OM42570U

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Foreword
Welcome to the growing group of value- conscious people who drive Toyotas. We are proud of the advanced engineering and
quality construction of each vehicle we build.
This Owners Manual explains the operation of your new Toyota. Please read it thoroughly and have all the occupants
follow the instructions carefully. Doing so will help you enjoy many years of safe and trouble- free motoring. For
important information about this manual and your Toyota, read the following pages carefully.
When it comes to service, remember that your Toyota dealer knows your vehicle very well and is interested in your complete
satisfaction. Your Toyota dealer will provide quality maintenance and any other assistance you may require.
If there is not a Toyota dealer near you, or you need emergency assistance for any reason, please call the following number:
U.S. OWNERS: Toyota Customer Assistance Center Toll- free: 1- 800- 331- 4331
CANADIAN OWNERS: Toyota Canada Customer Interaction Centre Toll- free: 1- 888- TOYOTA- 8 (1- 888- 869- 6828)
Please leave this Owners Manual in this vehicle at the time of resale. The next owner will need this information also.
All information and specifications in this manual are current at the time of printing. However, because of Toyotas policy of
continual product improvement, we reserve the right to make changes at any time without notice.
Please note that this manual applies to all models and explains all equipment, including options. Therefore, you may
find some explanations for equipment not installed on your vehicle.
2004 TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION

All rights reserved. This material may not be reproduced or copied, in whole or in part, without the written permission of Toyota
Motor Corporation.
2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Important information about this manual
Safety and vehicle damage warnings Safety symbol

Throughout this manual, you will see safety and vehicle dam-
age warnings. You must follow these warnings carefully to
avoid possible injury or damage.
The types of warnings, what they look like, and how they are
used in this manual are explained as follows:
CAUTION
This is a warning against anything which may cause

injury to people if the warning is ignored. You are
informed about what you must or must not do in
order to reduce the risk of injury to yourself and
others.
When you see the safety symbol
shown above, it means: Do not...;
NOTICE Do not do this; or Do not let this
happen.
This is a warning against anything which may cause
damage to the vehicle or its equipment if the warning
is ignored. You are informed about what you must or
must not do in order to avoid or reduce the risk of
damage to your vehicle and its equipment.
ii

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Important information about your Toyota
Occupant restraint systems The purpose of all occupant restraint systems is to help
reduce the possibility of death or serious injury in the
Toyota encourages you and your family to take the time to event of a collision. None of these systems, either individ-
read Section 1- 3 of this Owners Manual carefully. In ually or together, can ensure that there is no injury in the
terms of helping you understand how you can receive the event of collision. However, the more you know about
maximum benefit of the occupant restraint systems this these systems and how to use them properly, the greater
vehicle provides, Section 1- 3 of this Owners Manual is your chances become of surviving an accident without
the most important Section for you and your family to death or serious injury.
read. Seat belts provide the primary restraint to all occupants of
Section 1- 3 describes the function and operation concern- the vehicle, and every occupant of the vehicle should wear
ing seats, seat belts, SRS airbags and child restraint sys- seat belts properly at all times. Children should always be
tems of this vehicle and some potential hazards you secured in child restraint systems that are appropriate for
should be aware of. These systems work together along their age and size. SRS (Supplemental Restraint System)
with the overall structure of this vehicle in order to provide airbags are, as their names imply, designed to work with,
occupant restraint in the event of a crash. The effect of and be supplemental to, seat belts and are not substitutes
each system is enhanced when it is used properly and for them. SRS airbags can be very effective in reducing
together with other systems. No single occupant restraint the risk of head and chest injuries by preventing contact of
system can, by itself, provide you or your family with the the head and chest with interior portions of the vehicle.
equal level of restraint which these systems can provide
when used together. That is why it is important for you and
your family to understand the purpose and proper use of
each of these systems and how they relate to each other.
iii

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
In order to be effective, the SRS airbags must deploy with Event data recorder
tremendous speed. The rapid deployment of the SRS air-
bags makes the SRS airbags themselves potential sources Your vehicle has computers that monitor and control cer-
of serious injury if an occupant is too close to an airbag, tain aspects of your vehicle. These computers assist in
or if an object or some part of his or her body has been driving and maintaining optimal vehicle performance. Be-
placed between the occupant and the airbag at the time of sides storing data useful for troubleshooting, there is a
deployment. This is just one example of how the instruc- system to record data in a crash or a near car crash
tions in Section 1- 3 of this Owners Manual will help en- event. This is called an Event Data Recorder (EDR).
sure proper use of the occupant restraint systems, and
The SRS airbag sensor assembly contains the EDR. In a
increase the safety they can provide to you and your fami-
crash or a near car crash event, this device records some
ly in the event of an accident.
or all of the following information:
Toyota recommends you to read the provisions in Section
Engine speed
1- 3 carefully and refer to them as needed during your time
Whether the brake pedal was applied or not
of ownership of this vehicle.
Vehicle speed
To what extent the accelerator pedal was depressed
Position of the transmission selector lever
Whether the driver and front passenger wore the seat
belts or not
Drivers seat position
Front passengers occupant classification
SRS airbag deployment data
iv

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SRS airbag system diagnostic data New vehicle warranty

The information above is intended to be used for the
purpose of improving vehicle safety performance. Unlike Your new vehicle is covered by the following Toyota limited
general data recorders, the EDR does not record sound warranties:
data such as conversation between passengers. New vehicle warranty
Toyota will not disclose the data recorded in an EDR to a Emission control systems warranty
third party except when: Others
An agreement from the vehicles owner (or the leas- For further information, please refer to the Owners
ing company for a leased vehicle) is obtained Warranty Information Booklet or Owners Manual
Officially requested by the police or other authorities Supplement.
Used as a defense for Toyota in a law suit
Ordered by the court
However, if necessary Toyota will:
Your responsibility for
Use the data for research on Toyota vehicle safety
performance maintenance
Disclose the data to a third party for research pur-
It is the owners responsibility to make sure that the speci-
poses without disclosing details of the vehicle owner,
fied maintenance is performed. Section 6 gives details of
and only when it is deemed necessary
these maintenance requirements. Also included in Section
Disclose summarized data cleared of vehicle identifi-
6 is general maintenance. For scheduled maintenance in-
cation information to a non- Toyota organization for
formation, please refer to the Scheduled Maintenance
research purposes
Guide or Owners Manual Supplement.

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Important health and safety Accessories, spare parts and

information about your Toyota modification of your Toyota
A wide variety of non- genuine spare parts and accessories
CAUTION for Toyota vehicles are currently available in the market.
You should know that Toyota does not warrant these prod-
WARNING: Engine exhaust, some of its constitu-
ents, and a wide variety of automobile compo- ucts and is not responsible for their performance, repair, or
nents contain or emit chemicals known to the replacement, or for any damage they may cause to, or
State of California to cause cancer and birth de- adverse effect they may have on, your Toyota vehicle.
fects and other reproductive harm. In addition, This vehicle should not be modified with non- genuine
oils, fuels and fluids contained in vehicles as
Toyota products. Modification with non- genuine Toyota
well as waste produced by component wear con-
tain or emit chemicals known to the State of products could affect its performance, safety or durability,
California to cause cancer and birth defects or and may even violate governmental regulations. In addi-
other reproductive harm. tion, damage or performance problems resulting from the
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories modification may not be covered under warranty.
contain lead and lead compounds. Wash your
hands after handling. Used engine oil contains
chemicals that have caused cancer in laboratory
animals. Always protect your skin by washing
thoroughly with soap and water.
vi

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Spark ignition system of your Tires and loading on your

Toyota Toyota
The spark ignition system in your Toyota meets all require- Underinflated or overinflated tire pressure and the
ments of the Canadian Interference- Causing Equipment excess load may result in the deterioration of
Standard. steering ability and braking ability, leading to an
accident. Check the tire inflation pressure periodi-
cally and be sure to keep the load limits given in
this Owners Manual. For details about tire inflation
Installation of a mobile pressure and load limits, see pages 291 and 221.
two- way radio system
As the installation of a mobile two- way radio system in
your vehicle could affect electronic systems such as multi-
port fuel injection system/sequential multiport fuel injection
system, electronic throttle control system, cruise control
system, anti- lock brake system, traction control system,
vehicle stability control system, SRS airbag system and
seat belt pretensioner system, be sure to check with your
Toyota dealer for precautionary measures or special in-
structions regarding installation.
vii

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Scrapping of your Toyota On- pavement and off- road

The SRS airbag and seat belt pretensioner devices in your
driving tips
Toyota contain explosive chemicals. If the vehicle is
This vehicle belongs to the utility vehicle class. Utility
scrapped with the airbags and pretensioners left as they
vehicles have a significantly higher rollover rate than other
are, this may cause an accident such as fire. Be sure to
types of vehicles. This vehicle will handle and maneuver
have the systems of the SRS airbag and seat belt preten-
differently from an ordinary passenger car because it is
sioner removed and disposed of by the qualified service
designed for off- road use also. In addition, this vehicle
shop or by your Toyota dealer before you dispose of your
has a higher ground clearance and center of gravity than
vehicle.
that of an ordinary passenger car. This vehicle design
feature causes this type of vehicle to be more likely to
rollover. Failure to operate this vehicle correctly may result
in loss of control, accidents or vehicle rollover causing
death or serious injury. Be sure to read Off- road vehicle
precautions on page 198 in Section 2 and Off- road
driving precautions on page 230 in Section 3.
viii

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 1- 1
OPERATION OF INSTRUMENTS AND
CONTROLS
Overview of instruments and controls
Instrument panel overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Instrument cluster overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Indicator symbols on the instrument panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Instrument panel overview

1. Side defroster outlets
2. Side vents
3. Instrument cluster
4. Center vents
5. Garage door opener, garage door
opener box or auxiliary box
6. Electric moon roof switch and personal
light
7. Glove box
8. Power door lock switches
9. Power window switches
10. Automatic transmission selector lever
or manual transmission gear shift lever
11. Parking brake lever
12. Cup holders
13. Ashtray
14. Power outlet
15. Auxiliary box
16. Hood lock release lever
17. Window lock switch

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
1. Power rear view mirror control switches

2. Instrument panel light control knob
3. Engine immobilizer system indicator
light
4. Headlight, turn signal and front fog
light switches
5. Wiper and washer switches
6. Rear window and outside rear view
mirror defogger switch
7. Audio system
8. Emergency flasher switch
9. Front passengers seat belt reminder
light
10. Clock display
11. Air conditioning controls
12. Cigarette lighter
13. Seat heater switches
14. Ashtray
15. Ignition switch
16. Cruise control switch
17. Tilt steering lock release lever
18. Audio remote control switches

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
19. TRAC OFF (traction control off)

switch
20. Tire pressure warning system reset
switch

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Instrument cluster overview
1. Speedometer 4. Fuel gauge 7. Odometer and two trip meters

2. Service reminder indicators and 5. Engine coolant temperature gauge
indicator lights 6. Trip meter reset knob
3. Tachometer

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Indicator symbols on the instrument panel
Low fuel level warning light1

or Brake system warning light1
or Anti- lock brake system warning light1

Drivers seat belt reminder light1
Open door warning light1

Front passengers seat belt reminder light1
SRS warning light1
Automatic transmission fluid temperature

Discharge warning light1
warning light1
Vehicle stability control system/traction control

Low engine oil pressure warning light1
system warning light1
Low tire pressure warning light1

or Malfunction indicator lamp1
Low windshield washer fluid level warning
light1

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
1: For details, see Service reminder indicators and warning

Engine oil replacement reminder light1 buzzers on page 109 in Section 1- 6.
2: If this light flashes, see Cruise control on page 135 in
Section 1- 7.
Headlight high beam indicator light
Turn signal indicator lights
Automatic transmission indicator lights
Overdrive- off indicator light
Slip indicator light
Traction control system off indicator light

(two- wheel drive models)
Cruise control indicator light2

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 1- 2
CONTROLS
Keys and Doors
Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Engine immobilizer system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Wireless remote control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Side doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Power windows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Back door . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Hood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Fuel tank cap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Electric moon roof . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Keys (without engine Keys (with engine immobilizer

immobilizer system) system)
Your vehicle is supplied with two kinds KEY NUMBER PLATE Your vehicle is supplied with two kinds
of keys. Your key number is shown on the plate. of keys.
1. Master keysThese keys work in ev- Keep the plate in a safe place such as 1. Master keys (black)These keys work
ery lock. your wallet, not in the vehicle. in every lock. Your Toyota dealer will
2. Sub keyThis key will not work in the If you should lose your keys or if you need one of them to make a new key
glove box. need additional keys, duplicates can be with a built- in transponder chip.
To protect items locked in the glove box made by a Toyota dealer using the key 2. Sub key (gray)This key will not work
when using valet parking, leave the sub number. in the glove box.
key with the attendant. We recommend writing down the key num-
Since the side doors can be locked with- ber and storing it in a safe place.
out a key, you should always carry a
spare key in case you accidentally lock
your keys inside the vehicle.
10

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
A transponder chip for engine immobilizer

system has been placed in the head of
the master and sub keys. These chips are
needed to enable the system to function
correctly, so be careful not to lose these
keys. If you make your own duplicate key,
you will not be able to cancel the system
or start the engine.
To protect items locked in the glove box
when using valet parking, leave the sub
key with the attendant.
Since the side doors can be locked with-
out a key, you should always carry a
spare key in case you accidentally lock
your keys inside the vehicle. NOTICE When starting the engine, do not
use the key with other transponder
When using a key containing a trans-
keys around (including keys of oth-
ponder chip, observe the following er vehicles) and do not press other
precautions:
key plates against the key grip.
When starting the engine, do not Otherwise the engine may not start,
use the key with a key ring resting or may stop soon after it starts. If
on the key grip and do not press this happens, remove the key once
the key ring against the key grip. and then insert it again after remov-
Otherwise the engine may not start, ing other transponder keys (includ-
or may stop soon after it starts. ing keys of other vehicles) from the
ring or while gripping or covering
them with your hand to start the
engine.
11

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Do not cover the key grip with any

material that cuts off electromagnet-
ic waves.
Do not knock the key hard against
other objects.
Do not leave the key exposed to
high temperatures for a long period,
such as on the dashboard and hood
under direct sunlight.
Do not put the key in water or
wash it in an ultrasonic washer.
Do not use the key with electromag-
netic materials. KEY NUMBER PLATE
Do not bend the key grip.
Your key number is shown on the plate.
Keep the plate in a safe place such as
your wallet, not in the vehicle.
If you should lose your keys or if you
need additional keys, duplicates can be
made by a Toyota dealer using the key
number.
We recommend writing down the key num-
ber and storing it in a safe place.
12

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Engine immobilizer system

For your Toyota dealer to make you a
new key with built- in transponder chip,
your dealer will need your key number
and master key. However, there is a limit
to the number of additional keys your
Toyota dealer can make for you.
If you make your own duplicate key,
you will not be able to cancel the sys-
tem or start the engine.
NOTICE
Do not modify, remove or disas-
semble the engine immobilizer sys-
The engine immobilizer system is a The system is automatically set when the tem. If any unauthorized changes or
theft prevention system. When you in- key is removed from the ignition switch. modifications are made, proper opera-
sert the key in the ignition switch, the The indicator light will start flashing to tion of the system cannot be guaran-
transponder chip in the keys head show the system is set. teed.
transmits an electronic code to the ve- In the following cases, contact your Toyota
hicle. The engine will start only when dealer.
the electronic code in the chip corre-
sponds to the registered ID code for The indicator light stays on.
the vehicle. The indicator light does not start flash-
ing when the key is removed from the
ignition switch.
The indicator light flashes inconsistent-
ly.
Inserting the registered key in the ignition
switch automatically cancels the system,
which enables the engine to start. The
indicator light will go off.
13

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Wireless remote control

For vehicles sold in U.S.A. The wireless remote control transmitter is
an electronic component. Observe the fol-
This device complies with Part 15 of the lowing instructions in order not to cause
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the damage to the transmitter.
following two conditions: Do not leave the transmitter in places
(1) This device may not cause harmful where the temperature becomes high
interference, and (2) this device must such as on the dashboard.
accept any interference received, includ- Do not disassemble it.
ing interference that may cause unde-
sired operation. Avoid knocking it hard against other
objects or dropping it.
Avoid putting it in water.
CAUTION You can use up to 4 wireless remote con-
trol transmitters for the same vehicle.
Changes or modifications not ex- 1. LOCK switch
Contact your Toyota dealer for detailed
pressly approved by the party respon- 2. UNLOCK switch information.
sible for compliance could void the 3. PANIC switch If the wireless remote control transmitter
users authority to operate the equip-
The wireless remote control system is does not actuate the side doors and back
ment.
designed to lock or unlock all the side door or alarm, or operate from a normal
doors and back door or activate the distance:
For vehicles sold in Canada PANIC mode from a distance within Check for closeness to a radio trans-
approximately 1 m (3 ft.) of the vehicle. mitter such as a radio station or an
This device complies with RSS- 210 of
When you operate any switch, push it airport which can interfere with normal
industry Canada. Operation is subject to operation of the transmitter.
slowly and securely.
the following two conditions:
(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.
14

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
The battery may have been consumed.

Check the battery in the transmitter. To NOTICE: Reorient or relocate the receiving an-
replace the battery, see Replacing This equipment has been tested and tenna.
transmitter battery on page 17. found to comply with the limits for a Increase the separation between the
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part equipment and receiver.
If you lose your transmitter, contact your
15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
Toyota dealer as soon as possible to
designed to provide reasonable protec- Connect the equipment into an outlet
avoid the possibility of theft, or an acci- tion against harmful interference in a on a circuit different from that to
dent. (See If you lose your wireless re- which the receiver is connected.
residential installation. This equipment
mote control transmitter on page 263 in
generates, uses and can radiate radio Consult the dealer or an experienced
Section 4.) frequency energy and, if not installed radio/TV technician for help.
For vehicles sold in U.S.A. and used in accordance with the instruc- FCC WARNING:
tions, may cause harmful interference to Changes or modifications not ex-
This device complies with Part 15 of the radio communications. However, there pressly approved by the party respon-
FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the is no guarantee that interference will not sible for compliance could void the
following two conditions: occur in a particular installation. If this users authority to operate the equip-
(1) This device may not cause harmful equipment does cause harmful interfer- ment.
interference, and (2) this device must ence to radio or television reception,
accept any interference received, includ- which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is en- For vehicles sold in Canada
ing interference that may cause unde-
sired operation. couraged to try to correct the interfer-
ence by one or more of the following Operation is subject to the following two
measures: conditions:
(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.
15

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Locking and unlocking

doors
To lock and unlock all the side doors When all the side doors and back door
and back door, push the switches of are unlocked simultaneously using a wire-
the transmitter slowly and securely. less remote control transmitter, the interior
To lock: Push the LOCK switch. All the lights and ignition switch light will come
side doors and back door are locked sion and remain on for about 15 seconds
multaneously. At this time one beep will before fading out. (For further information,
be heard, and the turn signal lights flash see Interior lights on page 100 and Igni-
once. tion switch light on page 102 in Section
1- 5.)
Check to see that all the side doors and
back door are securely locked. You have 30 seconds to open a door after
using the wireless remote unlock feature.
If any of the side doors or the back door If a door is not opened by then, all the
is not securely closed, locking cannot be side doors and back door will be automati-
performed by the LOCK switch and a cally locked again.
Locking operation
beep will sound continuously for 10 sec-
onds. However, if the key is in the ignition If the LOCK or UNLOCK switch is kept
switch, a beep will not sound. pressed in, the locking or unlocking opera-
tion is not repeated. Release the switch
To stop the beep, close all the side doors and then push again.
and back door securely or push the UN-
LOCK switch.
To unlock: Push the UNLOCK switch
once to unlock the drivers door alone.
Pushing the switch twice within 3 seconds
unlocks all the side doors and back door
simultaneously. Each time the UNLOCK
switch is pushed, two beeps will be heard,
and the turn signal lights flash twice.
Unlocking operation
16

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Replacing transmitter
Activating panic mode battery
The PANIC mode does not work when For replacement, use a CR2016 lithium
the ignition key is in the ON position. battery or equivalent.
CAUTION
Special care should be taken to pre-

vent small children from swallowing
the removed transmitter battery or
components.
NOTICE
During replacing the transmitter
Pushing the PANIC switch blows the battery, do not push the LOCK
horn intermittently and flashes the and UNLOCK switches many
headlights and tail lights. times.
The PANIC switch is used to deter ve- When replacing the transmitter bat-
hicle theft when you witness anyone at- tery, be careful not to lose the com-
tempting to break into or damage your ponents.
vehicle. Replace only with the same or
The alarm will last for one minute. To stop equivalent type recommended by a
alarm midway, do the following: Toyota dealer.
Push the PANIC switch once again. Dispose of used batteries according
to the local laws.
Unlock any of side door or back door
with the key or wireless remote control
transmitter. Replace the transmitter battery by follow-
ing these procedures:
Turn the ignition key from the LOCK
to ON position.
17

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
1. Using a coin or equivalent, open the 2. Remove the discharged transmitter bat- 3. Put in a new transmitter battery with
transmitter case. tery by ballpoint pen. positive (+) side up.
Insert the tip of ballpoint pen at the Close the transmitter case securely.
guide groove and lift as shown in the
above illustration. NOTICE
NOTICE Make sure the positive side and

negative side of the transmitter bat-
Do not bend the terminals. tery are faced correctly.
Do not replace the battery with wet
hands. Water may cause unexpected
rust.
Do not touch or move any compo-
nents inside the transmitter, or it
may interfere with proper operation.
18

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Side doors
When all the side doors and back door
Be careful not to bend the electrode are unlocked simultaneously using a key,
when inserting the transmitter bat- the interior lights and ignition switch light
tery and that dust or oils do not will come on and remain on for about 15
adhere to the transmitter case. seconds before fading out. (For further
Close the transmitter case securely. information, see Interior lights on page
100 and Ignition switch light on page
After replacing the battery, check that the 102 in Section 1- 5.)
transmitter operates properly. If the trans-
mitter still does not operate properly, con-
tact your Toyota dealer.
LOCKING AND UNLOCKING WITH KEY

Insert the key into the keyhole and turn
it.
To lock: Turn the key forward.
To unlock: Turn the key backward.
Vehicles with the power door lock sys-
tem
All the side doors and back door lock and
unlock simultaneously with either front
door. In the drivers door lock, turning the
key once will unlock the drivers door and
twice in succession will unlock all the side
doors and back door simultaneously.
19

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
LOCKING AND UNLOCKING WITH

POWER DOOR LOCK SWITCH
Push the switch.
To lock: Push the switch down on the
front side.
To unlock: Push the switch down on the
rear side.
Operating the switch simultaneously locks
or unlocks all the side doors and back
door.
Drivers side
LOCKING AND UNLOCKING WITH
INSIDE LOCK KNOB
Move the lock knob.
To lock: Push the knob forward.
To unlock: Pull the knob backward.
Closing the door with the lock knob in the
lock position will also lock the door. Be
careful not to lock your keys in the ve-
hicle.
Passengers side
20

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Power windows
CAUTION
Before driving, be sure that the doors

are closed and locked, especially
when small children are in the ve-
hicle. Along with the proper use of
seat belts, locking the doors helps
prevent the driver and passengers
from being thrown out from the ve-
hicle during an accident. It also helps
prevent the doors from being opened
unintentionally.
REAR DOOR CHILD- PROTECTORS The windows can be operated with the
Move the lock lever to the LOCK switch on each side door.
position as shown on the label. The power windows work when the ignition
When the child- protector is locked, you switch is in the ON position.
cannot open the rear door by the inside Key off operation: If the either front door
door handle. We recommend using this is closed, they work for 43 seconds even
feature whenever small children are in the after the ignition switch is turned off. They
vehicle. stop working when the either front door is
opened.
OPERATING THE DRIVERS WINDOW
Use the switch on the drivers door.
Normal operation: The window moves as
long as you hold the switch.
To open: Lightly push down the switch.
To close: Lightly pull up the switch.
21

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Jam protection function:

During automatic closing operation, the
window stops and opens half way if some- Window lock
switch
thing gets caught between the window and
window frame.
If the window receives a strong impact,
this function may work even if nothing is
caught.
CAUTION
Never try jamming any part of your

body to activate the jam protection
Automatic operation: Push the switch function intentionally. OPERATING THE PASSENGERS
completely down or pull it completely up, The jam protection function may WINDOWS
and then release it. The window will fully not work if something gets caught Use the switch on each passengers
open or close. To stop the window part- just before the window is fully door or the switches on the drivers
way, lightly move the switch in the oppo- closed. door that control each passengers win-
site direction and then release it. dow.
The window moves as long as you hold
the switch.
To open: Push down the switch.
To close: Pull up the switch.
If you push in the window lock switch on
the drivers door, the passengers windows
cannot be operated.
22

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
CAUTION Never leave anyone (particularly a

small child) alone in your vehicle,
To avoid serious personal injury, you especially with the ignition key still
must do the following. inserted. Otherwise, he/she could
Before you close the power win- use the power window switches and
dows, always make sure there is get trapped in a window. Unat-
nobody around the power windows. tended person (particularly a small
You must also make sure the child) can be involved in a serious
heads, hands and other parts of the accident.
bodies of all occupants are kept
completely inside the vehicle. If
someones neck, head or hands get
caught in a closing window, it
could result in a serious injury.
When anyone closes the power win-
dows, make sure he or she oper-
ates the windows safely.
When small children are in the ve-
hicle, never let them use the power
window switches without supervi-
sion. Use the window lock switch to
prevent them from making unex-
pected use of the switches.
Be sure to remove the ignition key
when you leave your vehicle.
23

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Back door
are unlocked simultaneously using a key, CAUTION
the interior lights and ignition switch light
will come on and remain on for about 15 Keep the back door closed while
seconds before fading out. (For further driving. This not only keeps the
information, see Interior lights on page luggage from being thrown out but
100 and Ignition switch light on page also prevents exhaust gases from
102 in Section 1- 5.) entering the vehicle.
Operating the power door lock switch or If the open back door hides the
wireless remote control transmitter simul- stop, tail or rear turn signal lights
taneously locks or unlocks the back door. while you are parked, other road
(See Locking and unlocking doors on users must be warned of the pres-
page 16 and Side doors on page 19 in ence of your vehicle by a warning
this Section.) triangle or other device.
LOCKING AND UNLOCKING WITH KEY
When closing the back door, make sure
Insert the key into the keyhole and turn it is fully closed.
it.
See Stowage precautions on page 221
To lock: Turn the key clockwise. in Section 2 for precautions when loading
To unlock: Turn the key counterclockwise. luggage.
To open the back door, pull the lock re-
lease lever.
tem
All the side doors and back door lock and
unlock simultaneously with the back door.
24

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Hood
To open the hood: 2. In front of the vehicle, pull up the 3. Hold the hood open by inserting the
1. Pull the hood lock release lever. The auxiliary catch lever and lift the support rod into the slot.
hood will spring up slightly. hood. To insert the support rod into the slot,
move it straight up. If it is moved to the
CAUTION side or toward the inside of the vehicle,
it may become detached.
Before driving, be sure that the hood Before closing the hood, check to see that
is closed and securely locked. Other- you have not forgotten any tools, rags,
wise, the hood may open unexpected- etc. and return the support rod to its
ly while driving and an accident may clipthis prevents rattles. Then lower the
occur. hood and make sure it locks into place.
If necessary, press down gently on the
front edge to lock it.
25

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Fuel tank cap
CAUTION
After inserting the support rod into

the slot, make sure the rod supports
the hood securely from falling down
on to your head or body.
NOTICE
Be sure to return the support rod to
its clip before closing the hood. Clos-
ing the hood with the support rod up
could cause the hood to bend.
This indicates that the fuel filler door 1. To open the fuel filler door, pull the
is on the left side of your vehicle. lever up.
When refueling, turn off the engine.
CAUTION
Do not smoke, cause sparks or al-

low open flames when refueling.
The fumes are flammable.
When opening the cap, do not re-
move the cap quickly. In hot weath-
er, fuel under pressure could cause
injury by spraying out of the filler
neck if the cap is suddenly re-
moved.
26

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Electric moon roof
CAUTION
Make sure the cap is tightened se-

curely to prevent fuel spillage in
the event of an accident.
Use only a genuine Toyota fuel tank
cap for replacement. It is designed
to regulate fuel tank pressure.
Sliding operation
2. To remove the fuel tank cap, turn
the cap slowly counterclockwise,
then pause slightly before removing
it. After removing the cap, hang it
on the cap hanger.
It is not unusual to hear a slight swoosh
when the cap is opened. When installing,
turn the cap clockwise till you hear a
click.
If the cap is not tightened securely, the
malfunction indicator lamp comes on.
Make sure the cap is tightened securely.
The indicator lamp goes off after driving
several times. If the indicator lamp does
not go off, contact your Toyota dealer as Tilting operation
soon as possible.
27

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
To operate the moon roof, use the Tilting operation

switch beside the personal light. Before you close the moon roof,
To tilt up: Push the switch on the TILT
always make sure there is nobody
The key must be in the ON position. UP side.
around the moon roof. You must
The sun shade can be opened or closed To lower: Push the switch on the SLIDE also make sure nobody places his
by hand. OPEN side.
or her head, hands and other parts
Sliding operation You may stop the moon roof at any de- of the body in the roof opening. If
sired position. The roof will move while someones neck, head or hands get
To open: Push the switch on the SLIDE the switch is being pushed and stop when caught in the closing roof, it could
OPEN side. released except to slide open. result in a serious injury. When
The roof will fully open. To stop the roof anyone closes the moon roof, first
partway, push the switch on either the CAUTION make sure it is safe to do so.
SLIDE OPEN or TILT UP side briefly. Be sure to remove the ignition key
The sun shade will be opened together To avoid serious personal injury, you when you leave your vehicle.
with the roof. must do the following.
Never leave anyone (particularly a
To close: Push the switch on the TILT While the vehicle is moving, always small child) alone in your vehicle,
UP side. keep the heads, hands and other especially with the ignition key still
parts of the bodies of all occupants inserted. Otherwise, he/she could
As a precaution when closing, the roof away from the roof opening. Other-
stops at the three- quarters closed position use the moon roof switch and get
wise, they could be seriously in- trapped in the roof opening. Unat-
before fully closing. Therefore, release the jured if the vehicle stops suddenly
switch and then push it again to close it tended person (particularly a small
or if the vehicle is involved in an child) can be involved in a serious
completely. accident. accident.
Never sit on top of the vehicle
around the roof opening.
28

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 1- 3
CONTROLS
Occupant restraint systems
Seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Front seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Rear seats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Flattening seatbacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Head restraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Seat heaters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Seat belts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
SRS driver airbag and front passenger airbag . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
SRS side airbags and curtain shield airbags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Child restraint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
29

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Front seats
Seats Front seat precautions
While the vehicle is being driven, all ve- Driver seat
hicle occupants should have the seatback Slightly recline the back of the
upright, sit well back in the seat and prop- CAUTION seat. Although vehicle designs vary,
erly wear the seat belts provided. many drivers can achieve the 250
The SRS driver airbag deploys with mm (10 in.) distance, even with the
CAUTION considerable force, and can cause driver seat all the way forward, sim-
death or serious injury especially if ply by reclining the back of the
Do not drive the vehicle unless the the driver is very close to the airbag. seat somewhat. If reclining the back
occupants are properly seated. Do The National Highway Traffic Safety of your seat makes it hard to see
not allow any passengers to sit on Administration (NHTSA) advises: the road, raise yourself by using a
top of a folded- down seatback, or firm, non- slippery cushion, or raise
Since the risk zone for driver airbag the seat if your vehicle has that
in the luggage compartment or car- is the first 5075 mm (23 in.) of
go area. Persons not properly feature.
inflation, placing yourself 250 mm (10
seated and/or not properly rein.) from your driver airbag provides If your steering wheel is adjustable,
strained by seat belts can be se- you with a clear margin of safety. tilt it downward. This points the air-
verely injured in the event of emer- This distance is measured from the bag toward your chest instead of
gency braking or a collision. center of the steering wheel to your your head and neck.
During driving, do not allow any breastbone. If you sit less than 250 The seat should be adjusted as rec-
passengers to stand up or move mm (10 in.) away now, you can ommended by NHTSA above, while
around between seats. Otherwise, change your driving position in sever- still maintaining control of the foot
severe injuries can occur in the al ways: pedals, steering wheel, and your view
event of emergency braking or a Move your seat to the rear as far of the instrument panel controls.
collision. as you can while still reaching the
pedals comfortably.
30

