Toyota Sequoia Hybrid (2023 year). Manual in english - page 24

 

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Toyota Sequoia Hybrid (2023 year). Manual in english - page 24

 

 

384

4-5. Using the driving support systems

Disabling the TRAC system

If the vehicle gets stuck in mud, dirt 
or snow, the TRAC system may 
reduce power from the hybrid sys-
tem to the wheels. Pressing 

 to 

turn the system off may make it eas-
ier for you to rock the vehicle in 
order to free it.
To turn the TRAC system off, quickly 
press and release 

.

“Traction Control Turned OFF” is 
displayed in the multi-information 
display.

Press 

 again to turn the system 

back on.

Turning off the 

TRAC/VSC/Trailer Sway Con-

trol systems

To turn the TRAC, VSC and Trailer 
Sway Control systems off, press 
and hold 

 for more than 3 sec-

onds while the vehicle is stopped.
The “Traction Control Turned OFF” 

is displayed in the multi-information 
display and the VSC OFF indicator 
light will come on.

*

Press 

 again to turn the system 

back on.

*

: PCS will also be disabled (only 

Pre-Collision warning is avail-
able). The PCS warning light will 
come on and a message will be 
displayed on the multi-information 
display. (

P.260, 511)

When the message is dis-
played on the multi-information 
display showing that TRAC has 
been disabled even if 

 has 

not been pressed

TRAC is temporary deactivated. If 

the information continues to show, 

contact your Toyota dealer.

When using Multi-terrain Select, 

the “VSC OFF” indicator will turn 

on depending on the mode, even 

if the VSC OFF switch has not 

been pressed.

Operating conditions of hill-

start assist control

When the following five conditions 

are met, the hill-start assist control 

will operate:

The shift lever is in a position 

other than P or N (when stating off 

forward/backward on an upward 

incline)

The vehicle is stopped

The accelerator pedal is not 

depressed

The parking brake is not engaged

The power switch is turned to ON

Automatic system cancelation 

of hill-start assist control

The hill-start assist control will turn 

off in any of the following situations:

The shift lever is shifted to P or N

385

4-5. Using the driving support systems

4

Dr

iv

ing

The accelerator pedal is 

depressed

The parking brake is engaged

A maximum of 2 seconds have 

elapsed after the brake pedal is 

released

The power switch is turned to OFF

Sounds and vibrations caused 

by the ABS, brake assist, VSC, 

Trailer Sway Control, TRAC and 

hill-start assist control systems

A sound may be heard from the 

hybrid system compartment when 

the brake pedal is depressed 

repeatedly, when the hybrid sys-

tem is started or just after the vehi-

cle begins to move. This sound 

does not indicate that a malfunc-

tion has occurred in any of these 

systems.

Any of the following conditions 

may occur when the above sys-

tems are operating. None of these 

indicates that a malfunction has 

occurred.

• Vibrations may be felt through the 

vehicle body and steering.

• A motor sound may be heard also 

after the vehicle comes to a stop.

ECB operating sound

ECB operating sound may be heard 

in the following cases, but it does 

not indicate that a malfunction has 

occurred.

Operating sound heard from the 

engine compartment when the 

brake pedal is operated.

Motor sound of the brake system 

heard from the front part of the 

vehicle when the driver’ door is 

opened.

Operating sound heard from the 

engine compartment when one or 

two minutes passed after the stop 

of the hybrid system.

EPS operation sound

When the steering wheel is oper-

ated, a motor sound (whirring 

sound) may be heard. This does not 

indicate a malfunction.

Automatic reactivation of 

TRAC, Trailer Sway Control and 

VSC systems

After turning the TRAC, Trailer 

Sway Control and VSC systems off, 

the systems will be automatically re-

enabled in the following situations:

When the power switch is turned 

off

If only the TRAC system is turned 

off, the TRAC will turn on when 

vehicle speed increases

If both the TRAC and VSC sys-

tems are turned off, automatic re-

enabling will not occur when vehi-

cle speed increases.

