Get Starting and Driving Guide for Toyota Avensis 4 Door Second Generation (2004-2009)

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STARTING AND DRIVING

303

Chapter 3

STARTING AND DRIVING

• Before starting the engine. .

• How to start the engine. .

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. 304

. 306

. 307

. 308

. 309

. 310

. 316

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

• Instructions for shutting down a turbocharged engine. • Safety

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.

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. . . . . .

check before driving. . • Instructions for driving

in different conditions. • Instructions for driving in

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. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

winter. • Towing a trailer. • How to

. . . . . .

.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

save fuel and extend

the life of the vehicle.

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How to start the engine –

(a) Before starting

Before starting the engine

1. Before getting into the vehicle, check its

surroundings.

1. Apply the parking brake firmly.

2. Turn off unnecessary lights and accessories

truth.

2. Adjust the seat position, seat height, backrest

angle, headrest height, steering column

angle and length.

3. Manual transmission: Depress the clutch

pedal all the way to the floor and shift into neutral.

3. Adjust the interior and exterior mirrors.

4. Close all doors.

Keep the clutch pedal depressed until the engine

starts.

Automatic transmission: Set the selector

lever to the "P" position. If you want to start

the engine again while driving, move the

lever to the "N" position. The starter safety

device disables the starter if the selector

lever is in any drive position.

5. Fasten your seat belts.

4. Automatic transmission only: Depress the

brake pedal to the floor and keep it depressed

until starting.

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(b) Engine starting

(petrol engine)

(b) Engine starting

(diesel engine)

Before starting the engine, perform the actions listed in

point "(a) Before starting".

Normal startup procedure

The multi-point fuel injection system/ sequential multi-

point fuel injection system in your engine automatically

controls the correct air-fuel mixture ratio at start-up.

You can start a cold or warm engine as follows:

Start the engine with your foot off the gas pedal by turning

the key to the "START" position. After starting the engine,

release the key.

Before starting the engine, perform the actions listed in

point (a) "Before starting".

The engine should warm up while driving, not idling. To

warm up the engine, drive with the engine running

smoothly until the engine coolant temperature reaches

the normal range.

Normal startup procedure

1. Turn the key to the "ON" position and verify that the

engine preheat light has come on. Leave the key in

the "ON" position until the light goes out.

When the engine dies...

Simply restart the engine using the correct normal starting

procedure.

2. With your foot off the gas pedal, start the engine by

turning the key to the "START" position.

After starting the engine, release the key.

When the engine cannot be started...

See "When the vehicle cannot be started" on page 320 in

Chapter 4.

The engine should warm up while driving, not idling. To

warm up the engine, drive with the engine running

smoothly until the engine coolant temperature reaches

the normal range.

NOTICE

u Do not start the engine for more than 30 seconds

at a time. The starter motor and wiring systems

could overheat.

When the engine dies...

u Do not rev a cold engine to high speeds.

Restart the engine using the correct procedure above,

depending on the temperature

engine.

u If the engine is difficult to start or frequently stalls,

have the engine checked immediately.

When the engine cannot be started...

See "When the vehicle cannot be started" on page 320 in

Chapter 4.

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Engine shutdown instructions

with a turbocharger

(diesel engine)

After driving at a high speed or driving for a long time,

etc., which required an increased load on the engine, the

engine should be idled as shown in the table before

turning it off.

NOTICE

u Do not start the engine for more than 30 seconds

at a time. The starter motor and wiring systems

could overheat.

Driving conditions and required time

idling

u Do not rev a cold engine to high revs.

Normal city driving

Idling - Not required

u If the engine is difficult to start or frequently stalls,

have the engine checked immediately.

Speeding

Around 80 km/h

Idling - Approximately 20 seconds

Around 100 km/h

Idling - Approximately 1 minute

Steep mountain slopes or continuous driving

at speeds over 100 km/h

Idling - Approximately 2 minutes

NOTICE

Never switch off the engine immediately after a

heavy load. This could cause serious engine damage.

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Security check before

driving

It is a good idea to check the vehicle before driving. A

few minutes to carry out the inspection will help ensure

a safe and pleasant drive.

Brakes. Make sure the pedal has enough play.

In the engine compartment

All you need is a basic knowledge of the vehicle and a

keen eye! If you wish, any authorized Toyota dealer or

workshop, or other properly qualified and equipped

professional, will carry out such an inspection for you

for a small fee.

Replacement fuses. Make sure you have spare fuses.

These should cover all the current ranges marked on

the fuse box cover.

Coolant level. Make sure the coolant level is in the

correct range. (See page 375 in Chapter 7-2.)

