Get INFORMATIONBEFOREDRIVINGYOURTOYOTA Guide for Toyota 4 Runner SUV Fourth Generation (2003-2009)

07 12.25

SECTION

INFORMATION BEFORE DRIVING YOUR

2

TOYOTA

Off−road vehicle precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 338

Break−in period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 339

Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 339

Fuel pump shut off system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 341

Operation in foreign countries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 341

Three−way catalytic converters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 342

Engine exhaust cautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 343

Facts about engine oil consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 344

Iridium−tipped spark plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 345

Brake system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 345

Brake pad wear limit indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 349

Limited−slip differential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 349

Your Toyota’s identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 349

Theft prevention labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 351

Suspension and chassis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 351

Tire information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 352

Vehicle load limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 364

Cargo and luggage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 365

Types of tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 368

337

07 12.25

Off−road vehicle precautions

This vehicle belongs to the utility ve-

hicle class, which has higher ground

clearance 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. Specific

design characteristics 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 advan-

tage of the higher ground clearance is

a better view of the road allowing you

to anticipate problems. It is not de-

signed for cornering at the same

speeds as ordinary passenger cars any

more than low−slung sports cars de-

signed to perform satisfactorily under

off−road conditions. Therefore, sharp

turns at excessive speeds may cause

rollover.

CAUTION

Always observe the following precau-

tions to minimize the risk of serious

personal injury or damage to your ve-

hicle:

CY20035

D In a rollover crash, an unbelted per-

son is significantly more likely to

die than a person wearing a seat

belt. Therefore, the driver and all

passengers should fasten their seat

belts whenever the vehicle is mov-

ing.

D Avoid sharp turns or abrupt maneu-

vers, if at all possible. Failure to

operate this vehicle correctly may

result in loss of control or vehicle

rollover causing death or serious

injury.

D Loading cargo on the roof luggage

carrier will make the center of the

vehicle gravity higher. Avoid high

speeds, sudden starts, sharp turns,

sudden braking or abrupt maneu-

vers, otherwise it may result in loss

of control or vehicle rollover due to

failure to operate this vehicle cor-

rectly.

338

07 12.25

Break−in period

Fuel

Drive gently and avoid high speeds.

FUEL TYPE

D Always slow down in gusty cross-

winds. Because of its profile and

higher center of gravity, your ve-

hicle is more sensitive to side

winds than an ordinary passenger

car. Slowing down will allow you to

have better control.

Your vehicle does not need an elaborate

break−in. But following a few simple tips

for the first 1600 km (1000 miles) can add

to the future economy and long life of

your vehicle:

Your new vehicle must use only un-

leaded gasoline.

To help prevent gas station mix−ups, your

Toyota has a smaller fuel tank opening.

The special nozzle on pumps with un-

leaded fuel will fit it, but the larger stan-

dard nozzle on pumps with leaded gas will

not.

D Avoid full throttle acceleration when

starting and driving.

D When driving off−road or in rugged

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.

D Avoid racing the engine.

At

a

minimum, the gasoline you use

D Try to avoid hard stops during the first

should meet the specifications of ASTM

D4814 in the U.S.A. and CGSB 3.5−M93

in Canada.

300 km (200 miles).

D Do not drive for a long time at any

single speed, either fast or slow.

NOTICE

D Do not tow a trailer during the first 800

km (500 miles).

Do not use leaded gasoline. Use of

leaded gasoline will cause the three−

way catalytic converter to lose its ef-

fectiveness and the emission control

system to function improperly. Also,

this can increase maintenance costs.

D Do not drive horizontally across

steep slopes. Driving straight up or

straight down is preferred. Your ve-

hicle (or any similar off−road ve-

hicle) can tip over sideways much

more easily than forward or back-

ward.

339

07 12.25

OCTANE RATING

However, all gasoline sold in the U.S.

contains detergent additives to keep clean

and/or clean intake systems.

OXYGENATES IN GASOLINE

Select Octane Rating 87 (Research

Octane Number 91) or higher.

Toyota allows the use of oxygenate

blended gasoline where the oxygenate

content is up to 10% ethanol or 15%

MTBE. If you use gasohol in your

Toyota, be sure that it has an octane

rating no lower than 87.

QUALITY GASOLINE

Use of unleaded gasoline with an Octane

Rating lower than 87 may result in engine

knocking. Persistent knocking can lead to

engine damage.

Automotive manufacturers in the U.S.,

Europe and Japan have developed

a

specification for quality fuel named

World−Wide Fuel Charter (WWFC) that

is expected to be applied world wide.

The WWFC consists of four categories

that depend on required emission lev-

els. In the U.S., category 3 or 4 has

been adopted. The WWFC improves air

quality by providing for better emis-

sions in vehicle fleets, and customer

satisfaction through better vehicle per-

formance.

Toyota does not recommend the use of

gasoline containing methanol.

If your engine knocks...

If you detect heavy knocking even when

using the recommended fuel, or if you

hear steady knocking while holding

steady speed on level roads, consult your

Toyota dealer.

GASOLINE CONTAINING MMT

a

Some gasoline contain an octane en-

hancing additive called MMT (Methylcy-

clopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl).

However, occasionally, you may notice

light knocking for a short time while accel-

erating or driving up hills. This is normal

and there is no need for concern.

Toyota does not recommend the use of

gasoline that contains MMT. If fuel con-

taining MMT is used, your emission con-

trol system may be adversely affected.

The Malfunction Indicator Lamp on the in-

strument cluster may come on. If this hap-

pens, contact your Toyota dealer for ser-

vice.