Reduced effectiveness of the 

EPS system

The effectiveness of the EPS sys-

tem is reduced to prevent the sys-

tem from overheating when there is 

frequent steering input over an 

extended period of time. The steer-

ing wheel may feel heavy as a 

result. Should this occur, refrain 

from excessive steering input or 

stop the vehicle and turn the hybrid 

system off. The EPS system should 

return to normal within 10 minutes.

Secondary Collision Brake 

operating conditions

The system operates when the SRS 

airbag sensor detects a collision 

while the vehicle is in motion. How-

ever, the system does not operate 

when the components are dam-

aged.

Secondary Collision Brake 

automatic cancelation

The system is automatically can-

celed in any of the following situa-

tions.

The vehicle speed drops to 

approximately 0 mph (0 km/h).

A certain amount of time elapses 

during operation

386

4-5. Using the driving support systems

The accelerator pedal is 

depressed a large amount

WARNING

The ABS does not operate 

effectively when

The limits of tire gripping perfor-

mance have been exceeded 

(such as excessively worn tires 

on a snow covered road).

The vehicle hydroplanes while 

driving at high speed on wet or 

slick roads.

Stopping distance when the 

ABS is operating may exceed 

that of normal conditions

The ABS is not designed to 

shorten the vehicle’s stopping dis-

tance. Always maintain a safe dis-

tance from the vehicle in front of 

you, especially in the following sit-

uations:

When driving on dirt, gravel or 

snow-covered roads

When driving with tire chains

When driving over bumps in the 

road

When driving over roads with 

potholes or uneven surfaces

TRAC/VSC may not operate 

effectively when

Directional control and power may 

not be achievable while driving on 

slippery road surfaces, even if the 

TRAC/VSC system is operating. 

Drive the vehicle carefully in con-

ditions where stability and power 

may be lost.

Hill-start assist control does 

not operate effectively when

Do not overly rely on hill-start 

assist control. Hill-start assist 

control may not operate effec-

tively on steep inclines and 

roads covered with ice.

Unlike the parking brake, hill-

start assist control is not 

intended to hold the vehicle sta-

tionary for an extended period 

of time. Do not attempt to use 

hill-start assist control to hold 

the vehicle on an incline, as 

doing so may lead to an acci-

dent.

When the TRAC/VSC/Trailer 

Sway Control is activated

The slip indicator light flashes. 

Always drive carefully. Reckless 

driving may cause an accident. 

Exercise particular care when the 

indicator light flashes.

When the TRAC/VSC/Trailer 

Sway Control systems are 

turned off

Be especially careful and drive at 

a speed appropriate to the road 

conditions. As these are the sys-

tems to help ensure vehicle stabil-

ity and driving force, do not turn 

the TRAC/VSC/Trailer Sway Con-

trol systems off unless necessary.
Trailer Sway Control is part of the 

VSC system and will not operate 

if VSC is turned off or experiences 

a malfunction.

387

4-5. Using the driving support systems

4

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iv

ing

WARNING

Replacing tires

Make sure that all tires are of the 

specified size, brand, tread pat-

tern and total load capacity. In 

addition, make sure that the tires 

are inflated to the recommended 

tire inflation pressure level.
The ABS, TRAC, Trailer Sway 

Control and VSC systems will not 

function correctly if different tires 

are installed on the vehicle.

Contact your Toyota dealer for fur-

ther information when replacing 

tires or wheels.

Handling of tires and the sus-

pension

Using tires with any kind of prob-

lem or modifying the suspension 

will affect the driving assist sys-

tems, and may cause a system to 

malfunction.

Trailer Sway Control precau-

tion

The Trailer Sway Control system 

is not able to reduce trailer sway 

in all situations. Depending on 

many factors such as the condi-

tions of the vehicle, trailer, road 

surface and driving environment, 

the Trailer Sway Control system 

may not be effective. Refer to 

your trailer owner’s manual for 

information on how to tow your 

trailer properly.

If trailer sway occurs

Observe the following precau-

tions.

Failing to do so may cause death 

or serious injury.

Firmly grip the steering wheel. 

Steer straight ahead. Do not try 

to control trailer sway 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 stabi-

lize. (

P.198)

Secondary Collision Brake

Do not rely solely upon the Sec-

ondary Collision Brake. This sys-

tem is designed to help reduce 

the possibility of further damage 

due to a secondary collision, how-

ever, that effect changes accord-

ing to various conditions. Overly 

relying on the system may result 

in death or serious injury.