WARNING

Battery and cables. All battery cells should be filled

with distilled water to the correct level. Check for loose

and corroded pole attachments or cracked housing.

Check that cables and connections are in good

condition.

If you are checking in a closed garage, make sure

the area is well ventilated. Exhaust gases are

poisonous.

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

Vehicle from the outside

Wiring. Check for damage, loose or disconnected wires.

Tires. Check the pressure with a pressure gauge and

carefully inspect the tires for cuts, damage or excessive

wear.

Fuel line. Check the lines for fuel leaks or loose

connections.

Wheel nut Make sure none are missing and that they

AFTER STARTING THE ENGINE

are tight.

Fluid leakage. After parking the vehicle, wait a while

and then check under the vehicle for fuel, oil, water or

fluid leaks.

Exhaust system. Check for leaks by listening. Have

any leaks repaired immediately. (See "Exhaust Gas

Warning" on page 288 in Chapter 2).

(Water dripping from the air conditioner after use is

normal.)

Engine oil level. Switch off the engine and check the

engine oil level with the dipstick while the car is

stationary. (See page 372 in Chapter 7-2).

Lights. Check that the headlights, brake, tail, direction

and other lights are on.

Check the headlight tilt adjustment.

Inside the vehicle

WHILE DRIVING

Spare wheel, jack and wheel nut wrench.

Check the tire pressure and make sure you have a jack

and a wheel nut wrench.

Devices. Make sure the speedometer and other gauges

are working.

Seat belts. Check that the buckles can be fastened

Brakes. In a safe place, check that the brakes do not

securely. Make sure the belts are not worn or chafed.

pull to the side when braking.

Something unusual? Check for component looseness

Instruments and controls. In particular, check that the

service lights, instrument lights and defroster are

working.

and leaks. Pay attention to unusual sounds.

If everything is in order, you will feel good and enjoy

driving!

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Instructions for driving in

different conditions

• Always slow down in strong crosswinds.

• Do not leave your foot on the brake pedal

while driving. This can cause dangerous

overheating of the brakes, excessive brake

wear and higher fuel consumption.

It will give you better control of the vehicle.

• Approach curbs slowly and if possible at a right

angle. Avoid driving over tall, sharp objects and

other irregularities on the road. This could lead to

serious tire damage such as a flat tire.

• When driving down a long or steep hill, reduce

speed and shift to a lower gear. Remember

that excessive use of the brakes can cause

them to overheat and malfunction.

Drive slowly when driving over bumps or rough

roads. Otherwise, the impact could seriously damage

the tires and/or wheels.

• Be careful when accelerating, changing gears

and braking on slippery road surfaces. Sudden

• If you park on a slope, turn the front wheels so that

they rest on the curb to prevent the vehicle from

rolling away. Apply the parking brake and engage

"P" (automatic transmission) or first gear or

reverse (manual transmission). If necessary,

support the wheels.

acceleration or engine braking can cause the

car to skid or the wheels to slip.

• Do not continue driving when the brakes are

wet. If they are wet, the vehicle will require a

longer stopping distance and may pull to the

side when braking. Also, the parking brake

will not hold the vehicle securely.

• When washing the vehicle or driving through deep

water, water can get into the brakes.

To find out if there is water in them, check the traffic

situation in your area and lightly depress the brake

pedal. If the braking effect is different than usual,

there is probably water in the brakes. To dry it, drive

carefully with the brake pedal slightly depressed and

the parking brake engaged.

NOTICE

When driving on a wet road, avoid entering large

puddles or places with standing water. Large

amounts of water entering the engine compartment

may cause damage to the engine and/or electrical

components.

If the brakes still do not function safely, the vehicle

must be pulled off the road and any authorized

Toyota dealer or service center, or another properly

qualified and equipped professional, must be

contacted for assistance.

WARNING

• Before driving, make sure the parking brake

is fully released and the parking brake light is

off.

• Do not leave the vehicle unattended,

when the engine is running.

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Winter driving instructions

Make sure the coolant is properly protected against

freezing.

Protect door locks from freezing.

Spray the door locks with deicer or glycerin to prevent

them from freezing.

Use only "Toyota Super Long Life Coolant" or similar

high-quality silicate-free, amine-free, nitrite-free and

borate-free ethylene glycol-based coolant with durable

Use a liquid containing antifreeze in the washers.

hybrid organic acid technology. (Coolant with durable

hybrid organic acid technology is a combination of low

phosphate and organic acids.)

This product is available from any

authorized dealer or at a Toyota service center and at

most auto parts stores.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for dilution

with water.

For details on coolant selection - see "Checking Engine

Coolant Level" on page 375 in Section 7-2.

