Get Engine and Chassis Guide for Toyota Avalon 4 Door Second Generation (2000-2004)

’03 AVALON U (L/O 0206)

SECTION 7− 2

DO−IT−YOURSELF MAINTENANCE

Engine and Chassis

Checking the engine oil level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 276

Checking the engine coolant level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 278

Checking the radiator and condenser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 280

Checking brake fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 280

Checking power steering fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281

Checking tire pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281

Checking and replacing tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 282

Rotating tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 284

Installing snow tires and chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 284

Replacing wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 286

Aluminum wheel precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 286

2003 AVALON (OM41401U)

275

’03 AVALON U (L/O 0206)

Checking the engine oil level

NOTICE

CAUTION

Low level

Full level

z Be careful not to spill the engine

oil on the vehicle components.

Be careful not to touch the hot ex-

haust manifold.

z Avoid overfilling, or the engine

could be damaged.

NOTICE

z Check the oil level on the dipstick

once again after adding the oil.

Be careful not to drop the engine oil

on the vehicle components.

Add oil

O.K.

Too full

If the oil level is below or only slightly

above the low level, add engine oil of

the same type as already in the engine.

With the engine at operating tempera-

ture and turned off, check the oil level

on the dipstick.

Remove the oil filler cap and add engine

oil in small quantities at a time, checking

the dipstick. We recommend that you use

a funnel when adding oil.

1. To get

a

true reading, the vehicle

should be on a level spot. After turning

off the engine, wait a few minutes for

the oil to drain back into the bottom of

the engine.

The approximate quantity of oil needed to

fill between the low level and the full level

on the dipstick is indicated below for ref-

erence.

2. Pull the dipstick out, hold a rag under

the end and wipe it clean.

When the level reaches within the correct

range, install the filler cap hand−tight.

3. Reinsert the dipstick—push it in as far

as it will go, or the reading will not be

correct.

Oil quantity, L (qt., Imp. qt.):

1.5 (1.6, 1.3)

4. Pull the dipstick out and look at the oil

level while holding

end.

a

rag under the

2003 AVALON (OM41401U)

276

’03 AVALON U (L/O 0206)

ENGINE OIL SELECTION

SAE 5W−30 is the best choice for good

fuel economy and good starting in cold

weather.

“Toyota Genuine Motor Oil” is filled in

your Toyota vehicle. Use Toyota approved

“Toyota Genuine Motor Oil” or equivalent

to satisfy the following grade and

viscosity.

If SAE 5W−30 is not available, SAE

10W−30 may be used. However, it

should be replaced with SAE 5W−30 at

the next oil change.

Oil grade:

API grade SL “Energy−Conserving” or

ILSAC multigrade engine oil

Recommended viscosity:

SAE 5W−30

API service symbol

Outside temperature

ILSAC certification mark

2003 AVALON (OM41401U)

277

’03 AVALON U (L/O 0206)

Checking the engine coolant

level

Oil identification marks

Look at the see−through coolant reser-

voir when the engine is cold. The cool-

ant level is satisfactory if it is between

the “FULL” and “LOW” lines on the

reservoir. If the level is low, add ethyl-

Either or both API registered marks are

added to some oil containers to help

you select the oil you should use.

The API Service Symbol is located any-

where on the outside of the container.

ene−glycol type coolant for

a

proper

corrosion protection of aluminum com-

ponents.

The top portion of the label shows the oil

quality by API (American Petroleum Insti-

tute) designations such as SL. The center

portion of the label shows the SAE viscos-

ity grade such as SAE 5W−30. “Energy−

Conserving” shown in the lower portion,

indicates that the oil has fuel−saving ca-

pabilities.

The coolant level in the reservoir will vary

with engine temperature. However, if the

level is on or below the “LOW” line, add

coolant. Bring the level up to the “FULL”

line.

Always use ethylene−glycol type coolant

for a proper corrosion protection of alumi-

num components. See information in the

next column.

To ensure the best possible lubrication

performance for your engine, the “Toyota

Genuine Motor Oil” range is available,

which has been specifically tested and ap-

proved for all Toyota engines.

The ILSAC (International Lubricant Stan-

dardization and Approval Committee) Certi-

fication Mark is displayed on the front of

the container.

If the coolant level drops within a short

time after replenishing, there may be a

leak in the system. Visually check the

radiator, hoses, radiator cap and drain

cock and water pump.

Please contact your Toyota dealer for fur-

ther details of the “Toyota Genuine Motor

Oil” range.

If you can find no leak, have your Toyota

dealer test the cap pressure and check

for leaks in the cooling system.

2003 AVALON (OM41401U)

278

’03 AVALON U (L/O 0206)

Read the coolant container for information

CAUTION

on freeze protection. Follow the manufac-

turer’s directions for how much to mix

with plain water (preferably demineralized

water or distilled water). The total capacity

of the cooling system is given in Section

8.