388

4-5. Using the driving support systems

“GAIN” (+/-) selection button

Pressing the “GAIN” (+/-) buttons 
will adjust the amount of power that 
can be outputted to the trailer 
brakes. The “gain” can be adjusted 
from 0 (no trailer braking) to 10 
(maximum output) in 0.5 incre-
ments. Each press of the button will 
increase or decrease the “gain” set-
ting by one step. The “gain” value 
will appear in the multi-information 
display.

Trailer brake type

Trailer brake type can be selected 
by using the multi-information. The 
combination meter will show which 
trailer brake type is selected in the 
multi-information display.

Manual brake slider

Adjusting this slider position will 
engage the trailer’s brakes only. If 
the manual brake slider is used 
while the vehicle brake is applied, 
the greater of the two outputs will 
be sent to the trailer brakes.

Trailer brake control-

ler

The trailer brakes can be 
controlled by the Trailer 
brake controller via the 7-
pin connector. By selecting 
the type of brakes that are 
being used on the trailer 
(electric or electric-over-
hydraulic) and setting the 
“gain” for the controller, the 
manual brake slider is used 
to slow just the trailer. The 
vehicle brake pedal will also 
slow down as well as stop 
the trailer when applied, 
also via the same connec-
tor. “Gain” values, manual 
brake outputs, trailer brake 
types, and the trailer con-
nection status are displayed 
in the multi-information dis-
play.

WARNING

When driving on slippery 

road surfaces

When stopping with ABS acti-

vated, output to the trailer might 

be reduced in order to reduce the 

likelihood of trailer wheels to lock. 

The trailer is not equipped with 

ABS. Drive safely on slippery road 

surfaces.

System operation

389

4-5. Using the driving support systems

4

Dr

iv

ing

Select the item desired to be 
setup and select as follows on 
the multi-information screen 
(

P.102):

1

Press 

 or 

 on the meter 

control switch and then select 

.

2

Press 

 or 

 on the meter 

control switch, select “Trailer 
Settings”, and then press and 
hold 

 on the meter control 

switch.

3

According to the display, 
select the desired setting and 
then press 

.

Changing trailer brake type or 
trailer ID will cause the current 
“gain” setting to reset to zero. 
Make sure to set the “gain” as 
described in the following sec-
tion.

“Gain” setting on trailer brake 
controller should be set for a 
specific towing condition. “Gain” 
setting should be adjusted each 
time the vehicle load, trailer 
load, road conditions, or 
weather changes. Setting the 
“gain” value to 0 will disable the 
trailer brake controller output.

1

Make sure the trailer brakes 
are in good working condition 
and functioning normally. See 
trailer dealer if necessary.

2

Hook up the trailer and make 
proper electrical connections.

3

Select the correct type of 
trailer brakes that are 
equipped on the trailer by 
using the multi-information 
display.

4

Drive vehicle with trailer 
attached on a level road sur-
face similar to towing condi-
tion and in traffic-free 
environment. Driving speed 
should be approximately 20 - 
25 mph [35 - 40 km/h].

5

Using the “GAIN” (+/-) selec-
tion buttons, set a starting 
“gain” of 5.0.

6

While driving 20 - 25 mph [35 
- 40 km/h], fully apply the 
manual brake slider.

7

Adjust the “gain” setting, 
using the “GAIN” (+/-) selec-
tion buttons, to either 
increase or decrease to just 
below the point of trailer 
wheel lock-up.

Changing settings of the 
trailer brake type

Setting the “Gain”

390

4-5. Using the driving support systems

8

For confirmation, repeat 
steps 

6

 and 

7

 until desired 

“gain” setting is reached (just 
below point of trailer wheel 
lock-up).

When setting the “gain”

Wheel lock-up occurs when the 

trailer wheel squeals or tire smoke 

occurs. Trailer wheels may not lock-

up while driving heavily loaded 

trailer. During this case, adjust the 

Trailer “gain” to the highest allow-

able setting for the towing condition.

