Get Ignition switch, Transmission and Parking brake Guide for Toyota Rav4 SUV Third Generation (2006-2012)

’07 Rav4_U (L/O 0701)

SECTION 1− 7

OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND

CONTROLS

Ignition switch, Transmission and Parking brake

Ignition switch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

Automatic transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

Active torque control 4WD system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

Traction control system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

“AUTO LSD” system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151

Enhanced vehicle stability control system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153

Downhill assist control system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156

Hill−start assist control system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159

Tire pressure warning system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

Parking brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165

Cruise control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

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Ignition switch

“LOCK”—Engine is off and the steering

wheel is locked. The key can be re-

moved only at this position.

NOTICE

Do not leave the key in the “ON”

position if the engine is not running.

The battery will discharge and the

ignition could be damaged.

You must push in the key to turn it from

“ACC” to the “LOCK” position. The selec-

tor lever must be in the “P” position be-

fore pushing the key.

Vehicles with engine immobilizer sys-

tem—Once you remove the key, the en-

gine immobilizer system is automatically

set. (See “Engine immobilizer system” on

page 15 in Section 1−2.)

When starting the engine, the key may

seem stuck at the “LOCK” position. To

free it, first be sure the key is pushed all

the way in, and then rotate the steering

wheel slightly while turning the key gently.

“START”—Starter motor on. The key

will return to the “ON” position when

released.

For starting tips, see page 335 in Section

3.

Approximately five hours after the engine

is turned off, you may hear sound coming

from under the floor around the driver’s

seat for several minutes. This is normal

operation and does not indicate a malfunc-

tion. (See “Leak detection pump” on page

ix.)

“ON”—Engine on and all accessories

on.

This is the normal driving position.

“ACC”—Accessories such as the radio

operate, but the engine is off.

It is not a malfunction if the needle on all

meters and gauges move slightly when the

key is turned to the “ON” or “START”

position.

If you leave the key in the “ACC” or

“LOCK” position and open the driver’s

door, a buzzer will remind you to remove

the key.

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Automatic transmission (4−speed)

Your automatic transmission has

a

shift

lock system to minimize the possibility of

incorrect operation. This means you can

only shift out of “P” position when the

brake pedal is depressed (with the ignition

switch in “ON” position).

Selector lever

(a) Selector lever

The shift position is also displayed on the

instrument cluster.

P: Parking, engine starting and

key removal

R: Reverse

N: Neutral

D: Normal driving

(shifting into overdrive possible)

3: Engine braking

(shifting into overdrive not possible)

2: Stronger engine braking

L: Maximum engine braking

Shift with the brake pedal

depressed.

(The ignition switch must

be in “ON” position.)

Shift normally.

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(b) Normal driving

(c) Using engine braking

D Shift into the “L” position. The trans-

mission will downshift to first gear

when the vehicle speed drops down to

or lower than the following speed, and

maximum engine braking will be en-

abled.

1. Start the engine as instructed in “How

to start the engine” on page 336 in

Section 3. The transmission must be in

“P” or “N”.

To use engine braking, you can downshift

the transmission as follows:

D Shift into the “3” position. The trans-

mission will downshift to third gear

when the vehicle speed drops down to

or lower than the following speed, and

stronger engine braking will be en-

abled.

2. With your foot holding down the brake

pedal, shift the selector lever to “D”.

Two−wheel drive models

56 km/h (35 mph)

Four−wheel drive models

53 km/h (33 mph)

When the lever is in the “D” position, the

automatic transmission system will select

the most suitable gear for running condi-

tions such as normal cruising, hill climb-

ing, hard towing, etc.

Two−wheel drive models

173 km/h (108 mph)

Four−wheel drive models

164 km/h (102 mph)

When the cruise control is being used,

even if you downshift from “D” to “3”,

engine braking will not be enabled be-

cause the cruise control is not cancelled.

Always use the “D” position for better fuel

economy and quieter driving. If the engine

coolant temperature is low, the transmis-

sion will not shift into the overdrive gear

even in the “D” position.

D Shift into the “2” position. The trans-

mission will downshift to second gear

when the vehicle speed drops down to

or lower than the following speed, and

stronger engine braking will be en-

abled.

For ways to decrease the vehicle speed,

see “Cruise control” on page 166 in this

Section.

CAUTION

Two−wheel drive models

113 km/h (70 mph)

Four−wheel drive models

Be careful when downshifting on a

Never put your foot on the accelera-

tor pedal while shifting.

slippery

surface.

Abrupt

shifting

could cause the vehicle to skid or

spin.

107 km/h (66 mph)

3. Release the parking brake and brake

pedal. Depress the accelerator pedal

slowly for smooth starting.

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(d) Using “2” and “L” positions

(f) Parking

z Do not continue hill climbing or

hard towing for a long time in the

“2” or “L” position. This may cause

severe automatic transmission dam-

age from overheating. To prevent

such damage, “3” position should

be used in hill climbing or hard

towing.

The “2” and “L” positions are used for

strong engine braking as described pre-

viously.

1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop.

2. Pull the parking brake lever up fully to

securely apply the parking brake.

With the selector lever in “2” or “L”, you

can start the vehicle in motion as with the

lever in “D”.

3. With the brake pedal pressed down,

shift the selector lever to the “P” posi-

tion.

With the selector lever in “2”, the vehicle

will start in first gear and automatically

shift to second gear.

