2022 Toyota Avalon Hybrid Steps to take in an emergency 

Even though our lives are getting busier, problems can sometimes catch us by surprise, so it’s important to have a plan for how to handle them. Knowing the basics of what to do in an emergency with your 2022 Toyota Avalon Hybrid can make a big difference in your safety and the safety of other people on the road. Whether you need to deal with a sudden breakdown, a flat tire, or an accident, you need to be ready with a clear plan of action and know how to use your car’s safety features effectively. In this detailed guide, we’ll go over the most important steps to take in different kinds of emergencies. This will give you the knowledge and confidence to handle these situations and make sure that you and your Avalon Hybrid are safe. Whether you’ve been driving for a long time or are new to hybrid cars, these tips will help you handle problems calmly and quickly. This will make your trips safer and more secure. 

If your vehicle needs to be towed

If towing is necessary, we recommend having your vehicle towed by your Toyota dealer or commercial towing service, using a wheel-lift type truck or flatbed truck. Use a safety chain system for all towing, and abide by all state/ provincial and local laws.

WARNING

• Observe the following precautions.
• Failure to do so may result in death or serious injury.

When towing the vehicle

• Be sure to transport the vehicle with the front wheels raised or with all four wheels raised off the ground. If the vehicle is towed with the front wheels contacting the ground, the drivetrain and related parts may be damaged or electricity generated by the operation of the motor may cause a fire to occur depending on the nature of the damage or malfunction.
• While towing
• When towing using cables or chains, avoid sudden starts, etc. which place excessive stress on the towing eyelets, cables or chains. The towing eyelets, cables or chains may become damaged, broken debris may hit people, and cause serious damage.
• Do not turn the power switch off.
• There is a possibility that the steering wheel is locked and cannot be operated.

NOTICE

• To prevent damage to the vehicle when towing using a wheel-lift type truck
• Do not tow the vehicle from the rear when the engine switch is off. The steering lock mechanism is not strong enough to hold the front wheels straight.
• When raising the vehicle, ensure adequate ground clearance for towing at the opposite end of the raised vehicle. Without adequate clearance, the vehicle could be damaged while being towed.
• To prevent damage to the vehicle when towing with a sling-type truck
• Do not tow with a sling-type truck, either from the front or rear.
• To prevent damage to the vehicle during emergency towing
• Do not secure cables or chains to the suspension components.
• Recreational towing (behind motor home, etc.) (AWD models)
• Never dinghy tow your vehicle to prevent causing serious damage to the Dynamic Torque Control AWD system and transmission 

Situations when it is necessary to contact dealers before towing

The following may indicate a problem with your transmission. Contact your Toyota dealer or commercial towing service before towing.

• The engine is running but the vehicle does not move.
• The vehicle makes an abnormal sound.

Towing with a wheel-lift type truck

From the front
 Release the parking brake. Turn automatic mode off. p 216 

From the rear
Use a towing dolly under the front wheels.

NOTICE

Towing with a sling-type truck

Do not tow with a sling-type truck to prevent body damage.

 

If you think something is wrong

If you notice any of the following symptoms, your vehicle probably needs adjustment or repair. Contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible.

Visible Symptoms

• Fluid leaks under the vehicle.
  (Water dripping from the air conditioning after use is normal.)
• Flat-looking tires or uneven tire wear
• Engine coolant temperature gauge needle continually points higher than normal.

Audible symptoms

• Changes in exhaust sound
• Excessive tire squeal when cornering
• Strange noises related to the suspension system
• Pinging or other noises related to the engine

Operational symptoms

• Engine missing, stumbling or running roughly
• Appreciable loss of power
• Vehicle pulls heavily to one side when braking
• Vehicle pulls heavily to one side when driving on a level road
• Loss of brake effectiveness, spongy feeling, pedal almost touches the floor

If a warning light turns on or a warning buzzer sounds

Calmly perform the following actions if any of the warning lights comes on or flash. If a light comes on or flashes, but then goes off, this does not necessarily indicate a malfunction in the system. However, if this continues to occur, have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer.

Warning light and warning buzzer list

• This light illuminates on the multi-information display.
• Parking brake engaged warning buzzer: A buzzer will sound if the vehicle is driven at a speed of approximately 3 mph (5 km/h) or more.
• Vehicles with 215/55R17 tires
• Driver’s seat belt buzzer:
  • The driver’s seat belt warning buzzer sounds to alert the driver that his or her seat belt is not fastened. Once the engine switch is turned to IGNITION ON mode, the buzzer sounds. If the seat belt is still unfastened, the buzzer sounds intermittently for a certain period of time after the vehicle reaches a certain speed. Front passenger’s seat belt buzzer: The front passenger’s seat belt warning buzzer sounds to alert the front passenger that his or her seat belt is not fastened. If the seat belt is unfastened, the buzzer sounds intermittently for a certain period of time after the vehicle reaches a certain speed.
• Rear passenger’s seat belt buzzer:
  • The rear passengers’ seat belt warning buzzer sounds to alert the rear passenger that his or her seat belt is not fastened. If the seat belt is unfastened, the buzzer sounds intermittently for a certain period of time, after the seat belt is fastened and unfastened and the vehicle reaches a certain speed.