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Seat adjustment precautions

Front passenger seat Front seats (with SRS side airbags)
CAUTION
CAUTION CAUTION
Do not adjust the seat while the
The SRS front passenger airbag also The SRS side airbags are installed in vehicle is moving as the seat may
deploys with considerable force, and the driver and front passenger seats. unexpectedly move and cause the
can cause death or serious injury es- Observe the following precautions. driver to lose control of the vehicle.
pecially if the front passenger is very Do not lean against the front door Be careful that the seat does not
close to the airbag. The front passen- when the vehicle is in use, since hit a passenger or luggage.
ger seat should be as far from the the side airbag inflates with consid- After adjusting the seat position,
airbag as possible with the seatback erable speed and force. Otherwise, try sliding it forward and backward
adjusted, so the front passenger sits you may be killed or seriously in- to make sure it is locked in posi-
upright. jured. tion.
Do not use seat accessories which After adjusting the seatback, push
cover the area where the side air- your body back against the seat to
bags inflate. Such accessories may make sure the seat is locked in
prevent the side airbags from acti- position.
vating correctly, causing death or Do not put objects under the seats.
serious injury. Otherwise, the objects may interfere
Do not modify or replace the seats with the seat- lock mechanism or
or upholstery of the seats equipped unexpectedly push up the seat posi-
with side airbags. Such change may tion adjusting lever and the seat
prevent the side airbag system from may suddenly move, causing the
activating correctly, disable the sys- driver to lose control of the vehicle.
tem or cause the side airbag sys- While adjusting the seat, do not put
tem to inflate accidentally, resulting your hands under the seat or near
in death or serious injury. the moving parts. Otherwise, your
hands or fingers may be caught and
injured.
31

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Adjusting front seats

1. SEAT POSITION ADJUSTING LEVER
CAUTION
Hold the center of the lever and pull it
up. Then slide the seat to the desired
Avoid reclining the seatback any
position with slight body pressure and
more than needed. The seat belts pro-
release the lever.
vide maximum protection in a frontal
2. SEAT CUSHION ANGLE ADJUSTING or rear collision when the driver and
KNOB the front passenger are sitting up
Turn the knob either way. straight and well back in the seats. If
you are reclined, the lap belt may
3. SEATBACK ANGLE ADJUSTING
slide past your hips and apply re-
LEVER
straint forces directly to the abdomen
Lean forward and pull the lever up. or your neck may contact the shoul-
Then lean back to the desired angle der belt. In the event of a frontal
and release the lever. collision, the more the seat is re-
clined, the greater the risk of death
or personal injury.
32

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Rear seats
Rear seat precautions Adjusting rear seats
CAUTION When returning seats to their origi-

nal position, observe the following
Do not adjust the seat while the precautions in order to prevent per-
vehicle is moving. sonal injury in a collision or sud-
Be careful that the seat does not den stop:
hit a passenger or luggage. Make sure the seat is securely
Adjust both seat cushions to the locked by pushing forward and rear-
same position and align both seat- ward on the top of the seatback or
backs at the same angle when a by trying to pull up the edge of the
person sits in the rear center posi- bottom cushion. Failure to do so
tion. Otherwise, the person cannot will prevent the seat belt from oper-
wear the seat belt properly and this ating properly.
may cause serious injuries in a col- Make sure the seat belts are not
lision. twisted or caught under the seat
After adjusting the seat position, and are arranged in their proper
try sliding it forward and backward position and are ready to use.
to make sure it is locked in posi-
tion. Folding the seats up will enlarge the lug-
After adjusting the seatback, push gage compartment. See Stowage pre-
back your body to make sure it is cautions on page 221 in Section 2 for
locked in position. precautions when loading luggage.
33

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
1. SEAT POSITION ADJUSTING LEVER

CAUTION After adjusting the seatback, push
Hold the center of the lever and pull it
back your body to make sure it is
up. Then slide the seat to the desired
Adjustments should not be made locked in position.
position with slight body pressure and
while the vehicle is moving.
release the lever.
Adjust both seat cushions to the
When a person sits in the rear center same position and align both seat-
NOTICE
position, adjust both seat cushions to
backs at the same angle when a Do not fold the seatback forward
the same position.
person sits in the rear center posi- while the luggage cover is set.
2. SEATBACK ANGLE ADJUSTING tion. Otherwise, the person cannot
STRAP wear the seat belt properly and this
Pull the strap up. Then lean back to the may cause serious injuries in a col-
desired angle and release the strap. lision.
When a person sits in the rear center Avoid reclining the seatback any
position, align both seatbacks at the more than needed. The seat belts
same angle. provide maximum protection in a
frontal or rear collision when the
passengers are sitting up straight
and well back in the seats. If you
are reclined, the lap belt may slide
past your hips and apply restraint
forces directly to the abdomen or
your neck may contact the shoulder
belt. In the event of a frontal colli-
sion, the more the seat is reclined,
the greater the risk of death or per-
sonal injury.
34

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Tumbling rear seats
BEFORE TUMBLING REAR SEAT 2. To stow the rear center seat belt, 3. Insert the round end tab into the
1. Stow the rear seat belt buckles as pull the belt out of its cover a little slot of the cover. You will hear a
shown in the illustration. and insert the concave end tab into click when the tabs are locked in the
the higher slot of the cover. seat belt cover. Make sure the tabs
This prevents the buckles from falling out are securely locked in the cover.
when you tumble the rear seat.
NOTICE
CAUTION
The seat belt must be stowed before
Before using the seat belt, pull out you fold the seatback.
the buckle and make sure the belt is
not twisted.
NOTICE
The seat belt buckles must be stowed
before you fold the seatback.
35

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
TUMBLING REAR SEATS 2. Hold the center of the lever and pull 3. Lower the head restraint to the low-
1. Hold the center of the lever and pull it up. Then slide the rear seat fully est position. Pull up the strap to
it up. Then slide the front seat fully backward and pull it forward slightly unlock the seatback and fold the
forward. until it locks. seatback forward until it locks.
Tumbling the rear seats will enlarge the NOTICE

luggage compartment. See Stowage
precautions on page 221 in Section 2 for Do not fold the seatback forward
precautions when loading luggage. while the luggage cover is set.
36

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
4. Pull up the seat cushion lock release 5. Make sure the front legs are locked RETURNING REAR SEATS
lever and swing the whole seat up and the seat is securely locked in 1. To unlock the seat, hold the upper
and forward. position. back of the seat with your hand and
pull the lock release strap up. Swing
the whole seat down and set the
rear legs to the hooks on the floor.
Make sure the rear legs are securely
set to the hooks by trying to pull up
the rear part of the seat.
37

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Removing rear seats
CAUTION
When returning seats to their original

position, observe the following pre-
cautions in order to prevent personal
injury in a collision or sudden stop:
Make sure the seat is securely
locked by pushing forward and rear-
ward on the top of the seatback or
by trying to pull up the edge of the
bottom cushion. Failure to do so
will prevent the seat belt from oper-
ating properly.
2. Pull the seatback lock release strap Make sure the seat belts are not 1. Tumble the rear seats. (See Tum-
and swing the seatback up. twisted or caught under the seat bling rear seats on page 35 in this
and are arranged in their proper Section for instructions.)
position and are ready to use.
38

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Reinstalling rear seats
CAUTION
When removing the seat, observe the

following precautions in order to pre-
vent personal injury:
Be careful not to get your hands or
feet pinched in the seat.
Be careful not to hit the removed
seat against a person or drop it on
yourself.
NOTICE
2. Unlock the seat by pulling the lock 1. While pulling up the lock release le-
release lever. Pull the seat toward Avoid putting heavy loads on the re- ver, place the rear hinge into the
you slightly and lift. moved seat. The metallic tips of the rear hook on the floor.
Removing the rear seats will enlarge the
seat leg may be damaged and the
seat cannot be reinstalled.
luggage compartment. See Stowage
precautions on page 221 in Section 2 for
precautions when loading luggage.
39

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
2. Push the seat forward until it locks. 3. To unlock the seat, hold the upper 4. Pull the seatback lock release strap
back of the seat with your hand and and swing the seatback up.
pull the lock release strap up. Swing
the whole seat down and set the
rear legs to the hooks on the floor.
Make sure the rear legs are securely
set to the hooks by trying to pull up
the rear part of the seat.
40

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Flattening seatbacks
(front seat only)
CAUTION Be careful not to hit the removed

seat against a person or drop it on
When returning seats to their original yourself.
position, observe the following pre- After folding or installing the seat,
cautions in order to prevent personal push it forward and backward to
injury in a collision or sudden stop: make sure it is locked in position.
Make sure the seat is securely To prevent personal injury in a colli-
locked by pushing forward and rear- sion or sudden stop:
ward on the top of the seatback or
by trying to pull up the edge of the Do not sit on or place anything on
bottom cushion. Failure to do so the folded seatback while driving.
will prevent the seat belt from oper- Do not leave the removed seat
ating properly. loose in the vehicle.
Make sure the seat belts are not Do not try to sit on or place any- For flattening seatbacks, do the follow-
twisted or caught under the seat thing on the removed seat. ing:
and are arranged in their proper When reinstalling the seat, be care- 1. Hold the center of the lever and pull
position and are ready to use. ful not to hit the seat against you it up. Then slide the rear seat fully
When removing or reinstalling the or inside of the vehicle. backward and pull it forward slightly
until it locks.
seat, observe the following precau- Install each seat in the same posi-
tions in order to prevent personal in- tion from which it was removed.
jury: Failure to do so will prevent rear
Do not fold or remove the seat seat occupants from using seat
while the vehicle is moving. belts properly.
Be careful not to get your hands or
feet pinched in the seat.
41

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
CAUTION
Do not allow passengers to ride on

the flattened seat while driving; use
the seat in the normal position.
After returning the seat to its origi-
nal position, try pushing the seat
and seatback forward and rearward
to make sure it is secured in place.
Be certain to replace head restraint.
2. Remove the head restraint. Hold the 3. Pull the seatback angle adjusting le-
center of the lever and pull it up. ver up to unlock and push down the
Then slide the front seat further for- seatback.
ward than the front- most lock posi- When returning the seatback to the up-
tion. right position, be careful not to make
yourself hit by the seatback which will
bound with considerable spring force.
After returning the seat to its original
position, be certain to replace the head
restraint.
42

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Head restraints Seat heaters
CAUTION
Adjust the center of the head re-

straint so that it is closest to the
top of your ears.
After adjusting the head restraint,
make sure it is locked in position.
Do not drive with the head re-
straints removed.
For your safety and comfort, adjust the To turn on the seat heater, push the
head restraint before driving. switches (L switch for the left front
To raise: Pull it up. seat and R switch for the right front
To lower: Push it down while pressing the seat).
lock release button. At this time, the indicator light on ei-
The head restraint is most effective when ther side of each switch will illuminate
it is close to your head. Therefore, using to indicate the seat heater is operating.
a cushion on the seatback is not recom- The seat heater switches have the follow-
mended. ing positions.
HIHigh heating temperature
LOLow heating temperature
The key must be in the ON position to
operate seat heaters.
Pushing lightly on the opposite side will
turn it off.
43

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Seat belts
Seat belt precautions
Toyota strongly urges that the driver and
CAUTION NOTICE
passengers in the vehicle be properly re-
Do not put unevenly weighed ob- strained at all times with the seat belts
Occupants must use caution when op- provided. Failure to do so could increase
jects on the seat and do not stick
erating the seat heater because it the chance of injury and/or the severity of
sharp objects (needles, nails, etc.)
may make them feel too hot or cause injury in accidents.
into the seat.
burns at low temperatures (erythema,
When cleaning the seats, do not The seat belts provided for your vehicle
varicella). Use extra caution for;
use organic substances (paint thin- are designed for people of adult size,
Babies, small children, elderly per- ner, benzine, alcohol, gasoline, large enough to properly wear them.
sons, sick persons or persons with
etc.). They may damage the heater Child. Use a child restraint system ap-
physical disabilities
and seat surface. propriate for the child until the child be-
Persons who have delicate skin To prevent the battery from being comes large enough to properly wear the
Persons who are exhausted discharged, turn the switch off vehicles seat belts. See Child restraint
on page 69 in this Section for details.
Persons who have taken alcohol or when the engine is not running.
drugs which induce sleep (sleeping If a child is too large for a child restraint
drug, cold remedy, etc.) system, the child should sit in the rear
seat and must be restrained using the
To prevent the seat overheating, do
vehicles seat belt. According to accident
not use the seat heater with a blan-
statistics, the child is safer when properly
ket, cushion, or other insulating ob-
restrained in the rear seat than in the
jects which cover the seat.
front seat.
If a child must sit in the front seat, the
seat belts should be worn properly. If an
accident occurs and seat belts are not
worn properly, the force of the rapid infla-
tion of the airbag may cause death or
serious injury to the child.
44

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Do not allow any children to stand up or

kneel on either rear or front seats. An CAUTION Be careful not to damage the belt
unrestrained child could suffer serious in- webbing or hardware. Take care that
jury or death during emergency braking or Persons should ride in their seats they do not get caught or pinched
a collision. Also, do not let the child sit properly wearing their seat belts in the seat or side doors.
on your lap. Holding a child in your arms whenever the vehicle is moving. Inspect the belt system periodically.
does not provide sufficient restraint. Otherwise, they are much more likely Check for cuts, fraying, and loose
to suffer serious bodily injury or parts. Damaged parts should be re-
Pregnant woman. Toyota recommends the
death in the event of sudden braking placed. Do not disassemble or
use of a seat belt. Ask your doctor for
or a collision. modify the system.
specific recommendations. The lap belt
should be worn securely and as low as When using the seat belts, observe Keep the belts clean and dry. If
possible over the hips and not on the the following: they need cleaning, use a mild soap
waist. Use the belt for only one person at solution or lukewarm water. Never
Injured person. Toyota recommends the a time. Do not use a single belt for use bleach, dye, or abrasive clean-
use of a seat belt. Depending on the inju- two or more peopleeven children. ers, or allow them to come into
ry, first check with your doctor for specific Avoid reclining the seatback any contact with the beltthey may se-
recommendations. more than needed. The seat belts verely weaken the belts. (See
provide maximum protection in a Cleaning the interior on page 269
frontal or rear collision when the in Section 5.)
driver and the front passenger are Replace the belt assembly (includ-
sitting up straight and well back in ing bolts) if it has been used in a
the seats. If you are reclined, the severe impact. The entire assembly
lap belt may slide past your hips should be replaced even if damage
and apply restraint forces directly is not obvious.
to the abdomen or your neck may
contact the shoulder belt. In the
event of a frontal collision, the
more the seat is reclined, the great-
er the risk of death or personal in-
jury.
45

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Fastening front and rear

seat belts
When a passengers shoulder belt is com-
pletely extended and is then retracted
even slightly, the belt is locked in that Take up
position and cannot be extended. This fea- slack
ture is used to hold the child restraint
system securely. (For details, see Child Too high
restraint on page 69 in this Section.) To
Tab free the belt again, fully retract the belt
and then pull the belt out once more.
Buckle If the seat belt cannot be pulled out of the

retractor, firmly pull the belt and release
it. You will then be able to smoothly pull Keep as low on
the belt out of the retractor. hips as possible
Adjust the seat as needed and sit up CAUTION Adjust the position of the lap and
straight and well back in the seat. To shoulder belts.
fasten your belt, pull it out of the re- After inserting the tab, make sure Position the lap belt as low as possible
tractor and insert the tab into the the tab and buckle are locked and on your hipsnot on your waist, then ad-
buckle. that the belt is not twisted. just it to a snug fit by pulling the shoulder
You will hear a click when the tab locks Do not insert coins, clips, etc. in portion upward through the latch plate.
into the buckle. the buckle as this may prevent you
The seat belt length automatically adjusts from properly latching the tab and
to your size and the seat position. buckle.
The retractor will lock the belt during a If the seat belt does not function
sudden stop or on impact. It also may normally, immediately contact your
lock if you lean forward too quickly. A Toyota dealer. Do not use the seat
slow, easy motion will allow the belt to until the seat belt is fixed, because
extend, and you can move around freely. it cannot protect an adult occupant
or your child from injury.
46

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
CAUTION CAUTION
Both high- positioned lap belts and Always make sure the shoulder belt
loose- fitting belts could cause seri- is positioned across the center of
ous injuries due to sliding under your shoulder. The belt should be
the lap belt during a collision or kept away from your neck, but not
other unintended event. Keep the falling off your shoulder. Failure to
lap belt positioned as low on hips do so could reduce the amount of
as possible. protection in an accident and cause
Do not place the shoulder belt un- serious injuries in a collision.
der your arm.
Seat belts with an adjustable shoulder

anchor
Adjust the shoulder anchor position to
your size.
To raise: Slide the anchor up.
To lower: Push in the lock release button
and slide the anchor down.
After adjustment, make sure the anchor is
locked in position.
47

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
To release the belt, press the buckle REAR CENTER SEAT BELT Two buckles and tabs for rear center
release button and allow the belt to The rear center seat belt is a 3- point type seat belt
retract. restraint with 2 buckles. Both seat belt The 2 buckles for the rear center seat
If the belt does not retract smoothly, pull buckles must be correctly located and se- belt are distinguished with colors of the
it out and check for kinks or twists. Then curely latched for proper operation. buckle release button. Also the 2 tabs
make sure it remains untwisted as it re- Make sure that buckle 1 (with light gray have different shape for its end so that
tracts. buckle- release button) is securely latched the belt is not buckled in the wrong place.
for ready use of the center seat belt. Buckle 1 (with light gray buckle- re-
lease button)Properly matches with
concave end tab
Buckle 2 (with red buckle- release but-
ton)Properly matches with round end
tab
48

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
CAUTION
Make sure the both buckles are cor-

rectly located and securely latched.
Failure to properly match the buckle
and tab may cause severe injury in
case of an accident or a collision.
To release the concave end tab, insert the

key into the hole on buckle 1 (with light CAUTION
gray buckle- release button) and allow the
belt to retract. Do not use the rear center seat belt
with either buckle released. Fastening
only the shoulder belt or lap belt may
cause severe personal injury in case
of sudden braking or a collision.
49

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Stowing the rear seat belt Stowing the rear center seat
buckles belt
The rear seat belt buckles can be STOWING THE REAR CENTER SEAT 2. Insert the round end tab into the
stowed when not in use. BELT cover. You will hear a click when the
Seat belt buckles must be stowed before 1. To stow the rear center seat belt, tabs are locked in the seat belt cov-
you fold the seatback. (See Tumbling pull the seat belt out of its cover a er. Make sure the tabs are securely
rear seats on page 35 or Removing little and insert the concave end tab locked in the cover.
rear seats on page 38 in this Section.) into the higher slot of the cover. Seat belt must be stowed before you fold
the seatback. (See Tumbling rear
CAUTION seats on page 35 or Removing rear
seats on page 38 in this Section.)
Before using the seat belt, pull out
the buckle and make sure the belt is NOTICE
not twisted.
Stow the rear center seat belt when
not in use.
50

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Seat belt extender

If your seat belts cannot be fastened se-
curely because they are not long enough,
a personalized seat belt extender is avail-
able from your Toyota dealer free of
charge.
Please contact your local Toyota dealer to
order the proper required length for the
extender. Bring the heaviest coat you ex-
pect to wear for proper measurement and
selection of length. Additional ordering in-
formation is available at your Toyota deal-
er.
CAUTION
PULLING OUT THE REAR CENTER SEAT
BELT If the seat belt extender has been
When using the seat belt extender, connected to the drivers seat belt
To use the rear center seat belt, pull observe the following precautions. buckle without wearing the seat belt
the belt out a little and then pull the Failure to follow these instructions when using the extender in the
tabs out from the cover. could reduce the effectiveness of the drivers seat, the SRS drivers air-
seat belt restraint system in case of bag system will judge that the driv-
an accident, increasing the chance of er wears the seat belt even if not
personal injury. wearing it. In this case, the drivers
Remember that the extender pro- airbag may not activate correctly,
vided for you may not be safe when causing death or serious injury in
used on a different vehicle, for the event of collision. Be sure to
another person, or at a different wear the seat belt with the seat belt
seating position than the one origi- extender.
nally intended.
51

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Be sure to wear the seat belt with- CAUTION

out the seat belt extender if you
can fasten the seat belt without the After inserting the tab, make sure
extender. the tab and buckle are locked and
Do not use the seat belt extender that the lap and shoulder portions
when installing a child restraint of the belt and the seat belt extend-
system on the front or rear passen- er are not twisted.
ger seat. If installing a child re- Do not insert coins, clips, etc. in
straint system with the seat belt the buckle as this may prevent you
extender connected to the seat belt, from properly latching the tab and
the seat belt will not securely hold buckle.
the child restraint system, which
If the seat belt does not function
could cause death or serious injury
normally, immediately contact your
to the child or other passengers in To connect the extender to the seat Toyota dealer. Do not use the seat
the event of collision. belt, insert the tab into the seat belt until the seat belt is fixed, because
buckle so that the PRESS signs on it cannot protect an adult occupant
the buckle release buttons of the ex- or your child from injury.
tender and the seat belt are both facing
outward as shown.
You will hear a click when the tab locks
into the buckle.
When releasing the seat belt, press on
the buckle release button on the extender,
not on the seat belt. This helps prevent
damage to the vehicle interior and extend-
er itself.
When not in use, remove the extender
and store in the vehicle for future use.
52

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Seat belt pretensioners

When the seat belt pretensioners are acti-
vated, an operating noise may be heard
and a small amount of non- toxic gas may
be released. This does not indicate that
a fire is occurring. This gas is normally
harmless.
Once the seat belt pretensioners have
been activated, the seat belt retractors
remain locked.
CAUTION
Do not modify, remove, strike or open

the seat belt pretensioner assemblies,
The driver and front passenger seat The seat belt pretensioner system con- airbag sensor or surrounding area or
belt pretensioners are designed to be sists mainly of the following components wiring. Failure to follow these instruc-
activated in response to a severe fron- and their locations are shown in the il- tions may prevent the seat belt pre-
tal impact. lustration. tensioners from activating correctly,
When the sensor detects a severe frontal 1. Front airbag sensors cause sudden operation of the system
impact, the front seat belts are quickly or disable the system, which could
2. SRS warning light result in death or serious injury. Con-
drawn back by the retractors so that the
belts snugly restrain the occupants. 3. Seat belt pretensioner assemblies sult your Toyota dealer about any re-
4. Airbag sensor assembly pair and modification.
The seat belt pretensioners are activated
even with no passenger in the front seat. The seat belt pretensioners are controlled
The seat belt pretensioners and SRS air- by the airbag sensor assembly. The airbag
bags may not operate together in all colli- sensor assembly consists of a safing sen-
sions. sor and airbag sensor.
53

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
If any of the following conditions occurs,

NOTICE
this indicates a malfunction of the airbags
Do not perform any of the following or seat belt pretensioners. Contact your
changes without consulting your Toyota dealer as soon as possible.
Toyota dealer. Such changes can The light does not come on when the
interfere with proper operation of the ignition key is turned to the ON posi-
seat belt pretensioners in some tion or remains on for more than 6
cases. seconds.
Installation of electronic devices The light comes on while driving.
such as a mobile two- way radio,
cassette tape player or compact If any seat belt does not retract or
disc player cannot be pulled out due to a malfunc-
tion or activation of the relevant seat
Repairs on or near the front seat belt pretensioner.
belt retractor assemblies This indicator comes on when the igni- The seat belt pretensioner assembly or
Modification of the suspension sys- tion key is turned to the ON position. surrounding area has been damaged.
tem It goes off after about 6 seconds. This
Modification of the front end struc- means the seat belt pretensioners are
ture operating properly.
Attachment of a grille guard (bull This warning light system monitors the
bar, kangaroo bar, etc.), snowplow, airbag sensor assembly, front airbag sen-
winches or any other equipment to sors, side and curtain shield airbag sen-
the front end sors, curtain shield airbag sensors, driv-
Repairs made on or near the front ers seat position sensor, drivers seat belt
fenders, front end structure or con- buckle switch, seat belt pretensioner as-
sole semblies, inflators, warning light, intercon-
necting wiring and power sources. (For
details, see Service reminder indicators
and warning buzzers on page 109 in Sec-
tion 1- 6.)
54

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SRS driver airbag and front

passenger airbag
CAUTION
The SRS front airbag system is de-

signed only as a supplement to the
primary protection of the driver and
front passenger seat belt systems.
The driver and front passenger can
be killed or seriously injured by the
inflating airbags if they do not wear
the available seat belts properly.
During sudden braking just before
a collision, an unrestrained driver
or front passenger can move for-
In the following cases, contact your Toyota The SRS (Supplemental Restraint Sys- ward into direct contact with or
dealer as soon as possible: tem) front airbags are designed to pro- close proximity to the airbag which
may then deploy during the colli-
The front of the vehicle (shaded in the vide further protection for the driver
sion. To ensure maximum protection
illustration) was involved in an accident and front passenger in addition to the
primary safety protection provided by in an accident, the driver and all
that was not severe enough to cause passengers in the vehicle must
the seat belt pretensioners to operate. the seat belts.
wear their seat belts properly. Wear-
Either seat belt pretensioner assembly In response to a severe frontal impact, ing a seat belt properly during an
or surrounding area is scratched, the SRS front airbags work together with accident reduces the chances of
cracked, or otherwise damaged. the seat belts to help reduce injury by death or serious injury or being
inflating. The SRS airbags help reduce thrown out of the vehicle. For in-
injuries mainly to the drivers or front pas- structions and precautions concern-
sengers head or chest caused by hitting ing the seat belt system, see Seat
the vehicle interior. belts on page 44 in this Section.
The front passenger airbag is activated
even with no passenger in the front seat.
Always wear your seat belt properly.
55

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
The SRS front airbags are designed to

Improperly seated and/or restrained deploy in severe (usually frontal) colli-
infants and children can be killed sions where the magnitude and duration
or seriously injured by the deploy- of the forward deceleration of the ve-
ing airbags. An infant or child who hicle exceeds the designed threshold Collision from the rear
is too small to use a seat belt level.
should be properly secured using a
child restraint system. Toyota The SRS front airbags will deploy if the
severity of the impact is above the de-
strongly recommends that all in-
signed threshold level, comparable to an
fants and children be placed in the
approximate 25 km/h (15 mph) collision Collision from the side
rear seat of the vehicle and proper-
when the vehicles has the impact straight
ly restrained. The rear seat is the
into a fixed barrier that does not move or Vehicle rollover
safest for infants and children. For
instructions concerning the installa- deform.
tion of a child restraint system, see However, this threshold velocity will be
The SRS front airbags are generally not
Child restraint on page 69 in this considerably higher if the vehicle strikes designed to inflate if the vehicle is in-
Section. an object, such as a parked vehicle or
volved in a side or rear collision, if it
sign pole, which can move or deform on
rolls over, or if it is involved in a low-
impact, or if the vehicle is involved in an speed frontal collision. But, whenever a
underride collision (e.g. a collision in
collision of any type causes sufficient
which the front of the vehicle underrides,
forward deceleration of the vehicle, de-
or goes under, the bed of a truck, etc.). ployment of the SRS front airbags may
It is possible that in some collisions occur.
where the forward deceleration of the ve-
hicle is very close to the designed thresh-
old level, the SRS front airbags and the
seat belt pretensioners may not activate
together.
Always wear your seat belts properly.
56

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
The front airbag sensors constantly moni-

tor the forward deceleration of the vehicle.
If an impact results in a forward decelera-
tion beyond the designed threshold level,
Hitting a curb, Falling into or the system triggers the airbag inflators. At
edge of jumping over this time a chemical reaction in the infla-
pavement or a deep hole
tors very quickly fills the airbags with
hard surface
non- toxic gas to help restrain the forward
motion of the occupants. The front airbags
then quickly deflate, so that there is no
obstruction of the drivers vision should it
be necessary to continue driving.
Landing hard or vehicle falling
When the airbags inflate, they produce a
loud noise and release some smoke and
The SRS front airbags may also deploy The SRS front airbag system consists residue along with non- toxic gas. This
if a serious impact occurs to the under- mainly of the following components, and does not indicate a fire. This smoke may
side of your vehicle. Some examples their locations are shown in the illustra- remain inside the vehicle for some time,
are shown in the illustration. tion. and may cause some minor irritation to
1. Front airbag sensors the eyes, skin or breathing. Be sure to
wash off any residue as soon as possible
2. SRS warning light
to prevent any potential skin irritation with
3. Airbag module for front passenger soap and water. If you can safely exit
(airbag and inflator) from the vehicle, you should do so imme-
4. Drivers seat belt buckle switch diately.
5. Drivers seat position sensor
6. Airbag sensor assembly
7. Airbag module for driver
(airbag and inflator)
The airbag sensor assembly consists of a
safing sensor and airbag sensor.
57

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Deployment of the airbags happens in a

fraction of a second, so the airbags must CAUTION
inflate with considerable force. While the
system is designed to reduce serious inju- The driver or front passenger who is
ries, primarily to the head and chest, it too close to the steering wheel or
may also cause other, less severe injuries dashboard during airbag deployment
to the face, chest, arms and hands. These can be killed or seriously injured.
are usually in the nature of minor burns Toyota strongly recommends that:
or abrasions and swelling, but the force of The driver sit as far back as pos-
a deploying airbag can cause more seri- sible from the steering wheel while
ous injuries, especially if an occupants still maintaining control of the ve-
hands, arms, chest or head is in close hicle.
proximity to the airbag module at the time
The front passenger sit as far back
of deployment. This is why it is important
as possible from the dashboard.
for the occupant to: avoid placing any
object or part of the body between the All vehicle occupants be properly Do not sit on the edge of the seat
occupant and the airbag module; sit restrained using the available seat or lean against the dashboard when
straight and well back into the seat; wear belts. the vehicle is in use, since the
the available seat belt properly; and sit as For instructions and precautions con- front passenger airbag could inflate
far as possible from the airbag module, cerning the seating position, see with considerable speed and force.
while still maintaining control of the ve- Front seat precautions on page Anyone who is up against, or very
hicle. 30 in this Section. close to, an airbag when it inflates,
can be killed or seriously injured.
Parts of the airbag module (steering wheel
Sit up straight and well back in the
hub, airbag cover and inflator) may be hot
seat, and always use your seat belt
for several minutes after deployment, so
properly.
do not touch! The airbags inflate only
once. The windshield may be damaged by
absorbing some of the force of the inflat-
ing airbag.
58

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Do not hold a child on your lap or

in your arms. Use a child restraint
system in the rear seat. For instruc-
tions concerning the installation of
a child restraint system, see Child
restraint on page 69 in this Sec-
tion.
Toyota strongly recommends that all Do not put anything or any part of
infants and children be placed in your body on or in front of the
the rear seat of the vehicle and be dashboard or steering wheel pad
properly restrained. that houses the front airbag sys-
Do not allow a child to stand up or tem. They might restrict inflation or
kneel on the front passenger seat, cause death or serious injury as
since the front passenger airbag they are projected rearward by the
could inflate with considerable force of the deploying airbags. Like-
speed and force. Otherwise, the wise, the driver and front passenger
child may be killed or seriously in- should not hold objects in their
jured. arms or on their knees.
59

