occupants and the vehicle in the case of a collision or assist the driver in
normal driving conditions.
As there is a limit to the degree of recognition accuracy and control perfor-
mance that this system can provide, do not overly rely on this system. The
driver is always responsible for paying attention to the vehicle’s surround-
ings and driving safely.

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4-5. Using the driving support systems

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The  pre-collision  system  is  equipped  with  a  sophisticated  computer
that will record certain data, such as:

• Accelerator status
• Brake status
• Vehicle speed
• Operation status of the pre-collision system functions
• Information (such as the distance and relative speed between your

vehicle and the vehicle ahead or other objects)

• Images from the camera sensor (available only when the pre-colli-

sion braking function or the pre-collision brake assist function was
operating)

The  pre-collision  system  does  not  record  conversations,  sounds  or
images of the inside of the vehicle.

●

Data usage
Toyota  may  use  the  data  recorded  in  this  computer  to  diagnose
malfunctions,  conduct  research  and  development,  and  improve
quality.
Toyota will not disclose the recorded data to a third party except:

• With the consent of the vehicle owner or with the consent of the

lessee if the vehicle is leased

• In response to an official request by the police, a court of law or a

government agency

• For use by Toyota in a lawsuit
• For  research  purposes  where  the  data  is  not  tied  to  a  specific

vehicle or vehicle owner

●

Recorded images can be erased using a specialized device.
The image recording function can be disabled. However, if the func-
tion is disabled, data from when the pre-collision system operates
will not be available.

Vehicle data recording

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4-5. Using the driving support systems

Two types of sensors, located behind the front grille and windshield,
detect information necessary to operate the drive assist systems.

Radar sensor
Camera sensor

Sensors

1

2

WARNING

■

To avoid malfunction of the radar sensor

Observe the following precautions.
Otherwise, the radar sensor may not operate properly, possibly leading to
an accident resulting in death or serious injury.

●

Keep the radar sensor and front grille emblem clean at all times.

Radar sensor
Front grille emblem

If  the  front  of  the  radar  sensor  or  the
front or back of the front grille emblem
is dirty or covered with water droplets,
snow, etc., clean it.
Clean the radar sensor and front grille
emblem with a soft cloth so you do not
mark or damage them.

1

2

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4-5. Using the driving support systems

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WARNING

●

Do  not  attach  accessories,  stickers  (including  transparent  stickers)  or
other items to the radar sensor, front grille emblem or surrounding area.

●

Do not subject the radar sensor or surrounding area to a strong impact. 
If  the  radar  sensor, front grille, or  front  bumper has  been  subjected to  a
strong impact, have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer.

●

Do not disassemble the radar sensor.

●

Do not modify or paint the radar sensor, front grille emblem or surrounding
area.

●

If the radar sensor, front grille, or front bumper needs to be removed and
installed, or replaced, contact your Toyota dealer.

■

To avoid malfunction of the camera sensor

Observe the following precautions.
Otherwise, the camera sensor may not operate properly, possibly leading to
an accident resulting in death or serious injury.

●

Keep the windshield clean at all times.
• If  the  windshield  is  dirty  or  covered  with  an  oily  film,  water  droplets,

snow, etc., clear the windshield.

• If a glass coating agent is applied to the windshield, it will still be neces-

sary to use the windshield wipers to remove water droplets, etc. from
the area of the windshield in front of the camera sensor.

• If the inner side of the windshield where the camera sensor is installed

is dirty, contact your Toyota dealer.

B: Approximately  7.9  in.  (20  cm)  (Approximately  4.0  in.  [10  cm]  to  the

right and left from the center of the camera sensor)

●

Do not attach objects, such as stickers,
transparent stickers, and so forth, to the
outer  side  of  the  windshield  in  front  of
the camera sensor (shaded area in the
illustration). 
A: From  the  top  of  the  windshield  to

approximately  0.4  in.  (1  cm)  below
the bottom of the camera sensor

256

4-5. Using the driving support systems

WARNING

●

If the part of the windshield in front of the camera sensor is fogged up or
covered with condensation or ice, use the windshield defogger to remove
the fog, condensation or ice. (



P. 342, 349)

●

If water droplets cannot be properly removed from the area of the wind-
shield in front of the camera sensor by the windshield wipers, replace the
wiper insert or wiper blade.
If  the  wiper  inserts  or  wiper  blades  need  to  be  replaced,  contact  your
Toyota dealer.