SRS warning light

This warning light system monitors the airbag sensor assembly, front impact sensors, side impact sensors (front door), side impact sensors (front), side impact sensors (rear), driver’s seat position sensor, driver’s seat belt buckle switch, front passenger occupant classification system (ECU and sensors), “AIR BAG ON” indicator light, “AIR BAG OFF” indicator light, seat belt pretensioners, airbags, interconnecting wiring and power sources. 

Front passenger detection sensor, seat belt reminder and warning buzzer

• If luggage is placed on the front passenger seat, the front passenger detection sensor may cause the warning light to flash and the warning buzzer to sound even if a passenger is not sitting in the seat.
• If a cushion is placed on the seat, the sensor may not detect a passenger, and the warning light may not operate properly.

If the malfunction indicator lamp comes on while driving First check the following:

• Is the fuel tank empty? If it is, fill the fuel tank immediately.
• Is the fuel tank cap loose? If it is, tighten it securely. The light will go off after several driving trips. If the light does not go off even after several trips, contact your Toyota dealer as soon as possible

Electric power steering system warning light (warning buzzer)

• When the battery charge becomes insufficient or the voltage temporarily drops, the electric power steering system warning light may come on and the warning buzzer may sound.

When the tire pressure warning light comes on

• Inspect the tires to check if a tire is punctured.
• If a tire is punctured:
• If none of the tires are punctured:
• Turn the engine switch off then turn it to IGNITION ON mode.
• Check if the tire pressure warning light comes on or blinks.

If the tire pressure warning light comes on

• After the temperature of the tires has lowered sufficiently, check the inflation pressure of each tire and adjust them to the specified level.
• If the warning light does not turn off even after several minutes have elapsed, check that the inflation pressure of each tire is at the specified level and perform initialization.
• If the warning light does not turn off several minutes after the initialization has been performed, have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

If the tire pressure warning light blinks for 1 minute then stays on

• There may be a malfunction in the tire pressure warning system. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.
• The tire pressure warning light may come on due to natural causes The tire pressure warning light may come on due to natural causes such as natural air leaks and tire inflation pressure changes caused by temperature. In this case, adjusting the tire inflation pressure will turn off the warning light (after a few minutes).
• When a tire is replaced with a spare tire The compact spare tire is not equipped with a tire pressure warning valve and transmitter. If a tire goes flat, the tire pressure warning light will not turn off even though the flat tire has been replaced with the spare tire. Replace the spare tire with the repaired tire and adjust the tire inflation pressure. The tire pressure warning light will go off after a few minutes.

Conditions that the tire pressure warning system may not function properly

Warning buzzer

• In some cases, the buzzer may not be heard because of noisy place or an audio sound.

WARNING

• If both the ABS and the brake system warning lights remain on Stop your vehicle in a safe place immediately and contact your Toyota dealer. The vehicle will become extremely unstable during braking, and the ABS system may fail, which could cause an accident resulting in death or serious injury.
• When the electric power steering system warning light comes on When the light comes on yellow, the assist to the power steering is restricted. When the light comes on red, the assist to the power steering is lost and handling operations of the steering wheel become extremely heavy. When steering wheel operations are heavier than usual, grip the steering wheel firmly and operate it using more force than usual.
• If the tire pressure warning light comes on
• Be sure to observe the following precautions. Failure to do so could cause a loss of vehicle control and result in death or serious injury.
• Stop your vehicle in a safe place as soon as possible. Adjust the tire inflation pressure immediately.
• 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 a tire is flat, change it with the spare tire and have the flat tire repaired by the nearest Toyota dealer.
• Avoid abrupt maneuvering and braking.
• If the vehicle tires deteriorate, you could lose control of the steering wheel or the brakes.
• If a blowout or sudden air leakage should occur
• The tire pressure warning system may not activate immediately.

WARNING

Maintenance of the tires

Each tire, including the spare (if provided), 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 inflation pressure for those tires.) As an added safety feature, your vehicle has been equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS-tire pressure warning system) that illuminates 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 pressure warning light) illuminates, you should stop and check your tires as soon as possible, and inflate them to the proper pressure. Driving on a significantly underinflated tire causes the tire to overheat and can lead to tire failure. Under-inflation also reduces fuel efficiency and tire tread life, and may affect the vehicle’s handling and stopping ability. Please note that the TPMS (tire pressure warning system) is not a substitute 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). Your vehicle has also been equipped with a TPMS (tire pressure warning system) malfunction indicator to indicate when the system is not operating properly. The TPMS (tire pressure warning system) malfunction indicator is combined with the low tire pressure telltale (tire pressure warning light). When the system detects a malfunction, the telltale will flash for approximately one minute and then remain continuously illuminated. This sequence will continue upon subsequent vehicle start-ups as long as the malfunction exists. When the malfunction indicator is illuminated, the system may not be able to detect or signal low tire pressure as intended. TPMS (tire pressure warning system) malfunctions may occur for a variety of reasons, including the installation of replacement or alternate tires or wheels on the vehicle that prevent the TPMS (tire pressure warning system) from functioning properly. Always check the TPMS (tire pressure warning system) malfunction telltale after replacing one or more tires or wheels on your vehicle to ensure that the replacement or alternate tires and wheels allow the TPMS (tire pressure warning system) to continue to function properly.