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Do not modify or remove any wir- NOTICE

ing. Do not modify, remove, strike
Do not perform any of the following
or open any components such as
changes without consulting your
the steering wheel pad, steering
Toyota dealer. Such changes can
wheel, column cover, dashboard
interfere with proper operation of the
near the front passenger airbag,
SRS front airbag system in some
front passenger airbag cover, front
cases.
passenger airbag or airbag sensor
assembly. Doing so may prevent the Installation of electronic devices
front airbag system from activating such as a mobile two- way radio,
correctly, cause sudden activation cassette tape player or compact
of the system or disable the sys- disc player
tem, which could result in death or Modification of the suspension sys-
serious injury. tem This indicator comes on when the igni-
Failure to follow these instructions Modification of the front end struc- tion key is turned to the ON position.
can result in death or serious injury. ture It goes off after about 6 seconds. This
Consult your Toyota dealer about any means the SRS front airbags are oper-
Attachment of a grille guard (bull
repair and modification. ating properly.
bar, kangaroo bar, etc.), snowplow,
winches or any other equipment to This warning light system monitors the
the front end airbag sensor assembly, front airbag sen-
sors, side and curtain shield airbag sen-
Repairs made on or near the front
sors, curtain shield airbag sensors, driv-
fenders, front end structure, con-
ers seat position sensor, drivers seat belt
sole, steering column, steering
buckle switch, seat belt pretensioner as-
wheel or dashboard near the front
semblies, inflators, warning light, intercon-
passenger airbag
tion 1- 6.)
60

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SRS side airbags and curtain

shield airbags
or seat belt pretensioners. Contact your
Toyota dealer as soon as possible.
The light does not come on when the
ignition key is turned to the ON posi-
tion or remains on for more than 6
seconds.
The light comes on while driving.
In the following cases, contact your Toyota The SRS (Supplemental Restraint Sys-
dealer as soon as possible: tem) side airbags and curtain shield air-
The SRS front airbags have been in- bags are designed to provide further
flated. protection for the driver, front passen-
ger and rear outside passengers in
The front of the vehicle (shaded in the addition to the primary safety protec-
illustration) was involved in an accident tion provided by the seat belts.
that was not severe enough to cause
the SRS front airbags to inflate.
The pad section of the steering wheel
or front passenger airbag cover
(shaded in the illustration) is scratched,
cracked, or otherwise damaged.
NOTICE
Do not disconnect the battery cables
before contacting your Toyota dealer.
61

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
In response to a severe side impact, the

SRS side airbags and curtain shield air- CAUTION Do not allow anyone to lean his/her
bags work with the seat belts to help head or any part of his/her body
reduce injury by inflating. The SRS side The SRS side airbag and curtain against the door or the area of the
airbags help reduce injuries mainly to the shield airbag system is designed seat, pillar, rear pillar or roof side
drivers or front passengers chest and the only as a supplement to the prima- rail from which the SRS side airbag
SRS curtain shield airbags help reduce ry protection of the driver, front and curtain shield airbag deploy
injuries mainly to the drivers, front pas- passenger and rear outside passen- even if he/she is a child seated in
sengers or rear outside passengers head. ger seat belt systems. To ensure the child restraint system. It is dan-
maximum protection in an accident, gerous if the SRS side airbag and
The SRS side airbag and curtain shield curtain shield airbag inflate, and the
the driver and all passengers in the
airbag on the passenger side are activated
vehicle must wear their seat belts impact of the deploying airbag
even with no passenger in the front seat
properly. Wearing a seat belt prop- could cause death or serious injury
or rear outside seat. to the occupant.
erly during an accident reduces the
The SRS curtain shield airbags may acti- chances of death or serious injury
vate even when the side airbags are not or being thrown out of the vehicle.
activated. For instructions and precautions
Always wear your seat belt properly. concerning the seat belt system,
see Seat belts on page 44 in this
Section.
62

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Improperly seated and/or restrained

infants and children can be killed
or seriously injured by the deploy-
ing airbags. An infant or child who
Collision from the rear
is too small to use a seat belt
should be properly secured using a
child restraint system. Toyota
strongly recommends that all in-
fants and children be placed in the Collision from the front
rear seats of the vehicle and prop-
erly restrained. The rear seats are Vehicle rollover
the safest for infants and children.
For instructions concerning the
installation of a child restraint sys- The SRS side airbag and curtain shield The SRS side airbags and curtain shield
tem, see Child restraint on page airbag system may not activate if the airbags are not generally designed to
69 in this Section. vehicle is subjected to a collision from inflate if the vehicle is involved in a
the side at certain angles, or a collision front or rear collision, if it rolls over,
to the side of the vehicle body other or if it is involved in a low- speed side
than the passenger compartment as collision.
shown in the illustration.
The SRS side airbags and curtain shield
airbags are designed to inflate when the
passenger compartment area suffers a se-
vere impact from the side.
Always wear your seat belts properly.
63

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
The SRS side airbag and curtain shield Deployment of the airbags happens in a
airbag system is controlled by the airbag fraction of a second, so the airbags must
sensor assembly. The airbag sensor as- inflate with considerable force. While the
sembly consists of a safing sensor and system is designed to reduce serious inju-
airbag sensor. ries, it may also cause minor burns or
In a severe side impact, the side and abrasions and swelling.
curtain shield airbag sensor and/or the Front seats as well as parts of the front
curtain shield airbag sensor trigger(s) the and rear pillars, and roof side rail may be
side airbag inflators and/or the curtain hot for several minutes, but the airbags
shield airbag inflators. At this time a themselves will not be hot. The airbags
chemical reaction in the inflators quickly are designed to inflate only once.
fills the airbags with non- toxic gas to help
restrain the lateral motion of the occu- CAUTION
pants.
The SRS side airbag and curtain shield SRS side airbags and curtain shield
airbag system consists mainly of the fol- When the airbags inflate, they produce a
fairly loud noise and release some smoke airbags inflate with considerable
lowing components, and their locations are force. To reduce the possibility of
and residue along with non- toxic gas. This
shown in the illustration. death or serious injury when they in-
does not indicate a fire. This smoke may
1. SRS warning light remain inside the vehicle for some time, flate, the driver, front passenger and
2. Curtain shield airbag modules and may cause some minor irritation to rear outside passengers must:
(airbag and inflator) the eyes, skin or breathing. Be sure to Wear their seat belts properly.
wash off any residue as soon as possible
3. Side airbag modules Remain properly seated with their
to prevent any potential skin irritation with
(airbag and inflator) backs upright and against the seats
soap and water. If you can safely exit
4. Curtain shield airbag sensors at all times.
from the vehicle, you should do so imme-
5. Side and curtain shield airbag sensors diately.
6. Airbag sensor assembly
64

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Do not allow anyone to lean against Do not allow anyone to get his/her Do not allow anyone to kneel on
the door when the vehicle is in use, head closer to the area where the the passenger seat, facing the pas-
since the side airbag and curtain side airbag and curtain shield air- sengers side door, since the side
shield airbag could inflate with con- bag inflate, since these airbags airbag and curtain shield airbag
siderable speed and force. Other- could inflate with considerable could inflate with considerable
wise, he/she may be killed or seri- speed and force. Otherwise, he/she speed and force. Otherwise, he/she
ously injured. Special care should may be killed or seriously injured. may be killed or seriously injured.
be taken especially when you have Special care should be taken espe- Special care should be taken espe-
a small child in the vehicle. cially when you have a small child cially when you have a small child
Sit up straight and well back in the in the vehicle. in the vehicle.
seat, distributing your weight evenly
in the seat. Do not apply excessive
weight to the outer side of the
seats with a side airbag, and to the
front pillar, rear pillar and roof side
rail with a curtain shield airbag.
65

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Do not allow anyone to get his/her Do not attach a cup holder or any Do not attach a microphone or any
head or hands out of windows other device or object on or around other device or object around the
since the curtain shield airbags the door. When the side airbag in- area where the curtain shield airbag
could inflate with considerable flates, the cup holder or any other activates such as on the windshield
speed and force. Otherwise, he/she device or object will be thrown with glass, side door glass, front and
may be killed or seriously injured. great force or the side airbag may rear pillars, roof side rail and assist
Special care should be taken espe- not activate correctly, resulting in grips. When the curtain shield air-
cially when you have a small child death or serious injury. Likewise, bag inflates, the microphone or oth-
in the vehicle. the driver and front passenger er device or object will be thrown
should not hold objects in their away with great force or the curtain
arms or on their knees. shield airbag may not activate cor-
rectly, resulting in death or serious
injury.
66

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Do not hook a hanger, heavy or Do not disassemble or repair the NOTICE

sharp pointed objects on the coat front pillar, and rear pillar and roof
Do not perform any of the following
hook. If the curtain shield airbag side rails containing the curtain
changes without consulting your
inflates, those items will be thrown shield airbags. Such changes may
Toyota dealer. Such changes can
away with great force or the curtain disable the system or cause the
interfere with proper operation of the
shield airbag may not activate cor- curtain shield airbags to inflate ac-
SRS side airbag and curtain shield
rectly, resulting in death or serious cidentally, resulting in death or seri-
airbag system in some cases.
injury. When you hang clothes, ous injury.
hang them on the coat hook direct- Installation of electronic devices
Failure to follow these instructions
ly. such as a mobile two- way radio,
can result in death or serious injury.
cassette tape player or compact
Do not use seat accessories which Consult your Toyota dealer about any
disc player
cover the parts where the side air- repair and modification.
bags inflate. Such accessories may Modification of the suspension sys-
prevent the side airbags from acti- tem
vating correctly, causing death or Modification of the side structure of
serious injury. the passenger compartment
Do not modify or replace the seats Repairs made on or near the con-
or upholstery of the seats with side sole or front seat
airbags. Such changes may prevent
the side airbag system from activat-
ing correctly, disable the system or
cause the side airbags to inflate ac-
cidentally, resulting in death or seri-
ous injury.
67

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)

or seat belt pretensioners. Contact your
Toyota dealer as soon as possible.
seconds.
This indicator comes on when the igni-

tion key is turned to the ON position.
It goes off after about 6 seconds. This
means the SRS side airbags and curtain
shield airbags are operating properly.
This warning light system monitors the
airbag sensor assembly, front airbag sen-
sors, side and curtain shield airbag sen-
sors, curtain shield airbag sensors, driv-
ers seat position sensor, drivers seat belt
buckle switch, seat belt pretensioner as-
semblies, inflators, warning light, intercon-
tion 1- 6.)
68

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Child restraint
Child restraint precautions
In the following cases, contact your Toyota Toyota strongly urges the use of ap-
dealer as soon as possible: propriate child restraint systems for Toyota strongly urges use of a
proper child restraint system which
Any of the SRS side airbags and cur- children.
conforms to the size of the child,
tain shield airbags have been inflated. The laws of all 50 states in the U.S.A. installed on the rear seat. Accord-
The portion of the doors (shaded in the and Canada now require the use of a
ing to accident statistics, the child
illustration) was involved in an accident child restraint system.
is safer when properly restrained in
that was not severe enough to cause Your vehicle conforms to SAEJ1819. the rear seat than in the front seat.
the SRS side airbags and curtain If a child is too large for a child restraint Never install a rear- facing child re-
shield airbags to inflate. system, the child should sit in the rear straint system on the front passen-
The surface of the seats with the side seat and must be restrained using the ger seat. In the event of an acci-
airbag (shaded in the illustration) is vehicles seat belt. See Seat belts on dent, the force of the rapid inflation
scratched, cracked, or otherwise dam- page 44 in this Section for details. of the front passenger airbag can
aged. cause death or serious injury to the
The portion of the front pillars, rear CAUTION child if the rear- facing child re-
pillars and roof side rail garnishes straint system is installed on the
(padding) containing the curtain shield For effective protection in automo- front passenger seat.
airbags inside (shaded in the illustra- bile accidents and sudden stops, a A forward- facing child restraint sys-
tion) is scratched, cracked, or other- child must be properly restrained, tem should be allowed to be
wise damaged. using a seat belt or child restraint installed on the front passenger
system depending on the age and seat only when it is unavoidable.
NOTICE size of the child. Holding a child in Always move the seat as far back
your arms is not a substitute for a as possible, because the front pas-
Do not disconnect the battery cables child restraint system. In an acci- senger airbag could inflate with
before contacting your Toyota dealer. dent, the child can be crushed considerable speed and force.
against the windshield, or between Otherwise, the child may be killed
you and the vehicles interior. or seriously injured.
69

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Child restraint system

A child restraint system for a small
On vehicles with side airbags and Make sure you have complied with child or baby must itself be properly
curtain shield airbags, do not allow all installation instructions provided restrained on the seat with the lap por-
the child to lean his/her head or by the child restraint manufacturer tion of the lap/shoulder belt. You must
any part of his/her body against the and that the system is properly se- carefully consult the manufacturers
door or the area of the seat, front cured. If it is not secured properly, instructions which accompany the child
or rear pillar or roof side rail from it may cause death or serious injury restraint system.
which the side airbags or curtain to the child in the event of a sud-
To provide proper restraint, use a child
shield airbags deploy even if the den stop or accident.
restraint system following the manufactur-
child is seated in the child restraint
system. It is dangerous if the side ers instructions about the appropriate age
and size of the child for the child restraint
airbag and curtain shield airbag in-
system.
flate, and the impact could cause
death or serious injury to the child. Install the child restraint system correctly
following the instructions provided by its
Do not use the seat belt extender
when installing a child restraint manufacturer. General directions are also
system on the front or rear passen- provided under the following illustrations.
ger seat. If installing a child re- The child restraint system should be
straint system with the seat belt installed on the rear seat. According to
extender connected to the seat belt, accident statistics, the child is safer when
the seat belt will not securely hold properly restrained in the rear seat than
the child restraint system, which in the front seat.
could cause death or serious injury When not using the child restraint system,
to the child or other passengers in keep it secured with the seat belt or place
the event of collision. it somewhere other than the passenger
compartment. This will prevent it from in-
juring passengers in the event of a sud-
den stop or accident.
70

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Types of child restraint

system
Child restraint systems are classified into
the following 3 types depending on the
childs age and size.
(A) Infant seat
(B) Convertible seat
(C) Booster seat
Install the child restraint system following
the instructions provided by its manufac-
turer.
Your vehicle has anchor brackets for se-
curing the top strap of a child restraint
system.
For instructions about how to use the an- (A) Infant seat (C) Booster seat
chor bracket, see Using a top strap on
page 82 in this Section.
The child restraint lower anchorages ap-
proved for your vehicle may also be used.
See Installation with child restraint low-
er anchorages on page 85 in this Sec-
tion.
(B) Convertible seat
71

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Installation with seat belt
(A) INFANT SEAT INSTALLATION

CAUTION Never install a rear- facing child re-
An infant seat must be used in rear-
straint system on the front passen-
facing position only. When installing a rear- facing child ger seat. In the event of an acci-
restraint system in the rear seat, dent, the force of the rapid inflation
move the rear seat to the rear- most of the front passenger airbag can
lock position to prevent the child cause death or serious injury to the
restraint system from interfering child if the rear- facing child re-
with the front seat. Otherwise, the straint system is installed on the
child restraint system may not be front passenger seat.
properly secured. In the event of an
accident, this may cause death or
serious injury.
72

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Same position Same angle
1. Run the lap and shoulder belt through

Do not install a child restraint sys- When installing a child restraint or around the infant seat following the
tem on the rear seat if it interferes system on the rear center position, instructions provided by its manufactur-
with the lock mechanism of the adjust both seat cushions to the er and insert the tab into the buckle
front seats. Otherwise, the child or same position and align both seat- taking care not to twist the belt. Keep
front seat occupant(s) may be killed backs at the same angle. Otherwise, the lap portion of the belt tight.
or seriously injured in case of sud- the child restraint system cannot be
den braking or a collision. securely restrained and this may
If the drivers seat position does cause death or serious injuries in a
not allow sufficient space for safe collision.
installation, install the child re-
straint system on the rear right
seat.
73

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
CAUTION
After inserting the tab, make sure

the tab and buckle are locked and
that the lap and shoulder portions
of the belt are not twisted.
Do not insert coins, clips, etc. in
the buckle as this may prevent your
child from properly latching the tab
and buckle.
normally, it cannot protect your
child from death or serious injury.
Contact your Toyota dealer immedi- 2. Fully extend the shoulder belt to put it 3. While pressing the infant seat firmly
ately. Do not install the child in the lock mode. When the belt is against the seat cushion and seatback,
restraint system on the seat until then retracted even slightly, it cannot let the shoulder belt retract as far as
the seat belt is fixed. be extended. it will go to hold the infant seat secure-
To hold the infant seat securely, make ly.
sure the belt is in the lock mode before
letting the belt retract.
74

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
4. To remove the infant seat, press the (B) CONVERTIBLE SEAT INSTALLATION
CAUTION buckle release button and allow the A convertible seat must be used in for-
belt to retract completely. The belt will ward- facing or rear- facing position de-
Push and pull the child restraint sys- move freely again and be ready to pending on the age and size of the
tem in different directions to be sure work for an adult or older child passen-
it is secure. Follow all the installation child. When installing, follow the
ger. manufacturers instruction about the ap-
instructions provided by its manufac-
plicable age and size of the child as
turer.
well as directions for installing the
child restraint system.
75

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Move seat
fully back
CAUTION Never install a rear- facing child re- A forward- facing child restraint sys-
straint system on the front passen- tem should be allowed to be
When installing a rear- facing child ger seat. In the event of an acci- installed on the front passenger
restraint system in the rear seat, dent, the force of the rapid inflation seat only when it is unavoidable.
move the rear seat to the rear- most of the front passenger airbag can Always move the seat as far back
lock position to prevent the child cause death or serious injury to the as possible, because the front pas-
restraint system from interfering child if the rear- facing child re- senger airbag could inflate with
with the front seat. Otherwise, the straint system is installed on the considerable speed and force.
child restraint system may not be front passenger seat. Otherwise, the child may be killed
or seriously injured.
properly secured. In the event of an
accident, this may cause death or
serious injury.
76

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
On vehicles with side airbags and Same

curtain shield airbags, do not allow Same position angle
the child to lean his/her head or
any part of his/her body against the
door or the area of the seat, front
or rear pillar or roof side rail from
which the side airbags or curtain
shield airbags deploy even if the
system. It is dangerous if the side
flate, and the impact could cause
death or serious injury to the child.
Do not install a child restraint sys- When installing a child restraint

tem on the rear seat if it interferes system on the rear center position,
with the lock mechanism of the adjust both seat cushions to the
front seats. Otherwise, the child or same position and align both seat-
front seat occupant(s) may be killed backs at the same angle. Otherwise,
or seriously injured in case of sud- the child restraint system cannot be
den braking or a collision. securely restrained and this may
If the drivers seat position does cause death or serious injuries in a
not allow sufficient space for safe collision.
installation, install the child re-
straint system on the rear right
seat.
77

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
CAUTION
After inserting the tab, make sure

the tab and buckle are locked and
that the lap and shoulder portions
of the belt are not twisted.
Do not insert coins, clips, etc. in
and buckle.
1. Run the lap and shoulder belt through Contact your Toyota dealer immedi- 2. Fully extend the shoulder belt to put it
or around the convertible seat following ately. Do not install the child in the lock mode. When the belt is
the instructions provided by its restraint system on the seat until then retracted slightly, it cannot be ex-
manufacturer and insert the tab into the seat belt is fixed. tended.
the buckle taking care not to twist the To hold the convertible seat securely,
belt. Keep the lap portion of the belt make sure the belt is in the lock mode
tight. before letting the belt retract.
78

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
3. While pressing the convertible seat 4. To remove the convertible seat, press
firmly against the seat cushion and CAUTION the buckle release button and allow the
seatback, let the shoulder belt retract belt to retract completely. The belt will
as far as it will go to hold the convert- Push and pull the child restraint sys- move freely again and be ready to
ible seat securely. tem in different directions to be sure work for an adult or older child passen-
it is secure. Follow all the installation ger.
instructions provided by its manufac-
turer.
79

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
On vehicles with side airbags and

curtain shield airbags, do not allow
the child to lean his/her head or
any part of his/her body against the
door or the area of the seat, front
or rear pillar or roof side rail from
which the side airbags or curtain
shield airbags deploy even if the
system. It is dangerous if the side
Move seat
fully back flate, and the impact could cause
death or serious injury to the child.
(C) BOOSTER SEAT INSTALLATION
CAUTION
A booster seat must be used in for-
ward- facing position only. A forward- facing child restraint sys-
tem should be allowed to be
installed on the front passenger
seat only when it is unavoidable.
Always move the seat as far back
as possible, because the front pas-
senger airbag could inflate with
considerable speed and force.
Otherwise, the child may be killed
or seriously injured.
80

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Same CAUTION
Same position angle
Always make sure the shoulder belt
is positioned across the center of
childs shoulder. The belt should be
kept away from childs neck, but
not falling off childs shoulder.
Otherwise, the child may be killed
or seriously injured in case of sud-
den braking or a collision.
Both high- positioned lap belts and
loose- fitting belts could cause
death or serious injuries due to
1. Sit the child on a booster seat. Run sliding under the lap belt during a
When installing a child restraint the lap and shoulder belt through or collision or other unintended event.
system on the rear center position, around the booster seat and across the Keep the lap belt positioned as low
adjust both seat cushions to the child following the instructions provided on a childs hips as possible.
same position and align both seat- by its manufacturer and insert the tab
backs at the same angle. Otherwise, For childs safety, do not place the
into the buckle taking care not to twist shoulder belt under childs arm.
the child restraint system cannot be the belt.
securely restrained and this may After inserting the tab, make sure
cause death or serious injuries in a Make sure the shoulder belt is correctly the tab and buckle are locked and
collision. across the childs shoulder and that the that the lap and shoulder portions
lap belt is positioned as low as possible of the belt are not twisted.
on the childs hips. See Seat belts on
page 44 in this Section for details. Do not insert coins, clips, etc. in
and buckle.
81

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Using a top strap

Contact your Toyota dealer immedi-
ately. Do not install the child
restraint system on the seat until
the seat belt is fixed.
Outside position
2. To remove the child restraint system,
press the buckle release button and
allow the belt to retract.
Center position (U.S.A. only)
82

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Follow the procedure below for a child For U.S.A.

restraint system that requires the use Use the anchor brackets behind the rear
of a top strap. seatbacks and on the luggage compart-
ment to attach the top strap.
Anchor brackets Anchor brackets are installed for each
rear seating position.
For Canada
Use the anchor brackets behind the rear
seatbacks to attach the top strap.
Anchor brackets are installed for both out-
side rear seating positions.
U.S.A.
Anchor brackets
Canada
83

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
2. Fix the child restraint system with

the seat belt.
Center anchor bracket only
Run the top strap through between
both seatbacks.
Latch the hook onto the anchor
bracket and tighten the top strap.
For instructions to install the child re-
straint system, see Child restraint on
page 69 in this Section.
CAUTION
Outside position
TO USE THE ANCHOR BRACKET: When you use the center anchor
1. Outside anchor brackets only bracket, make sure the top strap
Remove the head restraint. runs through between both seat-
backs and tighten it. The top strap
on seatback could cause death or
serious injury due to abnormal
moving of the child restraint system
in case of sudden braking or a col-
lision.
Make sure the top strap is securely
latched, and check that the child
restraint system is secure by push-
ing and pulling it in different direc-
tions. Follow all the installation in-
structions provided by its manufac-
Center position (U.S.A. only) turer.
84

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Installation with child

restraint lower anchorages
4th lock 1st lock

position position
3. Outside anchor brackets only Lower anchorages for the child restraint CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM
Replace the head restraint. systems complying with the FMVSS225 INSTALLATION
or CMVSS210.2 specifications are 1. Fold down the seatback and back it
installed in the rear seat. to the 1st lock position (most up-
The anchorages are installed in the clear- right position) until it locks into
ance between the seat cushion and seat- place. Adjust the seatback to the 4th
back of both outside rear seats. lock position.
Child restraint systems complying with the Make sure the seatback is locked secure-
FMVSS213 or CMVSS213 specification ly.
can be fixed to these anchorages. In this
case, it is not necessary to fix the child
restraint system with a seat belt on the
vehicle.
85

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
For owners in Canada

The symbol on a child restraint system
indicates the presence of a lower connec-
tor system.
Type A
2. Widen the gap between the seat
cushion and seatback slightly and
confirm the position of the lower an-
chorages below the tag on the seat-
back.
3. Latch the hooks of lower straps onto
the anchorages and tighten the lower
straps.
Type B
2. Widen the gap between the seat
cushion and seatback slightly and
confirm the position of the lower an-
chorages below the tag on the seat-
back.
3. Latch the buckles onto the anchor-
ages.
If your child restraint system has a top
strap, it should be anchored. (For the
installation of the top strap, see Using
a top strap on page 82 in this Section.)
Canada only Canada only
Type A Type B
86

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
For installation details, refer to the instruc-

tion manual equipped with each product. Do not install a child restraint sys-
tem on the rear seat if it interferes
CAUTION with the lock mechanism of the
front seats. Otherwise, the child or
When using the lower anchorages front seat occupant(s) may be killed
for the child restraint system, be or seriously injured in case of sud-
sure that there are no irregular ob- den braking or a collision.
jects around the anchorages or that
the seat belt is not caught.
Push and pull the child restraint
system in different directions to be
sure it is secure. Follow all the
installation instructions provided by
its manufacturer.
When using the lower anchorages
for the child restraint system, en-
sure that the seat is moved to the
rear- most position, with the seat-
back close to the child restraint
system.
After securing the child restraint
system, never slide or recline the
seat.
87

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
88

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 1- 4
CONTROLS
Steering wheel and Mirrors
Tilt steering wheel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Outside rear view mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Anti- glare inside rear view mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Auto anti- glare inside rear view mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Sun visors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
89

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Tilt steering wheel Outside rear view mirrors
CAUTION
Do not adjust the steering wheel

while the vehicle is moving. Doing
so may cause the driver to mishan-
dle the vehicle and an accident may
occur resulting in death or serious
injuries.
After adjusting the steering wheel,
try moving it up and down to make
sure it is locked in position.
To change the steering wheel angle, Adjust the mirror so that you can just
hold the steering wheel, push down the see the side of your vehicle in the mir-
lock release lever, tilt the steering ror.
wheel to the desired angle and return Be careful when judging the size or dis-
the lever to its original position. tance of any object seen in the outside
rear view mirror on the passengers side
because it is a convex mirror. Any object
seen in a convex mirror will look smaller
and farther away than when seen in a flat
mirror.
On some models, when you push the rear
window defogger switch, the heater panels
in the outside rear view mirrors will quick-
ly clear the mirror surface. (See Rear
window and outside rear view mirror de-
foggers on page 104 in Section 1- 5.)
90

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Power rear view mirror

control
CAUTION NOTICE
If ice should jam the mirror, do not
Do not adjust the mirror while the operate the control or scrape the mir-
vehicle is moving. Doing so may
ror face. Use a spray de- icer to free
cause the driver to mishandle the
the mirror.
vehicle and an accident may occur
resulting in death or serious inju-
ries.
Since the mirror surfaces can get
hot, do not touch them when the
defogger switch is on.
To adjust a mirror, use the switches.

1. Master switchTo select the mirror to
be adjusted
Push the switch to L (left) or R
(right).
2. Control switchTo move the mirror
Push the switch in the desired direc-
tion.
Mirrors can be adjusted when the key is
in the ACC or ON position.
91

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Anti- glare inside rear view

Folding rear view mirrors mirror
CAUTION
Do not adjust the mirror while the

vehicle is moving. Doing so may
cause the driver to mishandle the ve-
hicle and an accident may occur re-
sulting in death or serious injuries.
The rear view mirrors can be folded Adjust the mirror so that you can just
backward for parking in compact areas. see the rear of your vehicle in the mir-
To fold the rear view mirror, push back- ror.
ward. To reduce glare from the headlights of
the vehicle behind you during night
CAUTION driving, operate the lever on the lower
edge of the mirror.
Do not drive with the mirrors folded Daylight drivingLever at position 1
backward. Both the driver and pas-
The reflection in the mirror has greater
senger side rear view mirrors must
be extended and properly adjusted clarity at this position.
before driving. Night drivingLever at position 2
Remember that by reducing glare you also
lose some rear view clarity.
92

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Auto anti- glare inside rear

view mirror
In automatic function mode, if the mirror
detects light from the headlights of the
vehicle behind you, the mirror surface
darkens slightly to reduce the reflected
light.
To turn off the automatic function, push
the switch.
To turn on the automatic function again,
push the switch.
Adjust it before driving so that the rear
view is in the best condition.
When the inside air temperature is low, it
Adjust the mirror so that you can just may take a little longer for the mirror to To ensure correct functioning of anti-
see the rear of your vehicle in the mir- darken in response to the detection of glare mirror sensors located on both
ror. headlights. sides of the mirror, do not touch or
This mirror is equipped with auto anti- cover the sensors with your finger or
glare function. The function is designed a piece of cloth, etc.
CAUTION
to reduce glare from the headlights of
the vehicle behind you during night Do not adjust the mirror while the
driving. vehicle is moving. Doing so may
When the ignition key is inserted and cause the driver to mishandle the ve-
turned on, the inside rear view mirror al- hicle and an accident may occur re-
ways turns on in the automatic function sulting in death or serious injuries.
mode.
The indicator illuminates to show you that
the function is on.
93

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Sun visors Vanity mirrors

To block out glare, move the sun visor.
To block out glare from the frontSwing
down the main sun visor (position 1).
To block out glare from the sideSwing
down the main sun visor, remove it from
the hook and swing it to the lateral side
(position 2).
Type AIf glare comes from obliquely be-
hind you, slide the visor backward (to
position 3).
Type BIf glare comes from obliquely be-
hind you, extend the plate at the end of
Type A the visor (to position 3). Type A
CAUTION
Type ASlide the sun visor only

when it is swung down to the later-
al side. It can cover the anti- glare
inside rear view mirror and obstruct
the rear view.
Type BDo not extend the plate at
the end of the sun visor when the
visor is in the position 1. It can
cover the anti- glare inside rear
view mirror and obstruct the rear
view.
Type B Type B
94

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
To use the vanity mirrors, swing down

the main sun visor and slide the cover.
Type A only
The vanity light comes on when you slide
the cover.
95

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
96

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 1- 5
CONTROLS
Lights, Wipers and Defogger
Headlights and turn signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Emergency flashers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Instrument panel light control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Front fog lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Interior lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Personal light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Ignition switch light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Windshield wipers and washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Rear window wiper and washer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Rear window and outside rear view mirror defoggers . . . . . . . . . . . 104
97

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Headlights and turn signals

NOTICE
To prevent the battery from being dis-
charged, do not leave the lights on
for a long period when the engine is
not running.
Daytime running light system

(on some models)
The headlights turn on at reduced intensi-
ty when the parking brake is released with
the engine started, even with the light
switch in the OFF position. They will not
HEADLIGHTS go off until the ignition switch is turned High- Low beamsFor high beams, turn
off. the headlights on and push the lever away
To turn on the following lights: Twist
the headlight/turn signal lever knob. To turn on the other exterior lights and from you (position 1). Pull the lever to-
instrument panel lights, twist the knob to ward you (position 2) for low beams.
Position 1Parking, tail, license plate,
the position 1. The headlight high beam indicator light
side marker and instrument panel lights
Twist the knob to the position 2 to turn (blue light) on the instrument panel will
Position 2Headlights and all of the tell you that the high beams are on.
to full intensity for driving at night.
above
Flashing the high beam headlights
Light reminder buzzer (position 3)Pull the lever all the way
A buzzer will remind you to turn the lights back. The high beam headlights turn off
off when the drivers door is opened if you when you release the lever.
remove the key with the headlight switch You can flash the high beam headlights
on. with the knob turned to OFF.
98

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Emergency flashers
NOTICE
To prevent the battery from being dis-
charged, do not leave the switch on
longer than necessary when the en-
gine is not running.
TURN SIGNALS To turn on the emergency flashers,

To signal a turn, push the headlight/ push the switch.
turn signal lever up or down to position All the turn signal lights will flash. To turn
1. them off, push the switch once again.
The key must be in the ON position. Turn on the emergency flashers to warn
The lever automatically returns after you other drivers if your vehicle must be
make a turn, but you may have to return stopped where it might be a traffic hazard.
it by hand after you change lanes. Always pull as far off the road as pos-
To signal a lane change, move the lever sible.
up or down to the pressure point (position The turn signal light switch will not work
2) and hold it. when the emergency flashers are operat-
If the turn signal indicator lights (green ing.
lights) on the instrument panel flash faster
than normal, a front or rear turn signal
bulb is burned out. See Replacing light
bulbs on page 304 in Section 7- 3.
99