CAUTION

(e) Backing up

Never attempt to move the selector

lever into “P” position under any cir-

cumstances while the vehicle is mov-

ing. Serious mechanical damage and

loss of vehicle control may result.

1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop.

With the selector lever in “L”, the trans-

mission is engaged in first gear.

2. With the brake pedal held down with

your foot, shift the selector lever to the

“R” position.

NOTICE

z Be careful not to over−rev the en-

gine. Watch the tachometer to keep

engine rpm from going into the red

zone. The approximate maximum al-

lowable speed for each position is

given below for your reference:

NOTICE

(g) Good driving practice

Never shift into reverse while the ve-

hicle is moving.

D If the transmission repeatedly shifts up

and down between third gear and over-

drive when climbing

a

gentle slope,

shift the selector lever to the “3” posi-

tion. Be sure to shift the selector lever

to the “D” position immediately after-

ward.

Two−wheel drive models

“2” . . . . . . . . . 126 km/h (78 mph)

“L” . . . . . . . . . . 70 km/h (43 mph)

Four−wheel drive models

“2” . . . . . . . . . 120 km/h (74 mph)

“L” . . . . . . . . . . 67 km/h (41 mph)

D When towing a trailer, in order to main-

tain engine braking efficiency, do not

use “D” position.

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CAUTION

Always keep your foot on the brake

pedal while stopped with the engine

running. This prevents the vehicle

from creeping.

NOTICE

Always use the brake pedal or the

parking brake to hold the vehicle on

an upgrade. Do not attempt to hold

the vehicle using the accelerator ped-

al, as this can cause the transmission

to overheat.

(h) If you cannot shift the selector le-

ver out of “P” position

If you cannot shift the selector lever from

the “P” position even though the brake

pedal is depressed, use the shift lock

override button. For instructions, see “If

you cannot shift automatic transmission

selector lever” on page 372 in Section 4.

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Automatic transmission (5−speed)

Your automatic transmission has

a

shift

lock system to minimize the possibility of

incorrect operation. This means you can

only shift out of “P” position when the

brake pedal is depressed (with the ignition

switch in the “ON” position).

Selector lever

(a) Selector lever

The shift position is also displayed on the

instrument cluster.

P: Parking, engine starting and key

removal

R: Reverse

N: Neutral

D: Normal driving

(shifting into overdrive possible)

4: Engine braking

(shifting into overdrive not possible)

3, 2: Stronger engine braking

L: Maximum engine braking

Shift with the brake pedal

depressed.

(The ignition switch must

be in “ON” position.)

Shift normally.

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(b) Normal driving

(c) Using engine braking

For ways to decrease the vehicle speed,

see “Cruise control” on page 166 in this

Section.

1. Start the engine as instructed in “How

to start the engine” on page 336 in

Section 3. The transmission must be in

“P” or “N”.

To use engine braking, you can downshift

the transmission as follows:

D Shift into the “4” position. The trans-

mission will downshift to fourth gear

and engine braking will be enabled.

CAUTION

2. With your foot holding down the brake

pedal, shift the selector lever to “D”.

Be careful when downshifting on a

D Shift into the “3” position. The trans-

mission will downshift to third gear

when the vehicle speed drops down to

or lower than 161 km/h (100 mph),

and stronger engine braking will be en-

abled.

slippery

surface.

Abrupt

shifting

When the lever is in the “D” position, the

automatic transmission system will select

the most suitable gear for running condi-

tions such as normal cruising, hill climb-

ing, hard towing, etc.

could cause the vehicle to skid or

spin.

(d) Using “3”, “2” and “L” positions

The “3”, “2” and “L” positions are used for

strong engine braking as described pre-

viously.

Always use the “D” position for better fuel

economy and quieter driving. If the engine

coolant temperature is low, the transmis-

sion will not shift into the overdrive gear

even in the “D” position.

D Shift into the “2” position. The trans-

mission will downshift to second gear

when the vehicle speed drops down to

or lower than 99 km/h (62 mph), and

stronger engine braking will be en-

abled.

With the selector lever in ”3”, “2” or “L”,

you can start the vehicle in motion as

with the lever in “D”.

CAUTION

With the selector lever in “3” or “2”, the

vehicle will start in first gear and automat-

ically shift to third gear or second gear.

D Shift into the “L” position. The trans-

mission will downshift to first gear

when the vehicle speed drops down to

or lower than 42 km/h (26 mph), and

maximum engine braking will be en-

abled.

Never put your foot on the accelera-

tor pedal while shifting.

With the selector lever in “L”, the trans-

mission is engaged in first gear.

3. Release the parking brake and brake

pedal. Depress the accelerator pedal

slowly for smooth starting.

When the cruise control is being used,

even if you downshift from “D” to “4”,

engine braking will not be enabled be-

cause the cruise control is not cancelled.

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(e) Backing up

(g) Good driving practice

NOTICE

1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop.

D If the transmission repeatedly shifts up

and down between fourth gear and

overdrive when climbing a gentle slope,

shift the selector lever to the “4” posi-

tion. Be sure to shift the selector lever

to the “D” position immediately after-

ward.

z Be careful not to over−rev the en-

gine. Watch the tachometer to keep

engine rpm from going into the red

zone. The approximate maximum al-

lowable speed for each position is

given below for your reference:

2. With the brake pedal held down with

your foot, shift the selector lever to the

“R” position.

NOTICE

Never shift into reverse while the ve-

hicle is moving.

