’03 Rav4_U (L/O 0208)
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:
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 cata-
lytic converter and the entire emis-
sion control system operate proper-
ly, your vehicle must receive the
periodic inspections required by the
Toyota Maintenance Schedule. For
scheduled maintenance information,
refer to the “Scheduled Maintenance
Guide” or “Owner’s Manual Supple-
ment”.
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
z Do not turn off the ignition while
the vehicle is moving.
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.
2003 RAV4 from Aug. ’02 Prod. (OM42517U)
158
English 