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Instrument panel light control Front fog lights Interior lights
To adjust the brightness of the instru- To turn on the front fog lights, twist To turn on the interior light, slide the
ment panel lights, turn the knob. the band of the headlight and turn sig- switch.
nal switch lever. They will come on The interior light switch has the following
only when the headlights are on low positions:
beam.
ONKeeps the light on all the time.
OFFTurns the light off.
DOORTurns the light on when any of
the side doors and back door are opened.
The light goes off when all the side doors
and back door are closed.
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Personal light
ILLUMINATED ENTRY SYSTEM To turn on the personal light, push the
(vehicles with the power door lock sys- switch. To turn the light off, push the
tem) switch once again.
When the switch is in the DOOR posi-
tion and any of the side doors and back
door are opened, the lights will come on.
After all the side doors and back door are
closed, the lights remain on for about 15
seconds before fading out.
However, in the following cases, the light
fades out immediately:
All the side doors and back door are
closed when the ignition key is in
With moon roof
ACC or ON position.
All the side doors and back door are
locked when the light is still on.
are unlocked simultaneously using either
the key or the wireless remote control
transmitter, the interior lights will come on
and remain on for about 15 seconds be-
fore fading out.
INTERIOR LIGHT CUT OFF OPERATION
To prevent the battery being discharged,
the light will automatically turn off when
the ignition switch is in the LOCK posi-
tion and the door is left opened with the
switch at DOOR position for 20 minutes Without moon roof
or more.
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Ignition switch light Windshield wipers and washer

When any door is unlocked using ei-
ther the key or the wireless remote
control key, the light will come on and
remain on for about 15 seconds before
fading out.
To prevent the battery being discharged,
the light will automatically turn off when
the ignition switch is in the LOCK posi-
tion and the door is left opened for 20
minutes or more.
For easy access to the ignition switch, To turn on the windshield wipers, move
the ignition switch light comes on when the lever to the desired setting.
any of the doors are opened. The key must be in the ON position.
tem Lever position Speed setting
The light remains on for about 15 sec- Position 1 Intermittent
onds after all the side doors and back Position 2 Slow
door are closed.
Position 3 Fast
When all the doors are locked, or when
the ignition switch is turned to ACC For a single sweep of the windshield,
or ON after all the side doors and push the lever up and release it.
back door are closed, the light fades
out.
102

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Rear window wiper and

washer
The INT band lets you adjust the wiping
time interval when the wiper lever is in
NOTICE
the intermittent position (position 1). Twist Do not operate the rear wiper if the
the band upward to increase the time be- rear window is dry. It may scratch the
tween sweeps, and downward to decrease glass.
it.
To squirt washer fluid, pull the lever
toward you.
If the windshield wipers are off, they will
operate a couple of times after the washer
squirts.
For instructions on adding washer fluid,
see Adding washer fluid on page 303 in
Section 7- 3. To turn on the rear window wiper, twist
In freezing weather, warm the windshield the lever knob upward.
with the defroster before using the washer. The key must be in the ON position.
This will help prevent the washer fluid
from freezing on your windshield, which Lever position Speed setting
can block your vision.
Position 1 Intermittent
NOTICE Position 2 Normal
Do not operate the wipers if the wind- To squirt washer fluid on the rear window,
shield is dry. It may scratch the twist the knob upward or downward as far
glass. as it will go (position 3 or 4). The knob
automatically returns from these positions
after you release it. The rear window wip-
er operates while the washer squirts.
For instructions on adding washer fluid,
see Adding washer fluid on page 303 in
Section 7- 3.
103

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Rear window and outside rear

view mirror defoggers
CAUTION
Since the mirror surfaces can get hot,

do not touch them when the switch
is on.
Make sure you turn the defoggers off

when the surfaces are clear. Leaving the
defoggers on for a long time could cause
the battery to discharge, especially during
stop- and- go driving. The defoggers are
not designed for drying rain water or for
melting snow.
To defog or defrost the rear window, If the outside rear view mirrors are heavi-
push the switch. ly coated with ice, use a spray de- icer
The key must be in the ON position. before operating the switch.
The thin heater wires on the inside of the
rear window will quickly clear the window
NOTICE
surface. An indicator light will illuminate to When cleaning the inside of the rear
indicate the defogger is operating. window, be careful not to scratch or
On some models, the heater panels in the damage the heater wires or connec-
outside rear view mirrors will also quickly tors.
clear the surfaces.
Push the switch once again to turn the
defoggers off.
The system will automatically shut off af-
ter the defoggers have operated about 15
minutes.
104

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 1- 6
CONTROLS
Gauges, Meters and Service reminder indicators
Fuel gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Engine coolant temperature gauge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Tachometer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Odometer and two trip meters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Service reminder indicators and warning buzzers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
105

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Engine coolant temperature

Fuel gauge gauge
On inclines or curves, due to the move-
ment of fuel in the tank, the fuel gauge
needle may fluctuate or the low fuel level
warning light may come on earlier than
usual.
If the fuel tank is completely empty, the
malfunction indicator lamp comes on. Fill
the fuel tank immediately.
The indicator lamp goes off after driving
several times. If the indicator lamp does
not go off, contact your Toyota dealer as
soon as possible.
It is not a malfunction even if the needle
The gauge indicates the approximate of the fuel gauge returns to E when the The gauge indicates the engine coolant
quantity of fuel remaining in the tank ignition switch is turned to the START temperature when the ignition switch is
when the ignition switch is on. position. on. The engine operating temperature
Nearly fullNeedle at F will vary with changes in weather and
Nearly emptyNeedle at E engine load.
It is a good idea to keep the tank over If the needle moves into the red zone,
1/4 full. your engine is too hot. If your vehicle
overheats, stop your vehicle and allow the
The needle moves when braking, acceler- engine to cool.
ating or making turns. This is caused by
the movement of the fuel in the tank. Your vehicle may overheat during severe
operating conditions, such as:
If the fuel level approaches E or the low
fuel level warning light comes on, fill the Driving up a long hill on a hot day.
fuel tank as soon as possible. Reducing speed or stopping after high
speed driving.
106

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Tachometer
Idling for a long period with the air
NOTICE
conditioning on in stop- and- go traffic.
Towing a trailer. Do not let the indicator needle get
into the red zone. This may cause
severe engine damage.
of the engine coolant temperature gauge
returns to C when the ignition switch is
turned to the START position.
NOTICE
Do not remove the thermostat in
the engine cooling system as this
may cause the engine to overheat.
The thermostat is designed to con-
trol the flow of coolant to keep the The tachometer indicates engine speed
temperature of the engine within in thousands of rpm (revolutions per
the specified operating range. minute). Use it while driving to select
correct shift points and to prevent en-
Do not continue driving with an
gine lugging and over- revving.
overheated engine. See If your ve-
hicle overheats on page 246 in Driving with the engine running too fast
Section 4. causes excessive engine wear and poor
fuel economy. Remember, in most cases
the slower the engine speed, the greater
the fuel economy.
of the tachometer returns to the bottom
position when the ignition switch is turned
to the START position.
107

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Odometer and two trip meters

3. Trip meter reset knobResets the two
trip meters to zero, and also change
the meter display.
To change the meter display, quickly
push and release the knob. The meter
display changes in the order from the
odometer to trip meter A to trip meter
B, then back to the odometer each
time you push.
To reset the trip meter A to zero, dis-
play the meter A reading, then push
and hold the knob until the meter is
set to zero. The same process can be
applied for resetting the trip meter B.
This meter displays the odometer and
two trip meters.
1. OdometerShows the total distance
the vehicle has been driven.
2. Two trip metersShow two different
distances independently driven since
the last time each trip meter was set
to zero.
You can use one trip meter to calculate
the fuel economy and the other to
measure the distance on each trip. All
trip meter data is cancelled if the elec-
trical power source is disconnected.
108

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Service reminder indicators and warning buzzers

If the indicator or buzzer comes on... Do this.
(a) or If parking brake is off, stop immediately and contact Toyota dealer.
(b) Fasten drivers seat belt.

(indicator and buzzer)
(c) Fasten front passengers seat belt.
(d) Stop and check.
(e) Stop and check.
(f) or Take vehicle to Toyota dealer.
(g) Fill up tank.
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Take vehicle to Toyota dealer.

(h) or
If brake system warning light is also on, stop immediately and contact Toyota dealer.
(i) Close all side doors and back door.
(j) Take vehicle to Toyota dealer immediately.
(k) Stop and check.
(l) Take vehicle to Toyota dealer.
Adjust tire inflation pressure and turn off warning light by pushing reset switch for a
(m) few seconds. If warning light remains, contact Toyota dealer.
(n) Add washer fluid.
(o) Replace engine oil.
110

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
(p) Key reminder buzzer Remove key.
(q) Light reminder buzzer Turn off lights.
111

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
(a) Brake System Warning Light A warning light turning on briefly during (b) Drivers Seat Belt Reminder Light
This light comes on in the following cases operation does not indicate a problem. and Buzzer
when the ignition key is in the ON posi- The light and buzzer act as a reminder to
tion. CAUTION buckle up the drivers seat belt.
When the parking brake is applied... If either of the following conditions
Once the ignition key is turned to ON or
Vehicles with anti- lock brake system START, the reminder light flashes and
occurs, immediately stop your vehicle
buzzer sounds if the drivers seat belt is
This light comes on for a few seconds at a safe place and contact your
not fastened. Unless the driver fastens the
when the ignition key is turned to the Toyota dealer.
belt, the light continues flashing and the
ON position even after the parking brake The light does not turn off even buzzer stops after about 4 to 8 seconds.
is released. after the parking brake is released
(c) Front Passengers Seat Belt Re-
When the brake fluid level is low... while the engine is running.
minder Light
In this case, the brakes may not
The light acts as a reminder to have the
CAUTION work properly and your stopping
front passenger buckle up the seat belt.
distance will become longer. De-
It is dangerous to continue driving press the brake pedal firmly and Once the ignition key is turned to ON or
normally when the brake fluid level is bring the vehicle to an immediate START, the reminder light flashes if a
low. stop. passenger sits in the front passenger seat
and does not fasten the seat belt. Howev-
Vehicles with anti- lock brake sys-
er, if a front passenger uses an additional
Have your vehicle checked at your tem
seat cushion, the light may not flash even
Toyota dealer in the following cases: The brake system warning light re- when the seat belt is not buckled up.
The light does not come on even if the mains on together with the ABS
If luggage or other load is placed on the
parking brake is applied when the igni- warning light.
front passenger seat, depending on its
tion key is in the ON position. In this case, not only the anti- lock weight and how it is placed on the seat,
Vehicles with anti- lock brake system brake system will fail but also the built- in sensors in the seat cushion may
The light does not come on even if the vehicle will become extremely un- detect the pressure, causing the reminder
ignition key is turned on with the park- stable during braking. light to keep flashing.
ing brake released.
112

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
(d) Discharge Warning Light The light may occasionally flicker when Loose fuel tank cap
This light warns that the battery is being the engine is idling or it may come on If the fuel tank cap is loose, securely
discharged. briefly after a hard stop. There is no tighten it.
cause for concern if it then goes out when
If it comes on while you are driving, there the engine is accelerated slightly. These cases are temporary malfunctions.
is a problem somewhere in the charging The malfunction indicator lamp will go off
system. The light may come on when the oil level after taking several driving trips.
is extremely low. It is not designed to
The engine ignition will continue to oper- indicate low oil level, and the oil level If the lamp does not go off even after
ate, however, until the battery is dis- must be checked using the level dipstick. several trips, contact your Toyota dealer
charged. Turn off the air conditioning, as soon as possible.
blower, radio,etc., and drive directly to the NOTICE If the fuel tank is not empty or the fuel
nearest Toyota dealer or repair shop. tank cap is not loose...
Do not drive the vehicle with the
NOTICE warning light oneven for one block. There is a problem somewhere in the
It may ruin the engine. engine, emission control system, elec-
Do not continue driving if the engine tronic throttle control system, automatic
drive belt is broken or loose. transmission electrical system or warn-
(f) Malfunction Indicator Lamp
ing light system itself.
(e) Low Engine Oil Pressure Warning This lamp comes on when the ignition
Contact your Toyota dealer as soon as
Light key is turned to the ON position and
possible to service the vehicle.
goes off after the engine starts. This
This light warns that the engine oil pres- means that the warning light system is If engine speed does not increase when
sure is too low. operating properly. the accelerator pedal is depressed, there
If it flickers or stays on while you are may be a problem somewhere in the elec-
If the lamp remains on, or the lamp
driving, pull off the road to a safe place tronic throttle control system.
comes on while driving, first check the
and stop the engine immediately. Call a followings. At this time, vibration may occur. Howev-
Toyota dealer or qualified repair shop for er, if you depress the accelerator pedal
assistance. Empty fuel tank
more firmly and slowly, you can drive your
If the fuel tank is empty, refuel immedi- vehicle at low speeds. Have your vehicle
ately. checked by your Toyota dealer as soon as
possible.
113

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Even if the abnormality of the electronic (g) Low Fuel Level Warning Light If either of the following conditions
throttle control system is corrected during This light comes on when the fuel level occurs, this indicates a malfunction
low speed driving, the system may not be in the tank becomes nearly empty. Fill up somewhere in the components moni-
recovered until the engine is stopped and the tank as soon as possible. tored by the warning light system. Con-
the ignition key is turned to the ACC or tact your Toyota dealer as soon as
LOCK position. On inclines or curves, due to the move- possible to service the vehicle.
ment of fuel in the tank, the low fuel level
warning light may come on earlier than The light does not come on when the
CAUTION ignition key is turned to the ON posi-
usual.
tion, or remains on.
Be especially careful to prevent erro- (h) ABS Warning Light
neous pedal operation.
The light comes on while you are driv-
Vehicles without vehicle stability control ing.
system
Emissions Inspection and Maintenance A warning light turning on briefly during
The light comes on when the ignition key operation does not indicate a problem.
(I/M) programs is turned to the ON position. If the anti-
Your vehicle may not pass a state lock brake system works properly, the
CAUTION
emission inspection if the malfunction light turns off after a few seconds. There-
indicator lamp remains on. Contact your after, if the system malfunctions, the light If the ABS warning light remains on
Toyota dealer to check your vehicles comes on again.
together with the brake system warn-
emission control system and OBD When the ABS warning light is on (and ing light, immediately stop your ve-
(On- Board Diagnostics) system before the brake system warning light is off), the hicle at a safe place and contact your
taking your vehicle for the inspection. anti- lock brake system does not operate, Toyota dealer.
For details, see Emissions Inspection and but the brake system still operates con-
In this case, not only the anti- lock
Maintenance (I/M) programs on page 276 ventionally. brake system will fail but also the
in Section 6. When the ABS warning light is on (and vehicle will become extremely unsta-
the brake system warning light is off), the ble during braking.
anti- lock brake system does not operate
so that the wheels could lock up during
a sudden braking or braking on slippery
road surfaces.
114

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Vehicles with vehicle stability control If either of the following conditions (i) Open Door Warning Light
system occurs, this indicates a malfunction This light remains on until all the side
The light comes on when the ignition key somewhere in the components moni- doors and back door are completely
is turned to the ON position. If the anti- tored by the warning light. Contact your closed.
lock brake system and the brake assist Toyota dealer as soon as possible to
service the vehicle. (j) SRS Warning Light
system work properly, the light turns off
after a few seconds. Thereafter, if either The light does not come on when the This light will come on when the igni-
of the systems malfunctions, the light ignition key is turned to the ON position key is turned to the ON position.
comes on again. tion, or remains on. After about 6 seconds, the light will go
off. This means the systems of the air-
When the ABS warning light is on (and The light comes on while you are driv- bag and front seat belt pretensioners
the brake system warning light is off), the ing. are operating properly.
anti- lock brake system, the brake assist A warning light turning on briefly during
system, the traction control system and The warning light system monitors the air-
operation does not indicate a problem. bag sensor assembly, front airbag sen-
the vehicle stability control system do not
operate, but the brake system still oper- sors, side and curtain shield airbag sen-
CAUTION sors, curtain shield airbag sensors,
ates conventionally.
drivers seat position sensor, drivers seat
When the ABS warning light is on (and If the ABS warning light remains on belt buckle switch, front seat belt preten-
the brake system warning light is off), the together with the brake system warn- sioner assemblies, inflators, warning light,
anti- lock brake system does not operate ing light, immediately stop your ve- interconnecting wiring and power sources.
so that the wheels could lock up during hicle at a safe place and contact your
a sudden braking or braking on slippery If either of the following conditions occurs,
Toyota dealer.
road surfaces. this indicates a malfunction somewhere in
In this case, not only the anti- lock the parts monitored by the warning light
brake system will fail but also the system. Contact your Toyota dealer as
vehicle will become extremely unsta- soon as possible to service the vehicle.
ble during braking.
seconds.
115

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
(k) Automatic Transmission Fluid Tem- (l) VSC TRAC Warning Light (m) Low Tire Pressure Warning Light
perature Warning Light (four- wheel This light warns that there is a problem This light warns that the tire inflation pres-
drive models) somewhere in the vehicle stability control sure is critically low. The light comes on
This light warns that the automatic trans- system or traction control system. when the ignition key is turned to the
mission fluid temperature is too high. The light will come on when the ignition ON position. It goes off after a few sec-
If this light comes on while you are driv- key is turned to ON and will go off after onds. This indicates that the low tire pres-
ing, slow down and pull off the road. Stop a few seconds. sure warning system is functioning proper-
the vehicle at a safe place and put the ly.
If the light comes on while driving, the
selector lever in P. With the engine id- system does not work. However, as con- If the light comes on while driving, adjust
ling, wait until the light goes off. If the ventional braking operates when applied, tire inflation pressure to the specified lev-
light goes off, you can start the vehicle there is no problem to continue your driv- el. (See Tires on page 316 in Section 8.)
again. If the light does not go off, call a ing. After the tire inflation pressure is adjusted,
Toyota dealer or qualified repair shop for push the tire pressure warning system re-
assistance. In the following cases, contact your Toyota set switch for a few seconds and make
dealer: sure the warning light goes off. If the light
NOTICE The warning light does not come on still remains or blinks once every second,
after the ignition key is turned to ON. have the low tire pressure warning system
Continued driving with the warning
light on may damage the automatic The warning light remains on after the checked at your Toyota dealer.
transmission. ignition key is turned to ON. If the light blinks twice every second, the
The warning light comes on while driv- low tire pressure warning system needs to
ing. be initialized.
Two- wheel drive models onlyThe TRAC For details, see Tire pressure warning
OFF indicator light will come on when the system on page 131 in Section 1- 7.
VSC TRAC warning light comes on even
if the TRAC OFF switch is not pushed.
116

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
(n) Low Windshield Washer Fluid Level If the light is flashing, we recommend that (q) Light Reminder Buzzer
Warning Light (for vehicles sold in you replace the engine oil at an early This buzzer will sound if the headlight
Canada) opportunity depending on the driving and switch is left on and the drivers door is
The light warns that the windshield washer road conditions. If the light comes on, opened with the key removed from the
fluid level is too low. Add washer fluid at replace it as soon as possible. ignition switch.
your earliest opportunity. (For instructions, The system must be reset after the en-
see Adding washer fluid on page 303 in gine oil replacement. Reset the system by
Section 7- 3.) the following procedure:
(o) Engine Oil Replacement Reminder 1. Turn the ignition key to the OFF posi-
Light (for vehicles sold in U.S.A.) tion with the odometer reading shown.
This light acts as a reminder to replace (For details, see Odometer and two
the engine oil. trip meters on page 108 in this Sec-
tion.)
This light will come on when the ignition
key is turned to ON and will go off after 2. Turn the ignition key to the ON posi-
about a few seconds. tion while holding down the trip meter
reset knob.
When you drive for about 7200 km (4500
miles) after the engine oil replacement, Hold down the knob for at least 5 sec-
this light illuminates for about 3 seconds onds. The odometer indicates 000000
and then flashes for about 12 seconds and the light goes off.
with the ignition key turned to the ON If the system fails to reset, the light will
position. If you continue driving without continue flashing.
replacing the engine oil, and if the dis- (p) Key Reminder Buzzer
tance driven exceeds 8000 km (5000
miles), the light will come on after the This buzzer acts as a reminder to remove
ignition key is turned to ON position. the key when you open the drivers door
The light will remain on thereafter. with the ignition key in the ACC or
LOCK position.
117

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
CHECKING SERVICE REMINDER

INDICATORS (except the low fuel level
warning light and low windshield
washer fluid level warning light)
1. Apply the parking brake.
2. Open one of the doors.
The open door warning light should
come on.
3. Close the door.
The open door warning light should go
off.
4. Turn the ignition key to ON, but do
not start the engine.
All the service reminder indicators ex-
cept the open door warning light should
come on. The ABS and VSC TRAC
warning lights, low tire pressure warn-
ing light and engine oil replacement
reminder light go off after a few sec-
onds. The SRS warning light goes off
after about 6 seconds. (The TRAC
OFF indicator light and slip indicator
light also come on and go off after a
few seconds.)
If any service reminder indicator or warn-
ing buzzer does not function as described
above, have it checked by your Toyota
dealer as soon as possible.
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 1- 7
CONTROLS
Ignition switch, Transmission and Parking brake
Ignition switch with steering lock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Automatic transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Manual transmission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
Traction control system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Vehicle stability control system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
Tire pressure warning system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Parking brake . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Cruise control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
119

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Ignition switch with steering

lock
on the speedometer may move when the CAUTION
ignition switch is turned to the ON posi-
tion. For manual transmission:
ACCAccessories such as the radio Never remove the key when the ve-
operate, but the engine is off. hicle is moving, as this will lock the
steering wheel and result in loss of
If you leave the key in the ACC or
steering control.
LOCK position and open the drivers
door, a buzzer will remind you to remove
the key. NOTICE
LOCKEngine is off and the steering
wheel is locked. The key can be re- Do not leave the key in the ON
moved only at this position. position if the engine is not running.
STARTStarter motor on. The key The battery will discharge and the
You must push in the key to turn it from ignition could be damaged.
will return to the ON position when ACC to the LOCK position. On vehicles
released. with an automatic transmission, the selec-
For starting tips, see page 227 in Section tor lever must be in the P position be-
3. fore pushing the key.
It is not a malfunction even if the needle Vehicles with engine immobilizer sys-
of the tachometer, fuel gauge or engine temOnce you remove the key, the en-
coolant temperature gauge returns to the gine immobilizer system is automatically
bottom position when the ignition switch is set. (See Engine immobilizer system on
turned to the START position. page 13 in Section 1- 2.)
ONEngine on and all accessories When starting the engine, the key may
on. seem stuck at the LOCK position. To
free it, first be sure the key is pushed all
This is the normal driving position.
the way in, and then rock the steering
wheel slightly while turning the key gently.
120

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Automatic transmission
Your automatic transmission has a shift
Selector lever lock system to minimize the possibility of
Lock release button incorrect operation. This means you can
To prevent misshifting only shift out of P position when the
brake pedal is depressed (with the ignition
switch in ON position and the lock re-
lease button depressed).
(a) Selector lever
The shift position is also displayed on the
instrument cluster.
P: Parking, engine starting and
key removal
R: Reverse
N: Neutral
With the brake pedal depressed, D: Normal driving (with overdrive on)
shift while holding the lock release
button in. (The ignition switch must 2: Stronger engine braking
be in ON position.) L: Maximum engine braking
Shift while holding the lock release

button in.
Shift normally.
Overdrive
switch
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Vehicles with cruise controlWhen the

cruise control is being used, even if you CAUTION
downshift the transmission by pushing and
releasing the overdrive switch, engine Never put your foot on the accelera-
braking will not be enabled because the tor pedal while shifting.
cruise control is not cancelled.
For ways to decrease the vehicle speed, 3. Release the parking brake and brake
see Cruise control on page 135 in this pedal. Depress the accelerator pedal
Section. slowly for smooth starting.
(c) Normal driving (d) Using engine braking
1. Start the engine as instructed in How To use engine braking, you can downshift
to start the engine on page 228 in the transmission as follows:
Section 3. The transmission must be in Push the overdrive switch. The O/D
(b) Overdrive switch P or N. OFF indicator light will come on and
You can select either third gear (with 2. With your foot holding down the brake the transmission will downshift to third
overdrive off) or fourth gear (with over- pedal, shift the selector lever to D. gear.
drive on) by pushing this switch. When the lever is in the D position, the Shift into the 2 position. The trans-
To turn the overdrive off, push the switch. automatic transmission system will select mission will downshift to second gear
The O/D OFF indicator light should come the most suitable gear for running condi- when the vehicle speed drops down to
on. To turn the overdrive on again, push tions such as normal cruising, hill climb- or lower than the following speed, and
the switch again. The O/D OFF indicator ing, hard towing, etc. stronger engine braking will be en-
light should go off. abled.
Always turn the overdrive on for better
Always drive your vehicle with the over- fuel economy and quieter driving. If the Two- wheel drive models
drive on for better fuel economy and engine coolant temperature is low, the 107 km/h (66 mph)
quieter driving. transmission will not shift into the over- Four- wheel drive models
drive gear even with the overdrive on. 101 km/h (62 mph)
If the engine is turned off when the over-
drive is off and restarted, the overdrive
will be on automatically.
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Shift into the L position. The trans- (e) Using 2 and L positions
mission will downshift to first gear Do not continue hill climbing or
The 2 and L positions are used for hard towing for a long time in the
when the vehicle speed drops down to strong engine braking as described pre-
or lower than the following speed, and 2 or L position. This may cause
viously. severe automatic transmission dam-
maximum engine braking will be en-
abled. With the selector lever in 2 or L, you age from overheating. To prevent
can start the vehicle in motion as with the such damage, D position should
Two- wheel drive models lever in D. be used in hill climbing or hard
53 km/h (33 mph) towing.
Four- wheel drive models With the selector lever in 2, the vehicle
50 km/h (31 mph) will start in first gear and automatically
shift to second gear. (f) Backing up
Vehicles with cruise controlWhen the
cruise control is being used, even if you With the selector lever in L, the trans- 1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop.
downshift the transmission by pushing and mission is engaged in first gear. 2. With the brake pedal held down with
releasing the overdrive switch, engine your foot, shift the selector lever to the
NOTICE R position.
braking will not be enabled because the
cruise control is not cancelled. Be careful not to overrev the en-
gine. Watch the tachometer to keep NOTICE
For ways to decrease the vehicle speed,
see Cruise control on page 135 in this engine rpm from going into the red Never shift into reverse while the ve-
Section. zone. The approximate maximum al- hicle is moving.
lowable speed for each position is
CAUTION given below for your reference:
Two- wheel drive models
Be careful when downshifting on a 2 . . . . . . . . . 119 km/h (74 mph)
slippery surface. Abrupt shifting L . . . . . . . . . . 66 km/h (41 mph)
could cause the vehicle to skid or
Four- wheel drive models
spin.
2 . . . . . . . . . 110 km/h (68 mph)
L . . . . . . . . . . 61 km/h (38 mph)
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Manual transmission
(g) Parking
CAUTION
1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop.
2. Pull the parking brake lever up fully to Always keep your foot on the brake
securely apply the parking brake. pedal while stopped with the engine
3. With the brake pedal pressed down, running. This prevents the vehicle
shift the selector lever to the P posi- from creeping.
tion.
CAUTION NOTICE
Always use the brake pedal or the
Never attempt to move the selector parking brake to hold the vehicle on
lever into P position under any cir- an upgrade. Do not attempt to hold
cumstances while the vehicle is mov- the vehicle using the accelerator ped-
ing. Serious mechanical damage and al, as this can cause the transmission The shift pattern is as shown above.
loss of vehicle control may result. to overheat. Press the clutch pedal down fully while
shifting, and then release it slowly. Do not
(h) Good driving practice (i) If you cannot shift the selector le- rest your foot on the pedal while driving,
If the transmission repeatedly shifts up ver out of P position because it will cause clutch trouble. Do
and down between third gear and over- not use the clutch to hold the vehicle
If you cannot shift the selector lever from
drive when climbing a gentle slope, the when stopped on an uphill gradeuse the
the P position even though the brake
overdrive should be turned off. Be sure parking brake.
pedal is depressed, use the shift lock
to turn the switch on immediately after- override button. For instructions, see If
ward. you cannot shift automatic transmission
When towing a trailer, in order to main- selector lever on page 262 in Section 4.
tain engine braking efficiency, do not
use overdrive.
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Recommended shifting speeds Maximum allowable speeds Good driving practice

The transmission is fully synchronized and To get on a highway or to pass slower If it is difficult to shift into reverse, put
upshifting or downshifting is easy. traffic, maximum acceleration may be nec- the transmission in neutral, release the
For the best compromise between fuel essary. Make sure you observe the follow- clutch pedal momentarily, and then try
economy and vehicle performance, you ing maximum allowable speeds in each again.
should upshift or downshift at the following gear: When towing a trailer, in order to main-
speeds: Two- wheel drive models tain engine braking efficiency, do not
gear km/h (mph) gear km/h (mph) use fifth gear.
1 to 2 or 2 to 1 24 (15) 1 50 (31)
2 to 3 or 3 to 2 40 (25) 2 94 (58) CAUTION
3 to 4 or 4 to 3 64 (40) 3 144 (89)
4 to 5 or 5 to 4 72 (45) 4 186 (115) Be careful when downshifting on a
slippery surface. Abrupt shifting
Downshift to the appropriate gear if accel- Four- wheel drive models
could cause the vehicle to skid or
eration is needed when you are cruising gear km/h (mph) spin.
below the above downshifting speeds. 1 43 (26)
Upshifting too soon or downshifting too 2 85 (53)
late will cause lugging and, possibly, ping- 3 131 (81) NOTICE
ing. Regularly revving the engine to maxi- 4 170 (106)
mum speed in each gear will cause ex- Make sure the vehicle is completely
cessive engine wear and high fuel NOTICE stopped before shifting into reverse.
consumption.
Do not downshift if you are going
faster than the maximum allowable
speed for the next lower gear.
125

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Traction control system

(two- wheel drive models)
The traction control system automatical- When the traction control system is oper-
ly helps prevent the spinning of front ating, the following conditions occur:
wheels when the vehicle is started or The system controls the spinning of the
accelerated on slippery road surfaces. front wheels. At this time, the slip indi-
When the ignition key is turned to ON, cator light blinks.
the system automatically turns on. You may feel vibration or noise in your
vehicle, caused by operation of the
CAUTION brakes. This indicates the system is
functioning properly.
Under certain slippery road condi-
The slip indicator light comes on for a few
tions, full traction of the vehicle and
seconds when the ignition key is turned
power against front wheels cannot be
maintained, even though the traction to ON. If the indicator light does not
come on when the ignition is turned on,
control system is in operation. Do not
NORMAL DRIVING MODE contact your Toyota dealer.
drive the vehicle under any speed or
maneuvering conditions which may Leave the system on during the ordi-
cause the vehicle to lose traction nary driving so that it can operate
control. In situations where the road when needed.
surface is covered with ice or snow, You may hear a sound in the engine
your vehicle should be fitted with compartment for a few seconds just after
snow tires or tire chains. Always the vehicle begins to move. This means
drive at an appropriate and cautious that the traction control system is in the
speed for the present road condi- self- check mode, but does not indicate a
tions. malfunction.
126

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
TRAC OFF indicator light comes on for

a few seconds when the ignition key is
turned to ON. It will come on again
when you push the TRAC OFF switch to
turn off the system.
In the following cases, contact your Toyota
dealer:
The indicator light does not come on
when the ignition key is turned ON.
The indicator light remains on after the
ignition is turned on.
The indicator light comes on with the
normal driving mode while driving.
TRACTION CONTROL OFF MODE VSC TRAC warning light
If your wheels get stuck in a ditch This light warns that there is a problem
when you are driving on a severe off somewhere in the traction control system
road and sand, turn off the traction or the vehicle stability control system.
control system. This system that con- The light will come on when the ignition
trols engine performance interferes with key is turned to ON and will go off after
the process of freeing your wheels. a few seconds.
To turn off: Push TRAC OFF switch. If the light comes on while driving, the
The TRAC OFF indicator light will come system does not work. However, as con-
on. ventional braking operates when applied,
The vehicle stability control system is al- there is no problem to continue your driv-
ways activated, even if the traction control ing.
system is turned off.
To turn on: Push TRAC OFF switch
once again.
The TRAC OFF indicator light will go off.
127