“3” . . . . . . . . 175 km/h (109 mph)

“2” . . . . . . . . . 113 km/h (70 mph)

“L” . . . . . . . . . . 63 km/h (39 mph)

D When towing a trailer, in order to main-

tain engine braking efficiency, do not

use “D” position.

(f) Parking

z Do not continue hill climbing or

hard towing for a long time in the

“3”, “2” or “L” position. This may

cause severe automatic transmis-

sion damage from overheating. To

prevent such damage, “4” position

should be used in hill climbing or

hard towing.

1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop.

CAUTION

2. Pull the parking brake lever up fully to

securely apply the parking brake.

Always keep your foot on the brake

pedal while stopped with the engine

running. This prevents the vehicle

from creeping.

3. With the brake pedal pressed down,

shift the selector lever to the “P” posi-

tion.

CAUTION

NOTICE

Always use the brake pedal or the

parking brake to hold the vehicle on

an upgrade. Do not attempt to hold

the vehicle using the accelerator ped-

al, as this can cause the transmission

to overheat.

Never attempt to move the selector

lever into “P” position under any cir-

cumstances while the vehicle is mov-

ing. Serious mechanical damage and

loss of vehicle control may result.

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Active torque control 4WD

system

(h) If you cannot shift the selector le-

ver out of “P” position

The active torque control 4WD system

controls the engine torque that is ap-

plied to the rear wheels according to

the driving conditions and road condi-

tions. When the vehicle’s driving condi-

tions are stable such as driving straight

ahead, the engine torque is applied to

only the front wheels.

If you cannot shift the selector lever from

the “P” position even though the brake

pedal is depressed, use the shift lock

override button. For instructions, see “If

you cannot shift automatic transmission

selector lever” on page 372 in Section 4.

FOUR−WHEEL DRIVE LOCK SWITCH

When the vehicle is driven on loose

surfaces, such as sand, gravel, or deep

snow, or if the vehicle gets stuck,

pushing the four−wheel drive lock

switch to ensure that the engine torque

is applied to the 4 wheels.

When the four−wheel drive lock switch is

pushed, the four−wheel drive lock indicator

light blinks twice and remains on until the

four−wheel drive lock is canceled.

To cancel the four−wheel drive lock, push

the switch once again and the four−wheel

drive lock indicator light will go off.

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When the vehicle speed exceeds 40 km/h

(25 mph), the four−wheel drive lock will

be cancelled automatically.

If the “4WD” warning light flashes...

This indicates that the driveline tempera-

ture has become too high. Without turning

off the engine, do either of the following

to cool the driveline:

The four−wheel drive lock indicator will

come on for

a

few seconds when the

ignition key is turned to “ON”.

D Reduce vehicle speed until the light

If the indicator light does not come on

when the ignition key is turned to “ON” or

the four−wheel drive lock switch is

pushed, contact your Toyota dealer.

goes off.

D Stop the vehicle at a safe place and

allow the engine to idle until the light

goes off.

If operation of the vehicle is continued

while the light is flashing, the system au-

tomatically shuts off the engine torque that

is applied to the rear wheels to protect

the driveline. If this happens, the light will

flash faster.

NOTICE

Use the four−wheel drive lock only

when driving on the loose surfaces,

such as sand, gravel, or deep snow,

or if the vehicle gets stuck. After the

four−wheel drive lock is used to pro-

vide traction, cancel the four−wheel

drive lock. Using the four−wheel drive

lock at other times may cause dam-

age to the four−wheel drive system.

SYSTEM FAILURE WARING

The “4WD” warning light warns that there

is

a

problem somewhere in the active

torque control 4WD system.

When the driveline temperature falls

enough, the light will go off.

The light will come on when the ignition

key is turned to “ON”. When the system

works properly, the light turns off after a

few seconds.

If the “4WD” warning light remains on...

This indicates that the system may not

work properly. Contact your Toyota dealer

to service your vehicle.

If the warning light does not come on

when the ignition key is turned to “ON”,

contact your Toyota dealer to service the

vehicle.

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Traction control system

The traction control system automatical-

ly helps prevent the spinning of the

front wheels (two−wheel drive models)

or 4 wheels (four−wheel drive models)

when the vehicle is started or acceler-

ated on slippery road surfaces.

When the traction control system is oper-

ating, the following conditions occur:

D The system controls the spinning of the

front wheels (two−wheel drive models)

or 4 wheels (four−wheels drive mod-

els). At this time, the slip indicator light

blinks.

When the ignition key is turned to “ON”,

the system automatically turns on.

D The vehicle may vibrate or make

a

noise due to brake operation. This indi-

cates the system is functioning proper-

ly.

CAUTION

Under certain slippery road condi-

tions, full traction of the vehicle and

power to the front wheels (two−wheel

drive models) or 4 wheels (four−wheel

drive models) cannot be maintained,

even though the traction control sys-

tem is in operation. Do not drive the

vehicle under any speed or maneuver-

ing conditions which may cause the

vehicle to lose traction control. If the

road surface is covered with ice or

snow, your vehicle should be fitted

with snow tires or tire chains. Always

drive at a speed that is appropriate

for the present road conditions.

The slip indicator light comes on for a few

seconds when the ignition key is turned

to “ON”. If the indicator light does not

come on when the ignition key is turned

to “ON”, contact your Toyota dealer.

A sound may be heard from the engine

compartment for a few seconds when the

engine is started or just after the vehicle

begins to move. This means that the sys-

tem is in the self−check mode. This sound

does not indicate a malfunction.