When disconnecting and recon-

necting 12-volt battery termi-

nals

The “gain” setting data will be reset.

Trailer Sway Control Function

Helps suppress trailer sway at an 

early stage by using the trailer brake 

control system to operate the trailer 

brakes.

If the Trailer brake warning light 

comes on

Indicates a malfunction in the Trailer 

brake control system or Trailer con-

nector circuit.

Have the vehicle inspected by your 

Toyota dealer immediately.

WARNING

Trailer brake type setting

It is the responsibility of the driver 

to make sure the trailer brakes 

are functioning normally and 

adjusted appropriately. Failure to 

check and maintain trailer brakes 

may result in loss of vehicle con-

trol, crash, or serious injury. 

Trailer brake control system will 

work with most electric and elec-

tric-overhydraulic trailer braking 

systems up to 3 axles (24A output 

to trailer brakes). Please be sure 

to test compatibility with the sys-

tem at low speeds and in a safe 

area. If a warning message 

appears in the multi-information 

display (

P.519), have the vehi-

cle inspected by your Toyota 

dealer immediately. Some elec-

tric-over-hydraulic trailer brakes 

will take some minimum output to 

activate. Trailer brake control sys-

tem will not work with trailer 

hydraulic surge brakes.

391

4-5. Using the driving support systems

4

Dr

iv

ing

*

: If equipped

1

Select “Trailer Settings” from 

 (

P.98) on the multi-

information display and add a 
trailer according to the dis-
play.

2

Press the switch to turn the 
system ON.

3

Continue or reselect the 
trailer in the message dis-
played on the multi-informa-
tion display.

When the selected trailer is being 

used for the first time, setup (cali-

bration) is necessary (→P.392).
Once calibration is completed, it is 

retained for future use and the sys-

tem will automatically detect the 

trailer.
The driver needs to change the 

trailer selection when using a differ-

ent trailer. The system does not 

automatically recognize the trailer 

from the saved trailers list.

4

Once trailer is detected, shift 
the shift lever to R to activate 
Guidance mode.

5

Touch the switch at the bot-
tom right on multimedia to 
activate Straight Path Assist.

Trailer Backup Guide

*

Trailer Backup Guide is a 
system to assist when back-
ing up a trailer by providing 
either (1) steering control to 
assist backing up straight 
(Straight Path Assist) or (2) 
guidance for manual steer-
ing backup (Guidance 
mode).

Trailer Backup Guide uses 
the rear camera to detect 
the trailer and a trailer hitch 
light, which allows the 
driver to use the system at 
night time.

The system calculates the 
trailer angle by image pro-
cessing from the rear cam-
era and calculates trailer 
length and hitch length 
during the trailer setup (cali-
bration) maneuver.

Procedure

392

4-5. Using the driving support systems

“Trailer Direction”

When using Straight Path Assist, 

the driver can override the system 

using the steering wheel to adjust 

the trailer direction. Upon release of 

the steering wheel, Straight Path 

Assist re-activates with a revised 

straight back target direction.

When adding the trailer

Use the meter control switches to 

select the trailer type. (

P.98)

1

Press 

 or 

 to select 

.

2

Press 

 or 

 to select “Trailer 

Settings” and then press and 
hold 

.

3

According to the display, select 
the desired setting and then 
press 

. (

P.102)

Trailer Settings are not available 

while Trailer Backup Guide system 

is active.
The system is designed to support 

trailers with single or multi-axles 

using a ball hitch.

Bring the vehicle and trailer to a 
large open space like an empty 
parking lot. Activate Trailer 
Backup Guide system and fol-
low the instructions displayed on 
the multi-information dis-
play/multimedia.
For best calibration results, do 
not exceed 5 mph (8 km/h).

1

Drive straight forward slowly 
(5 mph [8 km/h] or less) while 
holding the steering wheel 
straight.

2

Stop vehicle with trailer 
straight and confirm blue line 
is aligned with trailer center 
in Camera view.

3

Drive forward slowly making 
a left or right turn that 
changes vehicle direction 90 
degrees or more.

4

After completing the turn, 
continue straight forward 
slowly to align trailer.

5

Stop vehicle to complete cali-
bration.