CLEANER BURNING GASOLINE

GASOLINE CONTAINING DETERGENT

ADDITIVES

Cleaner burning gasoline, including re-

formulated gasoline that contains oxy-

genates such as ethanol or MTBE is

available in many areas.

Toyota recommends the use of gasoline

that contains detergent additives to

avoid build−up of engine deposits.

GASOLINE QUALITY

Toyota recommends the use of cleaner

burning gasoline and appropriately blended

reformulated gasoline. These types of gas-

oline provide excellent vehicle perfor-

mance, reduce vehicle emissions, and im-

prove air quality.

In a very few cases, you may experience

driveability problems caused by the partic-

ular gasoline that you are using. If you

continue to have unacceptable driveability,

try changing gasoline brands. If this does

not rectify your problem, then consult your

Toyota dealer.

340

07 12.25

Fuel pump shut off system

Operation in foreign countries

The fuel pump shut off system stops sup-

plying fuel to the engine to minimize the

risk of fuel leakage when the engine stalls

or an airbag inflates upon collision. To

restart the engine after the fuel pump shut

off system activates, turn the engine

switch to “ACC” or “LOCK” once and start

it.

If you plan to drive your Toyota in

another country...

NOTICE

z Do not use gasohol other than

stated above. It will cause fuel sys-

tem damage or vehicle performance

problems.

First, comply with the vehicle registration

laws.

Second, confirm the availability of the cor-

rect fuel (unleaded and minimum octane

number).

z If driveability problems occur (poor

hot starting, vaporizing, engine

knock, etc.), discontinue the use.

CAUTION

z Take care not to spill gasohol dur-

ing refueling. Gasohol may cause

paint damage.

Inspect the ground under the vehicle

before restarting the engine. If you

find that fuel has leaked onto the

ground, the fuel system has been

damaged and is in need of repair. In

this case, do not restart the engine.

FUEL TANK CAPACITY

87 L (23.0 gal., 19.1 Imp. gal.)

341

07 12.25

Three−way catalytic converters

NOTICE

z Keep your engine in good running

order. Malfunctions in the engine

electrical system, electronic ignition

system/distributor ignition system

or fuel systems could cause an ex-

tremely high three−way catalytic

converter temperature.

A

large amount of unburned gases

flowing into the three−way catalytic

converter may cause it to overheat

and create a fire hazard. To prevent

this and other damage, observe the

following precautions:

CY20011

z If the engine becomes difficult to

start or stalls frequently, take your

vehicle in for a check−up as soon

as possible. Remember, your Toyota

dealer knows your vehicle and its

three−way catalytic converter sys-

tem best.

z Use only unleaded gasoline.

z Do not drive with an extremely low

fuel level; running out of fuel could

cause the engine to misfire, creat-

ing an excessive load on the three−

way catalytic converter.

The three−way catalytic converter is an

emission control device installed in the

exhaust system.

z Do not allow the engine to run at

idle speed for more than 20 min-

utes.

z To ensure that the three−way

catalytic converter and the entire

emission control system operate

properly, your vehicle must receive

the periodic inspections required by

the Toyota Maintenance Schedule.

The purpose is to reduce pollutants in the

exhaust gas.

z Avoid racing the engine.

z Do not push−start or pull−start your

vehicle.

CAUTION

For

scheduled

maintenance

z Do not turn off the engine switch

while the vehicle is moving.

information, refer to the “Scheduled

Maintenance Guide” or “Owner’s

Manual Supplement”.

D Keep people and combustible mate-

rials away from the exhaust pipe

while the engine is running. The

exhaust gas is very hot.

D Do not idle or park your vehicle

over anything that might burn easi-

ly such as grass, leaves, paper or

rags.

342

07 12.25

Engine exhaust cautions

D Do not remain for a long time in a

parked vehicle with the engine run-

ning. If it is unavoidable, however,

do so only in an unconfined area

and adjust the heating or cooling

system to force outside air into the

vehicle.

D 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 ve-

hicle. This may lead to death or a

serious health hazard.

CAUTION

D Exhaust gases include harmful car-

bon monoxide (CO) that is colorless

and odorless.

Inhaling exhaust

gases may lead to death or a seri-

ous health hazard.

D The exhaust should be checked

occasionally. If there is a hole or

crack caused by corrosion, damage

D Keep the back door and back win-

dow closed while driving. An open

or unsealed back door and back

window, may cause exhaust gases

to be drawn into the vehicle.

D When taking a nap in the vehicle,

always turn the engine off. Other-

wise, you may accidentally move

the shift lever or depress the accel-

erator pedal, which could cause an

accident or fire due to engine over-

heating. Additionally, if the vehicle

to

a

joint or abnormal exhaust

noise, be sure to have the vehicle

inspected and repaired by your

Toyota dealer. Failure to do so may

allow exhaust gases to enter the

vehicle, resulting in death or

serious health hazard.

D To allow proper operation of your

vehicle’s ventilation system, keep

the inlet grilles in front of the wind-

shield clear of snow, leaves, or oth-

er obstructions.

a

is parked in

a

poorly ventilated

area, exhaust gases may collect and

enter the vehicle, leading to death

or a serious health hazard.

D If the vehicle is in a poorly venti-

lated area, turn the engine off. In a

closed area, such as a garage, ex-

haust gases may collect and enter

the vehicle. This may lead to death

or a serious health hazard.

D If the smell of exhaust is noticed

inside the vehicle, open the win-

dows. Large amounts of exhaust in

the vehicle can cause driver drowsi-

ness and an accident, resulting in

death or a serious health hazard.