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“AUTO LSD” system

(two−wheel drive models)

If the light comes on while driving, all the

above systems will not work. In such a

case, the brakes will operate when applied

(no electronic assistance will be avail-

able), and it will be possible to continue

driving the vehicle.

The “AUTO LSD” system aids traction

by using the traction control system to

control engine performance and braking

when one of the front wheels begins to

spin.

This system is used only when wheel

In the following cases, contact your Toyota

dealer:

spinning occurs in

rough surface.

a

ditch or on

a

D The warning light does not come on

when the ignition key is turned to

“ON”.

This system is effective in case one of

the front wheels is spinning.

NOTICE

D The warning light remains on after the

ignition key is turned to “ON”.

Do not use the “AUTO LSD” system

in conditions other than the above. A

much greater steering effort and more

careful cornering control will be re-

quired.

“VSC” warning light

D The warning light comes on while driv-

ing.

This light warns that there is a problem

somewhere in the following systems:

D Traction control system

D “AUTO LSD” system

D Vehicle stability control system

D Downhill assist control system

D Hill−start assist control system

The light will come on when the ignition

key is turned to “ON”. When the systems

are work properly, the light turns off after

a few seconds.

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The “AUTO LSD” indicator light will come

on for a few seconds when the ignition

key is turned to “ON”. If the indicator light

does not come on when the ignition key

is turned to “ON” or the “AUTO LSD”

switch is pushed, contact your Toyota

dealer.

If the brake actuator temperature becomes

too high, a buzzer will sound for about 3

seconds. (The slip indicator light will also

be lit.) The system will temporarily stop

operating in order to protect the brake

actuator. Although “AUTO LSD” system is

not operating, it is still possible to contin-

ue your driving.

To turn on the system, push the “AUTO

LSD” switch when the vehicle is

stopped.

“VSC” warning light

This light warns that there is a problem

somewhere in the following systems:

The operation of the system will be auto-

matically restored after the actuator cools

down. After operation is restored, the slip

indicator light will go off.

The “AUTO LSD” indicator light will come

on and remain on while the system is on.

While the system is operating, the slip

indicator light will also flash.

D Traction control system

D “AUTO LSD” system

D Vehicle stability control system

D Downhill assist control system

D Hill−start assist control system

To turn off the system, push the “AUTO

LSD” switch again and the “AUTO LSD”

indicator light will go off.

When the ignition key is turned to “ON”,

the light will come on. When the systems

are work properly, the light turns off after

a few seconds.

If the vehicle speed exceeds 50 km/h (31

mph), this system will be cancelled auto-

matically.

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Enhanced vehicle stability

control system

(two−wheel drive vehicles)

If the light comes on while driving, all the

above systems will not work. In such a

case, the brakes will operate when applied

(no electronic assistance will be avail-

able), and it will be possible to continue

driving the vehicle.

The vehicle stability control system

helps provide integrated control of the

such systems as the anti−lock brake,

brake assist, traction control, engine

control, electric power steering. This

CAUTION

D Do not rely excessively on the ve-

hicle stability control system. Even

if the vehicle stability control sys-

tem is operating, you must always

drive carefully and attentively to

avoid death or serious injury. Reck-

less driving will result in an unex-

pected accident. If the slip indicator

light flashes, and an alarm sounds,

special care should be taken while

driving.

system

automatically

controls

the

brakes, engine and power steering to

help prevent the vehicle from skidding

when cornering on a slippery road sur-

face or operating steering wheel abrupt-

ly.

In the following cases, contact your Toyota

dealer:

D The warning light does not come on

when the ignition key is turned to

“ON”.

This system activates when the vehicle

speed exceeds about 15 km/h (9 mph).

D The warning light remains on after the

ignition key is turned to “ON”.

A sound may be heard from the engine

compartment for a few seconds when the

engine is started or just after the vehicle

begins to move. This means that the sys-

tem is in the self−check mode. This sound

does not indicate a malfunction.

D Use only tires of the specified size.

The size, manufacturer, brand and

tread pattern for all 4 tires should

be the same. If you use the tires

other than specified, or different

type or size, the vehicle stability

control system may not function

correctly. When replacing the tires

or wheels, contact your Toyota deal-

er. (See “Checking and replacing

tires” on page 404 in Section 7−2.)

D The warning light comes on while driv-

ing.

D In situations where the road surface

is covered with ice or snow, your

vehicle should be fitted with snow

tires or tire chains.

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If the light comes on while driving, all the

above systems will not work. In such a

case, the brakes will operate when applied

(no electronic assistance will be avail-

able), and it will be possible to continue

driving the vehicle.

In the following cases, contact your Toyota

dealer:

D The warning light does not come on

when the ignition key is turned to

“ON”.

D The warning light remains on after the

ignition key is turned to “ON”.

If the vehicle is going to skid during driv-

ing, the slip indicator light blinks and an

alarm sounds intermittently. Special care

should be taken while driving.

“VSC” warning light

D The warning light comes on while driv-

ing.

This light warns that there is a problem

somewhere in the following systems:

D Traction control system

The slip indicator light comes on for a few

seconds when the ignition key is turned

to “ON”. If the indicator light does not

come on when the ignition key is turned

to “ON”, contact your Toyota dealer.

D “AUTO LSD” system

D Vehicle stability control system

D Downhill assist control system

D Hill−start assist control system

The light will come on when the ignition

key is turned to “ON”. When the systems

are work properly, the light turns off after

a few seconds.