When calibrating the system

Please check whether the blue 

line appropriately aligns with the 

center of the trailer in the camera 

view, such as in the following dia-

gram, with regards to procedure 

2

.

Setup (Calibration)

393

4-5. Using the driving support systems

4

Dr

iv

ing

State where the blue line aligns 
with the center of the trailer. 
(Select “Yes” in the multi-infor-
mation display)

State where the blue line does 
not align with the center of the 
trailer. (Select “No” in the multi-
information display)

Blue line

The system is designed to support 

most trailers 6.6 ft. (2 m) to 26.2 ft. 

(8 m) in length (length is defined 

from the coupler center point for 

the ball to the wheel axle [single 

axle] or center of the wheel axles 

[2 or more axles]) with ball mount 

lengths between 4.5 in. (114.3 

mm) and 16 in. (406.4 mm). Do 

not attempt to use trailers or ball 

mounts that have a length outside 

of this range as the system perfor-

mance degrades and could cause 

improper system function.

Trailer length

Ball mount length

For best calibration results, cali-

brate in daytime on a smooth and 

level road.

It may be necessary at times to re-

calibrate the trailer to improve per-

formance.

The system is designed to be 

used with the same trailer connec-

tion every time. If the ball mount 

position is changed or reconfig-

ured or items are added to the 

trailer tongue after calibration, re-

calibration may be required.

Guidance mode provides a 
“Trailer Direction” arrow that 
indicates the direction the trailer 
will swing, based on calculations 
from the steering wheel angle 
information. Guidance mode 
provides a “BRAKE Extreme 
Trailer Angle” (jackknife) warn-
ing with warning buzzer to alert 
the driver that the trailer angle is 
near the jackknife condition.

Using Guidance mode

394

4-5. Using the driving support systems

Touch the switch at the bottom 
right on multimedia to activate 
Straight Path Assist. Straight 
Pass Assist controls steering to 
back up the trailer in a straight-
line. The system can be overrid-
den by using steering wheel to 
adjust trailer direction.
The driver is always responsible 
for paying attention to the vehi-
cle’s surroundings and driving 
safely. This system does not 
control braking. Driver needs to 
control vehicle speed, control 
braking, and stop the vehicle to 
avoid any collision.
For best results, reverse slowly 
when using Straight Path Assist.

Trailer Backup Guide system 
is canceled when the trailer 
cannot be detected (e.g. dirty 
camera lens, insufficient light-
ing condition, obstruction of 
the trailer in the rear camera 
view, incorrectly selected 
trailer, etc.)

Guidance mode is canceled 
when any of the following 
occurs:

• Press the Trailer Backup Guide 

switch

*

• Press the Camera switch

*

• Vehicle speed is greater than 

approximately 4.7 mph (7.6 km/h)

• VSC or ABS is operated

*

• Back door is opened

*

• Trailer tracking is lost
• Shift the shift lever out of R

• There is a system malfunction

*

*

: Includes Trailer Backup Guide 

system cancel

Straight Path Assist is can-
celed when any of the follow-
ing occurs:

• Any of the events, above, that 

cancel Guidance mode occur

• Press the Straight Path Assist 

switch on the multimedia screen

• The system temperature preser-

vation function operates (to pre-
vent power steering equipment 
from overheating)

This light’s usage for Trailer 
Backup Guide is controlled by 
the Trailer Backup Guide sys-
tem and the driver does not 
need to activate the light sepa-
rately.
For other usage: 

P.419

Using Straight Path 
Assist

Canceling the system

Trailer hitch light

395

4-5. Using the driving support systems

4

Dr

iv

ing

WARNING

Cautions regarding the use of 

the system

In order for this system to perform 

as designed, the vehicle must be 

driven safely and the driver must 

control the speed to keep it within 

operating parameters and to 

avoid a collision.

As there is a limit to the degree of 

control performance that this sys-

tem can provide, do not overly 

rely on this system. The driver is 

always responsible for paying 

attention to the vehicle’s sur-

roundings and driving safely. This 

system does not control braking 

(or steering when in Guidance 

mode). Driver needs to control 

vehicle speed, control braking, 

(and steering when in Guidance 

mode,) and stop the vehicle to 

avoid any collision. Failure to fol-

low this warning could result in 

property damage, serious injury 

or death.

