Get Driving -> Engine (ignition) switch Guide for Toyota Avanza SUV First Generation (2003-2011)

161

4-5. Using the driving support 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 supple-

mentary and should not be relied upon too heavily when operat-

ing 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 (if equipped)

Generates an increased level of braking force after the brake pedal

is depressed when the system detects a panic stop situation

4

◆ VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) (if equipped)

Helps the driver to control skidding when swerving suddenly or

turning on slippery road surfaces

◆ TRC (Traction Control) (if equipped)

Helps to maintain drive power and prevent the drive wheels from

spinning when starting the vehicle or accelerating on slippery roads

◆ EPS (Electric Power Steering)

Employs an electric motor to reduce the amount of effort needed to

turn the steering wheel

When the TRC/VSC systems are operating

The slip indicator will flash while

the TRC/VSC systems are operat-

ing.

KBAV450101E

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4-5. Using the driving support systems

Disabling the TRC system

If the vehicle gets stuck in mud, dirt or snow, the TRC system may

reduce power from the engine to the wheels. Pressing VSC off switch

to turn the system off may make it easier for you to rock the vehicle in

order to free it.

To turn the TRC system off, quickly press and release the VSC off

switch.

The “TRC OFF” indicator will come

on.

Press the switch again to turn the

system back on.

KBAV450102E

■Turning off both TRC and VSC systems

To turn the TRC and VSC systems off, press and hold the VSC off switch for

more than 3 seconds while the vehicle is stopped.

The “TRC OFF” indicator and the VSC off indicator will come on.

Press the switch again to turn the systems back on.

■When the “TRC OFF” indicator comes on even if the VSC off switch has

not been pressed

TRC cannot be operated. Contact your Toyota dealer.

■Sounds and vibrations caused by the ABS, brake assist, TRC and VSC

systems

●A sound may be heard from the engine compartment when the brake pedal

is depressed repeatedly, when the engine is started or just after the vehicle

begins to move. This sound does not indicate that a malfunction has

occurred in any of these systems.

●Any of the following conditions may occur when the above systems is oper-

ating. 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.

• The brake pedal may pulsate slightly after the ABS is activated.

• The brake pedal may move down slightly after the ABS is activated.

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4-5. Using the driving support systems

■EPS operation sound

When the steering wheel is operated, a motor sound (whirring sound) may be

heard. This does not indicate a malfunction.

■Automatic reactivation of TRC and VSC systems

After turning the TRC and VSC systems off, the systems will be automatically

re-enabled in the following situations:

●When the engine switch is turned to the “LOCK” position.

●If only the TRC system is turned off, the TRC will turn on when vehicle

speed increases.

If both the TRC and VSC systems are turned off, automatic re-enabling will

not occur when vehicle speed increases.

■Reduced effectiveness of the EPS system

The effectiveness of the EPS system is reduced to prevent the system from

overheating when there is frequent steering input over an extended period of

time. The steering wheel may feel heavy as a result. Should this occur, refrain

from excessive steering input or stop the vehicle and turn the engine off. The

EPS system should return to normal within 10 minutes.

4

■If the slip indicator comes on

It may indicate a malfunction in the systems. Contact your Toyota dealer.

164

4-5. Using the driving support systems

WARNING

■The ABS does not operate effectively when

●The limits of tire gripping performance 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 nor-

mal conditions

The ABS is not designed to shorten the vehicle’s stopping distance. Always

maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, especially in the

following situations:

●When driving on dirt, gravel or snow-covered roads

●When driving over bumps in the road

●When driving over roads with potholes or uneven surfaces

■TRC/VSC may not operate effectively when

Directional control and power may not be achievable while driving on slip-

pery road surfaces, even if the TRC/VSC systems are operating.

Drive the vehicle carefully in conditions where stability and power may be

lost.

■When the VSC is activated

The slip indicator flashes. Always drive carefully. Reckless driving may

cause an accident. Exercise particular care when the indicator light flashes.

■When the TRC/VSC systems are turned off

Be especially careful and drive at a speed appropriate to the road condi-

tions. As these are the systems to help ensure vehicle stability and driving

force, do not turn the TRC/VSC systems off unless necessary.

■Replacing tires

Make sure that all tires are of the specified size, brand, tread pattern and

total load capacity. In addition, make sure that the tires are inflated to the

recommended tire inflation pressure level.

The ABS , TRC and VSC systems will not function correctly if different tires

are installed on the vehicle.

Contact your Toyota dealer for further information when replacing tires or

wheels.

■Handling of tires and the suspension

Using tires with any kind of problem or modifying the suspension will affect

the driving assist systems, and may cause a system to malfunction.

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4-6. Driving tips

Winter driving tips

Carry out the necessary preparations and inspections before

driving the vehicle in winter. Always drive the vehicle in a man-

ner appropriate to the prevailing weather conditions.

Preparation for winter

● Use fluids that are appropriate to the prevailing outside tempera-

tures.

• Engine oil

• Engine coolant

• Washer fluid

● Have a service technician inspect the condition of the battery.

4

Before driving the vehicle

Perform the following according to the driving conditions:

● Do not try to forcibly open a window or move a wiper that is frozen.

Pour warm water over the frozen area to melt the ice. Wipe away

the water immediately to prevent it from freezing.

● To ensure proper operation of the climate control system fan,

remove any snow that has accumulated on the air inlet vents in

front of the windshield.

● Check for and remove any excess ice or snow that may have accu-

mulated on the exterior lights, vehicle’s roof, chassis, around the

tires or on the brakes.

● Remove any snow or mud from the bottom of your shoes before

getting in the vehicle.

Driving -> Engine (ignition) switch for Your Toyota Avanza SUV First Generation (2003-2011)

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