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Traction control system

(four- wheel drive models)
In the following cases, contact your Toyota The traction control system automatical-
dealer: ly helps prevent the spinning of 4
The warning light does not come on wheels when the vehicle is started or
after the ignition key is turned to ON. accelerated on slippery road surfaces.
The warning light remains on after the When the ignition key is turned to ON,
ignition key is turned to ON. the system automatically turns on.
The warning light comes on while driv- CAUTION

ing.
The TRAC OFF indicator light will come Under certain slippery road condi-
on when the VSC TRAC warning light tions, full traction of the vehicle and
comes on even if the TRAC OFF switch power against 4 wheels cannot be
is not pushed. maintained, even though the traction
control system is in operation. Do not
drive the vehicle under any speed or NORMAL DRIVING MODE
maneuvering conditions which may Leave the system on during the ordi-
cause the vehicle to lose traction nary driving so that it can operate
control. In situations where the road when needed.
surface is covered with ice or snow, You may hear a sound in the engine
your vehicle should be fitted with compartment for a few seconds just after
snow tires or tire chains. Always the vehicle begins to move. This means
drive at an appropriate and cautious that the traction control system is in the
speed for the present road condi- self- check mode, but does not indicate a
tions. malfunction.
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
When the traction control system is oper- In the following cases, contact your Toyota
ating, the following conditions occur: dealer:
The system controls the spinning of the The warning light does not come on
4 wheels. At this time, the slip indica- after the ignition key is turned to ON.
tor light blinks. The warning light remains on after the
You may feel vibration or noise in your ignition key is turned to ON.
vehicle, caused by operation of the The warning light comes on while driv-
brakes. This indicates the system is ing.
functioning properly.
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 is turned on,
contact your Toyota dealer. VSC TRAC warning light
This light warns that there is a problem
somewhere in the traction control system
or the vehicle stability control system.
The light will come on when the ignition
key is turned to ON and will go off after
a few seconds.
system does not work. However, as con-
ventional braking operates when applied,
there is no problem to continue your driv-
ing.
129

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Vehicle stability control

system
The vehicle stability control system
helps provide integrated control of the CAUTION
systems such as an anti- lock brake
system, brake assist system, traction Do not rely excessively on the ve-
control, engine control, etc. This sys- hicle stability control system. Even
tem automatically controls the brakes if the vehicle stability control sys-
and engine to help prevent the vehicle tem is operating, you must always
from skidding when cornering on a slip- drive carefully and attentively to
pery road surface or operating steering avoid serious injury. Reckless driv-
wheel abruptly. ing will result in an unexpected ac-
cident. If the slip indicator light
This system activates when the vehicle
flashes, an alarm sounds, special
speed is about more than 15 km/h (9
care should be taken while driving.
mph).
Only use tires of specified size. The
You may hear a sound in the engine
size, manufacturer, brand and tread If the vehicle is going to skid during driv-
compartment for a few seconds just after pattern for all 4 tires should be the ing, the slip indicator light blinks and an
the vehicle begins to move. This means
same. If you use the tires other alarm sounds intermittently. Special care
that the system is in the self- check mode,
than specified, or different type or should be taken while driving.
but does not indicate a malfunction.
size, the vehicle stability control The slip indicator light comes on for a few
system may not function correctly. seconds when the ignition key is turned
When replacing the tires or wheels, to ON. If the indicator light does not
contact your Toyota dealer. (See come on when the ignition is turned on,
Checking and replacing tires on contact your Toyota dealer.
page 293 in Section 7- 2.)
130

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Tire pressure warning system

In the following cases, contact your Toyota The tire pressure warning system is de-
dealer: signed to provide warning when tire
The warning light does not come on inflation pressure is critically low while
after the ignition key is turned to ON. the vehicle is moving. The low tire
pressure warning light comes on to in-
The warning light remains on after the form you that such low tire pressure
ignition key is turned to ON. may hamper driving.
The warning light comes on while driv- This system is not designed to operate
ing. when the vehicle is stopped. Therefore,
Two- wheel drive models onlyThe TRAC check the tire inflation pressure regularly.
OFF indicator light will come on when the The recommended cold tire inflation pres-
VSC TRAC warning light comes on even sure, tire size and the vehicle capacity
if the TRAC OFF switch is not pushed. weight are on the tire and loading informa-
tion label. (For instructions, see Checking
VSC TRAC warning light tire inflation pressure on page 291 in
This light warns that there is a problem Section 7- 2.)
somewhere in the vehicle stability control Installed tires should be of the specified
system or the traction control system. size. They should be of the same size
The light will come on when the ignition and construction. If tires other than the
key is turned to ON and will go off after specified size are used, or if tires of dif-
a few seconds. ferent sizes or constructions are mixed,
the tire pressure warning system will not
function properly.
system does not work. However, as con-
ventional braking operates when applied,
there is no problem to continue your driv-
ing.
131

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
If the warning light comes on: The tire pressure warning system does
1. Adjust the tire inflation pressure to not function properly under certain cir-
the specified level as soon as pos- cumstances. In the following cases, the
sible. (See Tires on page 316 in low tire pressure warning light may not
Section 8.) come on even if the tire inflation pres-
sure is low, or it may come on when
2. Push the tire pressure warning sys- the tire inflation pressure is actually
tem reset switch for a few seconds normal.
and make sure the warning light
goes off. Snow tires, or tire chains are used.
If the light remains on after the reset The tire inflation pressure is excessive-
switch has been pushed, have the tire ly higher than specified, or tire inflation
pressure warning system checked at your pressure suddenly drops due to burst-
Toyota dealer. ing or other causes.
LOW TIRE PRESSURE WARNING LIGHT If you have a flat tire, replace it with the The vehicle is driven on a slippery
This light comes on when the ignition key spare tire. For details, see If you have road surface such as rough or frozen
a flat tire on page 247 in Section 4. roads.
is turned to the ON position. It goes off
after a few seconds. This indicates that If the warning light blinks once every The vehicle speed is less than 30 km/h
the tire pressure warning system is func- second: (19 mph) or more than 100 km/h (62
tioning properly. mph), and the driving duration is less
The low tire pressure warning system may than 5 minutes.
If the low tire pressure warning light be malfunctioning. Contact your Toyota
comes on or blinks while driving, do dealer. The tires differ in tread pattern or
the following. manufacturer.
If the warning light blinks twice every
second: The tires are not the specified size.
The low tire pressure warning system The tread wear is very different among
needs to be initialized. Reset the system the installed tires.
with the tire pressure warning system re- Rapid acceleration/deceleration or
set switch. (To reset the system, see sharp turns is continued.
TIRE PRESSURE WARNING SYSTEM Towing a trailer.
RESET SWITCH.)
132

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
The loading is over the limit or imbal-

anced. Note: The tire pressure monitoring
system on your vehicle will warn you
Initialization was not performed correct-
when one of your tires is significantly
ly after replacing or rotating tires or
underinflated and when some com-
wheels.
binations of your tires are significant-
The outside temperature is below 0C ly underinflated. However, there are
(32F) or above 40C (104F). other combinations of significantly
underinflated tires for which your
CAUTION tire pressure monitoring system may
not warn you. These other combina-
When the tire pressure warning light tions are relatively common, account-
comes on, observe the following in- ing for approximately half the
structions: instances in which vehicles have sig-
Adjust the tire inflation pressure to nificantly underinflated tires. For ex- TIRE PRESSURE WARNING SYSTEM
the specified level as soon as pos- ample, your system may not warn you RESET SWITCH
sible. when both tires on the same side or
The tire pressure warning system need
on the same axle of your vehicle are
Avoid abrupt steering wheel maneu- significantly underinflated. It is par-
to be initialized in the following condi-
vering and braking. If the vehicle tions:
ticularly important, therefore, for you
tires deteriorate, you could lose When the low tire pressure warning
to check the tire pressure in all of
control of the steering wheel or the light blinks twice every second
your tires regularly and maintain
brakes, causing death or serious in-
jury.
proper pressure. After replacing or rotating tires or
wheels
When initializing the system, the pres-
ent tire condition is stored as a stan-
dard.
133

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
To initialize the system, perform the fol- If the low tire pressure warning light does
lowing: not blink when you push and hold the
1. Park the vehicle at a safe place and reset switch, have the low pressure warn-
apply the parking brake. Stop the en- ing system checked at your Toyota dealer.
gine. When the warning light blinks twice every
2. Adjust the pressure of all the installed second while driving, you may be unable
tires to the specified level. (See Tires to reset the system. In this case, set the
on page 316 in Section 8.) system again according to the above pro-
cedure.
3. Turn the ignition key to ON.
If the low tire pressure warning light
comes on, push the reset switch for a
few seconds and make sure the warn-
ing light goes off.
When initializing the system, make sure
4. Push and hold the reset switch until the low tire pressure warning light blinks
the low tire pressure warning light
three times. If the warning light does not
blinks three times. blink three times, initializing will be failed
Initialization is completed after driving at and the tire pressure warning system will
the speeds of 30 km/h (19 mph) or over not function properly.
for more than one hour. If the following Do not push the reset switch without ad-
driving conditions are satisfied, initializa-
justing the tire inflation pressure to the
tion will be completed in about one hour.
specified level. Otherwise, the low tire
The vehicle speed is between 50 km/h pressure warning light may not come on
(31 mph) and 100 km/h (62 mph). even if the tire pressure is low, or it may
The roads are dry, smooth and straight. come on when the tire inflation pressure
is actually normal.
The number of passengers is 1 or 2
(including driver). If you push the reset switch while the
vehicle is moving, initialization is not per-
formed.
134

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Parking brake Cruise control

When parking, firmly apply the parking The cruise control allows you to cruise
brake to avoid inadvertent creeping. the vehicle at a desired speed over 40
To set: Pull up the lever. For better hold- km/h (25 mph) even with your foot off
ing power, first depress the brake pedal the accelerator pedal.
and hold it while setting the parking Your cruising speed can be maintained up
brake. or down grades within the limits of engine
To release: Pull up the lever slightly (1), performance, although a slight speed
press the lock release button (2), and low- change may occur when driving up or
er (3). down the grades. On steeper hills, a
To remind you that the parking brake is greater speed change will occur so it is
set, the parking brake reminder light in better to drive without the cruise control.
the instrument panel remains on until you
release the parking brake. CAUTION
Type A
CAUTION To help maintain maximum control
of your vehicle, do not use the
Before driving, be sure the parking cruise control when driving in
brake is fully released and the park- heavy or varying traffic, or on slip-
ing brake reminder light is off. pery (rainy, icy or snow- covered) or
winding roads.
Avoid vehicle speed increases when
driving downhill. If the vehicle
speed is too fast in relation to the
cruise control set speed, cancel the
cruise control then downshift the
transmission to use engine braking
to slow down.
Type B
135

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
If you need accelerationfor example,

when passingdepress 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.
CAUTION
For manual transmission:

While driving with the cruise control
on, do not shift to neutral without
depressing the clutch pedal, as this
may cause engine racing or overrev-
TURNING THE SYSTEM ON SETTING AT A DESIRED SPEED ving.
To operate the cruise control, push the On vehicles with automatic transmission,
ON- OFF switch. This turns the system the transmission must be in D before CANCELLING THE PRESET SPEED
on. The indicator light in the instrument you set the cruise control speed.
panel shows that you can now set the You can cancel the preset speed by:
Bring your vehicle to the desired speed,
vehicle at a desired cruising speed. Anoth- push the lever down in the - SET direc- a. Pulling the lever in the CANCEL
er push will turn the system completely tion and release it. This sets the vehicle direction and releasing it.
off. at that speed. If the speed is not satisfac- b. Depressing the brake pedal.
tory, tap the lever up for a faster speed, c. Depressing the clutch pedal (manual
CAUTION or tap it down for a slower speed. Each transmission).
tap changes the set speed by 1.6 km/h
To avoid accidental cruise control en- (1.0 mph). You can now take your foot off d. Pushing ON- OFF switch.
gagement, keep the ON- OFF switch the accelerator pedal. If the vehicle speed falls below about 40
off when not using the cruise control. km/h (25 mph), the preset speed will auto-
matically cancel out.
136

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
If the vehicle speed drops 16 km/h (10 On vehicles with automatic transmission, If any of the following conditions then oc-
mph) below the preset speed, the preset even if you turn off the overdrive switch curs, there is some trouble in the cruise
speed will also automatically cancel out. with the cruise control on, engine braking control system.
If the preset speed automatically cancels will not be enabled because the cruise The indicator light does not come on.
control is not cancelled. To decrease the
out other than for the above cases, have
vehicle speed, reset to a slower speed The indicator light flashes again.
your vehicle checked by your Toyota deal-
er at the earliest opportunity. with the cruise control lever or depress The indicator light goes out after it
the brake pedal. If you use the brake comes on.
RESETTING TO A FASTER SPEED pedal, cruise control is cancelled. If this is the case, contact your Toyota
Push the lever up in the + RES direction RESUMING THE PRESET SPEED dealer and have your vehicle inspected.
and hold it. Release the lever when the
desired speed is attained. While the lever If the preset speed is cancelled by pulling
is held up, the vehicle will gradually gain the control lever or by depressing the
speed. brake pedal or clutch pedal, pushing the
lever up in the + RES direction will re-
However, a faster way to reset is to ac- store the speed set prior to cancellation.
celerate the vehicle and then push the
lever down in the - SET direction. However, once the vehicle speed falls be-
low about 40 km/h (25 mph), the preset
RESETTING TO A SLOWER SPEED speed will not be resumed.
Push the lever down in the - SET direc- CRUISE CONTROL FAILURE WARNING
tion and hold it. Release the lever when
the desired speed is attained. While the If the CRUISE indicator light in the
lever is held down, the vehicle speed will instrument cluster flashes when using the
gradually decrease. cruise control, push the ON- OFF switch
to turn the system off and then push it
However, a faster way to reset is to de- again to turn it on.
press the brake pedal and then push the
lever down in the - SET direction.
137

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
138

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 1- 8
CONTROLS
Audio system
Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Using your audio system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
Audio remote controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160
Audio system operating hints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161
139

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Reference
Type 1: AMFM radio/compact disc player Type 2: AMFM radio/compact disc player Type 3: AMFM radio/cassette player/com-
(with compact disc changer controller) with changer pact disc player (with compact disc
changer controller)
140

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Using your audio system

Some basics
This section describes some of the basic TONE AND BALANCE YOUR RADIO ANTENNA
features on Toyota audio systems. Some For details about your systems tone and Your vehicle has a mast type antenna.
information may not pertain to your sys- balance controls, see the description of
tem. To remove the antenna, carefully turn it
your own system. counterclockwise.
Your audio system works when the ignition Tone
key is in the ACC or ON position. NOTICE
How good an audio program sounds to
TURNING THE SYSTEM ON AND OFF you is largely determined by the mix of To prevent damage to the antenna,
Push PWRVOL to turn the audio system the treble, midrange and bass levels. In make sure it is removed before driv-
on and off. fact, different kinds of music and vocal ing your Toyota through an automatic
Push AM, FM, FM1, FM2, TAPE or programs usually sound better with differ- car wash.
DISC to turn on that function without ent mixes of treble, midrange and bass.
pushing PWRVOL. To turn on the cas- Balance YOUR CASSETTE PLAYER
sette or compact disc player, a cassette A good balance of the left and right stereo When you insert a cassette, the exposed
or compact disc must be loaded in the channels and of the front and rear sound tape should face to the right.
player. levels is also important.
You can turn on each player by inserting Keep in mind that if you are listening to NOTICE
a cassette tape or compact disc. a stereo recording or broadcast, changing Do not oil any part of the player and
You can turn off each player by ejecting the right/left balance will increase the vol- do not insert anything other than cas-
the cassette tape or compact disc. If the ume of one group of sounds while de- sette tapes into the slot, or the tape
audio system was previously off, then the creasing the volume of another. player may be damaged.
entire audio system will be turned off
when you eject the cassette tape or com-
pact disc. If the another function was pre-
viously playing, it will come on again.
SWITCHING BETWEEN FUNCTIONS
Push AM, FM, FM1, FM2, TAPE or
DISC if the system is already on but you
want to switch from one function to anoth-
er.
141

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
YOUR COMPACT DISC PLAYER YOUR COMPACT DISC PLAYER WITH

When you insert a disc, gently push it in CHANGER (type 2)
with the label side up. (The player will When you insert a disc, push the LOAD
automatically eject a disc if the label side button and gently push the disc in with
is down.) The player will play from track the label side up. (The player will auto-
1 through the end of the disc. Then it will matically eject a disc if the label side is
play from track 1 again. down.) This compact disc player can store
up to six discs. The player will play from
NOTICE track 1 through the end of the disc. Then
it will play from track 1 of the next disc.
Never try to disassemble or oil any
part of the compact disc player. Do NOTICE
not insert anything other than com-
pact discs into the slot. Never try to disassemble or oil any
part of the compact disc player. Do
not insert anything other than com- NOTICE
The player is intended for use with 12 cm
(4.7 in.) discs only. pact discs into the slot. Do not stack up two discs for in-
sertion, or it will cause damage to
The player is intended for use with 12 cm the compact disc changer. Insert
(4.7 in.) discs only. only one compact disc into slot at
a time.
Never try to disassemble or oil any
part of the compact disc player. Do
not insert anything except a com-
pact disc into the slot.
142

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Controls and features

Type 1
Details of specific buttons, controls and
features are described in the alphabetical
list that follows.
143

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
1 2 3 4 5 6 (Preset buttons) (Reverse/Fast- forward button) DISC (Compact disc)

These buttons are used to preset and Push the DISC button to play a compact
tune in radio stations. Push and hold (preset button 6) or disc.
(preset button 5) to fast forward or
To preset a station to a button: Tune in When the audio system is set into com-
the desired station. (See TUNE or reverse within a compact disc. When you pact disc operation, the display shows the
SEEK/TRACK.) Push and hold down the release the button, the compact disc play- track, or track and disc number currently
button until you hear a beepthis will set er will resume playing. being played.
the station to the button. The preset but- AM Error messages
ton number will appear on the display. Push the AM button to turn on the radio If the player malfunctions, your audio sys-
To recall a preset station: Push the button and select the AM band. AM will appear tem will display one of the following error
for the station you want. The preset but- on the display. messages.
ton number and station frequency will ap- AUDIO CONTROL (Tone and sound bal-
pear on the display. WAIT: The compact disc player unit
ance adjustment function) may be too hot. Allow the player to cool
This radio can store one AM and two FM Each time you push the AUDIO down.
stations for each button. (The display will CONTROL knob, the mode changes. To
show AM, FM1 or FM2 when you ERROR 1: The disc may be dirty, dam-
adjust the tone and balance, turn the aged or inserted incorrectly (up- side
push AM, FM1 or FM2 button.) knob. down). Clean the disc and reinsert it.
(Eject button) BAS: Adjusts low- pitched tones. The dis- NO DISC: The compact disc changer of
play ranges from -5 to 5. separate unit is empty. Insert a disc.
Push the compact disc eject button to
eject a compact disc. TRE: Adjusts high- pitched tones. The dis- ERROR 3: There is a problem inside
play ranges from -5 to 5. the system. Eject the disc or magazine.
FAD: Adjusts the sound balance between Set the disc or magazine again.
the front and rear speakers. The display ERROR 4: Over- current. Ask your
ranges from F7 to R7. Toyota dealer to inspect.
BAL: Adjusts the sound balance between
the right and left speakers. The display
ranges from L7 to R7.
144

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
CD OPEN: The compact disc changer RAND (Random) RPT (Repeat)

lid of separate unit is open. Close the There are two random featuresyou can There are two repeat featuresyou can
compact disc changer lid. either listen to the tracks on one compact either replay a disc track or a whole com-
If the malfunction still exists, take your disc in random order, or listen to the pact disc.
vehicle to your Toyota dealer. tracks on all the compact discs in the Repeating a track:
DISC magazine in random order. Quickly push and release RPT (preset
With compact disc changer only To play the tracks on one disc in random button 2) while the track is playing.
order: will appear on the display. When
Use these buttons to select a disc you Quickly push and release RAND (preset the track ends, it will automatically replay.
want to listen to.
button 1). will appear on the To turn off the repeat feature, push this
Push (preset button 3) or (preset display and the player will perform the button again.
button 4) until the number of the disc you tracks on the disc you are listening to in With compact disc changer only
want to listen appears on the display. random order. To turn off the random fea-
ture, push this button again. Repeating a disc:
FM1 FM2
Push and hold RPT (preset button 2)
Push the FM1 or FM2 button to turn on With compact disc changer only
until you hear a beep. will ap-
the radio and select the FM band. FM1 To play all the tracks in the magazine in pear on the display. The player will repeat
or FM2 will appear on the display. This random order: all the tracks on the disc you are listening
system allows you to set twelve FM sta- Push and hold RAND (preset button 1) to. When the disc ends, the player will
tions, two for each of the preset button. until you hear a beep. will ap- automatically go back to the first track on
PWRVOL (Power and Volume) pear on the display and the player will the disc and replay. To turn off the repeat
Push PWRVOL to turn the audio system perform all the tracks on all the discs in feature, push this button again.
on and off. Turn PWRVOL to adjust the the magazine in random order. To turn off
volume. the random feature, push this button
again.
145

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SCAN Compact disc player SEEK/TRACK (Seeking/Track up/down)

Radio There are two scan featuresyou can ei- Radio
You can either scan all the frequencies on ther scan the tracks on a specific disc or In the seek mode, the radio finds and
a band or scan only the preset stations scan the first tracks of all the discs in the plays the next station up or down the
for that band. magazine. station band.
To scan the preset stations: Scanning the tracks on a disc: To seek the next station, quickly push and
Push and hold the SCAN button until Quickly push and release the SCAN but- release or side of the SEEK/
you hear a beep. The radio will tune in ton. SCAN will appear on the display TRACK button. Do this again to find the
the next preset station up the band, stay and the player will scan all the tracks on station after that.
there for 5 seconds, and then move to the the disc you are listening to. To stop
scanning, push this button again. If the Compact disc player
next preset station. To stop scanning,
push this button again. player scanned all the tracks on the disc, Use this button to skip up or down to a
it will stop scanning. different track.
To scan all the frequencies:
Quickly push and release the SCAN but- With compact disc changer only Push or side of the SEEK/
ton. The radio will find the next station up Scanning the first tracks of all the discs TRACK button until the number of the
the station band, stay there for 5 seconds, in the magazine: track you want to listen to appears on the
and then scan again to the next station. Push the SCAN button until you hear a display. If you want to return to the begin-
To stop scanning, push this button again. ning of the current track, quickly push the
beep. SCAN will appear on the dis-
down side of the button one time.
play and the player will scan the first
track of the next disc. To stop scanning, ST (Stereo reception) display
push this button again. If the player has Your radio automatically changes to stereo
scanned all the discs, it will stop scan- reception when a stereo broadcast is re-
ning. ceived. ST appears on the display. If the
signal becomes weak, the radio reduces
the amount of channel separation to prev-
ent the weak signal from creating noise.
If the signal becomes extremely weak, the
radio switches from stereo to mono recep-
tion.
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
TEXT
This button is used to change the display
for the compact disc that contains text
data.
To change the display, quickly push and
release the TEXT button while the com-
pact disc is playing. The display changes
in the order from the elapsed time to disc
title to track title, then back to the
elapsed time.
If this button is pushed while a compact
disc that does not contain text data is
playing, NO TITLE will appear on the
display.
If the entire disc or track title does not
appear on the display, push and hold the
button until you hear a beep. The rest of
the title will appear.
TUNE (Tuning)
Turn the TUNE knob clockwise to step
up the frequency. Turn the knob counter-
clockwise to step down the frequency.
147

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Type 2
list that follows.
148

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
1 2 3 4 5 6 (Preset buttons) To eject all discs at a time, press and AUDIO CONTROL (Tone and sound bal-
These buttons are used to preset and hold the eject button until you hear a ance adjustment function)
tune in radio stations. beep. The last compact disc played before Each time you push the AUDIO
pushing the button will be ejected first. If CONTROL knob, the mode changes. To
To preset a station to a button: Tune in the ejected disc is not removed for a long
the desired station. (See TUNE or adjust the tone and balance, turn the
time, the eject function will be cancelled. knob.
SEEK/TRACK.) Push and hold down the
button until you hear a beepthis will set (Reverse/Fast- forward button) BAS: Adjusts low- pitched tones. The dis-
the station to the button. The preset but- play ranges from -5 to 5.
ton number will appear on the display. Push and hold (preset button 6) or
MID: Adjusts mid- pitched tones. The dis-
(preset button 5) to fast forward or
To recall a preset station: Push the button play ranges from -5 to 5.
for the station you want. The preset but- reverse within a compact disc. When you
release the button, the compact disc play- TRE: Adjusts high- pitched tones. The dis-
ton number and station frequency will ap- play ranges from -5 to 5.
pear on the display. er will resume playing.
AM FAD: Adjusts the sound balance between
This radio can store one AM and two FM the front and rear speakers. The display
stations for each button. (The display will Push the AM button to turn on the radio ranges from F7 to R7.
show AM, FM1 or FM2 when you and select the AM band. AM will appear
push AM or FM button.) on the display. BAL: Adjusts the sound balance between
the right and left speakers. The display
(Eject button) ranges from L7 to R7.
This button is used to eject one or all DISC (Compact disc)
compact discs. Push the DISC button to play a compact
To eject the current compact disc, push disc.
and release the compact disc eject button. When the audio system is set into com-
To eject a specific disc, push (preset pact disc operation, the display shows the
button 3) or (preset button 4) until the track, or track and disc number currently
number of the disc you want to eject is being played.
displayed. Push and release the eject but-
ton.
149

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Error messages FM PWRVOL (Power and Volume)

If the player malfunctions, your audio sys- Push the FM button to turn on the radio Push PWRVOL to turn the audio system
tem will display one of the six following and select the FM band. FM1 or FM2 on and off. Turn PWRVOL to adjust the
error messages. will appear on the display. This system volume.
WAIT: The compact disc player unit allows you to set twelve FM stations, two RAND (Random)
may be too hot. Allow the player to cool for each of the preset button.
There are two random featuresyou can
down. LOAD either listen to the tracks on one compact
ERROR 1: The disc may be dirty, dam- This button is used to load the compact disc in random order, or listen to the
aged or inserted incorrectly (up- side discs in the compact disc player. This tracks on all the compact discs in the
down). Clean the disc and reinsert it. player can store up to six discs. magazine in random order.
NO DISC: The compact disc changer of To load one compact disc only, quickly To play the tracks on one disc in random
separate unit is empty. Insert a disc. push and release the button, then insert order:
ERROR 3: There is a problem inside a compact disc. After the disc is loaded, Quickly push and release RAND (preset
the system. Eject the disc or magazine. the shutter of the slot will close. button 1). will appear on the
Set the disc or magazine again. If no compact disc is inserted, the shutter display and the player will perform the
will close after 15 seconds. tracks on the disc you are listening to in
ERROR 4: Over- current. Ask your
random order. To turn off the random fea-
Toyota dealer to inspect. To load multiple compact discs, push and
ture, push this button again.
CD OPEN: The compact disc changer hold the button (until you hear a beep
when the audio system is on), then insert To play all the tracks in the magazine in
lid of separate unit is open. Close the
the first compact disc. After the disc is random order:
compact disc changer lid.
loaded, the shutter of the slot will close. Push and hold RAND (preset button 1)
If the malfunction still exists, take your After a few seconds, the shutter will auto- until you hear a beep. will ap-
vehicle to your Toyota dealer. matically open again so the next disc can pear on the display and the player will
DISC be inserted. The same process can be perform all the tracks on all the discs in
Use these buttons to select a disc you applied for loading the rest of the discs. the magazine in random order. To turn off
want to listen to. If the player is full of discs, DISC FULL the random feature, push this button
will appear on the display. again.
Push (preset button 3) or (preset
button 4) until the number of the disc you If no compact disc is inserted, the shutter
want to listen appears on the display. will close after 15 seconds.
150

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
RDS (Radio Data System) display SCAN Compact disc player

The radio will automatically switch to the Radio There are two scan featuresyou can ei-
RDS mode to receive an RDS station You can either scan all the frequencies on ther scan the tracks on a specific disc or
while tuned to FM broadcasts. RDS will a band or scan only the preset stations scan the first tracks of all the discs in the
appear on the display. for that band. magazine.
RPT (Repeat) To scan the preset stations: Scanning the tracks on a disc:
There are two repeat featuresyou can Push and hold the SCAN button until Quickly push and release the SCAN but-
either replay a disc track or a whole com- you hear a beep. The radio will tune in ton. SCAN will appear on the display
pact disc. the next preset station up the band, stay and the player will scan all the tracks on
there for 5 seconds, and then move to the the disc you are listening to. To stop
Repeating a track: scanning, push this button again. If the
Quickly push and release RPT (preset next preset station. To stop scanning,
push this button again. player scanned all the tracks on the disc,
button 2) while the track is playing. it will stop scanning.
will appear on the display. When To scan all the frequencies:
Quickly push and release the SCAN but- Scanning the first tracks of all the discs
the track ends, it will automatically replay. in the magazine:
To turn off the repeat feature, push this ton. The radio will find the next station up
the station band, stay there for 5 seconds, Push the SCAN button until you hear a
button again.
and then scan again to the next station. beep. SCAN will appear on the dis-
Repeating a disc: To stop scanning, push this button again. play and the player will scan the first
Push and hold RPT (preset button 2) track of the next disc. To stop scanning,
until you hear a beep. will ap- push this button again. If the player has
pear on the display. The player will repeat scanned all the discs, it will stop scan-
all the tracks on the disc you are listening ning.
to. When the disc ends, the player will
automatically go back to the first track on
the disc and replay. To turn off the repeat
feature, push this button again.
151

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SEEK/TRACK (Seeking/Track up/down) TEXT Compact disc player

Radio Radio This button is used to change the display
In the seek mode, the radio finds and This button is operational only in RDS for the compact disc that contains text
plays the next station up or down the mode. data.
station band. When an RDS station transmits a text To change the display, quickly push and
To seek the next station, quickly push and message, MSG will appear on the dis- release the TEXT button while the com-
release or side of the SEEK/ played. pact disc is playing. The display changes
TRACK button. Do this again to find the in the order from the elapsed time to disc
To display the text message, first push title to track title, then back to the
station after that. the TEXT button to change the radio elapsed time.
Compact disc player station display. Then push the TEXT but-
ton once more to display, and the mes- If this button is pushed while a compact
Use this button to skip up or down to a disc that does not contain text data is
different track. sage will appear on the display.
Push or side of the SEEK/ If the entire the message is not displayed, display.
TRACK button until the number of the will appear on the display. To display
the rest of the message, push and hold If the entire disc or track title does not
track you want to listen to appears on the appear on the display, push and hold the
display. If you want to return to the begin- the TEXT button until you hear a beep.
ning of the current track, quickly push the After the entire message has been dis- the title will appear.
down side of the button one time. played, the message will disappear.
ST (Stereo reception) display The message display will be canceled if
Your radio automatically changes to stereo any button that affects the display is
reception when a stereo broadcast is re- pushed.
ceived. ST appears on the display. If the If no messages are received, NO
signal becomes weak, the radio reduces MESSAGE will appear on the display, and
the amount of channel separation to prev- the display returns to the previous mode.
ent the weak signal from creating noise. The message display will be canceled if
If the signal becomes extremely weak, the you activate any function that affects the
radio switches from stereo to mono recep- display.
tion.
152

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
TRAF (Traffic) TYPE (Program Types) If no program is found, NOTHING will