When using the Trailer 

Backup Guide

For proper system performance, 

observe the following precautions. 

Failure to do so may lead to an 

accident resulting in property 

damage, serious injury, or death.

Keep the back door fully closed.

Keep the rear camera clean at 

all times.

Do not change the installation 

position or direction of the rear 

camera or remove it.

Do not modify the trailer hitch 

light. (→P.394)

Make sure nothing can obstruct 

the rear camera view of the 

trailer.

The system is designed to oper-

ate in various weather and lighting 

conditions and on different ground 

surfaces (asphalt, grass, gravel, 

etc.), however performance can 

still be affected by various envi-

ronmental factors (e.g. shadow 

passing over the trailer or dimin-

ished contrast between trailer and 

the ground leading to trailer 

detection being lost, etc.) so 

always drive carefully, remain 

alert and aware of your surround-

ings, and do not overly rely on the 

system.

396

4-6. Driving tips

4-6.Driving tips

When using Eco drive mode, the 
torque corresponding to the 
accelerator pedal depression 
amount can be generated more 
smoothly than it is in normal 
conditions. In addition, the oper-
ation of the air conditioning sys-
tem (heating/cooling) will be 
minimized, improving the fuel 
economy. (

P.366)

The Eco-friendly driving is pos-
sible by keeping the indicate of 
Hybrid System Indicator within 
Eco area. (

P.99)

Shift the shift lever to D when 
stopped at a traffic light, or driv-
ing in heavy traffic etc. Shift the 
shift lever to P when parking. 
When using the N, there is no 
positive effect on fuel consump-
tion. When using the air condi-
tioning system, etc., the hybrid 
battery (traction battery) power 
is consumed.

Drive your vehicle smoothly. 
Avoid abrupt acceleration and 
deceleration. Gradual accel-
eration and deceleration will 
make more effective use of 
the electric motor (traction 
motor) without having to use 
gasoline engine power.

Avoid repeated acceleration. 
Repeated acceleration con-
sumes hybrid battery (trac-
tion battery) power, resulting 
in poor fuel consumption. Bat-
tery power can be restored by 
driving with the accelerator 
pedal slightly released.

Make sure to operate the brakes 
gently and in a timely manner. A 
greater amount of electrical 
energy can be regenerated 
when slowing down.

Repeated acceleration and 
deceleration, as well as long 
waits at traffic lights, will lead to 
bad fuel economy. Check traffic 
reports before leaving and avoid 
delays as much as possible. 
When driving in a traffic jam, 
gently release the brake pedal 
to allow the vehicle to move for-
ward slightly while avoiding 

Hybrid Electric Vehi-

cle driving tips

For economical and ecolog-
ical driving, pay attention to 
the following points:

Using Eco drive mode

Use of Hybrid System 
Indicator

Shift lever operation

Accelerator pedal/brake 
pedal operation

When braking

Delays

397

4-6. Driving tips

4

Dr

iv

ing

overuse of the accelerator 
pedal. Doing so can help control 
excessive gasoline consump-
tion.

Control and maintain the vehicle 
at a constant speed. Before 
stopping at a toll booth or simi-
lar, allow plenty of time to 
release the accelerator and gen-
tly apply the brakes. A greater 
amount of electrical energy can 
be regenerated when slowing 
down.

Use the air conditioning only 
when necessary. Doing so can 
help reduce excessive gasoline 
consumption.
In summer: When the ambient 
temperature is high, use the 
recirculated air mode. Doing so 
will help to reduce the burden on 
the air conditioning system and 
reduce fuel consumption as 
well.
In winter: Because the gasoline 
engine will not automatically cut 
out until it and the interior of the 
vehicle are warm, it will con-
sume fuel. Also, fuel consump-
tion can be improved by 
avoiding overuse of the heater.

Make sure to check the tire infla-
tion pressure frequently. 
Improper tire inflation pressure 
can cause poor fuel economy.
Also, as snow tires can cause 
large amounts of friction, their 
use on dry roads can lead to 
poor fuel economy. Use tires 
that are appropriate for the sea-
son.