●

Do not attach window tinting to the windshield.

●

Replace the windshield if it is damaged or cracked. 
If the windshield needs to be replaced, contact your Toyota dealer.

●

Do not get the camera sensor wet.

●

Do not allow bright lights to shine into the camera sensor.

●

Do not dirty or damage the camera sensor. 
When cleaning the inside of the windshield, do not allow glass cleaner to
contact the lens. Also, do not touch the lens. 
If the lens is dirty or damaged, contact your Toyota dealer.

●

Do not subject the camera sensor to a strong impact.

●

Do not change the installation position or direction of the camera sensor or
remove it.

●

Do not disassemble the camera sensor.

●

Do not modify any components of the vehicle around the camera sensor
(inside rear view mirror, etc.) or ceiling.

●

Do not attach any accessories that may obstruct the camera sensor to the
hood, front grille or front bumper. Contact your Toyota dealer for details.

●

If a surfboard or other long object is to be mounted on the roof, make sure
that it will not obstruct the camera sensor.

●

Do not modify the headlights or other lights.

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■

Certification



For vehicles sold in the U.S.A.

258

4-5. Using the driving support systems



For vehicles sold in Canada

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PCS (Pre-Collision System)





: If equipped

The pre-collision system uses a radar sensor and camera sen-
sor to detect vehicles and pedestrians in front of your vehicle.
When the system determines that the possibility of a frontal col-
lision with a vehicle or pedestrian is high, a warning operates to
urge  the  driver  to  take  evasive  action  and  the  potential  brake
pressure is increased to help the driver avoid the collision. If the
system determines that the possibility of a frontal collision with
a  vehicle  or  pedestrian  is  extremely  high,  the  brakes  are  auto-
matically applied to help avoid the collision or help reduce the
impact of the collision.

The pre-collision system can be disabled/enabled and the warning
timing can be changed. (



P. 263)

260

4-5. Using the driving support systems

◆

Pre-collision warning

When  the  system  determines
that  the  possibility  of  a  frontal
collision  is  high,  a  buzzer  will
sound and a warning message
will  be  displayed  on  the  multi-
information  display  to  urge  the
driver to take evasive action.

◆

Pre-collision brake assist

When  the  system  determines  that  the  possibility  of  a  frontal  colli-
sion is high, the system applies greater braking force in relation to
how strongly the brake pedal is depressed.

◆

Pre-collision braking

When  the  system  determines  that  the  possibility  of  a  frontal  colli-
sion is high, the system warns the driver. If the system determines
that the possibility of a frontal collision is extremely high, the brakes
are automatically applied to help avoid the collision or reduce the
collision speed.

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WARNING

■

Limitations of the pre-collision system

●

The driver is solely responsible for safe driving. Always drive safely, taking
care to observe your surroundings. 
Do not use the pre-collision system instead of normal braking operations
under any circumstances. This system will not prevent collisions or lessen
collision damage or injury in every situation. Do not overly rely on this sys-
tem. Failure to do so may lead to an accident, resulting in death or serious
injury.

●

Although this system is designed to help avoid a collision or help reduce
the impact of the collision, its effectiveness may change according to vari-
ous conditions, therefore the system may not always be able to achieve
the same level of performance. 
Read the following conditions carefully. Do not overly rely on this system
and always drive carefully.
• Conditions under which the system may operate even if there is no pos-

sibility of a collision: 



P. 266

• Conditions under which the system may not operate properly: 



P. 268

●

Do not attempt to test the operation of the pre-collision system yourself.
Depending  on  the  objects  used  for  testing  (dummies,  cardboard  objects
imitating  detectable  objects,  etc.),  the  system  may  not  operate  properly,
possibly leading to an accident.

■

Pre-collision braking

●

When  the  pre-collision  braking  function  is  operating,  a  large  amount  of
braking force will be applied.

●

If the vehicle is stopped by the operation of the pre-collision braking func-
tion,  the  pre-collision  braking  function  operation  will  be  canceled  after
approximately 2 seconds. Depress the brake pedal as necessary.