NOTICE

Do not use engine antifreeze or any other substitute,

as these fluids can damage the vehicle's paintwork.

"Toyota Super Long Life Coolant" is a mixture of 50%

coolant and 50% deionized water. This coolant provides

protection down to approximately -35°C.

Do not use the parking brake if there is a risk of it

freezing.

NOTICE

When parking, engage "P" (automatic transmission) or

first gear or reverse (manual transmission) and support

the rear wheels. Do not use the parking brake, as snow

and water that accumulates around the brake mechanism

can freeze and make braking difficult.

Do not use plain water alone.

Check the condition of the battery and cables.

Cold temperatures reduce battery capacity, so the

battery must still be fully charged to provide sufficient

starting power in winter. See Chapter 7-3 for instructions

on how to visually check battery health.

Remove accumulated ice and snow from under-runs.

Frozen ice and snow in the undercarriage can

make driving difficult. While driving in winter,

occasionally stop and check the wheel arches.

Any authorized Toyota dealer or service center, or

another properly qualified and equipped professional,

will check the state of charge of your battery.

Depending on where you ride, we recommend

carrying some emergency equipment.

Make sure the engine oil viscosity is suitable for

cold weather.

Some of the things you should have in your vehicle are

snow chains, a windshield scraper, a bag of sand or salt,

a flashlight, a small shovel, jump-start cables, etc.

Refer to Chapter 7-2 on page 372 for recommended oil

viscosity. Leaving summer oil in the engine can cause

starting difficulties during the winter months. If you are

not sure which engine oil to use, contact any authorized

Toyota dealer or service center, or another properly

qualified and equipped professional who can assist you.

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Towing a trailer

Your vehicle is primarily intended for

transporting people. Towing a trailer has an

adverse effect on the car's handling,

performance, braking, durability, fuel

consumption, etc. Your safety and satisfaction

depend on the proper use of the correct

equipment and careful driving. For your safety

and the safety of others, do not overload the

vehicle or trailer. Damage or malfunction

caused by towing a trailer for commercial

purposes is excluded from the warranty by

Toyota. For the details of towing a trailer,

consult your local authorized Toyota dealer or

workshop, or another properly qualified and

equipped professional, as different countries

have different traffic regulations.

Total weight

Load on the towing hook

trailer

WEIGHT LIMITS

Before towing a trailer, check the trailer

weight, gross vehicle weight (GVM), maximum

axle load (MPAC) and towbar load.

NOTICE

When towing a trailer, consult any

authorized Toyota dealer or workshop, or

other properly qualified and equipped

professional, for details of additional

requirements such as towing kit, etc.

These values are listed on page 411 in

Chapter 8.

If towing a trailer, check the following:

• The total weight of the trailer (the weight of the

trailer and the load) does not exceed the

permissible weight of the trailer.

• The weight of the trailer load should be

distributed so that the load on the towing

hook is greater than 25 kg and more than 4%

of the permissible weight of the trailer.

However, the load on the towing hook must

not exceed the weight specified on page 411 in chapter 8

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Production label

Total vehicle weight

• The sum of the weights of the standby, driver,

passengers, towing equipment and load on the

towing hook must not exceed the total weight

of the vehicle by more than 100 kg.

Exceeding this weight is dangerous.

The total weight of the vehicle is also

indicated on the nameplate.

• The rear axle load must not exceed the maximum

permitted rear axle load by more than 15%.

Exceeding this weight is dangerous. The

highest permissible rear axle load is also

indicated on the nameplate.

Maximum permitted rear axle load

• The sum of the weights of the standby, driver,

passengers, towing equipment and load on the

towing hook must not exceed the total weight of the

vehicle by more than 100 kg.

• If the total weight of the vehicle and/or the

maximum permissible rear axle load is

exceeded, do not drive at a speed higher than

80 km/h or observe the maximum permitted

speed for towing a trailer given by local

regulations. However, always a speed that is

lower.

• The load acting on the rear axle must not exceed the

maximum permitted rear axle load by more than

15%.

The permissible weight of the trailer was

tested at sea level. Remember that when

driving at higher altitudes in the mountains,

the engine power and the permissible weight

of the trailer will decrease.

WARNING

• The total weight of the trailer must not exceed

the permissible weight of the trailer specified

on page 411 in chapter 8. Exceeding this

weight is dangerous.

• Towbars have different weight capacities

specified by the towbar manufacturer. Although

the vehicle is physically capable of towing a

heavier trailer, the user must find out the

maximum weight class of the specific towing

equipment and must never exceed the weight

class designated for the trailer's towing

equipment. Exceeding the weight class

specified by the manufacturer of the trailer's

towing equipment can cause an accident

resulting in serious injuries.