Have the vehicle inspected by your

Toyota dealer immediately.

343

07 12.25

Facts about engine oil

consumption

FUNCTIONS OF ENGINE OIL

The amount of engine oil consumed de-

pends on the viscosity of the oil, the

quality of the oil and the conditions the

vehicle is driven under.

IMPORTANCE OF ENGINE OIL LEVEL

CHECK

Engine oil has the primary functions of

lubricating and cooling the inside of the

engine, and plays a major role in main-

taining the engine in proper working order.

One of the most important points in prop-

er vehicle maintenance is to keep the en-

gine oil at the optimum level so that oil

function will not be impaired. Therefore, it

is essential that the oil level be checked

regularly. Toyota recommends that the oil

level be checked every time you refuel

the vehicle.

More oil is consumed by high−speed driv-

ing and frequent acceleration and decel-

eration.

ENGINE OIL CONSUMPTION

It is normal that an engine should con-

sume some engine oil during normal

engine operation. The causes of oil

consumption in a normal engine are as

follows.

A new engine consumes more oil, since

its pistons, piston rings and cylinder walls

have not become conditioned.

Oil consumption: Max. 1.0 L per 1000

km (1.1 qt./600 miles, 0.9 Imp. qt./600

miles)

NOTICE

D Oil is used to lubricate pistons, piston

rings and cylinders. A thin film of oil

is left on the cylinder wall when a pis-

ton moves downwards in the cylinder.

High negative pressure generated when

the vehicle is decelerating sucks some

of this oil into the combustion chamber.

This oil as well as some part of the oil

film left on the cylinder wall is burned

by the high temperature combustion

gases during the combustion process.

Failure to check the oil level regularly

could lead to serious engine trouble

due to insufficient oil.

When judging the amount of oil con-

sumption, note that the oil may become

diluted and make it difficult to judge

the true level accurately.

For detailed information on oil level check,

see “Checking the engine oil level” on

page 436 in Section 7−2.

As an example, if a vehicle is used for

repeated short trips, and consumes a nor-

mal amount of oil, the dipstick may not

show any drop in the oil level at all, even

after 1000 km (600 miles) or more. This

is because the oil is gradually becoming

diluted with fuel or moisture, making it

appear that the oil level has not changed.

D Oil is also used to lubricate the stems

of the intake valves. Some of this oil

is sucked into the combustion chamber

together with the intake air and is

burned along with the fuel. High tem-

perature exhaust gases also burn the

oil used to lubricate the exhaust valve

stems.

The diluting ingredients evaporate out

when the vehicle is then driven at high

speeds, as on an expressway, making it

appear that oil is excessively consumed

after driving at high speeds.

344

07 12.25

Iridium−tipped spark plugs

(4.7 L V8 [2UZ−FE] engine)

Brake system

This brake system has 2 independent hy-

draulic circuits. If either circuit should fail,

the other will still work. However, the ped-

al will be harder to press, and your stop-

ping distance will increase. Also, the

brake system warning light may come on.

Depressing the brake pedal repeatedly

may turn on the brake system warning

light and buzzer. It is normal if the light

turns off and the buzzer stops sounding

after a few seconds.

You may hear a small sound in the engine

compartment after the engine is started or

the brake pedal is depressed repeatedly.

This is a pump pulsating sound of the

brake system, and it is not a malfunction.

CY20008a

CAUTION

Do not drive your vehicle with only a

single brake system. Have your

brakes fixed immediately.

CAUTION

D Do not pump the brake pedal if the

engine stalls. Each push on the

pedal uses up your brake fluid

pressure reserve.

BRAKE BOOSTER

Your engine is fitted with iridium−tipped

spark plugs.

The brake booster uses brake fluid pres-

surized by the pump to power−assist the

brakes. If the brake booster fails during

driving, the brake system warning light

comes on and buzzer sounds continuous-

ly. In this case, the brakes may not work

properly. If they do not work well, depress

the brake pedal firmly. If the brake system

warning light comes on, immediately stop

your vehicle and contact your Toyota deal-

er.

NOTICE

D Even if the power assist is com-

pletely lost, the brakes will still

work. But you will have to push the

pedal hard, much harder than nor-

mal. And your braking distance will

increase.

Use only iridium−tipped spark plugs.

Do not adjust gaps for engine perfor-

mance or smooth driveability.

It is not a malfunction that the brake sys-

tem warning light may stay on for 60 sec-

onds after the engine switch is turned to

the “ON” position.

345

07 12.25

ANTI−LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM

(with “ABS” warning light)

Depressing the brake pedal on slippery

road surfaces such as on a manhole cov-

er, a steel plate at a construction site,

joints in a bridge, etc. on a rainy day

tends to activate the anti−lock brake sys-

tem.

CAUTION

The anti−lock brake system is designed

to help prevent lock−up of the wheels

during a sudden braking or braking on

slippery road surfaces. This assists in

providing directional stability and steer-

ing performance of the vehicle under

these circumstances.

Do not overestimate the anti−lock

brake system: Although the anti−lock

brake system assists in providing ve-

hicle control, it is still important to

drive with all due care and maintain

a moderate speed and safe distance

from the vehicle in front of you, be-

cause there are limits to the vehicle

stability and effectiveness of steering

wheel operation even with the anti−

lock brake system on.

You may hear a click or motor sound in

the engine compartment for a few seconds

when the engine is started or just after

the vehicle begins to move. This means

that the anti−lock brake system is in the

self−check mode, and does not indicate a

malfunction.