To prevent burning yourself, do not

remove the radiator cap when the en-

gine is hot.

Coolant type selection

We recommend to use 50% solution for

your Toyota, to provide protection down to

about −35_C (−31_F). When it is extreme-

ly cold, to provide protection down to

about −50_C (−58_F), 60% solution is rec-

ommended. Do not use more than 70%

solution for better coolant performance.

Use of improper coolants may damage

your engine cooling system. Your coolant

must contain ethylene−glycol type coolant

for a proper corrosion protection of your

engine that

components.

contains

aluminum

The engine cooling system is integral to

maximizing performance of your Toyota

vehicle. In line with this, it is strongly

recommended that you use “Toyota

Genuine Long Life Coolant” for protecting

the system, as it is an ethylene−glycol

based premium antifreeze coolant with

excellent corrosion protection properties

that has been specifically formulated for

use in Toyota vehicles.

We have used “Toyota Genuine Long Life

Coolant” in your Toyota vehicle. In order

to avoid technical problems, we strongly

recommend using “Toyota Genuine Long

Life Coolant” or equivalent.

NOTICE

Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or

plain water alone.

In addition to preventing freezing and

subsequent damage to the engine, this

type of coolant will also prevent corrosion.

Further supplemental inhibitors or additives

are neither needed nor recommended.

Please contact your Toyota dealer for fur-

ther details of the “Toyota Genuine Long

Life Coolant” range.

2003 AVALON (OM41401U)

279

’03 AVALON U (L/O 0206)

Checking the radiator and

condenser

Checking brake fluid

If any of the above parts are extremely

dirty or you are not sure of their condi-

tion, take your vehicle to Toyota dealer.

If the level is low, add SAE J1703 or

FMVSS No.116 DOT 3 brake fluid to the

brake reservoir.

Remove and replace the reservoir cap by

hand. Fill the brake fluid to the dotted

line. This brings the fluid to the correct

level when you put the cap back on.

CAUTION

To prevent yourself from burning, be

careful not to touch the radiator or

condenser when the engine is hot.

Use only newly opened brake fluid. Once

opened, brake fluid absorbs moisture from

the air, and excess moisture can cause a

dangerous loss of braking.

NOTICE

To prevent damage to the radiator

and condenser, do not perform the

work by yourself.

CAUTION

To check the fluid level, simply look at

the see−through reservoir. The level

should be between the “MAX” and

“MIN” lines on the reservoir.

Take care when filling the reservoir

because brake fluid can harm your

eyes and damage painted surfaces. If

fluid gets in your eyes, flush your

eyes with clean water immediately. If

you still feel uncomfortable with your

eyes, go to the doctor.

It is normal for the brake fluid level to go

down slightly as the brake pads wear. So

be sure to keep the reservoir filled.

If the reservoir needs frequent refilling, it

may indicate a serious mechanical prob-

lem.

NOTICE

If you spill the fluid, be sure to wash

it off with water to prevent it from

damaging the parts or paint.

2003 AVALON (OM41401U)

280

’03 AVALON U (L/O 0206)

Checking power steering fluid

Checking tire pressure

Clean all dirt from outside of the reservoir

tank and look at the fluid level. If the fluid

is cold, the level should be in the “COLD”

range. Similarly, if it is hot, the fluid level

should be in the “HOT” range. If the level

is at the low side of either range, add

automatic transmission fluid DEXRONrII or

III to bring the level within the range.

If cold

O.K.

If hot

O.K.

Open

Close

If cold

add

To remove the reservoir cap, turn it coun-

terclockwise and lift up. To reinstall it,

turn it clockwise. After replacing the reser-

voir cap, visually check the steering box

case, vane pump and hose connections

for leaks or damage.

If hot

add

Check the fluid level through the reser-

voir. If necessary, add automatic trans-

mission fluid DEXRONrII or III.

Keep your tire pressures at the proper

level.

CAUTION

The recommended cold tire pressures, tire

size and the vehicle capacity weight are

given in Section 8. They are also on the

tire pressure label as shown.

If the vehicle has been driven around 80

km/h (50 mph) for 20 minutes (a little

more in frigid temperatures), the fluid is

hot (60_C—80_C or 140_F—175_F). You

may also check the level when the fluid

The reservoir tank may be hot so be

careful not to burn yourself.

You should check the tire pressures every

two weeks, or at least once a month. And

do not forget the spare!

NOTICE

is

10_C—30_C or 50_F—85_F) if the engine

cold

(about

room

temperature,

Avoid overfilling, or the power steer-

ing could be damaged.

Incorrect tire pressure may waste fuel,

reduce the comfort of driving, reduce tire

life and make your vehicle less safe to

drive.

has not been run for about five hours.