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TOWING EQUIPMENT

Toyota recommends using genuine Toyota towing equipment (hook and

holder). You can also use other towing equipment of the same quality.

The places for attaching the structure of the towing device and the hook

are listed below.

mm

Then a liftback

510

Kombi

510

690

725

730

25

A

B

C

D

AND

F

690

725

730

25

G

H

I

30

35

100

110

115

120

370

350

425

550

600

660

1165

J

110

K

L

115

120

M

N

THE

P

370

280

355

480

530

Q

R

S

590

1095

Then a liftback

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TIRES

• Add 20 kPa to the recommended pressure.

Instructions - See page 377 in Chapter 7-2 and

page 418 in Chapter 8.

• Trailer tires should be inflated to the prescribed pressure

according to the manufacturer's specifications and

taking into account the total weight of the trailer.

TRAILER LIGHTING

• Check the operation of the direction and brake lights

every time you connect a trailer.

Direct connection may cause malfunction of the

vehicle's electrical system and malfunction of the

lights.

THE RUN

• Toyota does not recommend towing a trailer for new

vehicles or for vehicles with new aggregates (engine,

transmission, differential, wheel bearings, etc.) during

the first 800 km of driving.

MAINTENANCE

• When towing a trailer, maintenance must be carried out

more often, as the load on the vehicle is higher.

• After driving approximately 1000 km with a trailer to -

tighten all bolted connections of the towing device

and the hook.

SECURITY CHECK BEFORE

DRAWING

• Make sure that you do not exceed the maximum load

on the hitch hook. Mom -

be aware that the weight of the towing equipment

will increase the weight of the vehicle. The

maximum permissible rear axle load must not exceed -

cheap.

• Make sure the trailer load is securely secured against

Kombi

movement so that it cannot shift.

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• If you cannot see the traffic behind the vehicle in the

standard rearview mirrors, it will be necessary to use

additional rearview mirrors. Both exterior mirrors

must be mounted on hinged arms and adjusted to

allow a safe view to the rear at all times.

• Backing up with a trailer is challenging and requires

practice. Grasp the bottom of the steering wheel

and turn your hand to the left to turn the trailer to the left.

Turn your hand to the right to turn the trailer

to the right. (This action is exactly the opposite

when reversing without a trailer). Turn the

steering wheel only slightly to avoid sharp or

long turns. In the case of reversing, to reduce

the risk of an accident, let another person

guide you.

TRAILER TOWING INSTRUCTIONS

When towing a trailer, the vehicle will be

handled differently than when driving without

towing. The top three causes of trailer towing

accidents are driver error, excessive speed,

and improper trailer loading. Keep the

following in mind when dragging:

• Remember that when turning, the wheels of the trailer

will be closer to the center of the turn than the wheels

of the vehicle. Compensate for this with a larger

turning radius of your vehicle.

• Crosswinds and uneven roads adversely affect vehicle

handling and cause it to lean. Pay attention to the

traffic behind your vehicle from time to time to prepare

for passing large trucks or buses that may sway your

vehicle and trailer. If rocking occurs, grip the steering

wheel firmly and begin to reduce speed immediately,

but gradually. Never increase speed. If you need to

slow down, brake slowly. Go straight. If you do not

maneuver the steering wheel or brakes excessively,

the vehicle and trailer will stabilize.

• Before leaving, check the function of the lights of the

entire vehicle set and all connections. After driving a

short distance, stop and check the lights and

connections again. Before driving, practice turning,

stopping and reversing in a safe place. You have to

get used to the changes.

• As the braking distance increases, the distance between

the vehicles must also be increased when towing a

trailer. For every 10 km/h, increase the distance

between your vehicle and the vehicle in front by

approximately one trailer length. Avoid sudden

braking as you may skid and lose control of the

vehicle. The probability of skidding increases

especially on wet or slippery roads.

• Be careful when overtaking other vehicles. A long

distance is needed to overtake. When backing into

your lane, be aware of the length of your trailer and

make sure you have enough space when changing

lanes.

• Avoid jerky starts and sharp acceleration. If your vehicle

• To maintain engine braking efficiency, do not use fifth

has a manual transmission, prevent clutch slippage

gear (5-speed manual transmission), sixth gear (6-

speed manual transmission) or overdrive (multi-mode

automatic transmission).

by keeping the engine at low rpm and do not rev the

engine. Always start in first gear.

• Avoid jerky driving and sharp turns. A sharp turn could

cause the trailer to hit your vehicle. Slow down before

turning to avoid sudden braking.