Effective way to press the ABS brake

pedal: When the anti−lock brake system

function is in action, you may feel the

brake pedal pulsating and hear a noise.

In this situation, to let the anti−lock

brake system work for you, just hold the

brake pedal down more firmly. Do not

pump the brake in a panic stop. This

will result in reduced braking performan-

ce.

When the anti−lock brake system is ac-

tivated, the following conditions may

occur. They do not indicate a malfunc-

tion of the system:

If tire grip performance exceeds its

capability, or if hydroplaning occurs

during high speed driving in the rain,

the anti−lock brake system does not

provide vehicle control.

D You may hear the anti−lock brake sys-

tem operating and feel the brake pedal

pulsating and the vibrations of the ve-

hicle body and steering wheel. You

may also hear the motor sound in the

engine compartment even after the ve-

hicle is stopped.

Anti−lock brake system is not de-

signed to shorten the stopping dis-

tance: Always drive at

speed and maintain a safe distance

from the vehicle in front of you.

Compared with vehicles without an

anti−lock brake system, your vehicle

The anti−lock brake system becomes op-

erative after the vehicle has accelerated

to a speed in excess of approximately 10

km/h (6 mph). It stops operating when the

a

moderate

vehicle decelerates to

a

speed below

D At the end of the anti−lock brake sys-

tem activation, the brake pedal may

move a little forward.

approximately 5 km/h (3 mph).

may require

a

longer stopping dis-

tance in the following cases:

D Driving on rough, gravel or snow−

covered roads.

346

07 12.25

“ABS” warning light

D Driving with tire chains installed.

The light comes on when the engine

switch is turned to the “ON” position. If

the anti−lock brake system and the brake

assist system work properly, the light

turns off after a few seconds. Thereafter,

if either of the systems malfunctions, the

light comes on again.

D Driving over the steps such as the

joints on the road.

D Driving on roads where the road

surface is pitted or has other differ-

ences in surface height.

CY20034

CY20032

Install all 4 tires of specified size at

appropriate pressure: The anti−lock

brake system detects vehicle speeds

using the speed sensors for respec-

tive wheels’ turning speeds. The use

of tires other than specified may fail

to detect the accurate turning speed

When the “ABS” warning light is on (and

the brake system warning light is off), the

following systems do not operate, but the

brake system still operates conventionally.

D Anti−lock brake system

D Brake assist system

Type A

resulting in

tance.

a

longer stopping dis-

D Traction control system

(two−wheel drive models)

D Active traction control system

(four−wheel drive models)

D “AUTO LSD” system

(two−wheel drive models)

D Vehicle stability control system

D Downhill assist control system

(four−wheel drive models)

D Hill−start assist control system

Type B

347

07 12.25

When the “ABS” warning light is on (and

the brake system warning light is off), the

anti−lock brake system does not operate

so that the wheels will lock up during a

sudden braking or braking on slippery

road surfaces.

Have your Toyota dealer perform the bed-

ding−down.

CAUTION

BRAKE ASSIST SYSTEM

If the “ABS” warning light remains on

together with the brake system warn-

ing light, immediately stop your ve-

hicle at a safe place and contact your

Toyota dealer.

When you slam the brakes on, the

brake assist system judges as an emer-

gency stop and provides more powerful

braking for a driver who cannot hold

down the brake pedal firmly.

“VSC OFF” warning light may flashes with

the “ABS” warning light (brake assist sys-

tem warning light) when there is a mal-

function somewhere in the anti−lock brake

system (brake assist system).

In this case, not only the anti−lock

brake system will fail but also the

vehicle will become extremely unsta-

ble during braking.

When you slam the brakes on, more pow-

erful braking will be applied. At this time,

you may hear

a

sound in the engine

If either of the following conditions oc-

curs, this indicates a malfunction some-

where in the components monitored by

the warning light system. Contact your

Toyota dealer as soon as possible to

service the vehicle.

compartment and feel the vibrations of the

brake pedal. This does not indicate a mal-

function.

Either of the following conditions may

occur, but do not indicate a malfunc-

tion:

The brake assist system becomes opera-

tive after the vehicle has accelerated to

a speed in excess of approximately 10

km/h (6 mph). It stops operating when the

D The light may stay on for about 60

seconds after the engine switch is

turned to the “ON” position. It is nor-

mal if it turns off after a while.

D The light does not come on when the

engine switch is turned to the “ON”

position, or remains on.

vehicle decelerates to

a

speed below

approximately 5 km/h (3 mph).

D Depressing the brake pedal repeatedly

may turn on the light. It is normal if it

turns off after a few seconds.

D The light comes on while you are dri-

For an explanation of this system’s warn-

ing light, see “Service reminder indicators

and warning buzzers” on page 149 in Sec-

tion 1−6.

ving.

A warning light turning on briefly during

operation does not indicate a problem.

DRUM−IN−DISC TYPE PARKING BRAKE

SYSTEM

Your vehicle has

a

drum−in−disc type

parking brake system. This type of brake

system needs bedding−down of the brake

shoes periodically or whenever the parking

brake shoes and/or drums are replaced.

348

07 12.25

Brake pad wear limit

indicators

Limited−slip differential

(four−wheel drive models)

Your Toyota’s identification—

—Vehicle identification number

Your Toyota is equipped with a limited−slip

center differential (transfer). If one wheel

begins to spin, the limited−slip center dif-

ferential (transfer) is designed to aid trac-

tion by automatically transmitting driving

force to the wheels on the other drive

axle. It transmits driving force to the front

wheels if a rear wheel spins, and to the

rear wheels if a front wheel spins.