NOTICE

• To ensure the tire pressure warning system operates properly
• Do not install tires with different specifications or makers, as the tire pressure warning system may not operate properly.

If a warning message is displayed

The multi-information display shows warnings of system malfunctions, incorrectly performed operations, and messages that indicate a need for maintenance. When a message is shown, perform the correction procedure appropriate to the message.

• Master warning light The master warning light also comes on or flashes in order to indicate that a message is currently being displayed on the multi-information display.
• Multi-information display Follow the instructions of the message on the multi-information display.
• Handling method

 Messages and warnings

The warning lights and warning buzzers operate as follows depending on the content of the message. If a message indicates the need for inspection by a dealer, have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

 

Warning messages
The warning messages explained below may differ from the actual messages according to operation conditions and vehicle specifications.

System warning lights

• The master warning light does not come on or flash in the following cases. Instead, a separate system warning light will come on along with a message shown on the multi-information display.
• Malfunction in the ABS The ABS warning light comes on
• Malfunction in the tire pressure warning system The tire pressure warning light comes on.
• Remaining fuel level is low The low fuel level warning light comes on.

If a message instructing to refer to the Owner’s Manual is displayed

If the following messages are shown, there may be a malfunction. Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and contact your Toyota dealer. Continuing to drive the vehicle may be dangerous.

• “Low Braking Power Stop in a Safe Place See Owner’s Manual”
• “Oil Pressure Low Stop in a Safe Place See Owner’s Manual”
• “Charging System Malfunction Stop in a Safe Place See Owner’s Manual”

•  “Hybrid System Malfunction”
•  “Check Engine”
•  “Hybrid Battery System Malfunction”
•  “Accelerator System Malfunction”
•  “Smart Key System Malfunction”

If “Engine Coolant Temp High Stop in a Safe Place See Owner’s Manual” isdisplayed, follow the instructions accordingly.

If “Maintenance Required for Traction Battery Cooling Parts See Owner’sManual” is displayed, follow the instructions accordingly.

If “Hybrid System Overheated Output Power Reduced” is shown

This message may be displayed when driving under severe operating conditions. (For example, when driving up a long steep hill.)

Handling method:

If “Maintenance Required for Traction Battery Cooling Parts See Owner’s Manual” is shown

• The filter may be clogged, the air intake vent may be blocked or there may be a gap in the duct.
• If the air intake vent or filter is dirty for cleaning the air intake vent and filter.
• If the message is being displayed and the air intake vent and filter are not dirty, have the vehicle inspected at your Toyota dealer.

If “Traction Battery Needs to be Protected Refrain From the Use of N Position” is shown

This message may be displayed when the shift lever is in N. As the hybrid battery (traction battery) cannot be charged when the shift lever is in N, shift the shift lever to P when the vehicle is stopped.

If “Traction Battery Needs to be Protected Shift into P to Restart” is shown

This message is displayed when the hybrid battery (traction battery) charge has become extremely low because the shift lever has been left in N for a certain amount of time. When operating the vehicle, shift to P and restart the hybrid system.

If “Shift to P Before Exiting Vehicle” is shown

Message is displayed when the driver’s door is opened without turning the power switch off with the shift lever in any position other than P. Shift the shift lever to P.

If “Shift Is in N Release Accelerator Before Shifting” is shown
The message is displayed when the accelerator pedal has been depressed and the shift lever is in N. Release the accelerator pedal and shift the shift lever to D or R.

If “Press Brake When Vehicle Is Stopped Hybrid System May Overheat” is shown

Message is displayed when the accelerator pedal is depressed to maintain the vehicle position when stopped on a upward slope, etc. If this continues, the hybrid system may overheat. Release the accelerator pedal and depress the brake pedal.

If “Auto Power Off to Conserve Battery” is displayed

Power was turned off due to the automatic power off function. Next time when starting the engine, increase the engine speed slightly and maintain that level for approximately 5 minutes to recharge the battery.

If “A New Key has been Registered Contact Your Dealer for Details” is displayed

This message will be displayed each time the driver’s door is opened when the doors are unlocked from the outside for approximately one week after a new electronic key has been registered. If this message is displayed but you have not had a new electronic key registered, ask your Toyota dealer to check if an unknown electronic key (other than those in your possession) has been registered.

When “Headlight System Malfunction Visit Your Dealer” is displayed

The following systems may be malfunctioning. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.

