2-4. Using other driving systems
■ After unlocking the rear differential
To check that the indicator goes off, turn the engine switch to the ON position, but do not start the engine.
CAUTION
■ To avoid an accident
● Do not use the rear differential lock system except when wheel spinning occurs in a ditch or on a slippery or ragged surface. Large steering effort and careful cornering control will be required.
● Do not lock the rear differential until the wheels have stopped spinning.
Otherwise, the vehicle may move in an unexpected direction when the differential lock is engaged, resulting in an accident. This may also lead to possible damage to differential lock component parts.
● Do not drive over 5 mph (8 km/h) when the differential is locked.
● Do not keep driving with the RR DIFF LOCK switch on.
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2-4. Using other driving systems
Downhill Assist Control system
The downhill assist control system helps to prevent excessive speed on steep downhill descents.
■
System operation
The system will operate when the vehicle is traveling under
15 mph (25 km/h) and the front-wheel drive control switch is in the L4 position.
Press the DAC switch. The indicator will come on, and the system will operate.
With the vehicle traveling at a speed of 15 mph (25 km/h) or less, release your foot from the accelerator or brake pedal to activate the system.
When the system is in operation, the slip indicator will flash, and the stop lights/high mounted stop light will come on. A sound may also occur during the operation. This does not indicate a malfunction.
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Turning off the system
Press the DAC switch while the system is in operation. The indicator will flash as the system gradually ceases operation, and will turn off when the system is fully off.
Pressing the DAC switch while the indicator is flashing will start the system again.
: If equipped
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2-4. Using other driving systems
■ Operating tips
The system will operate when the shift lever is in a position other than P.
However, to make effective use of the system it is recommended that the shift lever be shifted to 2 or L.
■ The system will not operate when
● The front-wheel drive control switch is in the H2 or H4 position.
● The rear differential is locked.
■ The downhill assist control system indicator light flashes when
● The shift lever is in the N position.
● The front-wheel drive control switch is in the H2 or H4 position.
● The rear differential is locked.
■ If the brake system overheats
The system will cease operation and a buzzer will sound to alert the driver.
Stop the vehicle in a safe place. (There is no problem with continuing normal driving.)
■ System malfunction
● The downhill assist control system indicator does not come on when the engine switch is turned to the ON position.
● The downhill assist control system indicator does not come on when the
DAC switch is pressed.
In the above cases have your vehicle checked by your Toyota dealer.
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CAUTION
■ Do not rely excessively on the downhill assist control system
It may not be able to maintain a low speed over road surfaces on which sliding can easily occur, such as extremely steep slopes or icy or muddy roads.
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2-4. Using other driving systems
Clutch start cancel switch
The switch allows the vehicle to be driven out of difficult situations by cranking the engine with the clutch engaged.
Never use the switch for normal engine starting. Be sure to follow the starting procedure. (
P. 131)
Press the CLUTCH START
CANCEL switch to cancel the clutch start system when the engine switch is turned to the
ON position.
The indicator comes on when the clutch start system is canceled.
The clutch start cancel switch is automatically turned off when the engine switch is turned off.
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Clutch start system
The system is designed to keep the starter motor from operating if the clutch pedal is not depressed all the way down.
: If equipped
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2-4. Using other driving systems
Driving assist systems
To help enhance driving safety and performance, the following systems operate automatically in response to various driving situations.
Be aware, however, that these systems are supplementary and should not be relied upon too heavily when operating the vehicle.
■
ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)
Helps to prevent wheel lock when the brakes are applied suddenly, or if the brakes are applied while driving on a slippery road surface.
■ Brake assist
Generates an increased level of braking force after the brake pedal is depressed, while the system detects a panic stop situation.
■
VSC (Vehicle Stability Control)
Helps the driver to control skidding when swerving suddenly or turning on slippery road surfaces.
■ Trailer Sway Control (vehicles with towing hitch and 7 pin connector)
Helps the driver to control trailer sway by selectively applying brake pressure for individual wheels and reducing engine torque when trailer sway is detected.
Trailer Sway Control is part of the VSC system and will not operate if
VSC is turned off or experiences a malfunction.
■
TRAC (Traction Control)
Helps to maintains drive power and prevent the drive wheels from spinning when starting the vehicle or accelerating on slippery roads.
■
Hill-start assist control (if equipped)
Helps prevent the vehicle from rolling backwards when starting on an incline or slippery slope. It operates for approximately 5 seconds at maximum.
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