CY20004

CY20013

CAUTION

Do not start or run the engine while

your vehicle is supported by a jack.

The vehicle could be driven off the

jack and could pose a danger or re-

sult in serious injury.

The brake pad wear limit indicators on

your disc brakes give a warning noise

when the brake pads are worn to where

replacement is required.

The vehicle identification number (VIN)

is the legal identifier for your vehicle.

This number is on the left top of the

instrument panel, and can be seen

through the windshield from outside.

If you hear a squealing or scraping noise

while driving, have the brake pads

checked and replaced by your Toyota

dealer as soon as possible. Expensive ro-

tor damage can result if the pads are not

replaced when necessary.

NOTICE

This is the primary identification number

for your Toyota. It is used in registering

the ownership of your vehicle.

Use only a spare tire of the same

brand, size, construction and load ca-

pacity as the original tires on your

Toyota because damage to the limit-

ed−slip differential could possibly oc-

cur with another tire type.

349

07 12.25

—Engine number

The engine number is stamped on the

engine block as shown.

CY20023

CY20014

4.0 L V6 (1GR−FE) engine

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is

also on the Certification Label.

CY20005

4.7 L V8 (2UZ−FE) engine

350

07 12.25

Theft prevention labels

(except for Canada)

Suspension and chassis

Your new vehicle carries theft preven-

tion labels which are approximately 47

mm (1.85 in.) by 12 mm (0.47 in.).

CAUTION

Do not modify the suspension/chassis

with lift kits, spacers, springs, etc. It

can cause dangerous handling charac-

teristics resulting in loss of control.

The purpose of these labels is to reduce

the incidence of vehicle thefts by facilitat-

ing the tracing and recovery of parts from

stolen vehicles. The label is designed so

that once it is applied to a surface, any

attempt to remove it will result in destroy-

ing the integrity of the label. Transferring

these labels intact from one part to anoth-

er, will be impossible.

NOTICE

You should not attempt to remove the

theft prevention labels as it may vio-

late certain state or federal laws.

351

07 12.25

Tire information—

—Tire symbols

This illustration indicates typical tire

symbols.

1. Tire size—For details, see “—Tire

size” on page 354.

2. DOT and Tire Identification

Number (TIN)—For details, see

“—DOT and Tire Identification

Number (TIN)” on page 353.

3. Uniform tire quality grading—

For details, see “Uniform tire quali-

ty grading” that follows.

4. The location of the treadwear

indicators—For details, see

“Checking and replacing tires” on

page 443.

CY20028y

5. Tire ply composition and mate-

rials—Plies mean a layer of rub-

ber−coated parallel cords. Cords

mean the strands forming the plies

in the tire.

6. Radial tires or bias−ply tires—A

radial tire has “RADIAL” on the

sidewall. A tire not marked with

“RADIAL” is a bias−ply tire.

352

07 12.25

—DOT and Tire Identification

Number (TIN)

7. “TUBELESS”

or

“TUBE

The “DOT” symbol certifies that the

tire conforms to applicable Federal

Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

TYPE”—A tubeless tire does not

have a tube inside the tire and air

is directly filled in the tire. A tube

type tire has a tube inside the tire

and the tube maintains the air

pressure.

CY20027

8. Load limit at maximum cold tire

inflation pressure—For details,

see “Checking and replacing tires”

on page 443.

9. Maximum cold tire inflation

pressure—This means the pres-

sure to which a tire may be in-

flated. For details about recom-

This illustration indicates typical DOT

and Tire Identification Number (TIN).

1. “DOT” symbol

mended

cold

tire

inflation

pressure, see “Tires” on page 467.

2. Tire Identification Number (TIN)

10.Summer tire or all season

tire—An all season tire has “M+S”

on the sidewall. The tire not

marked with “M+S” is a summer

tire. For details, see “Types of

tires” on page 368.

3. Tire manufacturer’s identification

mark

4. Tire size code

5. Manufacturer’s optional tire type

code (3 or 4 letters)

6. Manufacturing week

7. Manufacturing year

353

07 12.25

—Tire size

—Name of each section of tire

CY20029

Z20007

Z20008

This illustration indicates typical tire

size.

1. Tire use (P=Passenger car,

T=Temporary use)

2. Section width (in millimeters)

3. Aspect ratio (tire height to section

width)

4. Tire construction code (R=Radial,

D=Diagonal)

5. Wheel diameter (in inches)

6. Load index (2 digits or 3 digits)

7. Speed symbol (alphabet with one

letter)

1. Section width

2. Tire height

3. Wheel diameter

1. Bead

2. Sidewall

3. Shoulder

4. Tread

5. Belt

6. Inner liner

7. Reinforcing rubber

8. Carcass

9. Rim lines

10.Bead wires

11. Chafer

354

07 12.25

—Uniform Tire Quality

Grading

This information has been prepared

in accordance with regulations issued

by the National Highway Traffic Safe-

ty Administration of the U.S. Depart-

ment of Transportation. It provides

the purchasers and/or prospective

purchasers of Toyota vehicles with in-

formation on uniform tire quality grad-

ing.

Treadwear—The treadwear grade is

a comparative rating based on the

wear rate of the tire when tested un-

der controlled conditions on a speci-

fied government test course. For ex-

ample, a tire graded 150 would wear

one and a half (1−1/2) times as well

on the government course as a tire

graded 100. The relative performance

of tires depends upon the actual

conditions of their use, however, and

may depart significantly from the

norm due to variations in driving hab-

its, service practices and differences

in road characteristics and climate.