●

The pre-collision braking function may not operate if certain operations are
performed  by  the  driver.  If  the  accelerator  pedal  is  being  depressed
strongly or the steering wheel is being turned, the system may determine
that the driver is taking evasive action and possibly prevent the pre-colli-
sion braking function from operating.

●

In  some  situations,  while  the  pre-collision  braking  function  is  operating,
operation  of  the  function  may  be  canceled  if  the  accelerator  pedal  is
depressed strongly or the steering wheel is turned and the system deter-
mines that the driver is taking evasive action.

●

If the brake pedal is being depressed, the system may determine that the
driver is taking evasive action and possibly delay the operation timing of
the pre-collision braking function.

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4-5. Using the driving support systems

WARNING

■

When to disable the pre-collision system

In the following situations, disable the system, as it may not operate prop-
erly, possibly leading to an accident resulting in death or serious injury:

●

When the vehicle is being towed

●

When your vehicle is towing another vehicle

●

When  transporting  the  vehicle  via  truck,  boat,  train  or  similar  means  of
transportation

●

When the vehicle is raised on a lift with the engine running and the tires
are allowed to rotate freely

●

When inspecting the vehicle using a drum tester such as a chassis dyna-
mometer or speedometer tester, or when using an on vehicle wheel bal-
ancer

●

When a strong impact is applied to the front bumper or front grille, due to
an accident or other reasons

●

If the vehicle cannot be driven in a stable manner, such as when the vehi-
cle has been in an accident or is malfunctioning

●

When the vehicle is driven in a sporty manner or off-road

●

When the tires are not properly inflated

●

When the tires are very worn

●

When tires of a size other than specified are installed

●

When tire chains are installed

●

When a compact spare tire or an emergency tire puncture repair kit is used

●

If equipment (snow plow, etc.) that may obstruct the radar sensor or cam-
era sensor is temporarily installed to the vehicle

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■

Enabling/disabling the pre-collision system

The  pre-collision  system  can  be  enabled/disabled  on  the
multi-information display as following:

The  system  is  automatically  enabled  each  time  the  engine  switch  is
turned to ON.

Press “



” or “



” of meter control switches and select 

.

Press “



” or “



” of meter control switches and select “PCS”, and

press 

.

Press “



” or “



” of meter control switches and select “PCS”, and

press 

 to select the desired setting (on/off).

If  the  system  is  disabled,  the
PCS  warning  light  will  turn  on
and  a  message  will  be  dis-
played  on  the  multi-information
display.

Changing settings of the pre-collision system

1

2

3

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■

Changing the pre-collision warning timing

The pre-collision warning timing can be changed on the multi-infor-
mation display as following:

The  operation  timing  setting  is  retained  when  the  engine  switch  is
turned off.

Press “



” or “



” of meter control switches and select 

.

Press “



” or “



” of meter control switches and select “PCS”, and

press 

.

Press “



” or “



” of meter control switches and select “Sensitivity”,

and press 

 to select the desired setting.

Far

The  warning  will  begin  to
operate  earlier  than  with  the
default timing.

Middle

This is the default setting.

Near

The  warning  will  begin  to
operate  later  than  with  the
default timing.

1

2

3

1

2

3

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Operational conditions

The pre-collision system is enabled and the system determines that the pos-
sibility of a frontal collision with a vehicle or pedestrian is high.
Each function is operational at the following speeds:

●

Pre-collision warning:
• Vehicle speed is between approximately 7 and 110 mph (10 and 180 km/h).

(For detecting a pedestrian, vehicle speed is between approximately 7 and
50 mph [10 and 80 km/h].)

• The  relative  speed  between  your  vehicle  and  the  vehicle  or  pedestrian

ahead is approximately 7 mph (10 km/h) or more.

●

Pre-collision brake assist:
• Vehicle speed is between approximately 20 and 110 mph (30 and 180 km/h).

(For detecting a pedestrian, vehicle speed is between approximately 20 and
50 mph [30 and 80 km/h].)

• The  relative  speed  between  your  vehicle  and  the  vehicle  or  pedestrian

ahead is approximately 20 mph (30 km/h) or more.

●

Pre-collision braking:
• Vehicle speed is between approximately 7 and 110 mph (10 and 180 km/h).