• The LED headlight system
• AHB (Automatic High Beam)

If “Radar Cruise Control Unavailable See Owner’s Manual” is shown
The dynamic radar cruise control with full-speed range system is suspended temporarily or until the problem shown in the message is resolved.

If “Radar Cruise Control Unavailable” is shown
The dynamic radar cruise control with full-speed range system cannot be used temporarily. Use the system when it becomes available again.

If a message that indicates the malfunction of front camera is displayed

The following systems may be suspended until the problem shown in the message is resolved.

• PCS (Pre-Collision System)
• LTA (Lane Tracing Assist)
• AHB (Automatic High Beam)
• RSA (Road Sign Assist) (if equipped)
• Dynamic radar cruise control with full-speed range

If a message that indicates the malfunction of radar sensor is displayed

The following systems may be suspended until the problem shown in the message is resolved.

• PCS (Pre-Collision System)
• LTA (Lane Tracing Assist)
• Dynamic radar cruise control with full-speed range (if equipped)

If “Maintenance Required Soon” is displayed

Indicates that all maintenance according to the driven distance on the maintenance schedule* should be performed soon. Comes on approximately 4500 miles (7200 km) after the message has been reset. If necessary, perform maintenance. Please reset the message after the maintenance is performed.*: Refer to the separate “Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or “Owner’s Manual Supplement” for the maintenance interval applicable to your vehicle.

If “Maintenance Required Visit Your Dealer” is displayed

Indicates that all maintenance is required to correspond to the driven distance on the maintenance schedule*. Comes on approximately 5000 miles (8000 km) after the message has been reset. (The indicator will not work properly unless the message has been reset.) Perform the necessary maintenance. Please reset the message after the maintenance is performed. (p 415) *: Refer to the separate “Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or “Owner’s Manual Supplement” for the maintenance interval applicable to your vehicle.

If “Engine Oil Level Low Add or Replace” is displayed

The engine oil level may be low. Check the level of the engine oil, and add engine oil if necessary. This message may be displayed if the vehicle is stopped on a slope. Move the vehicle to a level surface and check if the message disappears.

Warning buzzer

NOTICE

• If “High Power Consumption Power to Climate Temporarily Limited” is frequently shown
• There is a possible malfunction relating to the charging system or the 12- volt battery may be deteriorating. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer.
• If “Maintenance Required For Traction Battery At Your Dealer” is shown
• The hybrid battery (traction battery) is scheduled to be inspected or replaced. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer immediately.
• Continuing to drive the vehicle without having the hybrid battery (traction battery) inspected will cause the hybrid system not to start.
• If the hybrid system does not start, contact your Toyota dealer immediately.

If you have a flat tire

Your vehicle is equipped with a spare tire. The flat tire can be replaced with the spare tire. 

WARNING

• If you have a flat tire
• Do not continue driving with a flat tire.
• Driving even a short distance with a flat tire can damage the tire and the wheel beyond repair.
• Driving with a flat tire may cause a circumferential groove on the side wall.
• In such a case, the tire may explode when using the emergency tire puncture repair kit, resulting in death or serious injury.

Before repairing the vehicle

• Stop the vehicle in a safe place on a hard, flat surface.
• Set the parking brake.
• Shift the shift lever to P.
• Stop the engine.
• Turn on the emergency flashers. 

Location of the spare tire, jack and tools

1. Luggage floor cover
2. Wheel nut wrench
3. Jack
4. Spare tire
5. Jack handle

WARNING

• Using the tire jack Observe the following precautions. Improper use of the tire jack may cause the vehicle to suddenly fall off the jack, leading to death or serious injury.
• Do not use the tire jack for any purpose other than replacing tires or installing and removing tire chains.
• Only use the tire jack that comes with this vehicle for replacing a flat tire. Do not use it on other vehicles, and do not use other tire jacks for replacing tires on this vehicle.
• Put the jack properly in its jack point.
• Do not put any part of your body under the vehicle while it is supported by the jack.
• Do not start the engine or drive the vehicle while the vehicle is supported by the jack.
• Do not raise the vehicle while someone is inside.
• When raising the vehicle, do not put an object on or under the jack.
• Do not raise the vehicle to a height greater than that required to replace the tire.
• Use a jack stand if it is necessary to get under the vehicle.
• When lowering the vehicle, make sure that there is no-one near the vehicle. If there are people nearby, warn them vocally before lowering.

NOTICE

To prevent damage to the vehicle when using a jack When jacking up the rear of the vehicle, make sure not to position the jack under the bracket shown in the illustration near the rear jack point, as the vehicle body may be damaged.

Taking out the jack

1. 1. Lift up the hook of the luggage floor cover on the trunk floor.
   2. Secure the luggage floor cover using the hook provided.
   3. Remove the jack.

Taking out the spare tire

Lift up the hook of the luggage floor cover on the trunk floor.

Secure the luggage floor cover using the hook provided
Remove the tool tray.

Loosen the center fastener that secures the spare tire. When taking out or stowing the spare tire, make sure to firmly hold opposite end of the tire.