Traction AA, A, B, C—The traction

grades, from highest to lowest, are

AA, A, B, and C, and they represent

the tire’s ability to stop on wet pave-

ment as measured under controlled

conditions on specified government

test surfaces of asphalt and concrete.

A tire marked C may have poor trac-

tion performance.

Warning: The traction grade assigned

to this tire is based on braking

(straight ahead) traction tests and

does not include cornering (turning)

traction.

Your Toyota dealer will help answer

any questions you may have as you

read this information.

DOT quality grades—All passenger

vehicle tires must conform to Fed-

eral Safety Requirements in addi-

tion to these grades. Quality

grades can be found where appli-

cable on the tire sidewall between

tread shoulder and maximum sec-

tion width. For example: Treadwear

200 Traction AA Temperature A

355

07 12.25

Temperature A, B, C—The tempera-

ture grades are A (the highest), B,

and C, representing the tire’s resis-

tance to the generation of heat and

its ability to dissipate heat when

tested under controlled conditions on

a specified indoor laboratory test

wheel. Sustained high temperature

can cause the material of the tire to

degenerate and reduce tire life, and

excessive temperature can lead to

sudden tire failure. The grade C cor-

responds to a level of performance

which all passenger car tires must

meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle

Safety Standard No.109. Grades B

and A represent higher levels of per-

formance on the laboratory test wheel

than the minimum required by law.

Warning: The temperature grades for

this tire are established for a tire that

is properly inflated and not over-

loaded. Excessive speed, underinfla-

tion, or excessive loading, either sep-

arately or in combination, can cause

heat buildup and possible tire failure.

356

07 12.25

—Glossary of tire terminology

Tire related term

Meaning

tire inflation pressure when the vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours

or more, or it has not been driven more than 1.5 km or 1 mile under that

condition

Cold tire inflation pressure

the maximum cold inflation pressure to which a tire may be inflated and it is

shown on the sidewall of the tire

Maximum inflation pressure

Recommended inflation pressure

cold tire inflation pressure recommended by a manufacturer

the combined weight (in excess of those standard items which may be replaced)

of automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, power windows, pow-

er seats, radio, and heater, to the extent that these items are available as

factory−installed equipment (whether installed or not)

Accessory weight

Curb weight

the weight of a motor vehicle with standard equipment including the maximum

capacity of fuel, oil, and coolant, and, if so equipped, air conditioning and addi-

tional weight optional engine

the sum of—

(a) curb weight;

(b) accessory weight;

(c) vehicle capacity weight; and

(d) production options weight

Maximum loaded vehicle weight

Normal occupant weight

68 kg (150 lb.) times the number of occupants specified in the second column

of Table 1 that follows

357

07 12.25

Tire related term

Meaning

distribution of occupants in a vehicle as specified in the third column of Table

1 that follows

Occupant distribution

Production options weight

Rim

the combined weight of those installed regular production options weighing over

2.3 kg (5 lb.) in excess of those standard items which they replace, not pre-

viously considered in curb weight or accessory weight, including heavy duty

brakes, ride levelers, roof rack, heavy duty battery, and special trim

a metal support for a tire or a tire and tube assembly upon which the tire beads

are seated

Rim diameter (Wheel diameter)

Rim size designation

Rim type designation

Rim width

nominal diameter of the bead seat

rim diameter and width

the industry of manufacturer’s designation for a rim by style or code

nominal distance between rim flanges

Vehicle capacity weight

(Total load capacity)

the rated cargo and luggage load plus 68 kg (150 lb.) times the vehicle’s desig-

nated seating capacity

the load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle

its share of the maximum loaded vehicle weight and dividing by two

Vehicle maximum load on the tire

the load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle

its share of the curb weight, accessory weight, and normal occupant weight

(distributed in accordance with Table 1 that follows) and dividing by two

Vehicle normal load on the tire

358

07 12.25

Tire related term

Meaning

Weather side

the surface area of the rim not covered by the inflated tire

the part of the tire that is made of steel wires, wrapped or reinforced by ply

cords and that is shaped to fit the rim

Bead

Bead separation

Bias ply tire

a breakdown of the bond between components in the bead

a pneumatic tire in which the ply cords that extend to the beads are laid at

alternate angles substantially less than 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread

the tire structure, except tread and sidewall rubber which, when inflated, bears

the load

Carcass

Chunking

Cord

the breaking away of pieces of the tread or sidewall

the strands forming the plies in the tire

Cord separation

the parting of cords from adjacent rubber compounds

any parting within the tread, sidewall, or innerliner of the tire extending to cord

material

Cracking

CT

a pneumatic tire with an inverted flange tire and rim system in which the rim

is designed with rim flanges pointed radially inward and the tire is designed

to fit on the underside of the rim in a manner that encloses the rim flanges

inside the air cavity of the tire

a tire designed to operate at higher loads and at higher inflation pressures

than the corresponding standard tire

Extra load tire

359

07 12.25

Tire related term

Meaning

Groove

the space between two adjacent tread ribs

the layer(s) forming the inside surface of a tubeless tire that contains the inflat-

ing medium within the tire

Innerliner

Innerliner separation

the parting of the innerliner from cord material in the carcass

(A) the sidewall that contains a whitewall, bears white lettering or bears

manufacturer, brand, and/or model name molding that is higher or deeper

than the same molding on the other sidewall of the tire, or

Intended outboard sidewall

(B) the outward facing sidewall of an asymmetrical tire that has a particular

side that must always face outward when mounted on a vehicle

a tire designated by its manufacturer as primarily intended for use on lightweight