This button turns the traffic announcement When you push or of the TYPE appear on the display. The previous pro-
(TA) feature on and off. This button is button while receiving an RDS station, the gram information will resume.
operational only in FM mode. current program type will appear on the When the system is left untouched for 6
By pushing the TRAF button, TRAF display. If the system is receiving a sta- seconds, the program type display will
SEEK will flash on the display and the tion that is not RDS, NO PTY will ap- change to the frequency display.
radio will seek a traffic program station. pear.
When a traffic program station is found, Repeat this operation within 6 seconds to
TRAF will be displayed and you will hear display the program types in the following
a beep. order:
After the traffic announcement program is ROCK
over, the display returns to the previous EASY LIS (Easy listening)
mode.
CLS/JAZZ (Classical music and Jazz)
If no traffic program station is found, NO
TRAFINFO appears on the display, and R&B (Rhythm and Blues)
the display returns to the previous mode INFORM (Information)
and a beep sounds. RELIGION
To cancel the traffic announcement, push MISC (Miscellaneous)
this button again.
ALERT (Emergency message)
TUNE (Tuning)
To seek or scan for the same type of
Turn the TUNE knob clockwise to step program, push the SEEK/TRACK or
up the frequency. Turn the knob counter- SCAN button while the program type is
clockwise to step down the frequency. displayed.
153

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Type 3
list that follows.
154

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
1 2 3 4 5 6 (Preset buttons) (Program) Compact disc player

These buttons are used to preset and Push and hold (preset button 6) or
Push (preset button 4) to select
tune in radio stations.
the other side of a cassette tape. The (preset button 5) to fast forward or
To preset a station to a button: Tune in display indicates which side is currently reverse within a compact disc. When you
the desired station. (See TUNE or release the button, the compact disc play-
selected ( indicates the top side,
SEEK/TRACK.) Push and hold down the er will resume playing.
button until you hear a beepthis will set indicates the bottom side).
the station to the button. The preset but- Auto- reverse feature: After the cassette AM
ton number will appear on the display. player reaches the end of a tape side, it Push the AM button to turn on the radio
To recall a preset station: Push the button automatically reverses and begins to play and select the AM band. AM will appear
for the station you want. The preset but- the other side. This is true whether the on the display.
ton number and station frequency will ap- cassette was playing or fast forwarding. AUDIO CONTROL (Tone and sound bal-
pear on the display. (Reverse/Fast- forward button) ance adjustment function)
This radio can store one AM and two FM Cassette player Each time you push the AUDIO
stations for each button. (The display will CONTROL knob, the mode changes. To
show AM, FM1 or FM2 when you Push (preset button 6) to fast- for- adjust the tone and balance, turn the
push AM or FM button.) ward a cassette tape. FF will appear on knob.
the display. Push (preset button 5) BAS: Adjusts low- pitched tones. The dis-
(Eject button)
to rewind a tape. REW will appear on play ranges from -5 to 5.
Push the cassette tape eject button to the display. MID (on some models): Adjusts mid-
eject a cassette. Push the compact disc
To stop the tape while it is fast- forward- pitched tones. The display ranges from -5
eject button to eject a compact disc.
ing, push or TAPE button. To stop to 5.
the tape while it is rewinding, push TRE: Adjusts high- pitched tones. The dis-
or TAPE button. play ranges from -5 to 5.
If a tape rewinds completely, the cassette FAD: Adjusts the sound balance between
player will stop and then play that same the front and rear speakers. The display
side. If a tape fast- forwards completely, ranges from F7 to R7.
the cassette will play the other side of the
tape using the auto- reverse feature.
155

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
BAL: Adjusts the sound balance between CD OPEN: The compact disc changer FM
the right and left speakers. The display lid of separate unit is open. Close the Push the FM button to turn on the radio
ranges from L7 to R7. compact disc changer lid. and select the FM band. FM1 or FM2
DISC (Compact disc) If the malfunction still exists, take your will appear on the display. This system
Push the DISC button to play a compact vehicle to your Toyota dealer. allows you to set twelve FM stations, two
disc. DISC for each of the preset button.
When the audio system is set into com- With compact disc changer only PWRVOL (Power and Volume)
pact disc operation, the display shows the Use these buttons to select the disc you Push PWRVOL to turn the audio system
track, or track and disc number currently want to listen to. on and off. Turn PWRVOL to adjust the
being played. volume.
Push (preset button 3) or (preset
Error messages button 4) until the number of the disc you RAND (Random)
If the player malfunctions, your audio sys- want to listen appears on the display. There are two random featuresyou can
tem will display one of the six following either listen to the tracks on one compact
Dolby B NR
error messages. disc in random order, or listen to the
If you are listening to a tape that was tracks on all the compact discs in the
WAIT: The compact disc player unit
recorded with Dolby B Noise Reduction, magazine in random order.
may be too hot. Allow the player to cool
push (preset button 3). will
down. To play the tracks on one disc in random
appear on the display. Push the button
ERROR 1: The disc may be dirty, dam- order:
again to turn off Dolby B NR.
aged or inserted incorrectly (up- side Quickly push and release RAND (preset
The Dolby NR mode reduces tape noise button 1). will appear on the
down). Clean the disc and reinsert it.
by about 10 dB. For best sound reproduc- display and the player will perform the
NO DISC: The compact disc changer of tion, play your tapes with this button on tracks on the disc you are listening to in
separate unit is empty. Insert a disc. or off according to the mode used to re- random order. To turn off the random fea-
ERROR 3: There is a problem inside cord the tape. ture, push this button again.

the system. Eject the disc or magazine. : Dolby noise reduction manufactured under license from
Dolby Laboratories Licensing Corporation. DOLBY and the
Set the disc or magazine again. double D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories
ERROR 4: Over- current. Ask your Licensing Corporation.
Toyota dealer to inspect.
156

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
With compact disc changer only Compact disc player SCAN

To play all the tracks in the magazine in There are two repeat featuresyou can Radio
random order: either replay a disc track or a whole com- You can either scan all the frequencies on
Push and hold RAND (preset button 1) pact disc. a band or scan only the preset stations
until you hear a beep. will ap- Repeating a track: for that band.
pear on the display and the player will Quickly push and release RPT (preset To scan the preset stations:
perform all the tracks on all the discs in button 2) while the track is playing. Push and hold the SCAN button until
the magazine in random order. To turn off will appear on the display. When you hear a beep. The radio will tune in
the random feature, push this button
the track ends, it will automatically replay. the next preset station up the band, stay
again.
To turn off the repeat feature, push this there for 5 seconds, and then move to the
RPT (Repeat) button again. next preset station. To stop scanning,
Cassette player With compact disc changer only push this button again.
Push RPT (preset button 2) while the Repeating a disc: To scan all the frequencies:
track is playing. will appear on Push and hold RPT (preset button 2) Quickly push and release the SCAN but-
ton. The radio will find the next station up
the display. When the track ends, it will until you hear a beep. will ap-
the station band, stay there for 5 seconds,
automatically rewind and replay. To turn pear on the display. The player will repeat
and then scan again to the next station.
off the repeat feature, push this button all the tracks on the disc you are listening
To stop scanning, push this button again.
again. to. When the disc ends, the player will
There must be at least 3 seconds of blank automatically go back to the first track on
space between tracks in order for the re- the disc and replay. To turn off the repeat
peat feature to work correctly. feature, push this button again.
157

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Compact disc player SEEK/TRACK (Seeking/Track up/down) Compact disc player

There are two scan featuresyou can ei- Radio Use this button to skip up or down to a
ther scan the tracks on a specific disc or In the seek mode, the radio finds and different track.
scan the first tracks of all the discs in the plays the next station up or down the Push or side of the SEEK/
magazine. station band. TRACK button until the number of the
Scanning the tracks on a disc: To seek the next station, quickly push and track you want to listen to appears on the
Quickly push and release the SCAN but- release or side of the SEEK/ display. If you want to return to the begin-
ton. SCAN will appear on the display TRACK button. Do this again to find the ning of the current track, quickly push the
and the player will scan all the tracks on station after that. down side of the button one time.
the disc you are listening to. To stop ST (Stereo reception) display
scanning, push this button again. If the Cassette Player
player scanned all the tracks on the disc, Use this button to skip up or down to Your radio automatically changes to stereo
it will stop scanning. locate a song or recording. reception when a stereo broadcast is re-
ceived. ST appears on the display. If the
With compact disc changer only You can select up to nine recordings (in- signal becomes weak, the radio reduces
Scanning the first tracks of all the discs cluding current one). the amount of channel separation to prev-
in the magazine: A blank space of at least 3 seconds is ent the weak signal from creating noise.
Push the SCAN button until you hear a considered to be a start of a recording. If the signal becomes extremely weak, the
beep. SCAN will appear on the dis- When the beginning of a tape is reached, radio switches from stereo to mono recep-
play and the player will scan the first the player automatically resumes play. tion.
track of the next disc. To stop scanning, TAPE
When the end of the tape is reached, the
push this button again. If the player has
player automatically reverses sides and Push the TAPE button to play a cassette
scanned all the discs, it will stop scan-
resumes normal play. tape.
ning.
In addition, the feature may not work well
with some spoken word, live, or classical
recordings.
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
TEXT
This button is used to change the display
for the compact disc that contains text
data.
To change the display, quickly push and
release the TEXT button while the com-
pact disc is playing. The display changes
in the order from the elapsed time to disc
title to track title, then back to the
elapsed time.
If this button is pushed while a compact
disc that does not contain text data is
display.
If the entire disc or track title does not
appear on the display, push and hold the
the title will appear.
TUNE (Tuning)
Turn the TUNE knob clockwise to step
up the frequency. Turn the knob counter-
clockwise to step down the frequency.
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Audio remote controls

(steering switches)
- + switch Cassette player
Push + side to increase the volume. The To skip to a different track in either direc-
volume continues to increase while the tion:
switch is being pushed. Quickly push and release the or
side of the switch. FF 1 or REW 1 will
Push - side to decrease the volume.
appear on the display.
The volume continues to decrease while
the switch is being pushed. Next, push either side of the track switch
until the track you want to listen to is set.
switch
If you push the switch ten times, the skip
Radio function will turn off. (You can skip up to
To select a preset station: nine tracks at a time.)
Quickly push and release the or When counting the number of the tracks
side of the switch. Do this again to select you want to rewind, remember to count
Some parts of the audio system can be the next preset station. the current track as well. For example, if
adjusted using the switches on the steer- To seek a station: you want to rewind to a song that is two
ing wheel. Push and hold the or side of the tracks before the song you are listening
switch until you hear a beep. Do this to, push the side of the switch three
Details of the specific switches, controls,
again to find the next station. If you push times.
and features are described below.
the switch on either side during the seek If you push the track switch further than
1. - + switch mode, seeking will be cancelled. you wanted to, push the other side of the
2. switch To step up or down the frequency, push switch. The track number will be in-
3. MODE switch and hold the switch even after you hear creased or reduced.
a beep. When you release from the
switch, the radio will begin seeking up or
down for a station. Do this again to find
the next station.
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Audio system operating hints

The track number you select is not valid Compact disc player
NOTICE
if it is higher than the number of the Use this switch to skip up or down to a
tracks remaining on the current side of different track in either direction. To ensure correct audio system op-
the cassette. erations:
Quickly push and release the or
When the tape reaches to the begin- side of the switch until the track you want Be careful not to spill beverages
ning, the player will automatically start to listen to is set. If you want to return over the audio system.
playing that side. to the beginning of the current track, push Do not put anything other than a
After the tape reaches to the end, the the side of the switch once, quickly. cassette tape or Compact Disc into
player will automatically reverse and With compact disc changer only the slot.
start playing the other side.
To select a disc, push and hold the The use of a cellular phone inside
There must be at least 3 seconds of blank or side of the switch until you hear or near the vehicle may cause a
space between tracks for the track switch a beep. Repeat this until the disc you noise from the speakers of the au-
to work correctly. In addition, the feature wish to listen to is set. dio system which you are listening
may not work well with some spoken, live, to. However, this does not indicate
or classical recordings. MODE switch
a malfunction.
To fast forward or reverse: Push MODE switch to select an audio
Push and hold the side of the switch mode. Each push changes the mode se-
RADIO RECEPTION
to fast forward a cassette tape. FF will quentially if the desired mode is ready to
use. Usually, a problem with radio reception
appear on the display. Push and hold the
does not mean there is a problem with
side of the switch to rewind a tape. To turn the audio system on, push the
your radioit is just the normal result of
REW will appear on the display. MODE switch.
conditions outside the vehicle.
To stop the tape while it is fast forward- To turn the audio system off, push and
For example, nearby buildings and terrain
ing, push the side of the switch. To hold the MODE switch until the system
can interfere with FM reception. Power
stop the tape while it is rewinding, push turns off.
lines or telephone wires can interfere with
the side of the switch.
AM signals. And of course, radio signals
If a tape rewinds completely, the cassette have a limited range. The farther you are
player will stop and then play that same from a station, the weaker its signal will
side. If a tape fast forwards completely, be. In addition, reception conditions
the cassette will play the other side of the change constantly as your vehicle moves.
tape using the auto- reverse feature.
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Here are some common reception prob- AM Use high- quality cassettes.
lems that probably do not indicate a prob- FadingAM broadcasts are reflected by Low- quality cassette tapes can cause
lem with your radio: the upper atmosphereespecially at night. many problems, including poor sound,
FM These reflected signals can interfere with inconsistent playing speed, and
Fading and drifting stationsGenerally, the those received directly from the radio sta- constant auto- reversing. They can also
effective range of FM is about 40 km (25 tion, causing the radio station to sound get stuck or tangled in the cassette
miles). Once outside this range, you may alternately strong and weak. player.
notice fading and drifting, which increase Station interferenceWhen a reflected sig- Do not use a cassette if it has been
with the distance from the radio transmit- nal and a signal received directly from a damaged or tangled or if its label is
ter. They are often accompanied by distor- radio station are very nearly the same peeling off.
tion. frequency, they can interfere with each Do not leave a cassette in the player
Multi- pathFM signals are reflective, other, making it difficult to hear the broad- if you are not listening to it, especially
making it possible for two signals to reach cast. if it is hot outside.
your antenna at the same time. If this StaticAM is easily affected by external Store cassettes in their cases and out
happens, the signals will cancel each oth- sources of electrical noise, such as high of direct sunlight.
er out, causing a momentary flutter or tension power lines, lightening, or electri-
loss of reception. cal motors. This results in static. Avoid using cassettes with a total play-
ing time longer than 100 minutes (50
Static and flutteringThese occur when CARING FOR YOUR CASSETTE PLAYER minutes per side). The tape used in
signals are blocked by buildings, trees, or AND TAPES these cassettes is thin and could get
other large objects. Increasing the bass For the best performance for your cas- stuck or tangled in the cassette player.
level may reduce static and fluttering. sette player and tapes:
Station swappingIf the FM signal you Clean the tape head and other parts regu-
are listening to is interrupted or weak- larly.
ened, and there is another strong station
nearby on the FM band, your radio may A dirty tape head or tape path can
tune in the second station until the origi- decrease sound quality and tangle your
nal signal can be picked up again. cassette tapes. The easiest way to
clean them is by using a cleaning tape.
(A wet type is recommended.)
162

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
CARING FOR YOUR COMPACT DISC

PLAYER AND DISCS
Your compact disc player is intended
for use with 12 cm (4.7 in.) discs only.
Extremely high temperatures can keep
your compact disc player from working.
On hot days, use the air conditioning
to cool the vehicle interior before you
listen to a disc.
Bumpy roads or other vibrations may
make your compact disc player skip.
If moisture gets into your compact disc
player, you may not hear any sound Special shaped discs
even though your compact disc player Use only compact discs marked as
appears to be working. Remove the shown above. The following products
disc from the player and wait until it may not be playable on your compact
dries. disc player.
Copy- protected CD
CAUTION CD- R (CD- Recordable)
CD- RW (CD- Re- writable)
Compact disc players use an invisible CD- ROM
laser beam which could cause hazard-
ous radiation exposure if directed
outside the unit. Be sure to operate
the player correctly.
Transparent/translucent discs
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
NOTICE
Do not use special shaped, transpar-
ent/translucent, low quality or labeled
discs such as those shown in the il-
lustrations. The use of such discs
may damage the player or changer, or
it may be impossible to eject the
disc.
Correct Wrong
Low quality discs

Handle compact discs carefully, espe-
cially when you are inserting them.
Hold them on the edge and do not
bend them. Avoid getting fingerprints
on them, particularly on the shiny side.
Dirt, scratches, warping, pin holes, or
other disc damage could cause the
player to skip or to repeat a section of
a track. (To see a pin hole, hold the
disc up to the light.)
Remove discs from the compact disc
player when you are not listening to
them. Store them in their plastic cases
away from moisture, heat, and direct
sunlight.
Labeled discs
164

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
To clean a compact disc: Wipe it with a

soft, lint- free cloth that has been damp-
ened with water. Wipe in a straight line
from the center to the edge of the disc
(not in circles). Dry it with another soft,
lint- free cloth. Do not use a conventional
record cleaner or anti- static device.
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
166

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 1- 9
CONTROLS
Air conditioning system
Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Air flow selector settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
Operating tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
Side vents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
Air conditioning filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174
167

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Controls
1. A/C button (on some models)
2. Air intake selector
3. Air flow selector
4. Fan speed selector
5. Temperature selector
168

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Fan speed selector This position allows the air intake to

Turn the knob to adjust the fan speedto select FRESH automatically. This is to
the right to increase, to the left to de- clean up the front view more quickly.
crease. If you want to return the setting to
Temperature selector RECIRCULATE mode, press the air in-
take selector button once again.
Turn the knob to adjust the temperatu-
reto the right to warm, to the left to Vehicles with A/C button
cool. Press the A/C button for dehumidified
heating or cooling. This setting clears
the front view more quickly.
5. WindshieldAir flows mainly from the
windshield vents.
Turning the air flow selector to the
Air flow selector
windshield position turns on the defog-
Turn the knob to select the vents used for ging function with the purpose of clear-
air flow. ing the front view.
1. PanelAir flows mainly from the This position allows the air intake to
instrument panel vents. select FRESH automatically. This is to
2. Bi- levelAir flows from both the floor clean up the front view more quickly.
vents and the instrument panel vents. If you want to return the setting to
3. FloorAir flows mainly from the floor RECIRCULATE mode, press the air in-
vents. take selector button once again.
4. Floor/WindshieldAir flows mainly Vehicles with A/C button
from the floor vents and windshield Press the A/C button for dehumidified
vents. heating or cooling. This setting clears
Turning the air flow selector to the the front view more quickly.
floor/windshield position turns on the
defogging function with the purpose of
clearing the front view.
169

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
For details about air flow selector settings, A/C button (on some models)
see Air flow selector settings described To turn on the air conditioning, press the
below. A/C button. The A/C button indicator
will come on. To turn the air conditioning
off, press the button again.
If the A/C button indicator flashes, there
is a problem in the air conditioning system
and the air conditioning automatically
shuts off. If this happens, take your ve-
hicle to a Toyota dealer for service.
Air intake selector

Press the button to select the air source.
1. RECIRCULATERecirculates the air in-
side the vehicle.
2. FRESHDraws outside air into the
system.
To prevent fogging up of the windshield,
the air intake mode may change automati-
cally to FRESH depending on the condi-
tion of the air conditioning system.
170

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Air flow selector settings Operating tips

To cool off your Toyota after it has
been parked in the hot sun, drive with
the windows open for a few minutes.
This vents the hot air, allowing the air
conditioning to cool the interior more
quickly.
Make sure the air intake grilles in front
of the windshield are not blocked (by
leaves or snow, for example).
On humid days, do not blow cold air
on the windshield. The windshield could
fog up because of the difference in air
temperature on the inside and outside
of the windshield.
Keep the area under the front seats
clear to allow air to circulate through-
out the vehicle.
On cold days, set the fan speed to
high for a minute to help clear the
intake ducts of snow or moisture. This
can reduce the amount of fogging on
the windows.
When driving on dusty roads, close all
windows. If dust thrown up by the ve-
hicle is still drawn into the vehicle after
closing the windows, it is recommended
: On some models
that the air intake selector be set to
FRESH and the fan speed selector to
any setting except OFF.
171

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
If following another vehicle on a dusty Heating

road, or driving in windy and dusty For best results, set controls to:
conditions, it is recommended that the
air intake selector be temporarily set to Fan speedAny setting except OFF
RECIRCULATE, which will close off the TemperatureTowards WARM
outside passage and prevent outside (red zone)
air and dust from entering the vehicle Air intakeFRESH (outside air)
interior. Air flowFLOOR
Air conditioningOFF
For quick heating, select recirculated

air for a few minutes. To keep the
windows from fogging, select fresh af-
ter the vehicle interior has been
warmed. Air conditioning
Press the A/C button on for dehumidi- For best results, set controls to:
fied heating.
Choose floor/windshield air flow to heat Fan speedAny setting except OFF
the vehicle interior while defrosting or TemperatureTowards COLD
defogging the windshield. (blue zone)
Air intakeFRESH (outside air)
Air flowPANEL
Air conditioningON
For quick cooling, turn the temperature

selector knob fully towards COLD and
change the air intake selector mode to
RECIRCULATE.
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Ventilation Turning the air flow selector to the wind- Defrosting

For best results, set controls to: shield or floor/windshield position turns on The outside of the windshield
the defogging function with the purpose of
Fan speedAny setting except OFF clearing the front view. For best results, set controls to:
TemperatureTowards COLD When turning the air flow selector to wind- Fan speedAny setting except OFF
(blue zone) shield or floor/windshield position, the air TemperatureTowards WARM
Air intakeFRESH (outside air) intake selects FRESH automatically. This (red zone)
Air flowPANEL is to clean up the front view more quickly. Air intakeFRESH (outside air)
Air conditioningOFF Air flowWINDSHIELD
If you want to return the setting to
Defogging RECIRCULATE mode, press the air intake Turning the air flow selector to the wind-
The inside of the windshield selector button once again. shield or floor/windshield position turns on
For best results, set controls to: Vehicles with A/C button the defrosting function with the purpose of
Press the A/C button for dehumidified clearing the front view.
Fan speedAny setting except OFF heating or cooling. This setting clears the When turning the air flow selector to wind-
TemperatureTowards WARM front view more quickly. shield or floor/windshield position, the air
(red zone) to heat; intake selects FRESH automatically. This
COLD (blue zone) to On humid days, do not blow cold air
on the windshieldthe difference be- is to clean up the front view more quickly.
cool
Air intakeFRESH (outside air) tween the outside and inside tempera- If you want to return the setting to
Air flowWINDSHIELD tures could make the fogging worse. RECIRCULATE mode, press the air intake
selector button once again.
Vehicles with A/C button
Press the A/C button for dehumidified
heating or cooling. This setting clears the
front view more quickly.
To heat the vehicle interior while de-
frosting the windshield, choose
floor/windshield air flow.
173

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Side vents Air conditioning filter
Open
Close
If air flow control is not satisfactory, check You can change air flow direction by turn- The air conditioning filter information
the side vents. The side vents may be ing the side vents. label is placed inside of the glove box
opened or closed as shown. as shown and indicates that a filter has
been installed.
The air conditioning filter prevents dust
from entering the vehicle through the air
conditioning vent.
174

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Checking and replacing the

air conditioning filter
The air conditioning filter may clog af-
ter long use. The filter may need to be
replaced if the air flow of the air condi-
tioning and heater experiences extreme
reductions in operating efficiency, or if
the windows begin to fog up easily.
To maintain the air conditioning efficiency,
inspect and replace the air conditioning
filter according to the maintenance sched-
ule. In dusty areas or areas with heavy
traffic flow, such as inner city or desert
areas, early replacement may be required.
(For scheduled maintenance information,
please refer to the Scheduled Mainte-
The air conditioning filter is behind the nance Guide or Owners Manual Supple- 1. Push in each side of the glove box
glove box. ment.) to disconnect the claws.
175

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
2. Remove the filter case from the filter 3. Remove the filter from the filter
outlet as shown in the illustration. case.
4. Inspect the filter on the surface.
If it is dirty, it should be replaced.
INFORMATION
The air filter should be installed prop-
erly in position. The use of air condi-
tioning with the air filter removed
may cause deteriorated dustproof per-
formance and then affect air condi-
tioning performance.
176

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 1- 10
CONTROLS
Other equipment
Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
Cigarette lighter and ashtrays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
Power outlets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
Glove box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180
Garage door opener . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180
Garage door opener box . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183
Auxiliary boxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 186
Front cup holder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188
Rear cup holder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188
Tie- down hooks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
Grocery bag hooks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
Luggage cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
Separation net . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192
Roof luggage carrier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
Floor mat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Clock Cigarette lighter and ashtrays

CIGARETTE LIGHTER
To use the cigarette lighter, press it in.
After it finishes heating up, it automati-
cally pops out ready for use.
If the engine is not running, the key must
be in the ACC position.
Do not hold the cigarette lighter pressed
in.
Use a Toyota genuine cigarette lighter or
equivalent for replacement.
ASHTRAYS
To use the ashtray, pull it out.
Cigarette lighter and front ashtray
To reset the hour: Push the H button. When finished with your cigarette, thor-
To reset the minutes: Push the M button. oughly extinguish it in the ashtray to pre-
If quick adjustment to a full hour is de- vent other cigarette butts from catching
sired, push the :00 button. fire. After using the ashtray, push it back
in completely.
For example, if the :00 button is de-
pressed when the time is between Front: To remove the ashtray, press down
1:011:29, the time will change to 1:00. on the lock spring plate and pull it out.
If the time is between 1:301:59, the Rear: To remove the ashtray, hold both
time will change to 2:00. sides of it and pull up slightly but firmly.
The key must be in the ACC or ON Pull the bottom out of the holder.
position.
If the electrical power source has been
disconnected from the clock, the time dis-
play will automatically be set to 1:00 (one
oclock). Rear ashtray
178

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Power outlets
The power outlets are designed for
CAUTION power supply for car accessories.
The key must be in the ACC or ON
To reduce the chance of injury in
position for the power outlets to be used.
case of an accident or sudden stop
while driving, always completely close
NOTICE
the ashtray after use.
To prevent the fuse from being
blown, do not use the electricity
over the total vehicle capacity of
12V/120W (front and rear outlets to-
gether).
To prevent the battery from being
Front discharged, do not use the power
outlets longer than necessary when
the engine is not running.
Close the power outlet lids when
the power outlets are not in use.
Inserting anything other than an ap-
propriate plug that fits the outlet,
or allowing any liquid to get into
the outlet may cause electrical fail-
ure or short circuits.
Rear
179

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Glove box Garage door opener

(a) Programming the HomeLink
The HomeLink in your vehicle has 3
buttons and you can store one program
for each button.
To ensure correct programming into the
HomeLink, install a new battery in the
hand- held transmitter prior to program-
ming.
The battery side of the hand- held trans-
mitter must be pointed away from the
HomeLink during the programming pro-
cess.
For Canadian users, follow the procedure
To use the glove box, do this. The garage door opener ( in Programming an entrance gate/Pro-
To open: Pull the lever. Universal Transceiver) is manufactured gramming all devices in the Canadian
To lock: Insert the master key and turn it under license from HomeLink and can market.
clockwise. be programmed to operate garage 1. Decide which of 3 HomeLink buttons
doors, gates, entry doors, door locks, you want to program.
CAUTION home lighting systems, and security
systems, etc. 2. Place your hand- held garage transmit-
ter 25 to 75 mm (1 to 3 in.) away from
To reduce the chance of injury in the surface of the HomeLink.
case of an accident or a sudden stop,
always keep the glove box door Keep the indicator light on the HomeLink
closed while driving. in view while programming.
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
3. Simultaneously press and hold the Programming a rolling code system The ceiling mounted garage door opener
hand- held garage transmitter button If your device is Rolling Code motor should now recognize the
along with the selected HomeLink but- equipped, it is necessary to follow HomeLink unit and be able activate the
ton. steps 1 through 4 under the heading garage door up/down.
4. When the indicator light on the Programming the HomeLink before 4. Repeat steps 1 through 3 for each re-
HomeLink changes from a slow to a proceeding with the steps listed below. maining HomeLink button to program
rapid flash after 20 seconds, you can 1. Locate the training button on the ceil- another rolling code system.
release both buttons. ing mounted garage door opener motor. Programming an entrance gate/program-
5. Test the operation of the HomeLink by The exact location and color of the ming all devices in the Canadian market
pressing the newly programmed button. button may vary by brand of garage 1. Decide which of the 3 HomeLink but-
If programming a garage door opener, door opener. Refer to the owners tons you want to program.
check to see if the garage door opens guide supplied by the garage door
and closes. opener manufacturer for the location of 2. Place your hand- held gate/device
this training button. transmitter 25 to 75 mm (1 to 3 in.)
If the garage door does not operate, iden- away from the surface of the
tify if your garage transmitter is of the 2. Press the training button on the ceil- HomeLink.
Rolling Code type. Press and hold the ing mounted garage door opener motor.
programmed HomeLink button. The ga- Keep the indicator light on the HomeLink
Following this step, you have 30 seconds in view while programming.
rage door has the rolling code feature if in which to initiate step 3 below.
the indicator light (on the HomeLink) 3. Press and hold the selected
flashes rapidly and then remains lit after 3. Press and release the vehicles pro- HomeLink button.
2 seconds. If your garage transmitter is grammed HomeLink button twice. The
garage door may open. If the door 4. Continuously press and release (cycle)
the Rolling Code type, proceed to the the hand- held gate/device transmitter
heading Programming a rolling code sys- does open, the programming process is
complete. If the door does not open, button every two seconds until step 5
tem. is complete.
press and release the button a third
6. Repeat steps 2 through 5 for each re- time. This third press and release will 5. When the indicator light on the
maining HomeLink button to program complete the programming process by HomeLink changes from a slow to a
another device. opening the garage door. rapid flash after 20 seconds, you can
release both buttons.
181

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
6. Test the operation of the HomeLink by (c) Erasing the entire HomeLink
pressing the newly programmed button. memory (all three programs) CAUTION
Check to see if the gate/device oper- To erase all previously programmed codes
ates correctly. When programming the HomeLink
at one time, press and hold down the 2
Universal Transceiver, you may be
7. Repeat steps 1 through 6 for each re- outside buttons for 20 seconds until the
operating a garage door or other
maining HomeLink button to program indicator light flashes.
device. Make sure people and ob-
another device. If you sell your vehicle, be sure to erase jects are out of the way of the ga-
Programming other devices the programs stored in the HomeLink rage door or other device to pre-
To program other devices such as home memory. vent potential harm or damage.
security systems, home door locks or Do not use this HomeLink Univer-
lighting, contact your authorized Toyota sal Transceiver with any garage
dealer for assistance. door opener that lacks the safety
Reprogramming a button stop and reverse feature as re-
Individual HomeLink buttons cannot be quired by federal safety standards.
erased, however, to reprogram a single (This includes any garage door
button, follow the procedure Programming opener model manufactured before
the HomeLink. April 1, 1982.) A garage door open-
er which cannot detect an object
(b) Operating the HomeLink (signaling the door to stop and re-
To operate the HomeLink, press the verse), does not meet current feder-
appropriate HomeLink button to activate al safety standards. Using a garage
the programmed device. The HomeLink door opener without these features
indicator light should come on. The increases risk of serious injury or
HomeLink continues to send the signal death.
for up to 20 seconds as long as the
button is pressed.
182

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Garage door opener box
This device complies with Part 15 of the

FCC Rules and with RSS- 210 of the IC
Rules. Operation is subject to the fol-
lowing two conditions: (1) This device
may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interfer-
ence that may be received, including
interference that may cause undesired
operation.
WARNING: This transmitter has been
tested and complies with FCC and IC
rules. Changes or modifications not
expressly approved by the partly re-
sponsible for compliance could void The box is designed to store a garage Remove the paper strip covering the adhe-
the users authority to operate the door opener transmitter. sive on back side of loop and adhere loop
device. Open the cover and remove the Velcro to back side of the transmitter near cen-
loop. ter.
183

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Please note if transmitter has wire clip for Place the transmitter with Velcro loop fac- Remove spacers from the center panel.
sun visor, this clip must be removed prior ing inside of box into the box. Make sure Place the largest spacer on the pin that
to adhesion of the Velcro. the transmitter button is located above would be below transmitter button when
button pins. the cover is closed. Close the cover.
184