WARNING

When storing the spare tire Be careful not to catch fingers or other body parts between the spare tire and the body of the vehicle.

Replacing a flat tire

• Chock the tires.

Flat tire		Wheel chock positions
Front	Left-hand side	Behind the rear right-hand side tire
	Right-hand side	Behind the rear left-hand side tire
Rear	Left-hand side	In front of the front right-hand side tire
	Right-hand side	In front of the front left-hand side tire

• Slightly loosen the wheel nuts (one turn).
• Turn the tire jack portion “A” by hand until the notch of the jack is in contact with the jack point.
• Assemble the jack handle.
• Raise the vehicle until the tire is slightly raised off the ground.

 

• Remove all the wheel nuts and the tire.
• When resting the tire on the ground, place the tire so that the wheel design faces up to avoid scratching the wheel surface.

WARNING

Replacing a flat tire

• Do not touch the disc wheels or the area around the brakes immediately after the vehicle has been driven. After the vehicle has been driven the disc wheels and the area around the brakes will be extremely hot. Touching these areas with hands, feet or other body parts while changing a tire, etc. may result in burns.

Failure to follow these precautions could cause the wheel nuts to loosen and the tire to fall off, resulting in death or serious injury.

• Have the wheel nuts tightened with a torque wrench to 76 ft•lbf (103 N•m, 10.5 kgf•m) as soon as possible after changing wheels.
• Do not attach a heavily damaged wheel ornament, as it may fly off the wheel while the vehicle is moving.
• When installing a tire, only use wheel nuts that have been specifically designed for that wheel.
• If there are any cracks or deformations in the bolt screws, nut threads or bolt holes of the wheel, have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer.
• When installing the wheel nuts, be sure to install them with the tapered ends facing inward.

Installing the spare tire

• Remove any dirt or foreign matter from the wheel contact surface.
• Install the tire and loosely tighten each wheel nut by hand by approximately the same amount.
• Lower the vehicle.
• Firmly tighten each wheel nut two or three times in the order shown in the illustration.

 

• Tightening torque: 76 ft•lbf (103 N•m, 10.5 kgf•m)
• Stow the flat tire, tire jack and all tools.

The compact spare tire

• The compact spare tire is identified by the label “TEMPORARY USE ONLY” on the tire sidewall. Use the compact spare tire temporarily, and only in an emergency.
• Make sure to check the tire inflation pressure of the compact spare tire. 
• When using the compact spare tire As the compact spare tire is not equipped with a tire pressure warning valve and transmitter, low inflation pressure of the spare tire will not be indicated by the tire pressure warning system. Also, if you replace the compact spare tire after the tire pressure warning light comes on, the light remains on.
• When the compact spare tire is equipped When driving with the compact spare tire installed, the vehicle height will be different than when driving with standard tires.
• If you have a flat front tire on a road covered with snow or ice Install the compact spare tire on one of the rear wheels of the vehicle. Perform the following steps and fit tire chains to the front tires:
  • Replace a rear tire with the compact spare tire.
  • Replace the flat front tire with the tire removed from the rear of the vehicle.
  • Fit tire chains to the front tires.

WARNING

• When using the compact spare tire
• Remember that the compact spare tire provided is specifically designed for use with your vehicle. Do not use your compact spare tire on another vehicle.
• Do not use more than one compact spare tires simultaneously.
• Replace the compact spare tire with a standard tire as soon as possible.
• Avoid sudden acceleration, abrupt steering, sudden braking and shifting operations that cause sudden engine braking.
• When the compact spare tire is attached The vehicle speed may not be correctly detected, and the following systems may not operate correctly:
  • ABS & Brake assist
  • VSC
  • TRAC
  • EPS
  • AHB (Automatic High Beam)
  • Dynamic radar cruise control with full-speed range
  • LTA (Lane Tracing Assist)
  • PCS (Pre-Collision System)
  • Tire pressure warning system
  • BSM (Blind Spot Monitor)
  • Intuitive parking assist*
  • Intelligent Clearance Sonar (ICS)*
  • Rear view monitor system*
  • Toyota parking assist monitor
  • Panoramic view monitor*
  • Navigation system

Speed limit when using the compact spare tire

Do not drive at speeds in excess of 50 mph (80 km/h) when a compact spare tire is installed on the vehicle. The compact spare tire is not designed for driving at high speeds. Failure to observe this precaution may lead to an accident causing death or serious injury.

After using the tools and jack

Before driving, make sure all the tools and jack are securely in place in their storage location to reduce the possibility of personal injury during a collision or sudden braking.