trucks or multipurpose passenger vehicles

Light truck (LT) tire

Load rating

the maximum load that a tire is rated to carry for a given inflation pressure

the load rating for a tire at the maximum permissible inflation pressure for that

tire

Maximum load rating

Maximum permissible inflation pres-

sure

the maximum cold inflation pressure to which a tire may be inflated

the rim on which a tire is fitted for physical dimension requirements

Measuring rim

any parting at any junction of tread, sidewall, or innerliner that extends to cord

material

Open splice

360

07 12.25

Tire related term

Meaning

Outer diameter

the overall diameter of an inflated new tire

the linear distance between the exteriors of the sidewalls of an inflated tire,

including elevations due to labeling, decorations, or protective bands or ribs

Overall width

a tire intended for use on passenger cars, multipurpose passenger vehicles,

and trucks, that have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,000 lb. or

less

Passenger car tire

Ply

a layer of rubber−coated parallel cords

Ply separation

a parting of rubber compound between adjacent plies

a mechanical device made of rubber, chemicals, fabric and steel or other mate-

rials, that, when mounted on an automotive wheel, provides the traction and

contains the gas or fluid that sustains the load

Pneumatic tire

a pneumatic tire in which the ply cords that extend to the beads are laid at

substantially 90 degrees to the centerline of the tread

Radial ply tire

Reinforced tire

Section width

a tire designed to operate at higher loads and at higher inflation pressures

than the corresponding standard tire

the linear distance between the exteriors of the sidewalls of an inflated tire,

excluding elevations due to labeling, decoration, or protective bands

Sidewall

that portion of a tire between the tread and bead

Sidewall separation

the parting of the rubber compound from the cord material in the sidewall

361

07 12.25

Tire related term

Meaning

a tire that attains a traction index equal to or greater than 110, compared to

the ASTM E−1136 Standard Reference Test Tire, when using the snow traction

test as described in ASTM F−1805−00, Standard Test Method for Single Wheel

Driving Traction in a Straight Line on Snow−and Ice−Covered Surfaces, and

Snow tire

Test rim

which is marked with an Alpine Symbol (

) on at least one sidewall

the rim on which a tire is fitted for testing, and may be any rim listed as appropri-

ate for use with that tire

Tread

that portion of a tire that comes into contact with the road

a tread section running circumferentially around a tire

pulling away of the tread from the tire carcass

Tread rib

Tread separation

the projections within the principal grooves designed to give a visual indication

of the degrees of wear of the tread

Treadwear indicators(TWI)

Wheel−holding fixture

the fixture used to hold the wheel and tire assembly securely during testing

362

07 12.25

Table 1– Occupant loading and distribution for vehicle normal load for various designated seating capacities

Designated seating capacity, number Vehicle normal load, number of occu- Occupant distribution in a normally

of occupants

2 through 4

5 through 10

pants

loaded vehicle

2

3

2 in front

2 in front, 1 in second seat

2 in front, 1 in second seat, 1 in third

seat, 1 in fourth seat

11 through 15

16 through 20

5

7

2 in front, 2 in second seat, 2 in third

seat, 1 in fourth seat

363

07 12.25

Vehicle load limits

Vehicle load limits include total load

capacity, seating capacity, towing ca-

pacity and cargo capacity. Follow the

load limits shown below. Total load ca-

pacity and seating capacity are also

described on the tire and loading in-

formation label. For location of the tire

and loading information label, see

“Checking tire inflation pressure” on

page 441.

Seating capacity:

Towing capacity:

Without third seats:

Total 5 (Front 2, Rear 3)

With third seats:

For weight carrying hitch

2268 kg (5000 lb.)

Also for weight distributing hitch

(4.7 L V8 [2UZ−FE] engine only)

Total 7 (Front 2, Rear 5)

Seating capacity means the maxi-

mum number of occupants whose

estimated average weight is 68 kg

(150 lb.) per person. Depending on

the weight of each person, the seat-

ing capacity given may exceed the

total load capacity.

Two−wheel drive models

3311 kg (7300 lb.)

Four−wheel drive models

3175 kg (7000 lb.)

Towing capacity means the maxi-

mum gross trailer weight (trailer

weight plus its cargo weight) that

your vehicle is able to tow.

Total load capacity:

With 5 occupants:

431 kg (950 lb.)

With 7 occupants:

477 kg (1050 lb.)

Total load capacity means com-

bined weight of occupants, cargo

and luggage. Tongue load is in-

cluded when trailer towing.

NOTICE

Even if the number of occu-

pants are within the seating ca-

pacity, do not exceed the total

load capacity.

364

07 12.25

Cargo and luggage—

—Stowage precautions

Cargo capacity

When stowing cargo and luggage in

the vehicle, observe the following:

D Put cargo and luggage in the lug-

gage compartment when at all

possible. Be sure all items are se-

cured in place.

D Do not store more than 91 kg

(200 lb.) of cargo and luggage

in the luggage compartment. If

the third seats are occupied,

do not store cargo and luggage

in the luggage compartment.

Cargo capacity may increase or de-

crease depending on the size (weight)

and the number of occupants. For de-

tails, see “Capacity and distribution”

that follows.

D Be careful to keep the vehicle bal-

anced. Locating the weight as far

forward as possible helps maintain

balance.

D Do not place anything on the

flattened seat or it may slide

forward during braking.

CAUTION

Do not apply the load more than

each load limit. That may cause

not only damage to the tires, but

also deterioration to the steering

ability and braking ability, which

may cause an accident.

D Never allow anyone to ride in

the luggage compartment. It is

not designed for passengers.