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Enhanced vehicle stability

control system

(four−wheel drive models)

The vehicle stability control system

helps provide integrated control of the

such systems as the anti−lock brake,

brake assist, traction control, engine

control, electric power steering, active

torque control 4WD. This system auto-

matically controls the brakes, engine

and power steering as well as driving

force to all the 4 wheels to help pre-

vent the vehicle from skidding when

cornering on a slippery road surface or

operating steering wheel abruptly.

CAUTION

D Do not rely excessively on the ve-

hicle stability control system. Even

if the vehicle stability control sys-

tem is operating, you must always

drive carefully and attentively to

avoid death or serious injury. Reck-

less driving will result in an unex-

pected accident. If the slip indicator

light flashes, and an alarm sounds,

special care should be taken while

driving.

This system activates when the vehicle

speed exceeds about 15 km/h (9 mph).

D Use only tires of the specified size.

The size, manufacturer, brand and

tread pattern for all 4 tires should

be the same. If you use the tires

other than specified, or different

type or size, the vehicle stability

control system may not function

correctly. When replacing the tires

or wheels, contact your Toyota deal-

er. (See “Checking and replacing

tires” on page 404 in Section 7−2.)

If the vehicle is going to skid during driv-

ing, the slip indicator light blinks and an

alarm sounds intermittently. Special care

should be taken while driving.

A sound may be heard from the engine

compartment for a few seconds when the

engine is started or just after the vehicle

begins to move. This means that the sys-

tem is in the self−check mode. This sound

does not indicate a malfunction.

The slip indicator light comes on for a few

seconds when the ignition key is turned

to “ON”. If the indicator light does not

come on when the ignition key is turned

to “ON”, contact your Toyota dealer.

D In situations where the road surface

is covered with ice or snow, your

vehicle should be fitted with snow

tires or tire chains.

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Downhill assist control system

If the light comes on while driving, all the

above systems will not work. In such a

case, the brakes will operate when applied

(no electronic assistance will be avail-

able), and it will be possible to continue

driving the vehicle.

The downhill assist control system as-

sists the deceleration of the engine

brake when you drive down a steep hill.

When you are driving down

a

hill,

pushing the “DAC” switch turns on the

system. If the vehicle is traveling at a

speed of 25 km/h (15 mph) or less, you

can descend at a constant speed.

In the following cases, contact your Toyota

dealer:

D The warning light does not come on

when the ignition key is turned to

“ON”.

CAUTION

Do not rely excessively on the down-

hill assist control system. It may not

be able to maintain a low speed over

road surfaces or off−road surfaces on

which sliding can easily occur, such

as extremely steep slopes or icy or

muddy roads.

D The warning light remains on after the

ignition key is turned to “ON”.

“VSC” warning light

D The warning light comes on while driv-

ing.

This light warns that there is a problem

somewhere in the following systems:

D Traction control system

D Vehicle stability control system

D Downhill assist control system

D Hill−start assist control system

TO ACTIVATE THE DOWNHILL ASSIST

CONTROL SYSTEM

1. In order to make full use of the en-

gine brake, put the transmission se-

lector lever in “L” (forward) or “R”

(reverse).

The light will come on when the ignition

key is turned to “ON”. When the systems

are work properly, the light turns off after

a few seconds.

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If the “DAC” switch is pushed to turn the

system off while it is in operation, the

system will stop operating gradually. The

downhill assist control system indicator

light will flash to alert the driver. To con-

tinue driving at a low speed, push the

“DAC” switch to turn the system on.

The slip indicator light and downhill assist

control system indicator light come on for

a few seconds when the ignition key is

turned to “ON”. If any of the indicator

lights does not come on when the ignition

key is turned to “ON”, contact your Toyota

dealer.

2. Push the “DAC” switch to turn the

system on. The downhill assist con-

trol system indicator light will come

on.

With the vehicle traveling at a speed of

25 km/h (15 mph) or less, release the

brake pedal and accelerator pedal to acti-

vate the system. The vehicle will descend

the hill at a low speed.

If the brake actuator temperature becomes

too high, the downhill assist control sys-

tem indicator light will flash and a buzzer

will start to sound intermittently. This indi-

cates that the system cannot operate for

much longer. In this case, stop the vehicle

immediately in a safe place.

If the downhill assist control system indi-

cator light flashes, the selector lever may

not be in “L” or “R”.

While the system is operating, the slip

indicator light will flash and the stoplights

and high mounted stoplight will be lit. A

sound may also occur during the opera-

tion. This does not indicate a malfunction.

If the indicator light does not come on

when the switch is pushed, or the indica-

tor light flashes when the selector lever is

in “L” or “R”, contact your Toyota dealer.

If the system continues to operate while

driving, the buzzer will sound for about 3

seconds. The system will temporarily stop

operating in order to protect the brake

actuator. Although the downhill assist con-

trol system is not operating, it is still pos-

sible to continue your driving.

If the brakes are applied while the system

is operating, a kickback from the brake

pedal may result and a sound may occur.

This does not indicate a malfunction.

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The operation of the system will be auto-

matically restored after the actuator cools

down. The downhill assist control system

indicator light changes from flash to re-

main on after operation is restored.

If the light comes on while driving, all the

above systems will not work. In such a

case, the brakes will operate when applied

(no electronic assistance will be avail-

able), and it will be possible to continue

driving the vehicle.