NOTICE

• Be careful when driving over bumps with the compact spare tire installed on the vehicle. The vehicle becomes lower when driving with the compact spare tire compared to when driving with standard tires. Be careful when driving over uneven road surfaces.
• Driving with tire chains and the compact spare tire Do not fit tire chains to the compact spare tire. Tire chains may damage the vehicle body and adversely affect driving performance.
• When replacing the tires When removing or fitting the wheels, tires or the tire pressure warning valve and transmitter, contact your Toyota dealer as the tire pressure warning valve and transmitter may be damaged if not handled correctly.
• To avoid damage to the tire pressure warning valve and transmitters When a tire is repaired with liquid sealants, the tire pressure warning valve and transmitter may not operate properly. If a liquid sealant is used, contact your Toyota dealer or other qualified service shop as soon as possible. Make sure to replace the tire pressure warning valve and transmitter when replacing the tire. 

If the hybrid system will not start

Reasons for the hybrid system not starting vary depending on the situation. Check the following and perform the appropriate procedure: The hybrid system will not start even though the correct starting procedure is being followed. 

• One of the following may be the cause of the problem:
• The electronic key may not be functioning properly
• There may not be sufficient fuel in the vehicle’s tank. Refuel the vehicle.
• There may be a malfunction in the immobilizer system. 
• There may be a malfunction in the steering lock system.
• The hybrid system may be malfunctioning due to an electrical problem such as electronic key battery depletion or a blown fuse.
• However, depending on the type of malfunction, an interim measure is available to start the hybrid system.
• The temperature of the hybrid battery (traction battery) may be extremely low (below approximately -22°F [-30°C]).

The interior lights and headlights are dim, or the horn does not sound or sounds at a low volume

• One of the following may be the cause of the problem:
• The 12-volt battery may be discharged
• The 12-volt battery terminal connections may be loose or corroded.

The interior lights and headlights do not turn on, or the horn does not sound.

• One of the following may be the cause of the problem:
• The 12-volt battery may be discharged. 
• One or both of the 12-volt battery terminals may be disconnected.
• Contact your Toyota dealer if the problem cannot be repaired, or if repair procedures are unknown.

Emergency start function

• When the hybrid system does not start, the following steps can be used as an interim measure to start the hybrid system if the power switch is functioning normally.
• Do not use this starting procedure except in case of emergency.
• Set the parking brake.
• Shift the shift lever to P.
• Turn the power switch to ACCESSORY mode.
• Press and hold the power switch for about 15 seconds while depressing the brake pedal firmly.
• Even if the hybrid system can be started using the above steps, the system may be malfunctioning. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer.

If the electronic key does not operate properly

If communication between the electronic key and vehicle is interrupted or the electronic key cannot be used because the battery is depleted, the smart key system and wireless remote control cannot be used. In such cases, the doors and trunk can be opened and the hybrid system can be started by following the procedure below

Locking and unlocking the doors, unlocking the trunk and key linked functions

Doors
Using the mechanical key in order to perform the following operations (driver’s door only):

1. Locks all doors
2. Closes the windows and the moon roof*1 (turn and hold)*2
3. Unlocks the door
   • Turning the key rearward unlocks the driver’s door. Turning the key once again unlocks the other doors.
4. Opens the windows and the moon roof*1 (turn and hold)*2
   • If equipped
   • This setting must be customized at your Toyota dealer.

Trunk
Turn the mechanical key clockwise to open

Starting the engine

• Ensure that the shift lever is in P and firmly depress the brake pedal.
• Touch the Toyota emblem side of the electronic key to the engine switch.
• When the electronic key is detected, a buzzer sounds and the engine switch will turn to IGNITION ON mode. When the smart key system is deactivated in customization setting, the engine switch will turn to ACCESSORY mode.
• Firmly depress the brake pedal and check that is displayed on the multi-information display.
• Press the engine switch shortly and firmly.
• In the event that the engine still cannot be started, contact your Toyota dealer.

Stopping the hybrid system

Shift the shift lever to P and press the power switch as you normally do when stopping the hybrid system.

Replacing the key battery
As the above procedure is a temporary measure, it is recommended that the electronic key battery be replaced immediately when the battery is depleted. (P. 461)

Changing power switch modes
Release the brake pedal and press the power switch in step above. The hybrid system does not start and modes will be changed each time the switch is pressed. (P. 201)

When the electronic key does not work properly

Make sure that the smart key system has not been deactivated in the customization setting. If it is off, turn the function on.

(Customizable features: P. 548)
Check if battery-saving mode is set. If it is set, cancel the function. (P. 154)

WARNING

When using the mechanical key and operating the power windows or moon roof Operate the power window or moon roof after checking to make sure that there is no possibility of any passenger having any of their body parts caught in the window or moon roof. Also, do not allow children to operate the mechanical key. It is possible for children and other passengers to get caught in the power window or moon roof.