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
CAUTION

case of an accident or a sudden
stop, always keep the garage door
opener box closed while driving.
Keep the remaining spacers away
from children.
When the garage door opener transmitter If the center panel does not contact your
is properly installed, you can operate the garage door opener transmitter:
transmitter by pushing the center panel of Check to see if spacer is on the cor-
the cover. rect pin.
Attach another spacer to the top of
original spacer. Check operation. If re-
quired, continue to add spacers until
contact is achieved.
If the transmitter is clattering during driv-
ing, fill in a piece of felt or pad to prevent
the transmitter from clattering.
185

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Auxiliary boxes
To use the auxiliary boxes, open as
shown in the following illustrations.
Type C and D auxiliary boxes are
equipped with a belt to hold the objects
such as first- aid kit. See Using the
holding belts on page 187 for detailed
information.
Type E auxiliary box is also designed
to store the warning reflector.
The first- aid kit or warning reflector itself
is not included as an original equipment.
CAUTION Type A (front ceiling) Type C (left side of luggage compartment)

case of an accident or a sudden stop,
always keep the auxiliary box closed
while driving.
NOTICE
Type A: During hot weather, the inte-
rior of the vehicle becomes very hot.
Do not leave anything flammable or
deformable such as a lighter, glasses,
etc. inside.
Type B (instrument panel) Type D (right side of luggage compart-

ment)
186

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Using the holding belts

These auxiliary boxes are equipped with
a belt to hold the objects.
Type D auxiliary boxThis belt is de-
signed to hold the first- aid kit.
To use the belt, do the following.
1. To loosen: Pull the buckle forward.
2. To tighten: Pull the belt.
Make sure the objects are securely held.
Type E (luggage compartment floor) Type C (left side of luggage compartment)
Type D (right side of luggage compart-

ment)
187

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Front cup holder Rear cup holder
CAUTION
Do not place anything else other

than cups or drink- cans in the cup
holder, as such items may be
thrown about in the compartment
and possibly injure people in the
vehicle during sudden braking or in
an accident.
while driving, keep the cup holder
closed when it is not in use.
The cup holder is designed for holding The cup holder is designed for holding
cups or drink- cans securely. cups or drink- cans securely.
To use the holder, pull its end. To use the holder, pull up the lever.
The cup holder can be adjustable to the
size of the cups or drink- cans by chang-
ing the arm position.
188

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Upper sideTo hold a bigger cup, remove

CAUTION the detachable adapter.
Lower sideTo hold a bigger cup, push
Do not place anything else other
down the spring.
than cups or drink- cans in the cup
holder, as such items may be
thrown about in the compartment
and possibly injure people in the
vehicle during sudden braking or in
an accident.
while driving, keep the cup holder
closed when it is not in use.
To hold the cups or drink- cans securely,

adjust the size of the cup holder in the
following procedure.
189

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Tie- down hooks Grocery bag hooks (type A) Grocery bag hooks (type B)
To secure your luggage, use the tie- down This hook is designed to hang things This hook is designed to hang things
hooks as shown above. like grocery bags. like grocery bags.
See Stowage precautions on page 221 To use the hook, pull it down.
NOTICE
in Section 2 for precautions when loading
luggage. NOTICE To prevent damage to the hook, do
To prevent damage to the hook, do not hang any object heavier than 4 kg
CAUTION not hang any object heavier than 4 kg (8.8 lb.) on it.
(8.8 lb.) on it.
To avoid personal injury, keep the tie-
down hooks stored under the carpet
when not in use.
NOTICE
Do not use the seat anchors instead
of the tie- down hooks.
190

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Luggage cover
To use the luggage cover:
1. Hook the front end of the luggage
cover board onto the front protru-
sions.
2. Lower the rear side of luggage cover
board and hook onto the rear protru-
sions.
3. Pull out the cloth portion of the cov-
er and attach the front hooks to the
head restraint.
The luggage cover also can be set at the

lower position.
CAUTION
Do not place anything on the lug-

gage cover. Such items may be
thrown about and possibly injure
people in the vehicle during sudden
braking or a collision.
case of an accident or sudden stop,
make sure the luggage cover is se-
cured in place.
191

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Separation net
You can separate the luggage compart-
NOTICE
(a) Behind the rear seats ment by installing the separation net as
Do not fold the seatback forward shown in the illustrations.
while the luggage cover is set.
If the luggage cover is left to be removed,

place it somewhere other than the passen-
ger compartment. This will prevent pas-
sengers from injury in the event of a sud-
den stop or an accident. (b) Behind the front seats
(tumbling the rear
seats)
(c) Behind the front seats

(removing the rear seats)
: Vehicles without side airbags and

curtain shield airbags only
192

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
(a) Behind the rear seats

1. Raise up the cover. 2. Insert one side of the net stay into
the net fixing hole. Press the stay to
contract and insert the other side of 3. Hook the claw of the strap over the
the stay into the other fixing hole. front tie down hook.
Push the net forward.
193

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
(b) Behind the front seats (c) Behind the front seats
(tumbling the rear seats) (removing the rear seats) 4. Pull the end of the belt to stretch
the net securely.
Make sure the net does not interfere
3. Tumble the rear seat cushions and 3. Remove the rear seats and hook the
with a reclined seatback or head re-
hook the claw of the strap over the claw of the strap over the front
rear hinge of the rear seat. (See hinge of the rear seat as shown straint.
Tumbling rear seats on page 35 above. (See Removing rear seats
in Section 1- 3.) on page 38 in Section 1- 3.) CAUTION
When not using the separation net,

make sure that the cover of the fixing
hook is closed. If the cover is open,
it might cause the unexpected injury
like hitting a head.
194

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Roof luggage carrier
CAUTION If driving for a long distance, on

rough roads, or at high speeds,
When you load cargo on the roof lug- stop the vehicle now and then dur-
gage carrier, observe the following: ing the trip to make sure the cargo
Place the cargo so that its weight remains in its place.
is distributed evenly between the Do not exceed 34 kg (75 lb.) cargo
front and rear axles. weight on the roof luggage carrier.
If loading long or wide cargo, never
exceed the vehicle overall length or
width. (See Dimensions and
NOTICE
weights on page 312 in Section 8 When loading the luggages, be careful
for information on your vehicle not to scratch the surface of the
overall length and width.) moon roof.
The roof luggage carrier consists of
roof rails (1) attached to the roof and Before driving, make sure the cargo
sliding cross rails (2). is securely fastened on the roof
luggage carrier.
To adjust the positions of cross rails, do
this. Loading cargo on the roof luggage
carrier will make the center of the
1. Turn the knobs counterclockwise to vehicle gravity higher. Avoid high
loosen the cross rails. speeds, sudden starts, sharp turns,
2. Slide the cross rails to the desired sudden braking or abrupt maneu-
position for loading the luggages of vers, otherwise it may result in loss
various sizes. of control or vehicle rollover due to
3. After adjusting, be sure to tighten the failure to operate this vehicle cor-
cross rails by turning knobs clockwise. rectly.
Follow the manufactures instructions and

precautions when installing the attach-
ments or their equivalent.
195

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Floor mat
Use a floor mat of the correct size.

CAUTION
If the floor carpet and floor mat have 2
holes, then they are designed for use with Make sure the floor mat is properly
locking clips. Fix the floor mat with lock-
placed on the floor carpet. If the floor
ing clips into the holes in the floor carpet. mat slips and interferes with the
movement of the pedals during driv-
ing, it may cause an accident.
196

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 2
INFORMATION BEFORE DRIVING YOUR
TOYOTA
Information before driving your Toyota
Off- road vehicle precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198
Break- in period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
Fuel pump shut off system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
Operation in foreign countries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 201
Three- way catalytic converters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202
Engine exhaust cautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
Facts about engine oil consumption . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 203
Iridium- tipped spark plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 204
Brake system . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205
Brake pad wear limit indicators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209
Limited- slip differential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209
Your Toyotas identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210
Theft prevention labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 211
Suspension and chassis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212
Tire information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213
Vehicle load limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221
Cargo and luggage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221
Types of tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 225
197

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Off- road vehicle precautions

This vehicle belongs to the utility ve-
hicle class, which has higher ground CAUTION
clearance and narrower tread in relation
to the height of its center of gravity to Always observe the following precau-
make it capable of performing in a wide tions to minimize the risk of serious
variety of off- road applications. Specific personal injury or damage to your ve-
design characteristics give it a higher hicle:
center of gravity than ordinary passen- In a rollover crash, an unbelted per-
ger cars. This vehicle design feature son is significantly more likely to
causes this type of vehicle to be more die than a person wearing a seat
likely to rollover. And, utility vehicles belt. Therefore, the driver and all
have a significantly higher rollover rate passengers should fasten their seat
than other types of vehicles. An advan- belts whenever the vehicle is mov-
tage of the higher ground clearance is ing.
a better view of the road allowing you
Avoid sharp turns or abrupt maneu-
to anticipate problems. It is not de-
vers, if at all possible. Failure to
signed for cornering at the same
operate this vehicle correctly may
speeds as ordinary passenger cars any
result in loss of control or vehicle
more than low- slung sports cars de-
rollover causing death or serious
signed to perform satisfactorily under
injury.
off- road conditions. Therefore, sharp
turns at excessive speeds may cause Loading cargo on the roof luggage
rollover. carrier will make the center of the
vehicle gravity higher. Avoid high
speeds, sudden starts, sharp turns,
sudden braking or abrupt maneu-
vers, otherwise it may result in loss
of control or vehicle rollover due to
failure to operate this vehicle cor-
rectly.
198

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Break- in period Fuel

Drive gently and avoid high speeds. FUEL TYPE
Always slow down in gusty cross-
Your vehicle does not need an elaborate Your new vehicle must use only un-
winds. Because of its profile and
break- in. But following a few simple tips leaded gasoline.
higher center of gravity, your ve-
hicle is more sensitive to side for the first 1600 km (1000 miles) can add To help prevent gas station mix- ups, your
to the future economy and long life of Toyota has a smaller fuel tank opening.
winds than an ordinary passenger
your vehicle: The special nozzle on pumps with un-
car. Slowing down will allow you to
have better control. Avoid full throttle acceleration when leaded fuel will fit it, but the larger stan-
starting and driving. dard nozzle on pumps with leaded gas will
When driving off- road or in rugged
terrain, do not drive at excessive Avoid racing the engine. not.
speeds, jump, make sharp turns, Try to avoid hard stops during the first At a minimum, the gasoline you use
strike objects, etc. This may cause 300 km (200 miles). should meet the specifications of ASTM
loss of control or vehicle rollover D4814 in the U.S.A. and CGSB 3.5- M93
causing death or serious injury. You Do not drive slowly with the manual in Canada.
transmission in a high gear.
are also risking expensive damage
to your vehicles suspension and Do not drive for a long time at any NOTICE
chassis. single speed, either fast or slow.
Do not use leaded gasoline. Use of
Do not drive horizontally across Do not tow a trailer during the first 800 leaded gasoline will cause the three-
steep slopes. Driving straight up or km (500 miles). way catalytic converter to lose its ef-
straight down is preferred. Your ve- fectiveness and the emission control
hicle (or any similar off- road ve- system to function improperly. Also,
hicle) can tip over sideways much this can increase maintenance costs.
more easily than forward or back-
ward.
199

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
OCTANE RATING QUALITY GASOLINE OXYGENATES IN GASOLINE

Select Octane Rating 87 (Research Oc- Automotive manufacturers in the U.S., Toyota allows the use of oxygenate
tane Number 91) or higher. Europe and Japan have developed a blended gasoline where the oxygenate
Use of unleaded gasoline with an octane specification for quality fuel named content is up to 10% ethanol or 15%
rating or research octane number lower World- Wide Fuel Charter (WWFC) that MTBE. If you use gasohol in your
than stated above will cause persistent is expected to be applied world wide. Toyota, be sure that it has an octane
heavy knocking. If it is severe, this will The WWFC consists of four categories rating no lower than 87.
lead to engine damage. that depend on required emission lev- Toyota does not recommend the use of
els. In the U.S., category 3 has been gasoline containing methanol.
If your engine knocks... adopted. The WWFC improves air quali-
If you detect heavy knocking even when ty by providing for better emissions in GASOLINE CONTAINING MMT
using the recommended fuel, or if you vehicle fleets, and customer satisfaction Some gasoline contain an octane en-
hear steady knocking while holding a through better vehicle performance. hancing additive called MMT (Methylcy-
steady speed on level roads, consult your CLEANER BURNING GASOLINE clopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl).
Toyota dealer. Toyota does not recommend the use of
Cleaner burning gasoline, including re-
However, occasionally, you may notice formulated gasoline that contains oxy- gasoline that contains MMT. If fuel con-
light knocking for a short time while accel- genates such as ethanol or MTBE is taining MMT is used, your emission con-
erating or driving up hills. This is normal available in many areas. trol system may be adversely affected.
and there is no need for concern. The Malfunction Indicator Lamp on the in-
Toyota recommends the use of cleaner strument cluster may come on. If this hap-
GASOLINE CONTAINING DETERGENT burning gasoline and appropriately blended
ADDITIVES pens, contact your Toyota dealer for ser-
reformulated gasoline. These types of gas- vice.
Toyota recommends the use of gasoline oline provide excellent vehicle perfor-
that contains detergent additives to mance, reduce vehicle emissions, and im-
avoid buildup of engine deposits. prove air quality.
However, all gasoline sold in the U.S.
contains detergent additives to keep clean
and/or clean intake systems.
200

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Fuel pump shut off system Operation in foreign countries

GASOLINE QUALITY The fuel pump shut off system stops sup- If you plan to drive your Toyota in
In a very few cases, you may experience plying fuel to the engine to minimize the another country...
driveability problems caused by the partic- risk of fuel leakage when the engine stalls First, comply with the vehicle registration
ular gasoline that you are using. If you or an airbag inflates upon collision. To laws.
continue to have unacceptable driveability, restart the engine after the fuel pump shut
off system activates, turn the ignition Second, confirm the availability of the cor-
try changing gasoline brands. If this does rect fuel (unleaded and minimum octane
not rectify your problem, then consult your switch to ACC or LOCK once and start
it. number).
Toyota dealer.
NOTICE CAUTION
Do not use gasohol other than Inspect the ground under the vehicle
stated above. It will cause fuel sys- before restarting the engine. If you
tem damage or vehicle performance find that liquid has leaked onto the
problems. ground, it is the fuel system has
If driveability problems occur (poor been damaged and it is in need of
hot starting, vaporizing, engine repair. In this case, do not restart the
knock, etc.), discontinue the use. engine.
Take care not to spill gasohol dur-
ing refueling. Gasohol may cause
paint damage.
FUEL TANK CAPACITY

56 L (14.8 gal., 12.3 Imp. gal.)
201

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Three- way catalytic converters

NOTICE Keep your engine in good running
order. Malfunctions in the engine
A large amount of unburned gases
electrical system, electronic ignition
flowing into the three- way catalytic system/distributor ignition system
converter may cause it to overheat
or fuel systems could cause an ex-
and create a fire hazard. To prevent
tremely high three- way catalytic
this and other damage, observe the converter temperature.
following precautions:
If the engine becomes difficult to
Use only unleaded gasoline.
start or stalls frequently, take your
Do not drive with an extremely low vehicle in for a check- up as soon
fuel level; running out of fuel could as possible. Remember, your Toyota
cause the engine to misfire, creat- dealer knows your vehicle and its
ing an excessive load on the three- three- way catalytic converter sys-
The three- way catalytic converter is an way catalytic converter. tem best.
emission control device installed in the Do not allow the engine to run at To ensure that the three- way cata-
exhaust system. idle speed for more than 20 min- lytic converter and the entire emis-
The purpose is to reduce pollutants in the utes. sion control system operate proper-
exhaust gas. Avoid racing the engine. ly, your vehicle must receive the
periodic inspections required by the
Do not push- start or pull- start your
CAUTION Toyota Maintenance Schedule. For
vehicle. scheduled maintenance information,
Keep people and combustible mate- Do not turn off the ignition while refer to the Scheduled Maintenance
rials away from the exhaust pipe the vehicle is moving. Guide or Owners Manual Supple-
while the engine is running. The ment.
exhaust gas is very hot.
Do not idle or park your vehicle
over anything that might burn easi-
ly such as grass, leaves, paper or
rags.
202

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Facts about engine oil

Engine exhaust cautions consumption
FUNCTIONS OF ENGINE OIL
CAUTION To allow proper operation of your
Engine oil has the primary functions of
vehicles ventilation system, keep
lubricating and cooling the inside of the
Avoid inhaling the engine exhaust. the inlet grilles in front of the wind-
shield clear of snow, leaves, or oth- engine, and plays a major role in main-
It contains carbon monoxide, which
taining the engine in proper working order.
is a colorless and odorless gas. It er obstructions.
can cause unconsciousness or even Keep the back door closed while ENGINE OIL CONSUMPTION
death. driving. An open or unsealed back It is normal that an engine should con-
Make sure the exhaust system has door may cause exhaust gases to sume some engine oil during normal
no holes or loose connections. The be drawn into the vehicle. engine operation. The causes of oil
system should be checked from consumption in a normal engine are as
If you smell exhaust fumes in the
time to time. If you hit something, follows.
vehicle, drive with the windows
or notice a change in the sound of open and the back door closed. Oil is used to lubricate pistons, piston
the exhaust, have the system Have the cause immediately located rings and cylinders. A thin film of oil
checked immediately. and corrected. is left on the cylinder wall when a pis-
Do not run the engine in a garage ton moves downwards in the cylinder.
or enclosed area except for the High negative pressure generated when
time needed to drive the vehicle in the vehicle is decelerating sucks some
or out. The exhaust gases cannot of this oil into the combustion chamber.
escape, making this a particularly This oil as well as some part of the oil
dangerous situation. film left on the cylinder wall is burned
by the high temperature combustion
Do not remain for a long time in a
gases during the combustion process.
parked vehicle with the engine run-
ning. If it is unavoidable, however, Oil is also used to lubricate the stems
do so only in an unconfined area of the intake valves. Some of this oil
and adjust the heating or cooling is sucked into the combustion chamber
system to force outside air into the together with the intake air and is
vehicle. burned along with the fuel. High tem-
perature exhaust gases also burn the
oil used to lubricate the exhaust valve
stems.
203

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Iridium- tipped spark plugs

The amount of engine oil consumed de- IMPORTANCE OF ENGINE OIL LEVEL
pends on the viscosity of the oil, the CHECK
quality of the oil and the conditions the One of the most important points in prop-
vehicle is driven under. er vehicle maintenance is to keep the en-
More oil is consumed by high- speed driv- gine oil at the optimum level so that oil
ing and frequent acceleration and decel- function will not be impaired. Therefore, it
eration. is essential that the oil level be checked
A new engine consumes more oil, since regularly. Toyota recommends that the oil
its pistons, piston rings and cylinder walls level be checked every time you refuel
have not become conditioned. the vehicle.
Oil consumption: Max. 1.0 L per 1000 NOTICE
km (1.1 qt./600 miles, 0.9 Imp. qt./600
miles) Failure to check the oil level regularly
could lead to serious engine trouble Your engine is fitted with iridium- tipped
When judging the amount of oil con-
due to insufficient oil. spark plugs.
sumption, note that the oil may become
diluted and make it difficult to judge
the true level accurately. For detailed information on oil level check, NOTICE
see Checking the engine oil level on
As an example, if a vehicle is used for Use only iridium- tipped spark plugs
page 286 in Section 7- 2.
repeated short trips, and consumes a nor- and do not adjust gaps for your en-
mal amount of oil, the dipstick may not gine performance and smooth drive-
show any drop in the oil level at all, even ability.
after 1000 km (600 miles) or more. This
is because the oil is gradually becoming
diluted with fuel or moisture, making it
appear that the oil level has not changed.
The diluting ingredients evaporate out
when the vehicle is then driven at high
speeds, as on an expressway, making it
appear that oil is excessively consumed
after driving at high speeds.
204

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Brake system
The tandem master cylinder brake system Effective way to press the ABS brake
is a hydraulic system with two separate CAUTION
pedal: When the anti- lock brake system
sub- systems. If either sub- system should function is in action, you may feel the
fail, the other will still work. However, the Do not pump the brake pedal if the
brake pedal pulsating and hear a noise.
pedal will be harder to press, and your engine stalls. Each push on the
pedal uses up your reserved vacu- In this situation, to let the anti- lock
stopping distance will increase. Also, the brake system work for you, just hold the
brake system warning light may come on. um.
brake pedal down more firmly. Do not
Even if the power assist is com- pump the brake in a panic stop. This
CAUTION pletely lost, the brakes will still will result in reduced braking performan-
work. But you will have to push the ce.
Do not drive your vehicle with only a pedal hard, much harder than nor-
single brake system. Have your mal. And your braking distance will The anti- lock brake system becomes op-
brakes fixed immediately. increase. erative after the vehicle has accelerated
to a speed in excess of approximately 10
km/h (6 mph). It stops operating when the
BRAKE BOOSTER ANTI- LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM
vehicle decelerates to a speed below
The brake booster uses engine vacuum to (with ABS warning light)
approximately 5 km/h (3 mph).
power- assist the brakes. If the engine The anti- lock brake system is designed
Depressing the brake pedal on slippery
should quit while you are driving, you can to help prevent lock- up of the wheels
road surfaces such as on a manhole cov-
bring the vehicle to a stop with normal during a sudden braking or braking on
er, a steel plate at a construction site,
pedal pressure. There is enough reserved slippery road surfaces. This assists in
joints in a bridge, etc. on a rainy day
vacuum for one or two stopsbut no providing directional stability and steer-
tends to activate the anti- lock brake sys-
more! ing performance of the vehicle under
tem.
these circumstances.
You may hear a click or motor sound in
the engine compartment for a few seconds
when the engine is started or just after
the vehicle begins to move. This means
that the anti- lock brake system is in the
self- check mode, and does not indicate a
malfunction.
205

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
When the anti- lock brake system is ac-

tivated, the following conditions may CAUTION Driving with tire chains installed.
occur. They do not indicate a malfunc- Driving over the steps such as the
tion of the system: Do not overestimate the anti- lock joints on the road.
brake system: Although the anti- lock
You may hear the anti- lock brake sys- brake system assists in providing ve- Driving on roads where the road
tem operating and feel the brake pedal surface is pitted or has other differ-
hicle control, it is still important to
pulsating and the vibrations of the ve- ences in surface height.
drive with all due care and maintain
hicle body and steering wheel. You
a moderate speed and safe distance Install all 4 tires of specified size at
may also hear the motor sound in the
from the vehicle in front of you, be- appropriate pressure: The anti- lock
engine compartment even after the ve-
cause there are limits to the vehicle brake system detects vehicle speeds
hicle is stopped.
stability and effectiveness of steering using the speed sensors for respec-
At the end of the anti- lock brake sys- wheel operation even with the anti- tive wheels turning speeds. The use
tem activation, the brake pedal may lock brake system on. of tires other than specified may fail
move a little forward. to detect the accurate turning speed
If tire grip performance exceeds its
capability, or if hydroplaning occurs resulting in a longer stopping dis-
during high speed driving in the rain, tance.
the anti- lock brake system does not
provide vehicle control.
Anti- lock brake system is not de-
signed to shorten the stopping dis-
tance: Always drive at a moderate
speed and maintain a safe distance
from the vehicle in front of you.
Compared with vehicles without an
anti- lock brake system, your vehicle
may require a longer stopping dis-
tance in the following cases:
Driving on rough, gravel or snow-
covered roads.
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
ABS warning light (vehicles without If either of the following conditions oc-
vehicle stability control system) curs, this indicates a malfunction some-
The light comes on when the ignition key where in the components monitored by
is turned to the ON position. If the anti- the warning light system. Contact your
lock brake system works properly, the Toyota dealer as soon as possible to
light turns off after a few seconds. There- service the vehicle.
after, if the system malfunctions, the light The light does not come on when the
comes on again. ignition key is turned to the ON posi-
When the ABS warning light is on (and tion, or remains on.
the brake system warning light is off), the The light comes on while you are driv-
anti- lock brake system does not operate, ing.
but the brake system still operates con- A warning light turning on briefly during
ventionally. operation does not indicate a problem.
Type A
When the ABS warning light is on (and
the brake system warning light is off), the CAUTION
anti- lock brake system does not operate
so that the wheels could lock up during If the ABS warning light remains on
a sudden braking or braking on slippery together with the brake system warn-
road surfaces. ing light, immediately stop your ve-
hicle at a safe place and contact your
Toyota dealer.
In this case, not only the anti- lock
brake system will fail but also the
vehicle will become extremely unsta-
ble during braking.
Type B
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
ABS warning light (vehicles with If either of the following conditions DRUM- IN- DISC TYPE PARKING BRAKE
vehicle stability control system) occurs, this indicates a malfunction SYSTEM (vehicles with vehicle stability
The light comes on when the ignition key somewhere in the components moni- control system)
is turned to the ON position. If the anti- tored by the warning light. Contact your Your vehicle has a drum- in- disc type
lock brake system and the brake assist Toyota dealer as soon as possible to parking brake system. This type of brake
system work properly, the light turns off service the vehicle. system needs bedding- down of the brake
after a few seconds. Thereafter, if the The light does not come on when the shoes periodically or whenever the parking
system malfunctions, the light comes on ignition key is turned to the ON posi- brake shoes and/or drums are replaced.
again. tion, or remains on. Have your Toyota dealer perform the bed-
When the ABS warning light is on (and The light comes on while you are driv- ding- down.
the brake system warning light is off), the ing. BRAKE ASSIST SYSTEM (vehicles with
anti- lock brake system, the brake assist A warning light turning on briefly during vehicle stability control system)
system, the traction control system and operation does not indicate a problem.
the vehicle stability control system do not When you slam the brakes on, the
operate, but the brake system still oper- brake assist system judges as an emer-
CAUTION gency stop and provides more powerful
ates conventionally.
braking for a driver who cannot hold
When the ABS warning light is on (and If the ABS warning light remains on down the brake pedal firmly.
the brake system warning light is off), the together with the brake system warn-
When you slam the brakes on, more pow-
anti- lock brake system does not operate ing light, immediately stop your ve-
erful braking will be applied. At this time,
so that the wheels could lock up during hicle at a safe place and contact your
you may hear a sound in the engine
a sudden braking or braking on slippery Toyota dealer.
compartment and feel the vibrations of the
road surfaces.
In this case, not only the anti- lock brake pedal. This does not indicate a mal-
brake system will fail but also the function.
vehicle will become extremely unsta- The brake assist system becomes opera-
ble during braking. tive after the vehicle has accelerated to
a speed in excess of approximately 10
km/h (6 mph). It stops operating when the
vehicle decelerates to a speed below
approximately 5 km/h (3 mph).
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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Brake pad wear limit Limited- slip differential

indicators (four- wheel drive models)
For an explanation of this systems warn- Your Toyota is equipped with a limited- slip
ing light, see Service reminder indicators center differential (transfer). If one wheel
and warning buzzers on page 109 in Sec- begins to spin, the limited- slip center dif-
tion 1- 6. ferential (transfer) is designed to aid trac-
tion by automatically transmitting driving
force to the wheels on the other drive
axle. It transmits driving force to the front
wheels if a rear wheel spins, and to the
rear wheels if a front wheel spins.
Some models are also equipped with a
limited- slip rear differential. If one rear
wheel begins to spin, the limited- slip rear
differential is designed to aid traction by
automatically transmitting driving force to
The brake pad wear limit indicators on the other rear wheel. If you are not sure
your disc brakes give a warning noise whether your vehicle is equipped with one,
when the brake pads are worn to where you can ask your Toyota dealer.
replacement is required.
If you hear a squealing or scraping noise CAUTION
while driving, have the brake pads
checked and replaced by your Toyota Do not start or run the engine while
dealer as soon as possible. Expensive ro- your vehicle is supported by a jack.
tor damage can result if the pads are not The vehicle could be driven off the
replaced when necessary. jack and could pose a danger or re-
sult in serious injury.
209

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Your Toyotas identification

Vehicle identification
number
The vehicle identification number (VIN)
NOTICE
is the legal identifier for your vehicle.
Use only a spare tire of the same This number is stamped under the right
brand, size, construction and load ca- front seat and top left of the instrument
pacity as the original tires on your panel where it can be seen through the
Toyota because damage to the lim- windshield from the outside.
ited- slip differential could possibly This is the primary identification number
occur with another tire type. for your Toyota. It is used in registering
the ownership of your vehicle.
Under the right front seat
Top left of the instrument panel
210

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Theft prevention labels

Engine number (except for Canada)
Your new vehicle carries theft preven-
tion labels which are approximately 47
mm (1.85 in.) by 12 mm (0.47 in.).
The purpose of these labels is to reduce
the incidence of vehicle thefts by facilitat-
ing the tracing and recovery of parts from
stolen vehicles. The label is designed so
that once it is applied to a surface, any
attempt to remove it will result in destroy-
ing the integrity of the label. Transferring
these labels intact from one part to anoth-
er, will be impossible.
NOTICE
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is The engine number is stamped on the
also on the Certification Regulation Label. engine block as shown. You should not attempt to remove the
theft prevention labels as it may vio-
late certain state or federal laws.
211

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Suspension and chassis
CAUTION
Do not modify the suspension/chassis

with lift kits, spacers, springs, etc. It
can cause dangerous handling charac-
teristics, resulting in loss of control.
212

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Tire information
Tire symbols
This illustration indicates typical tire
symbols.
1. Tire sizeFor details, see Tire
size on page 215.
2. DOT and Tire Identification
Number (TIN)For details, see
DOT and Tire Identification
Number (TIN) on page 214.
3. Uniform tire quality grading
For details, see Uniform tire quali-
ty grading that follows.
4. The location of the tread wear
indicatorsFor details, see
Checking and replacing tires on
page 293.
5. Tire ply composition and mate-
rialsPlies mean a layer of rub-
ber- coated parallel cords. Cords
mean the strands forming the plies
in the tire.
6. Radial tire or bias- ply tiresA
radial tire has RADIAL on the
sidewall. A tire not marked with
RADIAL is a bias- ply tire.
213

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
DOT and Tire Identification

Number (TIN)
7. TUBELESS or TUBE The DOT symbol certifies that the
TYPEA tubeless tire does not tire conforms to applicable Federal
have a tube inside the tire and air Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.
is directly filled in the tire. A tube
type tire has a tube inside the tire
and the tube maintains the air
pressure.
8. Load limit at maximum cold tire
inflation pressureFor details,
see Checking and replacing tires
on page 293.
9. Maximum cold tire inflation
pressureThis means the pres- This illustration indicates typical DOT
sure to which a tire may be in- and Tire Identification Number (TIN).
flated. For details about recom-
mended cold tire inflation 1. DOT symbol
pressure, see Tires on page 316. 2. Tire Identification Number (TIN)
10.Summer tire or all season 3. Tire manufacturers identification
tireAn all season tire has M+S mark
on the sidewall. The tire not 4. Tire size code
marked with M+S is a summer
tire. For details, see Types of 5. Manufacturers optional tire type
tires on page 225. code
6. Manufacturing week
7. Manufacturing year
214

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Tire size Name of each section of tire
This illustration indicates typical tire 1. Section width 1. Bead

size. 2. Tire height 2. Sidewall
1. Tire use (P=Passenger car, 3. Wheel diameter 3. Shoulder
T=Temporary use)
4. Tread
2. Section width (in millimeters)
5. Belt
3. Aspect ratio (tire height to section
width) 6. Inner liner
4. Tire construction code (R=Radial, 7. Reinforcing rubber
D=Diagonal) 8. Carcass
5. Wheel diameter (in inches) 9. Rim lines
6. Load index (2 digits or 3 digits) 10.Bead wires
7. Speed symbol (alphabet with one 11. Chafer
letter)
215

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Uniform tire quality grading