2003 AVALON (OM41401U)

281

’03 AVALON U (L/O 0206)

Checking and replacing tires

If a tire frequently needs refilling, have it

checked by your Toyota dealer.

The following instructions for checking

tire pressure should be observed:

Tread wear indicator

D The pressure should be checked only

when the tires are cold. If your ve-

hicle has been parked for at least 3

hours and has not been driven for

more than 1.5 km or 1 mile since, you

will get an accurate cold tire pressure

reading.

CAUTION

Keep your tire pressure properly.

Otherwise, the following conditions

may occur and cause an accident re-

sulting in death or serious injuries.

Low tire pressure (underinflation)—

D Excessive wear

D Always use

a

tire pressure gauge.

The appearance of a tire can be mis-

leading. Besides, tire pressures that

are even just a few pounds off can

degrade ride and handling.

D Uneven wear

D Poor handling

CHECKING YOUR TIRES

D Possibility of blowouts from over-

heated tire

D Do not bleed or reduce tire pressure

after driving. It is normal for the tire

pressure to be higher after driving.

Check the tire tread for the tread wear

indicators. If the indicators show, re-

place the tires.

D Poor sealing of the tire bead

D Never exceed the vehicle capacity

weight. The passenger and luggage

weight should be located so that the

vehicle is balanced.

D Wheel deformation and/or tire sepa-

ration

The tires on your Toyota have built−in

tread wear indicators to help you know

when the tires need replacement. When

the tread depth wears to 1.6 mm (0.06

in.) or less, the indicators will appear. If

you can see the indicators in two or more

adjacent grooves, the tire should be re-

placed. The lower the tread, the higher

the risk of skidding.

High tire pressure (overinflation)—

D Poor handling

D Be sure to reinstall the tire inflation

valve caps. Without the valve caps,

dirt or moisture could get into the valve

core and cause air leakage. If the caps

have been lost, have new ones put on

as soon as possible.

D Excessive wear at the center of the

tire tread

D A greater possibility of tire damage

from road hazards

The effectiveness of snow tires is lost

if the tread wears down below 4 mm

(0.16 in.).

2003 AVALON (OM41401U)

282

’03 AVALON U (L/O 0206)

Check the tires regularly for damage

such as cuts, splits and cracks. If any

damage is found, consult with a techni-

cian and have the tire repaired or re-

placed.

When replacing a tubeless tire, the air

valve should also be replaced with a

new one.

CAUTION

Observe the following instructions.

Otherwise, an accident may occur re-

sulting in death or serious injuries.

Even if the damage does not appear seri-

ous, a qualified technician should examine

the damage. Objects which have pene-

trated the tire may have caused internal

damage.

D Do not mix radial, bias belted, or

bias−ply tires on your vehicle, as

this may cause dangerous handling

characteristics resulting in loss of

control.

Any tires which are over 6 years old

must be checked by a qualified techni-

cian even if damage is not obvious.

D Do not use tires other than the

manufacturer’s recommended size,

as this may cause dangerous han-

dling characteristics resulting in

loss of control.

Tires deteriorate with age even if they

have never or seldom been used.

This also applies to the spare tire and

tires stored for future use.

Toyota recommends all four tires, or at

least both front or rear tires be re-

placed as a set.

REPLACING YOUR TIRES

When replacing

a

tire, use only the

same size and construction as original-

ly installed and with the same or great-

er load capacity.

See “If you have a flat tire” in Section 4

for tire change procedure.

When

should always be balanced.

a

tire is replaced, the wheel

Using any other size or type of tire may

seriously affect handling, ride, speedome-

ter/odometer calibration, ground clearance,

and clearance between the body and tires

or snow chains.

An unbalanced wheel may affect vehicle

handling and tire life. Wheels can get out

of balance with regular use and should

therefore be balanced occasionally.

2003 AVALON (OM41401U)

283

’03 AVALON U (L/O 0206)

Installing snow tires and

chains

Rotating tires

To equalize the wear and help extend

tire life, Toyota recommends that you

rotate your tires according to the main-

tenance schedule. (For scheduled main-

tenance information, please refer to the

“Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or

“Owner’s Manual Supplement”.) Howev-

er, the most appropriate timing for tire

rotation may vary according to your

driving habits and road surface condi-

tions.

WHEN TO USE SNOW TIRES OR

CHAINS

Snow tires or chains are recommended

when driving on snow or ice.

On wet or dry roads, conventional tires

provide better traction than snow tires.

SNOW TIRE SELECTION

If you need snow tires, select the same

size, construction and load capacity as

the original tires on your Toyota.

See “If you have a flat tire” in Section 4

for tire change procedure.

Do not use tires other than those men-

tioned above. Do not install studded tires

without first checking local regulations for

possible restrictions.