If the 12-volt battery is discharged

The following procedures may be used to start the engine if the vehicle’s battery is discharged. You can also call your Toyota dealer or a qualified repair shop. If you have a set of jumper (or booster) cables and a second vehicle with a 12-volt battery, you can jump start your vehicle by following the steps below

1. Confirm that the electronic key is being carried. When connecting the jumper (or booster) cables, depending on the situation, the alarm may activate and doors locked. (P. 90)
2. Open the hood and remove the fuse box cover. Push the tabs in and lift the lid off.
3. Open the exclusive jump starting terminal cover.
4. Connect the jumper cables according to the following procedure:

• Connect a positive jumper cable clamp to the exclusive jump starting terminal on your vehicle.
• Connect the clamp on the other end of the positive cable to the positive (+) battery terminal on the second vehicle.
• Connect a negative cable clamp to the negative (-) battery terminal on the second vehicle.
• Connect the clamp at the other end of the negative cable to a solid, stationary, unpainted metallic point away from the exclusive jump starting terminal and any moving parts, as shown in the illustration.
• Start the engine of the second vehicle. Increase the engine speed slightly and maintain at that level for approximately 5 minutes to recharge the 12-volt battery of your vehicle.
• Open and close any of the doors of your vehicle with the power switch off.
• Maintain the engine speed of the second vehicle and turn the power switch to ON mode, then start the vehicle’s engine.
• Make sure the “READY” indicator comes on. If the indicator does not come on, contact your Toyota dealer.
• Once the hybrid system has started, remove the jumper cables in the exact reverse order from which they were connected.
• Close the exclusive jump starting terminal cover, and reinstall the fuse box cover to its original position.
• Once the hybrid system starts, have the vehicle inspected at your Toyota dealer as soon as possible

When replacing the 12-volt battery

• Use a Central Degassing type 12-volt battery (European Regulations).
• Use a 12-volt battery that the case size is same as the previous one (LN2), 20 hour rate capacity (20HR) is equivalent (64Ah) or greater, and performance rating (CCA) is equivalent (356A) or greater.
  • If the sizes differ, the 12-volt battery cannot be properly secured.
  • If the 20 hour rate capacity is low, even if the time period where the vehicle is not used is a short time, the 12-volt battery may discharge and the hybrid system may not be able to start.
• Use a 12-volt battery with a handle. If a 12-volt battery without a handle is used, removal is more difficult. After replacing, firmly attach the following items to the exhaust hole of the 12- volt battery.
  •  Use the exhaust hose that was attached to the 12-volt battery before replacing and confirm that it is firmly connected to the hole section of the vehicle.
  •  Use the exhaust hole plug included with the 12-volt battery replaced or the one installed on the battery prior to the replacement. (Depending on the 12-volt battery to be replaced, the exhaust hole may be plugged.)

1. Exhaust hole plug
2. Exhaust hole
3. Exhaust hose
4. Hole section of the vehicle

For details, consult your Toyota dealer.

WARNING

When removing the 12-volt battery

When removing the 12-volt battery terminals

Always remove the negative (-) terminal first. If the positive (+) terminal contacts any metal in the surrounding area when the positive (+) terminal is removed, a spark may occur, leading to a fire in addition to electrical shocks and death or serious injury.

Avoiding 12-volt battery fires or explosions

Observe the following precautions to prevent accidentally igniting the flammable gas that may be emitted from the 12-volt battery:

• Make sure each jumper cable is connected to the correct terminal and that it is not unintentionally in contact with any other than the intended terminal.
• Do not allow the other end of the jumper cable connected to the “+” terminal to come into contact with any other parts or metal surfaces in the area, such as brackets or unpainted metal.
• Do not allow the + and – clamps of the jumper cables to come into contact with each other.
• Do not smoke, use matches, cigarette lighters or allow open flame near the 12-volt battery.

12-volt battery precautions

The 12-volt battery contains poisonous and corrosive acidic electrolyte, while related parts contain lead and lead compounds. Observe the following precautions when handling the 12-volt battery:

• When working with the 12-volt battery, always wear safety glasses and take care not to allow any battery fluids (acid) to come into contact with skin, clothing or the vehicle body.
• Do not lean over the 12-volt battery.
• In the event that battery fluid comes into contact with the skin or eyes, immediately wash the affected area with water and seek medical attention. Place a wet sponge or cloth over the affected area until medical attention can be received.
• Always wash your hands after handling the 12-volt battery support, terminals, and other 12-volt battery-related parts.
• Do not allow children near the 12-volt battery

After recharging the 12-volt battery

Have the 12-volt battery inspected at your Toyota dealer as soon as possible. If the 12-volt battery is deteriorating, continued use may cause the 12-volt battery to emit a malodorous gas, which may be detrimental to the health of passengers.

WARNING

When replacing the 12-volt battery
After replacing, securely attach the exhaust hose and exhaust hole plug to the exhaust hole of the replaced 12-volt battery. If not properly installed, gases (hydrogen) may leak into the vehicle interior, and there is the possible danger of the gas igniting and exploding.

NOTICE

When handling jumper cables
When connecting the jumper cables, ensure that they do not become entangled in the cooling fan or engine drive belt.

To prevent damaging the vehicle
The exclusive jump starting terminal is to be used when charging the 12-volt battery from another vehicle in an emergency. It cannot be used to jump start another vehicle.