In the following cases, contact your Toyota

dealer:

D The warning light does not come on

when the ignition key is turned to

“ON”.

D The warning light remains on after the

ignition key is turned to “ON”.

“VSC” warning light

D The warning light comes on while driv-

ing.

This light warns that there is a problem

somewhere in the following systems:

D Traction control system

D “AUTO LSD” system

D Vehicle stability control system

D Downhill assist control system

D Hill−start assist control system

When the ignition key is turned to “ON”,

the light will come on. When the systems

are work properly, the light turns off after

a few seconds.

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Hill−start assist control

system

The hill−start assist control system as-

sists in starting to drive a steep or a

slippery hill. When you start to move

up a hill slope, the system helps to

prevent the vehicle from rolling back-

ward in the interval while moving the

foot from the brake pedal to the accel-

erator pedal.

TO ACTIVATE THE HILL−START ASSIST

CONTROL SYSTEM

The hill−start assist control system will

operate for maximum of 2 seconds. The

brake pedal must be depressed further

to activate the system when all of the

following conditions apply with the

brake pedal is depressed:

At this time, one beep will be heard.

CAUTION

D When the selector lever is not in “P”

D Do not rely excessively on the hill−

start assist control system. The ve-

hicle may not be able to start

smoothly on road surfaces or off−

road surfaces such as extremely

steep slopes or icy roads, on which

sliding can occur very easily.

D When the accelerator pedal is not de-

pressed

D When the parking brake is not applied

D When the vehicle is stopped

When the hill−start assist control system

is operating, the slip indicator light flashes

and the stoplights and high mounted stop-

light are lit.

The system is designed to operate when

the vehicle is starting on uphill slope;

therefore, if the transmission selector le-

ver is in “P”, it will not operate.

D Do not use the hill−start assist con-

trol system to park the vehicle. This

system is not designed as a func-

tion for parking the vehicle on a

uphill slope.

When any of the following is performed,

the system will stop operation. At this

time, two beeps will be heard and the slip

indicator light will go off.

D Shifting the selector lever to “P”

D Applying the parking brake

D Depressing the brake pedal

If the accelerator pedal is depressed, the

system will also stop operation without

beep sounds.

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The hill−start assist control system oper-

ates for a maximum of 2 seconds. If the

vehicle is not started within 2 seconds,

two beeps will be heard and the system

will gradually stop operating.

If the light comes on while driving, all the

above systems will not work. In such a

case, the brakes will operate when applied

(no electronic assistance will be avail-

able), and it will be possible to continue

driving the vehicle.

The hill−start control system is not de-

signed to park the vehicle on uphill slope.

When parking the vehicle, be sure to ap-

ply the parking brake.

In the following cases, contact your Toyota

dealer:

D The warning light does not come on

when the ignition key is turned to

“ON”.

The slip indicator light comes on for a few

seconds when the ignition key is turned

to “ON”. If the indicator light does not

come on when the ignition key is turned

to “ON”, contact your Toyota dealer.

D The warning light remains on after the

ignition key is turned to “ON”.

“VSC” warning light

D The warning light comes on while driv-

ing.

This light warns that there is a problem

somewhere in the following systems:

D Traction control system

D “AUTO LSD” system

D Vehicle stability control system

D Downhill assist control system

D Hill−start assist control system

When the ignition key is turned to “ON”,

the light will come on. If the systems are

work properly, the light turns off after a

few seconds.

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Tire pressure warning system

The tire pressure warning system warns

you that the tire inflation pressure is

low.

Indicator

status

Meanings

Do this

ON

Tire inflation Adjust the

pressure is

low

The tire pressure warning system is not

a substitute for checking normal tire infla-

tion pressure. Check the tire inflation

pressure with a tire pressure gauge regu-

larly.

tire inflation

pressure

ON after

blinking for

1 minute

Tire pres-

sure warn-

ing system

malfunction

Have the

system

checked at

your Toyota

dealer

CAUTION

The warning system may not activate

immediately if bursts or sudden air

leakage should occur.

CAUTION

The tire pressure warning light comes on

when the ignition switch is turned to the

“ON” position and goes off after a few

seconds. This means the tire pressure

warning light is operating properly. If the

tire inflation pressure becomes low, the

light comes on again. In this case, adjust-

ing the tire inflation pressure will turn off

the light after a few minutes. If the light

comes on after blinking for 1 minute, the

tire pressure warning system is not work-

ing properly.

If the tire pressure warning light

comes on, be sure to observe the

following precautions. Failure to do

so could cause loss of vehicle control

and result in death or serious injury.

D Stop your vehicle in a safe place as

soon as possible. Adjust the tire

inflation pressure immediately.

D If the tire pressure warning light

comes on even after tire inflation

pressure adjustment, it is probable

that you have a flat tire. Check the

tires. If the tire is flat, change to

the spare tire and have the flat tire

repaired by the nearest Toyota deal-

er.

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D Avoid abrupt maneuvering and bra-

king. If the vehicle tires deteriorate,

you could lose control of the steer-

ing wheel or the brakes.

As an added safety feature, your ve-

CAUTION

hicle has been equipped with a tire

pressure monitoring system (TPMS–

tire pressure warning system) that il-

luminates a low tire pressure telltale

(tire pressure warning light) when one

or more of your tires is significantly

under−inflated. Accordingly, when the

low tire pressure telltale (tire pres-

sure warning light) illuminates, you

should stop and check your tires as

soon as possible, and inflate them to

the proper pressure. Driving on a sig-

nificantly under−inflated tire causes

the tire to overheat and can lead to

tire failure. Under−inflation also re-

duces fuel efficiency and tire tread

life, and may affect the vehicle’s han-

dling and stopping ability.