Carrying heavy luggage will lead 
to poor fuel economy. Avoid car-
rying unnecessary luggage. 
Installing a large roof rack will 
also cause poor fuel economy.

Since the gasoline engine starts 
up and cuts out automatically 
when cold, warming up the 
engine is unnecessary. More-
over, frequently driving short 
distances will cause the engine 
to repeatedly warm up, which 
can lead to excess fuel con-
sumption.

Highway driving

Air conditioning

Checking tire inflation 
pressure

Luggage

Warming up before driv-
ing

398

4-6. Driving tips

Specific design characteris-
tics give it a higher center of 
gravity than ordinary passen-
ger cars. This vehicle design 
feature causes this type of 
vehicle to be more likely to 
rollover. And, utility vehicles 
have a significantly higher 
rollover rate than other types 
of vehicles.

An advantage of the higher 
ground clearance is a better 
view of the road allowing you 
to anticipate problems.

It is not designed for corner-
ing at the same speeds as 
ordinary passenger cars any 
more than low-slung sports 
cars are designed to perform 
satisfactorily under off-road 
conditions. Therefore, sharp 
turns at excessive speeds 
may cause the vehicle to roll-
over.

When driving your vehicle off-
road, please observe the follow-
ing precautions to ensure your 
driving enjoyment and to help 
prevent the closure of areas to 

Off-road precautions

This vehicle belongs to the 
utility vehicle class, which 
has higher ground clear-
ance and narrower tread in 
relation to the height of its 
center of gravity to make it 
capable of performing in a 
wide variety of off-road 
applications.

Off-road vehicle features

WARNING

Off-road vehicle precautions

Always observe the following pre-

cautions to minimize the risk of 

death, serious injury or damage to 

your vehicle:

In a rollover crash, an unbelted 

person is significantly more 

likely to die than a person wear-

ing a seat belt. Therefore, the 

driver and all passengers 

should always fasten their seat 

belts.

Avoid sharp turns or abrupt 

maneuvers, if at all possible.

Failure to operate this vehicle 

correctly may result in loss of 

control or vehicle rollover caus-

ing death or serious injury.

Avoid loading any items on the 

roof that will raise the vehicle’s 

center of gravity.

Always slow down in gusty 

crosswinds. Because of its pro-

file and higher center of gravity, 

your vehicle is more sensitive to 

side winds than an ordinary 

passenger car.

Slowing down will allow you to 

have better control.

Do not drive horizontally across 

steep slopes. Driving straight up 

or straight down is preferred. 

Your vehicle (or any similar off-

road vehicle) can tip over side-

ways much more easily than 

forward or backward.

Off-road driving

399

4-6. Driving tips

4

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iv

ing

off-road vehicles:

Drive your vehicle only in 
areas where off-road vehicles 
are permitted to travel.

Respect private property. Get 
owner’s permission before 
entering private property.

Do not enter areas that are 
closed. Honor gates, barriers 
and signs that restrict travel.

Stay on established roads. 
When conditions are wet, 
driving techniques should be 
changed or travel delayed to 
prevent damage to roads.

Additional information for 
off-road driving

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.

State and Local Parks and 
Recreation Departments

State Motor Vehicle Bureau

Recreational Vehicle Clubs

U.S. Forest Service and 
Bureau of Land Management

WARNING

Off-road driving precautions

Always observe the following pre-

cautions to minimize the risk of 

death, serious injury or damage to 

your vehicle:

Drive carefully when off the 

road. Do not take unnecessary 

risks by driving in dangerous 

places.

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.

Always check your brakes for 

effectiveness immediately after 

driving in sand, mud, water or 

snow.

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 underbody. If 

the vehicle is used with these 

materials trapped or adhering to 

the underbody, a breakdown or 

fire could occur.

In a rollover crash, an unbelted 

person is significantly more 

likely to die than a person wear-

ing a seat belt. Therefore, the 

driver and all passengers 

should fasten their seat belts 

whenever the vehicle is moving.

When driving off-road or in rug-

ged terrain, do not drive at 

excessive speeds, jump, make 

sharp 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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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