(For detecting a pedestrian, vehicle speed is between approximately 7 and
50 mph [10 and 80 km/h].)

• The  relative  speed  between  your  vehicle  and  the  vehicle  or  pedestrian

ahead is approximately 7 mph (10 km/h) or more.

The system may not operate in the following situations:

●

If a battery terminal has been disconnected and reconnected and then the
vehicle has not been driven for a certain amount of time

●

If the shift lever is in R

●

If  VSC  is  disabled  (only  the  pre-collision  warning  function  will  be  opera-
tional)

●

If the low speed four-wheel drive indicator is illuminated (only the pre-colli-
sion warning function will be operational)

■

Pedestrian detection function

The pre-collision system detects pedestri-
ans based on the size, profile, and motion
of  a  detected  object.  However,  a  pedes-
trian  may  not  be  detected  depending  on
the  surrounding  brightness  and  the
motion,  posture,  and  angle  of  the
detected  object,  preventing  the  system
from operating properly. (



P. 270)

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4-5. Using the driving support systems

■

Cancellation of the pre-collision braking

If either of the following occur while the pre-collision braking function is oper-
ating, it will be canceled:

●

The accelerator pedal is depressed strongly.

●

The steering wheel is turned sharply or abruptly.

■

Conditions under which the system may operate even if there is no pos-
sibility of a collision

●

In  some  situations  such  as  the  following,  the  system  may  determine  that
there is a possibility of a frontal collision and operate.
• When passing a vehicle or pedestrian
• When changing lanes while overtaking a preceding vehicle
• When overtaking a preceding vehicle that is changing lanes

• When rapidly closing on a vehicle ahead
• If the front of the vehicle is raised or lowered, such as when the road sur-

face is uneven or undulating

• When  approaching  objects  on  the  roadside,  such  as  guardrails,  utility

poles, trees, or walls

• When overtaking a preceding vehicle

that is making a left/right turn

• When passing a vehicle in an oncom-

ing  lane  that  is  stopped  to  make  a
right/left turn

• When driving on a road where relative

location  to  vehicle  ahead  in  an  adja-
cent lane may change, such as on a
winding road

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• When driving on a narrow path surrounded by a structure, such as in a

tunnel or on an iron bridge

• When there is a metal object (manhole cover, steel plate, etc.), steps, or a

protrusion on the road surface or roadside

• When rapidly closing on an electric toll gate barrier, parking area barrier,

or other barrier that opens and closes

• When using an automatic car wash

• When  there  is  a  vehicle,  pedestrian,

or  object  by  the  roadside  at  the
entrance of a curve

• When 

a 

crossing 

pedestrian

approaches very close to the vehicle

• When passing through a place with a

low structure above the road (low ceil-
ing, traffic sign, etc.)

• When  passing  under  an  object  (bill-

board, etc.) at the top of an uphill road

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4-5. Using the driving support systems

• When the vehicle is hit by water, snow, dust, etc., from a vehicle ahead
• When driving through steam or smoke
• When there are patterns or paint on the road or a wall that may be mis-

taken for a vehicle or pedestrian

• When  driving  near  an  object  that  reflects  radio  waves,  such  as  a  large

truck or guardrail

• When driving near a TV tower, broadcasting station, electric power plant,

or  other  location  where  strong  radio  waves  or  electrical  noise  may  be
present

■

Situations in which the system may not operate properly

●

In some situations such as the following, a vehicle may not be detected by
the radar sensor and camera sensor, preventing the system from operating
properly:
• If an oncoming vehicle is approaching your vehicle
• If a vehicle ahead is a motorcycle or bicycle
• When approaching the side or front of a vehicle
• If a preceding vehicle has a small rear end, such as an unloaded truck

• If a vehicle ahead is carrying a load which protrudes past its rear bumper

• If a vehicle ahead is irregularly shaped, such as a tractor or side car
• If the sun or other light is shining directly on a vehicle ahead
• If a vehicle cuts in front of your vehicle or emerges from beside a vehicle

• When  driving  through  or  under

objects  that  may  contact  the  vehicle,
such as thick grass, tree branches, or
a banner