Each tire, including the spare (if pro-

vided), should be checked monthly

when cold and inflated to the inflation

pressure recommended by the vehicle

manufacturer on the vehicle placard

or tire inflation pressure label (tire

and load information label). (If your

vehicle has tires of a different size

than the size indicated on the vehicle

placard or tire inflation pressure label

(tire and load information label), you

should determine the proper tire infla-

tion pressure for those tires.)

The tire pressure warning light may turn

on due to natural causes such as natural

air leaks or tire inflation pressure changes

caused by temperature. In this case, ad-

justing the tire inflation pressure will turn

off the light after a few minutes.

The spare tire is also equipped with the

tire pressure warning valve and transmit-

ter. The tire pressure warning light will

turn on if the tire inflation pressure of the

spare tire is low. If a tire goes flat, even

though the flat tire is replaced with the

spare tire, the warning light does not turn

off. Replace the spare tire with the re-

paired tire and adjust the proper tire infla-

tion pressure. The tire pressure warning

light will turn off after a few minutes.

Please note that the TPMS (tire pres-

sure warning system) is not a substi-

tute for proper tire maintenance, and

it is the driver’s responsibility to

maintain correct tire pressure, even if

under−inflation has not reached the

level to trigger illumination of the

TPMS low tire pressure telltale (tire

pressure warning light).

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D If the ID code on the tire pressure

NOTICE

warning valves and transmitters is not

registered on the tire pressure warning

ECU.

z Do not use liquid sealants for a flat

tire as tire pressure warning valve

and transmitter will be damaged.

D If electronic devices or facilities using

similar radio wave frequencies are

nearby.

z When the tires must be repaired or

replaced, have them repaired or re-

placed by the nearest Toyota dealer

or an authorized tire dealer. The

tire pressure warning valves and

transmitters will be affected by the

installation or removal of tires.

D If a radio set at similar frequencies is

in use in the vehicle.

D If a window tint that affects the radio

wave signals is installed.

D If there is a lot of snow or ice on the

vehicle, in particular around the wheels

or wheel housings.

IF THE TIRE PRESSURE WARNING

LIGHT COMES ON AFTER BLINKING

FOR 1 MINUTE

D If non−genuine Toyota wheels are used.

D If tire chains are used.

If the tire pressure warning light comes

on after blinking for 1 minute when the

ignition switch is turned to the “ON”

position, the tire pressure warning sys-

tem is not working properly.

D If the spare tire is in a location subject

to poor radio wave signal reception.

D If the tire inflation pressure is more

2

than 500 kPa (5.1 kgf/cm or bar, 73

psi).

The system will be disabled in the follow-

ing conditions:

If the tire pressure warning light continues

to come on after blinking for 1 minute

when the ignition switch is turned to the

“ON” position, have the system checked

by your Toyota dealer.

(When the condition becomes normal, the

system will work properly.)

D If tires not equipped with tire pressure

warning valves and transmitters are

used.

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Even if you use genuine wheels, the tire

pressure warning system may not work

properly with some types of tires.

For vehicles sold in U.S.A.

NOTICE:

This equipment has been tested and

found to comply with the limits for a

Class B digital device, pursuant to Part

15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are

designed to provide reasonable protec-

This device complies with Part 15 of the

FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the

following two conditions:

(1) This device may not cause harmful

interference, and (2) this device must

accept any interference received, includ-

ing interference that may cause unde-

sired operation.

tion against harmful interference in

a

residential installation. This equipment

generates, uses and can radiate radio

frequency energy and, if not installed

and used in accordance with the instruc-

tions, may cause harmful interference to

radio communications. However, there is

no guarantee that interference will not

occur in a particular installation. If this

equipment does cause harmful interfer-

ence to radio or television reception,

which can be determined by turning the

equipment off and on, the user is en-

couraged to try to correct the interfer-

ence by one or more of the following

measures:

D Reorient or relocate the receiving an-

tenna.

D Increase the separation between the

equipment and receiver.

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Parking brake

REPLACING TIRES AND WHEELS

D Connect the equipment into an outlet

on circuit different from that to

When replacing the tires and wheels, be

sure to install tire pressure warning valves

and transmitters. ID codes on the tire

pressure warning valves and transmitters

are registered on the tire pressure warning

a

which the receiver is connected.

D Consult the dealer or an experienced

radio/TV technician for help.

ECU. When replacing

a

tire pressure

FCC WARNING:

warning valve and transmitter, it is neces-

sary to register the ID code of tire pres-

sure warning valve and transmitter. Have

the ID code registered by your Toyota

dealer.

Changes or modifications not ex-

pressly approved by the party respon-

sible for compliance could void the

user’s authority to operate the equip-

ment.

If the ID code is not registered, the sys-

tem will not work properly. After about 1

hour, the tire pressure warning light blinks

(comes on after blinking for 1 minute) to

indicate a system malfunction.

For the U.S.A.

For vehicles sold in Canada

NOTE

Operation is subject to the following two

conditions:

NOTICE

(1) this device may not cause interfer-

ence, and (2) this device must accept

any interference, including interference

that may cause undesired operation of

the device.