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• Due to the higher load, the engine may

WARNING

overheat when driving with a trailer on long

or steep inclines and in warm weather

(over 30° C). If the engine coolant

• Observe the maximum permitted speed

set for towing a trailer.

temperature indicator indicates overheating,

immediately turn off the air conditioner (if

it is on) and park the vehicle in a safe

place. See "When the vehicle overheats"

on page 327 or 328 in Chapter 4.

• Slow down and shift to a lower gear

before a sharp or long descent. Do not

downshift sharply.

• When parking, always put chocks under the

wheels of the vehicle and the trailer. Apply

the parking brake firmly and engage "P"

(automatic transmission), first gear or

reverse (manual transmission).

• Avoid prolonged or frequent braking.

This could cause the brakes to overheat

and reduce their effectiveness.

Avoid parking your trailer on a slope, but if

necessary, follow these guidelines:

1. Depress the brake pedal and hold it.

2. Have another person place chocks under the

wheels of the car and trailer.

3. Then slowly release the brake pedal until the

chocks absorb the weight of the kit.

4. Apply the parking brake firmly.

5. Engage first gear or reverse (manual

transmission) or "P" (automatic transmission)

and turn off the engine.

Before driving off after parking the vehicle on a slope:

1. Start the engine with the selector lever in the

"P" position (automatic transmission) or with

the clutch pedal depressed (manual

transmission). (For an automatic transmission,

keep the brake pedal depressed.)

2. Shift into gear.

3. Release the parking brake (also the brake pedal

for an automatic transmission) and drive the

vehicle slowly to release the chocks. Stop and

brake.

4. Have another person remove the wedges.

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How to save fuel and extend the life

of your vehicle

Reducing fuel consumption is easy. It will also help you

extend the life of your vehicle. Here are some tips to

save money on both fuel and repairs:

• Avoid unnecessary stopping and braking. Maintain

a constant speed. Try to commute to the intersection

so that you don't have to wait for a long time or use

roads without intersections with traffic lights. Keep a

safe distance from other vehicles to avoid sudden

braking. This will also reduce wear on your brakes.

• Keep your tires inflated to the correct pressure.

Underinflation will cause more tire wear and fuel

consumption.

See page 377 in Chapter 7–2.

• Do not overload the vehicle with unnecessary loads.

The increased weight causes a higher load on

the engine, which causes an increase in fuel

consumption.

• Avoid heavy traffic or congestion

whenever possible.

• Do not leave your foot on the brake or clutch pedal.

This causes more wear, overheating and increased

fuel consumption.

• Avoid idling the engine for a long time. If the engine

runs smoothly, start slowly. However, remember

that it takes a little longer for the engine to warm up

in cold winter weather.

• Maintain a reasonable speed on the highway. The

faster you drive, the higher the fuel consumption. By

reducing speed, you also reduce fuel consumption.

• When there is no need to brake the engine, drive

with the automatic transmission in the "D"

position. Driving with overdrive off will increase

fuel consumption. (Details - see "Multi-Mode

Automatic Transmission" on page 180 in Chapter

1-7.)

• Maintain proper front wheel alignment. Avoid hitting

curbs and drive slowly on bumpy roads. Incorrect

front wheel alignment accelerates tire wear and also

results in increased engine load and thus fuel

consumption.

• Accelerate slowly and smoothly. Avoid sudden

starts. Try to shift to higher gears as early as possible.

• Keep the vehicle chassis clear of mud etc. This not

only reduces weight but also helps prevent corrosion.

• Do not let the engine idle for a long time. If it is

necessary to wait a long time and if you are not in

heavy traffic, it is better to turn off the engine and

then start it again.

• Keep the car tuned and in good technical

condition. A clogged air cleaner, an out-of-

adjustment carburetor, incorrect valve clearance,

clogged spark plugs, dirty oil and grease, out-of-

adjustment brakes, etc., reduce engine performance

and contribute to increased fuel consumption. For a

longer service life of all parts and lower operating

costs, it is necessary to follow the maintenance

schedule. If you use the vehicle in difficult operating

conditions, it is necessary to carry out maintenance

more often.

• Avoid jerking or revving the engine. Use the

appropriate gear for the specific driving conditions.

• Avoid continuous deceleration and acceleration.

Brake-throttle driving increases fuel consumption.

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WARNING

Never switch off the engine when driving downhill. If

the engine is not running, the power steering and

brake boosters do not work. Also, the system that

controls the emissions in the exhaust gases only

works properly while running

engine.

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Starting and Driving for Your Toyota Avensis 4 Door Second Generation (2004-2009)

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