With a spare tire of the same wheel type

as the installed tires

When rotating tires, check for uneven

wear and damage. Abnormal wear is usu-

ally caused by incorrect tire pressure, im-

proper wheel alignment, out−of−balance

wheels, or severe braking.

CAUTION

Do not use snow tires other than the

manufacturer’s recommended size, as

this may cause dangerous handling

characteristics resulting in loss of

control. Otherwise, an accident may

occur resulting in death or serious

injuries.

With a spare tire of different wheel type

from the installed tires

2003 AVALON (OM41401U)

284

’03 AVALON U (L/O 0206)

SNOW TIRE INSTALLATION

TIRE CHAIN SELECTION

When installing chains on your tires, care-

fully follow the instructions of the chain

manufacturer.

Snow tires should be installed on all

wheels.

P205/65R15 92H tires—Use the tire

chains of correct size and type.

If wheel covers are used, they will be

scratched by the chain band, so remove

the covers before putting on the chains.

Installing snow tires on the front wheels

only can lead to an excessive difference

in road grip capability between the front

and rear tires which could cause loss of

vehicle control.

Use SAE Class “S” type radial tire chains

except radial cable chains or V−bar type

chains.

P205/60R16 91H tires—Use tire chains

of the correct size.

CAUTION

When storing removed tires, you should

store them in a cool dry place.

Use only genuine Toyota tire chains or equiv-

alent for use on the AVALON.

D Do not exceed 50 km/h (30 mph) or

the chain manufacturer’s recom-

mended speed limit, whichever is

lower.

Mark the direction of rotation and be sure

to install them in the same direction when

replacing.

NOTICE

D Drive carefully avoiding bumps,

holes, and sharp turns, which may

cause the vehicle to bounce.

If the wrong combination of tire and

chain is used, the chains could dam-

age the vehicle body.

CAUTION

D Avoid sharp turns or locked−wheel

braking, as use of chains may ad-

versely affect vehicle handling.

D Do not drive with the snow tires

incorrectly inflated.

D AVALON genuine tire chains

(Part No. 08329−33801)

D Never drive over 120 km/h (75 mph)

with any type of snow tires.

D When driving with chains installed,

be sure to drive carefully. Slow

down before entering the curves to

avoid losing control of the vehicle.

Otherwise an accident may occur.

Laws about using tire chains vary ac-

cording to locality and type of road, so

always check your local laws before

you install tire chains.

CHAIN INSTALLATION

Install the chains on the front tires as

tightly as possible. Do not use tire

chains on the rear tires. Retighten

chains after

(1/4—1/2 mile).

driving

0.5—1.0

km

2003 AVALON (OM41401U)

285

’03 AVALON U (L/O 0206)

Replacing wheels

Aluminum wheel precautions

WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR WHEELS

Replacement with used wheels is not rec-

ommended as they may have been sub-

jected to rough treatment or high mileage

and could fail without warning. Also, bent

wheels which have been straightened may

have structural damage and therefore

should not be used. Never use an inner

tube in a leaking wheel which is designed

for a tubeless tire.

D When installing aluminum wheels,

check that the wheel nuts are tight

after driving your vehicle the first 1600

km (1000 miles).

If you have wheel damage such as

bending, cracks or heavy corrosion, the

wheel should be replaced.

D If you have rotated, repaired, or

changed your tires, check that the

wheel nuts are still tight after driving

1600 km (1000 miles).

If you fail to replace damaged wheels, the

tire may slip off the wheel or cause loss

of handling control.

WHEEL SELECTION

D When using tire chains, be careful not

to damage the aluminum wheels.

When replacing wheels, care should be

taken to ensure that the wheels are re-

placed by ones with the same load ca-

pacity, diameter, rim width, and offset.

CAUTION

D Use only the Toyota wheel nuts and

wrench designed for your aluminum

wheels.

Do not use wheels other than the

manufacturer’s recommended size, as

this may cause dangerous handling

characteristics resulting in loss of

control. Otherwise, an accident may

occur resulting in death or serious

injuries.

Correct replacement wheels are available

at your Toyota dealer.

D When balancing your wheels, use only

Toyota balance weights or equivalent

and a plastic or rubber hammer.

A wheel of a different size or type may

adversely affect handling, wheel and bear-

ing life, brake cooling, speedometer/odom-

eter calibration, stopping ability, headlight

aim, bumper height, vehicle ground clear-

ance, and tire or snow chain clearance to

the body and chassis.

D As with any wheel, periodically check

your aluminum wheels for damage. If

damaged, replace immediately.

2003 AVALON (OM41401U)

286

Engine and Chassis for Your Toyota Avalon 4 Door Second Generation (2000-2004)

Related Topics

Popular Owner Manuals

Latest Owner Manuals