When the tires or tire pressure warn-

ing valves and transmitters must be

replaced, have them replaced by your

Toyota dealer. The tire pressure warn-

ing valves and transmitters will be

affected by the installation or removal

of tires.

For Canada

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Cruise control

When parking, firmly apply the parking

brake to avoid inadvertent creeping.

The cruise control is designed to main-

tain a set cruising speed without requir-

ing the driver to operate the accelera-

tor. Cruising speed can be set to any

speed above 40 km/h (25 mph).

To set: Pull up the lever. For better hold-

ing power, first depress the brake pedal

and hold it while setting the parking

brake.

To release: Pull up the lever slightly (1),

press the lock release button (2), and low-

er (3).

Within the limits of the engine’s capabili-

ties, cruising speed can be maintained up

or down grades. However, changes in ve-

hicle speed may occur on steeper grades.

To remind you that the parking brake is

set, the parking brake reminder light in

the instrument panel remains on until you

release the parking brake.

CAUTION

D To help maintain maximum control

of your vehicle, do not use the

cruise control when driving in

heavy or varying traffic, or on slip-

pery (rainy, icy or snow−covered) or

winding roads.

TURNING THE SYSTEM ON AND OFF

CAUTION

To turn the cruise control on, press the

“ON−OFF” button. The “CRUISE” indicator

light on the instrument panel will come on

to indicate that the cruise control is opera-

tional. Pressing the “ON−OFF” button

again turns the system off.

Before driving, be sure the parking

brake is fully released and the park-

ing brake reminder light is off.

D Be careful about vehicle speed as

it may increase when driving down-

hill with the cruise control on.

When the system is turned off, cruising

speed must be reset when the cruise con-

trol is turned on again.

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If you need acceleration—for example,

CAUTION

when passing—depress the accelerator

pedal enough for the vehicle to exceed

the set speed. When you release it, the

vehicle will return to the speed set prior

to the acceleration.

To avoid accidentally engaging the

cruise control, turn the system off

when it is not in use. Make sure the

“CRUISE” indicator light is off.

CANCELLING THE CRUISE CONTROL

The cruise control may be temporarily

cancelled by the driver or by the system

itself under certain circumstances. Tempo-

rary cancellation allows the set cruising

speed to remain in memory.

The cruise control can be temporarily can-

celled by doing the following:

SETTING THE CRUISING SPEED

D Pulling the lever in the “CANCEL” di-

The transmission must be in “D”, “3”

(4−speed) or “4” (5−speed) before you set

the cruising speed.

rection and releasing it

D Depressing the brake pedal

Bring your vehicle to the desired speed,

push the lever down in the “− SET” direc-

tion and release it. This sets the vehicle

at that speed. If the speed is not satisfac-

tory, tap the lever up for a faster speed,

or tap it down for a slower speed. Each

tap changes the set speed by 1.6 km/h

(1.0 mph). You can now take your foot off

the accelerator pedal.

Under certain circumstances, the cruise

control is temporarily cancelled:

D When vehicle speed falls below 40

km/h (25 mph)

D When vehicle stability control is acti-

vated

When vehicle speed drops 16 km/h (10

mph) below the set speed, the cruise con-

trol is cancelled and the set speed is

erased from memory.

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The “CRUISE” indicator light remains on

to indicate that the system is still in op-

eration.

RESETTING TO A SLOWER SPEED

CRUISE CONTROL FAILURE WARNING

Push the lever down in the “− SET” direc-

tion and hold it. Release the lever when

the desired speed is attained. While the

lever is held down, the vehicle speed will

gradually decrease.

If the “CRUISE” indicator light flashes

when using the cruise control, press the

“ON−OFF” button to turn the system off

and then press it again to turn it on.

To turn the cruise control off, press the

“ON−OFF”

button.

Make

sure

the

“CRUISE” indicator light is off.

If any of the following conditions then oc-

curs, there is some trouble in the cruise

control system.

If the cruise control automatically cancels

out other than for the above cases, have

your vehicle checked by your Toyota deal-

er at the earliest opportunity.

A sound may occur due to brake opera-

tion while the vehicle speed is decreasing.

This does not indicate a malfunction.

D The indicator light does not come on.

D The indicator light flashes again.

However, a faster way to reset is to de-

press the brake pedal and then push the

lever down in the “− SET” direction.

RESUMING THE CRUISE CONTROL

D The indicator light goes out after it

If the cruise control is temporarily can-

celled, the cruising speed can be resumed

by pushing the lever up in the “+ RES”

direction.

comes on.

Even if you downshift the transmission

from the “D” position to “3” (4−speed) or

“4” (5−speed) with the cruise control on,

engine braking will not be enabled be-

cause the cruise control is not cancelled.

To decrease the vehicle speed, reset to a

slower speed with the cruise control lever

or depress the brake pedal. If you use the

brake pedal, cruise control is cancelled.

If this is the case, contact your Toyota

dealer and have your vehicle inspected.

Vehicle speed must be above 40 km/h (25

mph).

RESETTING TO A FASTER SPEED

Push the lever up in the “+ RES” direction

and hold it. Release the lever when the

desired speed is attained. While the lever

is held up, the vehicle will gradually gain

speed.

However, a faster way to reset is to ac-

celerate the vehicle and then push the

lever down in the “− SET” direction.

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Ignition switch, Transmission and Parking brake for Your Toyota Rav4 SUV Third Generation (2006-2012)

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