If your vehicle overheats

• The following may indicate that your vehicle is overheating.
• The needle of the engine coolant temperature gauge (P. 98) enters the red zone or a loss of engine power is experienced. (For example, the vehicle speed does not increase.)
• “Engine Coolant Temp High Stop in a Safe Place See Owner’s Manual” is shown on the multi-information display.
• Steam comes out from under the hood.

Correction procedures

1. Stop the vehicle in a safe place and turn off the air conditioning system, and then stop the engine.
2.  If you see steam: Carefully lift the hood after the steam subsides. If you do not see steam: Carefully lift the hood.
3.  After the engine has cooled down sufficiently, inspect the hoses and radiator core (radiator) for any leaksRadiators
   1. Cooling fans
4. The coolant level is satisfactory if it is between the “F” and “L” lines on the reservoir. ReservoirReservoir
   • “FULL” line
   • “LOW” line
   • Radiator cap
     • 5 L 4-cylinder (A25A-FKS) engine
     • 5 L V6 (2GR-FKS) engine
5. Add coolant if necessary.
   • Water can be used in an emergency if engine coolant is unavailable.
     • 2.5 L 4-cylinder (A25A-FKS) engine
     • 3.5 L V6 (2GR-FKS) engine
6.  Start the engine and turn the air conditioning system on to check that the radiator cooling fan operates and to check for coolant leaks from the radiator or hoses.
7. If the fan is not operating:
   • Stop the engine immediately and contact your Toyota dealer.
   • If the fan is operating:
   • Have the vehicle inspected at the nearest Toyota dealer.

If “Hybrid System Overheated Output Power Reduced” is shown on the multi-information display

• Stop the vehicle in a safe place.
• Stop the hybrid system and carefully lift the hood.
• After the hybrid system has cooled down, inspect the hoses and radiator core (radiator) for any leaks.
  1. Radiator
  2. Cooling fan
• If a large amount of coolant leaks, immediately contact your Toyota dealer.
• The coolant level is satisfactory if it is between the “FULL” and “LOW” lines on the reservoir.
  1. Reservoir
  2. “FULL”
  3. “LOW”
• Add coolant if necessary.
  • Water can be used in an emergency if coolant is unavailable
• After stopping the hybrid system and waiting for 5 minutes or more, start the hybrid system again and check for the multi-information display.

If the message does not disappear:
Stop the hybrid system and contact your Toyota dealer.

If the message is not displayed:
The hybrid system temperature has dropped and the vehicle may be driven normally.

However, if the message appears again frequently, contact your Toyota dealer.

WARNING

• To prevent an accident or injury when inspecting under the hood of your vehicle
• Observe the following precautions.
• Failure to do so may result in serious injury such as burns.
• If steam is seen coming from under the hood, do not open the hood until the steam has subsided. The engine compartment may be very hot.
• After the hybrid system has been turned off, check that the “READY” indicator is off. When the hybrid system is operating, the gasoline engine may automatically start, or the cooling fan may suddenly operate even if the gasoline engine stops. Do not touch or approach rotating parts such as the fan, which may lead to fingers or clothing (especially a tie, a scarf or a muffler) getting caught, resulting in serious injury.
• Do not loosen the radiator cap and the coolant reservoir cap while the hybrid system and radiator are hot. High temperature steam or coolant could spray out.

NOTICE

• When adding engine/power control unit coolant
• Wait until the hybrid system has cooled down before adding engine/power control unit coolant.
• When adding coolant, do so slowly. Adding cool coolant to a hot hybrid system too quickly can cause damage to the hybrid system.
• To prevent damage to the cooling system
• Observe the following precautions:
• Avoid contaminating the coolant with foreign matter (such as sand or dust etc.).
• Do not use any coolant additives

If the vehicle becomes stuck

1. Stop the hybrid system. Set the parking brake and shift the shift lever to P.
2. Remove the mud, snow or sand from around the front wheels.
3. Place wood, stones or some other material under the front wheels to help provide traction.
4. Restart the hybrid system.
5. Shift the shift lever to D or R and release the parking brake. Then, while exercising caution, depress the accelerator pedal

When it is difficult to free the vehicle
Press to turn off TRAC

WARNING

• When attempting to free a stuck vehicle
  If you choose to push the vehicle back and forth to free it, make sure the surrounding area is clear to avoid striking other vehicles, objects or people. The vehicle may also lunge forward or lunge back suddenly as it becomes free. Use extreme caution.
• When shifting the shift lever
  Be careful not to shift the shift lever with the accelerator pedal depressed. This may lead to unexpected rapid acceleration of the vehicle that may cause an accident resulting in death or serious injury.

NOTICE

•  To avoid damaging the transmission and other components
  • Avoid spinning the wheels and depressing the accelerator pedal more than necessary.
  • If the vehicle remains stuck even after these procedures are performed, the vehicle may require towing to be freed.
  • When a warning message for the automatic transmission fluid temperature is displayed while attempting to free a stuck vehicle, immediately remove your foot from the accelerator pedal and wait until the warning message disappears. Otherwise, the transmission may become damaged.  

FAQ