• If a preceding vehicle has a low rear

end, such as a low bed trailer

• If a vehicle ahead has extremely high

ground clearance

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• If a vehicle ahead makes an abrupt maneuver (such as sudden swerving,

acceleration or deceleration)

• When suddenly cutting behind a preceding vehicle

• When  driving  in  inclement  weather  such  as  heavy  rain,  fog,  snow  or  a

sandstorm

• When the vehicle is hit by water, snow, dust, etc., from a vehicle ahead
• When driving through steam or smoke
• When driving in a place where the surrounding brightness changes sud-

denly, such as at the entrance or exit of a tunnel

• When a very bright light, such as the sun or the headlights of oncoming

traffic, shines directly into the camera sensor

• When the surrounding area is dim, such as at dawn or dusk, or while at

night or in a tunnel

• After the engine has started the vehicle has not been driven for a certain

amount of time

• While making a left/right turn and for a few seconds after making a left/

right turn

• While driving on a curve and for a few seconds after driving on a curve
• If your vehicle is skidding

• If the wheels are misaligned
• If a wiper blade is blocking the camera sensor
• The vehicle is wobbling.
• The vehicle is being driven at extremely high speeds.
• When driving on a hill 
• If the radar sensor or camera sensor is misaligned

• When  a  vehicle  ahead  is  not  directly

in front of your vehicle

• If the front of  the vehicle  is  raised  or

lowered

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4-5. Using the driving support systems

●

In some situations such as the following, sufficient braking force may not be
obtained, preventing the system from performing properly:
• If the braking functions cannot operate to their full extent, such as when

the brake parts are extremely cold, extremely hot, or wet

• If the vehicle is not properly maintained (brakes or tires are excessively

worn, improper tire inflation pressure, etc.)

• When the vehicle is being driven on a gravel road or other slippery sur-

face

●

Some pedestrians such as the following may not be detected by the radar
sensor and camera sensor, preventing the system from operating properly:
• Pedestrians shorter than approximately 3.2 ft. (1 m) or taller than approx-

imately 6.5 ft. (2 m)

• Pedestrians wearing oversized clothing (a rain coat, long skirt, etc.), mak-

ing their silhouette obscure

• Pedestrians who are carrying large baggage, holding an umbrella, etc.,

hiding part of their body

• Pedestrians who are bending forward or squatting
• Pedestrians who are pushing a stroller, wheelchair, bicycle or other vehi-

cle

• Groups of pedestrians which are close together
• Pedestrians who are wearing white and look extremely bright
• Pedestrians in the dark, such as at night or while in a tunnel
• Pedestrians  whose  clothing  appears  to  be  nearly  the  same  color  or

brightness as their surroundings

• Pedestrians near walls, fences, guardrails, or large objects
• Pedestrians who are on a metal object (manhole cover, steel plate, etc.)

on the road

• Pedestrians who are walking fast
• Pedestrians who are changing speed abruptly
• Pedestrians running out from behind a vehicle or a large object
• Pedestrians who are extremely close to the side of the vehicle (outside

rear view mirror, etc.)

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If the PCS warning light flashes or illuminates, and a warning message is
displayed on the multi-information display

The pre-collision system may be temporarily unavailable or there may be a
malfunction in the system.

●

In  the  following  situations,  the  warning  light  will  turn  off,  the  message  will
disappear and the system will become operational when normal operating
conditions return:
• When the radar sensor or camera sensor or the area around either sen-

sor is hot, such as in the sun

• When the radar sensor or camera sensor or the area around either sen-

sor is cold, such as in an extremely cold environment

• When  the  radar  sensor  or  front  grille  emblem  is  dirty  or  covered  with

snow, etc.

• When a front sensor is fogged up or covered with condensation or ice

(Defogging the windshield: 



P. 342, 349)

• If the camera sensor is obstructed, such as when the hood is open or a

sticker is attached to the windshield near the camera sensor

●

If  the  PCS  warning  light  continues  to  flash  or  remains  illuminated  or  the
warning message does not disappear, the system may be malfunctioning.
Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

■

If VSC is disabled

●

If VSC is disabled (



P. 323), the pre-collision brake assist and pre-collision

braking functions are also disabled.

●

The PCS warning light will turn on and “VSC Turned Off Pre-Collision Brake
System Unavailable” will be displayed on the multi-information display.