They should ride in their seats

with their seat belts properly

fastened. Otherwise, they are

much more likely to suffer seri-

ous bodily injury, in the event

of sudden braking or a colli-

sion.

D For better fuel economy, do not

carry unneeded weight.

CAUTION

D To prevent cargo and luggage

from sliding forward during

braking, do not stack anything

in the luggage compartment

higher than the seatbacks.

Keep cargo and luggage low,

as close to the floor as pos-

sible.

365

07 12.25

—Capacity and distribution

Cargo capacity depends on the to-

tal weight of the occupants.

(Cargo capacity) = (Total load capac-

ity) – (Total weight of occupants)

Steps for Determining Correct

Load Limit—

(1) Locate the statement “The com-

bined weight of occupants and

cargo should never exceed XXX

kg or XXX lbs.” on your vehicle’s

placard.

(2) Determine the combined weight

of the driver and passengers that

will be riding in your vehicle.

(3) Subtract the combined weight of

the driver and passengers from

XXX kg or XXX lbs.

(4) The resulting figure equals the

available amount of cargo and

luggage load capacity. For exam-

ple, if the “XXX” amount equals

1400 lbs. and there will be five

150 lb passengers in your ve-

hicle, the amount of available

cargo and luggage load capacity

D Do not place anything on the

luggage cover. Such items may

be thrown about and possibly

injure people in the vehicle

during sudden braking or an

accident. Secure all items in a

safe place.

D Do not drive with objects left

on top of the instrument panel.

They may interfere with the

driver’s field of view. Or they

may move during sharp vehicle

acceleration or turning, and im-

pair the driver’s control of the

vehicle. In an accident they

may injure the vehicle occu-

pants.

is

650

lbs.

(1400–750

(5x150)=650 lbs.)

(5) Determine the combined weight

of luggage and cargo being

loaded on the vehicle. That

weight may not safely exceed the

available cargo and luggage load

capacity calculated in Step 4.

(6) If your vehicle will be towing a

trailer, load from your trailer will

be transferred to your vehicle.

Consult this manual to determine

how this reduces the available

cargo and luggage load capacity

of your vehicle.

For details about trailer towing, see

page 377.

366

07 12.25

From this condition, if 3 more passen-

gers with the combined weight of 176

kg (388 lb.) get on, the available car-

go and luggage load will be reduced

as follows:

CAUTION

Even if the total load of occu-

pant’s weight and the cargo load

is less than the total load capac-

ity, do not apply the load uneven-

ly. That may cause not only dam-

age to the tire but also deteriora-

tion to the steering ability due to

unbalance of the vehicle, causing

an accident.

With 5 occupants:

Z20004

265 kg – 176 kg = 89 kg.

(584 lb. – 388 lb. = 196 lb.)

Cargo

capacity

With 7 occupants:

Total load

capacity

311 kg – 176 kg = 135 kg.

(683 lb. – 388 lb. = 295 lb.)

As shown in the above example, if the

number of occupants increases, the

cargo and luggage load equaling the

combined weight of occupants who

got on later must be reduced. In other

words, if the increase in the number

of occupants causes the excess of

the total load capacity (combined

weight of occupants plus cargo and

luggage load), you have to reduce the

cargo and luggage on your vehicle.

Example on Your Vehicle

In case that 2 people with the com-

bined weight of 166 kg (366 lb.) are

riding in your vehicle with the total

load capacity of 431 kg (950 lb.), the

available amount of cargo and lug-

gage load capacity will be as follows:

With 5 occupants:

431 kg – 166 kg = 265 kg.

(950 lb. – 366 lb. = 584 lb.)

For details about total load capacity,

see “Vehicle load limits” on page 364.

With 7 occupants:

477 kg – 166 kg = 311 kg.

(1050 lb. – 366 lb. = 684 lb.)

367

07 12.25

Types of tires

Determine what kind of tires your

vehicle is originally equipped with.

1. Summer tires

Summer tires are high−speed capabil-

ity tires best suited to highway driving

under dry conditions.

Since summer tires do not have the

same traction performance as snow

tires, summer tires are inadequate for

driving on snow−covered or icy roads.

For driving on snow−covered or icy

roads, we recommend using snow

tires. If installing snow tires, be sure

to replace all four tires.

All season tires, however, do not have

adequate traction performance

compared with snow tires in heavy or

loose snow. Also, all season tires fall

short in acceleration and handling

performance compared with summer

tires in highway driving.

The details about how to distinguish

summer tires from all season tires are

described on page 352.

Weight of the

removed third

seat

Cargo

capacity

CY20024

CAUTION

SEATING

VARIATION

CONFIGURATION

D Do not mix summer and all sea-

son tires on your vehicle as

this can cause dangerous han-

dling characteristics, resulting

in loss of control.

2. All season tires

In case of removing the rear seats,

it is possible to load as much cargo

as the weight of the removed seats.

(Cargo capacity) = (Total load capac-

ity) − (Total weight of occupants) +

(Weight of the removed rear seats)

All season tires are designed to pro-

vide better traction in snow and to be

adequate for driving in most winter

conditions, as well as for use all year

round.

D Do not use tire other than the

manufacturer’s

designated

tires, and never mix tires or

wheels of the sizes different

from the originals.

Rear seats weights:

Each seat 11 kg (24 lb.)

368

INFORMATIONBEFOREDRIVINGYOURTOYOTA for Your Toyota 4 Runner SUV Fourth Generation (2003-2009)

Related Topics

Popular Owner Manuals

Latest Owner Manuals