This information has been prepared TreadwearThe treadwear grade is Traction AA, A, B, CThe traction
in accordance with regulations issued a comparative rating based on the grades, from highest to lowest, are
by the National Highway Traffic Safe- wear rate of the tire when tested un- AA, A, B, and C, and they represent
ty Administration of the U.S. Depart- der controlled conditions on a speci- the tires ability to stop on wet pave-
ment of Transportation. It provides fied government test course. For ex- ment as measured under controlled
the purchasers and/or prospective ample, a tire graded 150 would wear conditions on specified government
purchasers of Toyota vehicles with in- one and a half (1- 1/2) times as well test surfaces of asphalt and concrete.
formation on uniform tire quality grad- on the government course as a tire A tire marked C may have poor trac-
ing. graded 100. The relative performance tion performance.
Your Toyota dealer will help answer of tires depends upon the actual Warning: The traction grade assigned
any questions you may have as you conditions of their use, however, and to this tire is based on braking
read this information. may depart significantly from the (straight ahead) traction tests and
norm due to variations in driving hab- does not include cornering (turning)
DOT quality gradesAll passenger its, service practices and differences
vehicle tires must conform to Fed- traction.
in road characteristics and climate.
eral Safety Requirements in addi-
tion to these grades. Quality
grades can be found where appli-
cable on the tire sidewall between
tread shoulder and maximum sec-
tion width. For example: Treadwear
200 Traction AA Temperature A
216

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Temperature A, B, CThe tempera-

ture grades are A (the highest), B,
and C, representing the tires resis-
tance to the generation of heat and
its ability to dissipate heat when
tested under controlled conditions on
a specified indoor laboratory test
wheel. Sustained high temperature
can cause the material of the tire to
degenerate and reduce tire life, and
excessive temperature can lead to
sudden tire failure. The grade C cor-
responds to a level of performance
which all passenger car tires must
meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle
Safety Standard No.109. Grades B
and A represent higher levels of per-
formance on the laboratory test wheel
than the minimum required by law.
Warning: The temperature grades for
this tire are established for a tire that
is properly inflated and not over-
loaded. Excessive speed, underinfla-
tion, or excessive loading, either sep-
arately or in combination, can cause
heat buildup and possible tire failure.
217

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Glossary of tire terminology

Tire related term Meaning
the combined weight (in excess of those standard items which may be
replaced) of automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, power
Accessory weight
windows, power seats, radio, and heater, to the extent that these items
are available as factory- installed equipment (whether installed or not)
tire inflation pressure when the vehicle has been parked for at least 3
Cold tire inflation pressure hours or more, or it has not been driven more than 1.5 km or 1 mile
under that condition
the weight of a motor vehicle with standard equipment including the
Curb weight maximum capacity of fuel, oil, and coolant, and, if so equipped, air
conditioning and additional weight optional engine
(A) the sidewall that contains a whitewall, bears white lettering or bears
manufacturer, brand, and/or model name molding that is higher or
Intended outboard sidewall deeper than the same molding on the other sidewall of the tire,
tire or
(B) the outward facing sidewall of an asymmetrical tire that has a particular
side that must always face outward when mounted on a vehicle
the maximum cold inflation pressure to which a tire may be inflated and it
Maximum inflation pressure
is shown on the sidewall of the tire
the sum of
(a) curb weight;
weight
Maximum loaded vehicle weight (b) accessory weight;
weight
((c)) vehicle capacityy weight;
g and
(d) production
d ti options
ti weight
i ht
218

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)

68 kg (150 lb.) times the number of occupants specified in the second
Normal occupant weight
column of Table 1 that follows
distribution of occupants in a vehicle as specified in the third column of Table
Occupant distribution
1 that follows
the combined weight of those installed regular production options weighing
over 2.3 kg (5 lb.) in excess of those standard items which they replace,
Production options weight not previously considered in curb weight or accessory weight, including
heavy duty brakes, ride levelers, roof rack, heavy duty battery, and special
trim
Recommended inflation pressure cold tire inflation pressure recommended by a manufacturer
a metal support for a tire or a tire and tube assembly upon which the tire beads
Rim
are seated
Rim diameter (Wheel diameter) nominal diameter of the bead seat
Rim size designation rim diameter and width
Rim type designation the industry of manufacturers designation for a rim by style or code
Rim width nominal distance between rim flanges
Vehicle capacity weight the rated cargo and luggage load plus 68 kg (150 lb.) times the vehicles desig-
(Total load capacity) nated seating capacity
the load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle
Vehicle maximum load on the tire
its share of the maximum loaded vehicle weight and dividing by two
219

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)

the load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle
Vehicle normal load on the tire its share of the curb weight, accessory weight, and normal occupant weight
(distributed in accordance with Table 1 that follows) and dividing by two
Weather side the surface area of the rim not covered by the inflated tire
Table 1Occupant loading and distribution for vehicle normal load for various designated seating capacities
Designated seating capacity, Vehicle normal load, number of Occupant distribution in a normally
number of occupants occupants loaded vehicle
2 through 4 2 2 in front
5 through 10 3 2 in front, 1 in second seat
220

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Cargo and luggage

Vehicle load limits Stowage precautions
Vehicle load limits include total load When stowing cargo and luggage in
NOTICE
capacity, seating capacity, towing ca- the vehicle, observe the following:
pacity and cargo capacity. Follow the Even if the number of occupants Put cargo and luggage in the lug-
load limits shown below. are within the seating capacity, gage compartment when at all
Total load capacity: do not exceed the total load ca- possible. Be sure all items are se-
pacity. cured in place.
Four- wheel drive models
With automatic transmission Be careful to keep the vehicle bal-
345 kg (761 lb.) Towing capacity: anced. Locating the weight as far
With manual transmission 680 kg (1500 lb.) forward as possible helps maintain
375 kg (826 lb.) Towing capacity means the maxi- balance.
mum gross trailer weight (trailer
Two- wheel drive models For better fuel economy, do not
weight plus its cargo weight) that
With automatic transmission carry unneeded weight.
your vehicle is able to tow.
417 kg (919 lb.)
With manual transmission Cargo capacity
447 kg (985 lb.) Cargo capacity may increase or de-
Total load capacity means com- crease depending on the size (weight)
bined weight of occupants, cargo and the number of occupants. For de-
and luggage. Tongue load is in- tails, see Capacity and distribution
cluded when trailer towing. that follows.
Seating capacity:
CAUTION
Total 5 (Front 2, Rear 3)
Seating capacity means the maxi-
Do not apply the load more than
mum number of occupants whose
each load limit. That may cause
estimated average weight is 68 kg
not only damage to the tires, but
(150 lb.) per person. Depending on
also deterioration to the steering
the weight of each person, the seat-
ability and braking ability, which
ing capacity given may exceed the
may cause an accident.
total load capacity.
221

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Capacity and distribution

Cargo capacity depends on the to-
CAUTION Do not place anything on the tal weight of the occupants.
luggage cover. Such items may
To prevent cargo and luggage be thrown about and possibly (Cargo capacity) = (Total load capac-
from sliding forward during injure people in the vehicle ity) (Total weight of occupants)
braking, do not stack anything during sudden braking or an STEPS FOR DETERMINING
in the luggage compartment accident. Secure all items in a CORRECT LOAD LIMIT
higher than the seatbacks. safe place. 1. Locate the statement The com-
Keep cargo and luggage low, Do not drive with objects left bined weight of occupants and
as close to the floor as pos- on top of the instrument panel. cargo should never exceed XXX
sible. They may interfere with the pounds on your vehicles placard.
Never allow anyone to ride in drivers field of view. Or they 2. Determine the combined weight of
the luggage compartment. It is may move during sharp vehicle the driver and passengers that will
not designed for passengers. acceleration or turning, and im- be riding in your vehicle.
They should ride in their seats pair the drivers control of the
3. Subtract the combined weight of
with their seat belts properly vehicle. In an accident they
fastened. Otherwise, they are the driver and passengers from
may injure the vehicle occu-
much more likely suffer seri- pants. XXX kilograms or XXX pounds.
ous bodily injury, in the event
of sudden braking or a colli-
sion.
Do not place anything on the
flattened seat, or it may slide
forward during braking.
222

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
4. The resulting figure equals the Two- wheel drive models

available amount of cargo and lug- With automatic transmission
gage load capacity. For example, Total load capacity: 417 kg (919 lb.)
if the XXX amount equals 1400 417 kg 166 kg = 251 kg.
lbs. and there will be five 150 lb. (919 lb. 366 lb. = 553 lb.)
passengers in your vehicle, the
amount of available cargo and lug- With manual transmission
Cargo Total load capacity: 447 kg (985 lb.)
gage load capacity is 650 lbs. capacity
(1400750 (5x150)=650 lbs). 447 kg 166 kg = 281 kg.
(985 lb. 366 lb. = 619 lb.)
5. Determine the combined weight of
Total load From this condition, if 3 more passen-
luggage and cargo being loaded
capacity gers with the combined weight of 176
on the vehicle. That weight may
not safely exceed the available kg (388 lb.) get on, the available car-
cargo and luggage load capacity EXAMPLE ON YOUR VEHICLE go and luggage load will be reduced
calculated in Step 4. In case that 2 people with the com- as follows:
6. If your vehicle will be towing a bined weight of 166 kg (366 lb.) are Four- wheel drive models
trailer, load from your trailer will riding in your vehicle, the available With automatic transmission
be transferred to your vehicle. amount of cargo and luggage load ca- 179 kg 176 kg = 3 kg.
Consult this manual to determine pacity will be as follows: (395 lb. 388 lb. = 7 lb.)
how this reduces the available car- Four- wheel drive models With manual transmission
go and luggage load capacity of With automatic transmission 209 kg 176 kg = 33 kg.
your vehicle. Total load capacity: 345 kg (761 lb.) (460 lb. 388 lb. = 72 lb.)
For details about trailer towing, see 345 kg 166 kg = 179 kg.
page 234. (761 lb. 366 lb. = 395 lb.)
With manual transmission
Total load capacity: 375 kg (826 lb.)
375 kg 166 kg = 209 kg.
(826 lb. 366 lb. = 460 lb.)
223

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Two- wheel drive models Weight of the

CAUTION Cargo
With automatic transmission
capacity removed second seat
251 kg 176 kg = 75 kg. Even if the total load of occu-
(553 lb. 388 lb. = 165 lb.) pants weight and the cargo load
With manual transmission is less than the total load capac-
281 kg 176 kg = 105 kg. ity, do not apply the load uneven-
(619 lb. 388 lb. = 231 lb.) ly. That may cause not only dam-
As shown in the above example, if the age to the tire but also deteriora-
number of occupants increases, the tion to the steering ability due to
cargo and luggage load equaling the unbalance of the vehicle, causing
combined weight of occupants who an accident.
got on later must be reduced. In other
words, if the increase in the number SEATING CONFIGURATION
of occupants causes the excess of VARIATION
the total load capacity (combined In case of removing the rear seats,
weight of occupants plus cargo and
it is possible to load as much cargo
luggage load), you have to reduce the as the weight of the removed seats.
cargo and luggage on your vehicle.
(Cargo capacity) = (Total load capac-
For details about total load capacity, ity) - (Total weight of occupants) +
see Vehicle load limits on page 221. (Weight of the removed rear seats)
Rear seat weight:
Each seat 17 kg (37.5 lb.)
224

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Types of tires
Determine what kind of tires your All season tires, however, do not have
vehicle is originally equipped with. adequate traction performance
1. Summer tires compared with snow tires in heavy or
loose snow. Also, all season tires fall
Summer tires are high- speed capabil- short in acceleration and handling
ity tires best suited to highway driving performance compared with summer
under dry conditions. tires in highway driving.
Since summer tires do not have the The details about how to distinguish
same traction performance as snow summer tires from all season tires are
tires, summer tires are inadequate for described on page 213.
driving on snow- covered or icy roads.
For driving on snow- covered or icy CAUTION
roads, we recommend using snow
tires. If installing snow tires, be sure Do not mix summer and all sea-
to replace all four tires. son tires on your vehicle as
2. All season tires this can cause dangerous han-
All season tires are designed to pro- dling characteristics, resulting
vide better traction in snow and to be in loss of control.
adequate for driving in most winter Do not use tire other than the
conditions, as well as for use all year manufacturers designated
round. tires, and never mix tires or
wheels of the sizes different
from the originals.
225

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
226

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 3
STARTING AND DRIVING
Starting and driving
Before starting the engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228
How to start the engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228
Tips for driving in various conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 229
Off- road driving precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 230
Winter driving tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231
Dinghy towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 233
Trailer towing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234
How to save fuel and make your vehicle last longer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 239
227

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
How to start the engine

Before starting the engine (a) Before cranking (b) Starting the engine
1. Check the area around the vehicle be- 1. Apply the parking brake firmly. Before starting the engine, be sure to fol-
fore entering it. 2. Turn off unnecessary lights and acces- low the instructions in (a) Before crank-
2. Adjust seat position, seatback angle, sories. ing.
seat cushion angle, head restraint 3. Manual transmission: Press the clutch Normal starting procedure
height and steering wheel angle. pedal to the floor and shift the trans- The multiport fuel injection system/sequen-
3. Adjust the inside and outside rear view mission into neutral. Hold the clutch tial multiport fuel injection system in your
mirrors. pedal to the floor until the engine is engine automatically controls the proper
4. Lock all doors. started. A starter safety device will pre- air- fuel mixture for starting. You can start
vent the starter from operating if the a cold or hot engine as follows:
5. Fasten seat belts. clutch pedal is not fully depressed. With your foot off the accelerator pedal,
Automatic transmission: Put the se- crank the engine by turning the key to
lector lever in P. If you need to re- START. Release it when the engine
start the engine while the vehicle is starts.
moving, put the selector lever in N. Engine should be warmed up by driving,
A starter safety device will prevent the not in idle. For warming up, drive with
starter from operating if the selector smoothly turning engine until engine cool-
lever is in any drive position. ant temperature is within normal range.
4. Automatic transmission only: De- If the engine stalls...
press the brake pedal and hold it to
the floor until driving off. Simply restart it, using the correct proce-
dure given in normal starting.
If the engine will not start...
See If your vehicle will not start on page
242 in Section 4.
228

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Tips for driving in various

conditions
Always slow down in gusty crosswinds. Washing your vehicle or driving through
NOTICE
This will allow you much better control. deep water may get the brakes wet. To
Do not crank for more than 30 se- Drive slowly onto curbs and, if pos- see whether they are wet, check that
conds at a time. This may overheat sible, at a right angle. Avoid driving there is no traffic near you, and then
the starter and wiring systems. onto high, sharp- edged objects and press the pedal lightly. If you do not
other road hazards. Failure to do so feel a normal braking force, the brakes
Do not race a cold engine.
can lead to severe tire damage such are probably wet. To dry them, drive
If the engine becomes difficult to the vehicle cautiously while lightly
as a tire burst.
start or stalls frequently, have the pressing the brake pedal with the park-
engine checked immediately. Drive slowly when passing over bumps ing brake applied. If they still do not
or travelling on a bumpy road. Other- work safely, pull to the side of the road
wise the impact could cause severe and call a Toyota dealer for assistance.
damage to the tires and/or wheels.
When parking on a hill, turn the front CAUTION
wheels until they touch the curb so
that the vehicle will not roll. Apply the Before driving off, make sure that
parking brake, and place the transmis- the parking brake is fully released
sion in P (automatic) or in first or and the parking brake reminder
reverse (manual). If necessary, block light is off.
the wheels.
Do not leave your vehicle unat-
tended while the engine is running.
Do not rest your foot on the brake
pedal while driving. It can cause
dangerous overheating, needless
wear, and poor fuel economy.
To drive down a long or steep hill,
reduce your speed and downshift.
Remember, if you ride the brakes
excessively, they may overheat and
not work properly.
229

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Off- road driving precautions

When driving your vehicle off- road, please
Be careful when accelerating, up- observe the following precautions to en- CAUTION
shifting, downshifting or braking on sure your driving enjoyment and to help
a slippery surface. Sudden accelera- prevent the closure of areas to off- road Always observe the following precau-
tion or engine braking, could cause vehicles. tions to minimize the risk of serious
the vehicle to skid or spin. a. Drive your vehicle only in areas where personal injury or damage to your ve-
Do not drive in excess of the speed off- road vehicles are permitted to trav- hicle:
limit. Even if the legal speed limit el. Drive carefully when off the road.
permits it, do not drive over 140 b. Respect private property. Get owners Do not take unnecessary risks by
km/h (85 mph) unless your vehicle permission before entering private prop- driving in dangerous places.
has high- speed capability tires. erty. Do not grip the steering wheel
Driving over 140 km/h (85 mph) may spokes when driving off- road. A
result in tire failure, loss of control c. Do not enter areas that are closed.
Honor gates, barriers and signs that re- bad bump could jerk the wheel and
and possible injury. Be sure to con- injure your hands. Keep both hands
sult a tire dealer to determine strict travel.
and especially your thumbs on the
whether the tires on your vehicle d. Stay on established roads. When condi-
outside of the rim.
are high- speed capability tires or tions are wet, driving techniques should
not before driving at such speeds. be changed or travel delayed to pre- Always check your brakes for effec-
vent damage to roads. tiveness immediately after driving in
Do not continue normal driving sand, mud, water or snow.
when the brakes are wet. If they are For owners in U.S. mainland, Hawaii and
wet, your vehicle will require a Puerto Rico: After driving through tall grass,
longer stopping distance, and it To obtain additional information pertaining mud, rock, sand, rivers, etc., check
may pull to one side when the to driving your vehicle off- road, consult that there is no grass, bush, paper,
brakes are applied. Also, the park- the following organizations. rags, stone, sand, etc. adhering or
trapped on the underbody. Clear off
ing brake will not hold the vehicle State and Local Parks and Recreation any such matter from the under-
securely. Departments body. If the vehicle is used with
State Motor Vehicle Bureau these materials trapped or adhering
Recreational Vehicle Clubs to the underbody, a breakdown or
fire could occur.
U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of
Land Management
230

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Winter driving tips

Make sure your coolant is properly pro-
In a rollover crash, an unbelted per- Take all necessary safety measures tected against freezing.
son is significantly more likely to to ensure that water damage to the
engine or other components does Only use Toyota Super Long Life Coolant
die than a person wearing a seat
not occur. or similar high quality ethylene glycol
belt. Therefore, the driver and all
based non- silicate, non- amine, non- nitrite,
passengers should fasten their seat Water entering the engine air intake and non- borate coolant with long- life
belts whenever the vehicle is mo- will cause severe engine damage. hybrid organic acid technology. (Coolant
ving.
Water can wash the grease from with long- life hybrid organic acid
When driving off- road or in rugged wheel bearings, causing rusting and technology is a combination of low
terrain, do not drive at excessive premature failure, and may also en- phosphates and organic acids.)
speeds, jump, make sharp turns, ter the differentials, transmission See Checking the engine coolant level
strike objects, etc. This may cause and transfer case, reducing the gear on page 288 in Section 7- 2 for details of
loss of control or vehicle rollover oils lubricating qualities. coolant type selection.
causing death or serious injury. You
Sand and mud that has accumulated For the U.S.A.Toyota Super Long Life
are also risking expensive damage
to your vehicles suspension and
in brake drums and around brake Coolant is a mixture of 50% coolant and
chassis.
discs may affect braking efficiency 50% deionized water. This coolant pro-
and may damage brake system com- vides protection down to about -35C
ponents. (- 31F).
NOTICE Always perform a maintenance in- For CanadaToyota Super Long Life
spection after each day of off- road Coolant is a mixture of 55% coolant and
If driving through water, such as driving that has taken you through 45% deionized water. This coolant pro-
when crossing shallow streams, rough terrain, sand, mud, or water. vides protection down to about -42C
first check the depth of the water For scheduled maintenance informa- (- 44F).
and the bottom of the river bed for tion, refer to the Scheduled Main-
firmness. Drive slowly and avoid tenance Guide or Owners Manual NOTICE
deep water. Supplement.
Do not use plain water alone.
231

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Check the condition of the battery and Use a washer fluid containing an anti- Depending on where you are driving,
cables. freeze solution. we recommend you carry some emer-
Cold temperatures reduce the capacity of This product is available at your Toyota gency equipment.
any battery, so it must be in top shape to dealer and most auto parts stores. Follow Some of the things you might put in the
provide enough power for winter starting. the manufacturers directions for how vehicle are tire chains, window scraper,
Section 7- 3 tells you how to visually in- much to mix with water. bag of sand or salt, flares, small shovel,
spect the battery. Your Toyota dealer and jumper cables, etc.
most service stations will be pleased to NOTICE
check the level of charge.
Do not use engine antifreeze or any
Make sure the engine oil viscosity is other substitute because it may dam-
suitable for the cold weather. age your vehicles paint.
See page 286 in Section 7- 2 for recom-
mended viscosity. Leaving a heavy sum- Do not use your parking brake when
mer oil in your vehicle during winter there is a possibility it could freeze.
months may cause harder starting. If you
When parking, put the transmission into
are not sure about which oil to use, call
P (automatic) or into first or reverse
your Toyota dealerthey will be pleased to
(manual) and block the rear wheels. Do
help.
not use the parking brake, or snow or
Keep the door locks from freezing. water accumulated in and around the
Squirt lock de- icer or glycerine into the parking brake mechanism may freeze,
locks to keep them from freezing. making it hard to release.
Keep ice and snow from accumulating
under the fenders.
Ice and snow built up under your fenders
can make steering difficult. During bad
winter driving, stop and check under the
fenders occasionally.
232

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Dinghy towing Dinghy towing

(with automatic transmission) (with manual transmission)
NOTICE
Dinghy towing does not eliminate the
possibility of damage to your vehicle.
DINGHY TOWING TIPS

Before dinghy towing, be sure to ob-
serve the following in order to reduce
the damage to your vehicle.
1. Put the shift lever in neutral.
2. Turn the ignition switch to the ACC
position. Make sure the audio is turned
off and any item is not plugged into
Your vehicle is not designed to be Your vehicle can be dinghy towed (with the power outlet.
dinghy towed (with four wheels on the four wheels on the ground) from the
ground) behind a motorhome. front behind a motorhome. NOTICE
NOTICE CAUTION To avoid the locking of the steering
wheel, turn the ignition switch to the
Do not tow your vehicle with four ACC position.
Dinghy towing requires special equip-
wheels on the ground. This may
ment and accessories. Please refer to
cause serious damage to your vehicle.
your service outlet of the motorhome 3. Release the parking brake.
manufacture for the recommended
equipment.
233

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Trailer towing
Your vehicle is designed primarily as a
NOTICE
passenger- carrying vehicle. Towing a
Four- wheel drive models: trailer will have an adverse effect on
To prevent the vehicle from being handling, performance, braking, durability
damaged, observe following. and driving economy (fuel consumption,
etc.). Your safety and satisfaction depend
Do not tow the vehicle at a speed
on the proper use of correct equipment
higher than 88 km/h (55 mph).
and cautious driving habits. For your
Do not tow the vehicle for more safety and the safety of others, you must
than 320 km (200 miles). not overload your vehicle or trailer. Toyota
warranties do not apply to damage or
After dinghy towing or at the recom- malfunction caused by towing a trailer for
mended distance limit, let the engine idle commercial purposes. Ask your local
for more than 3 minutes before driving the Toyota dealer for further details before
vehicle or resuming towing. towing.
NOTICE
WEIGHT LIMITS
Do not tow your vehicle from the Before towing, make sure the total trail-
rear. This may cause serious damage er weight, gross combination weight,
to your vehicle. gross vehicle weight, gross axle weight
and trailer tongue load are all within
the limits.
The total trailer weight and tongue load
can be measured with platform scales
found at a highway weighing station, build-
ing supply company, trucking company,
junk yard, etc.
234

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
CAUTION The gross vehicle weight must not

exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight
The total trailer weight (trailer Rating (GVWR) indicated on the
weight plus its cargo load) must Certification Label. The gross ve-
not exceed 680 kg (1500 lb.). hicle weight is the sum of weights
The gross combination weight (sum of the unloaded vehicle, driver, pas-
of your vehicle weight plus its load sengers, luggage, hitch and trailer
and the total trailer weight) must tongue load. It also includes the
not exceed the following. weight of any special equipment
installed on your vehicle.
2513 kg (5540 lb.) The load on either the front or rear
Four- wheel drive models axle resulting from distribution of
2534 kg (5586 lb.) the gross vehicle weight on both
axles must not exceed the Gross
Trailer hitch assemblies have differ- Axle Weight Rating (GAWR) listed
ent weight capacities established by on the Certification Label.
the hitch manufacturer. Even though
the vehicle may be physically capa-
ble of towing a higher weight, the
operator must determine the maxi-
mum weight rating of the particular
hitch assembly and never exceed
the maximum weight rating speci-
fied for the trailer- hitch. Exceeding
the maximum weight rating set by
the trailer hitch manufacturer can
cause an accident resulting in seri-
ous personal injuries.
235

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
HITCHES BRAKES AND SAFETY CHAINS

Total trailer weight Tongue load Use only a weight carrying hitch Toyota recommends trailers with
designed for the total trailer weight. brakes that conform to any applica-
Toyota does not recommend using a ble federal and state/provincial regu-
weight distribution (load equalizing) lations.
hitch. A safety chain must always be used
The hitch must be bolted securely to between the towing vehicle and the
the vehicle frame and installed accord- trailer. Leave sufficient slack in the
ing to the hitch manufacturers instruc- chain for turns. The chain should
Tongue load tions. cross under the trailer tongue to
100 = 9 to 11%
Total trailer weight The hitch ball should have a light coat prevent the tongue from dropping to
of grease. the ground in case it becomes dam-
aged or separated. For correct safety
Toyota recommends that the trailer chain procedures, follow the hitch or
hitch be removed when not towing to
The trailer cargo load should be trailer manufacturers recommenda-
prevent injury and/or damage by the tions.
distributed so that the tongue load
hitch in event of a rear end collision.
is 9 to 11% of the total trailer
After removing the hitch, the installa-
weight, not exceeding 68 kg (150 CAUTION
tion area should be sealed to prevent
lb.).
entry of exhaust fumes and mud.
Never load the trailer with more If the total trailer weight exceeds
272 kg (600 lb.), trailer brakes are
weight in the back than in the NOTICE
front. About 60% of the trailer load required.
should be in the front half of the Do not use an axle- mounting hitch as Never tap into your vehicles hy-
trailer and the remaining 40% in the it may cause damage to the axle draulic system as it would lower its
rear. housing, wheel bearings, wheels and/ braking effectiveness.
or tires.
236

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
BREAK- IN SCHEDULE Check that your rear view mirrors con-

Never tow a trailer without using a
safety chain securely attached to
Toyota recommends that you do not form to any applicable federal, state/
tow a trailer with a new vehicle or a provincial or local regulations. If not,
both the trailer and the vehicle. If install the rear view mirrors required
damage occurs to the coupling unit vehicle with any new power train com-
ponent (engine, transmission, differen- for towing purpose.
or hitch ball, there is danger of the
tial, wheel bearing, etc.) for the first TRAILER TOWING TIPS
trailer wandering over into another
lane. 800 km (500 miles) of driving. When towing a trailer, your vehicle will
MAINTENANCE handle differently than when not tow-
TIRES If you tow a trailer, your vehicle will ing. The three main causes of vehicle-
require more frequent maintenance due trailer accidents are driver error, exces-
Ensure that your vehicles tires are sive speed and improper trailer loading.
to the additional load. For this informa-
properly inflated. See page 291 Section Keep these in mind when towing:
7- 2 and page 316 in Section 8 for tion, please refer to the scheduled
instructions.
maintenance information in the Sched- Before starting out, check operation of
uled Maintenance Guide or Owners the lights and all vehicle- trailer connec-
The trailer tires should be inflated to Manual Supplement. tions. After driving a short distance,
the pressure recommended by the trail-
er manufacturer in respect to the total
Retighten all fixing bolts of the towing stop and recheck the lights and con-
ball and bracket after approximately nections. Before actually towing a trail-
trailer weight. er, practice turning, stopping and back-
1000 km (600 miles) of trailer driving.
TRAILER LIGHTS ing with a trailer in an area away from
PRE- TOWING SAFETY CHECK traffic until you learn the feel.
Trailer lights must comply with federal,
state/provincial and local regulations.
Check that your vehicle remains level Because stopping distance may be in-
when a loaded or unloaded trailer is creased, vehicle- to- vehicle distance
See your local recreational vehicle
dealer or rental agency for the correct hitched. Do not drive if the vehicle has should be increased when towing a
an abnormal nose- up or nose- down trailer. For each 16 km/h (10 mph) of
type of wiring and relays for your trail-
condition, and check for improper speed, allow at least one vehicle and
er. Check for correct operation of the
turn signals and stop lights each time tongue load, overload, worn suspension trailer length between you and the ve-
or other possible causes. hicle ahead. Avoid sudden braking as
you hitch up. Direct splicing may dam-
age your vehicles electrical system Make sure the trailer cargo is securely you may skid, resulting in jackknifing
and cause a malfunction of your lights. loaded so that it cannot shift. and loss of control. This is especially
true on wet or slippery surfaces.
237

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Avoid jerky starts or sudden accelera- Crosswinds and rough roads will ad- Because of the added load of the trail-
tion. If your vehicle has a manual versely affect handling of your vehicle er, your vehicles engine may overheat
transmission, prevent excessive clutch and trailer, causing sway. Pay attention on hot days (at temperatures over
slippage by keeping engine rpm low to the rear from time to time to pre- 30C [85F]) when going up a long or
and not racing the engine. Always start pare yourself for being passed by large steep grade with a trailer. If the engine
out in first gear. trucks or buses, which may cause your coolant temperature gauge indicates
Avoid jerky steering and sharp turns. vehicle and trailer to sway. If swaying overheating, immediately turn off the air
The trailer could hit your vehicle in a happens, firmly grip the steering wheel conditioning (if in use), pull off the road
tight turn. Slow down before making a and reduce speed immediately but and stop in a safe spot. Refer to If
turn to avoid the necessity of sudden gradually. Never increase speed. Steer your vehicle overheats on page 246 in
braking. straight ahead. If you make no extreme Section 4.
Backing with a trailer is difficult and

correction with the steering or brakes, Always place wheel blocks under both
the vehicle and trailer will stabilize. the vehicle and trailer wheels when
requires practice. Grip the bottom of
the steering wheel and move your hand Be careful when passing other ve- parking. Apply the parking brake firmly.
to the left to move the trailer to the hicles. Passing requires considerable Put the transmission in P (automatic)
left. Move your hand to the right to distance. After passing a vehicle, do or in first or reverse (manual). Avoid
move the trailer to the right. (This pro- not forget the length of your trailer and parking on a slope with a trailer, but
cedure is generally opposite to that be sure you have plenty of room be- if it cannot be avoided, do so only
when backing without a trailer.) Also, fore changing lanes. after performing the following:
just turn the steering wheel a little at In order to maintain engine braking effi- 1. Apply the brakes and hold.
a time, avoiding sharp or prolonged ciency, do not use fifth gear (manual 2. Have someone place wheel blocks un-
turning. Have someone guide you when transmission) or overdrive (automatic der both the vehicle and trailer wheels.
backing to reduce the risk of an acci- transmission).
dent. 3. When the wheel blocks are in place,
release your brakes slowly until the
Remember that when making a turn, blocks absorb the load.
the trailer wheels will be closer than
the vehicle wheels to the inside of the 4. Apply the parking brake firmly.
turn. Therefore, compensate for this by 5. Shift into first or reverse (manual) or
making a larger than normal turning P (automatic) and turn off the engine.
radius with your vehicle.
238

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
How to save fuel and make

your vehicle last longer
When restarting out after parking on a Improving fuel economy is easyjust take
slope: Slow down and downshift before it easy. It will help make your vehicle last
descending steep or long downhill longer, too. Here are some specific tips
1. With the transmission in P position
grades. Do not make sudden down- on how to save money on both fuel and
(automatic) or the clutch pedal de- shifts.
pressed (manual), start the engine. repairs:
(With an automatic transmission, be Avoid holding the brake pedal down Keep your tires inflated at the cor-
sure to keep the brake pedal de- too long or too frequently. This rect pressure. Underinflation causes
pressed.) could cause the brakes to overheat tire wear and wastes fuel. See page
and result in reduced braking effi- 291 in Section 7- 2 for instructions.
2. Shift into gear. ciency.
3. Release the parking brake (also foot Do not carry unneeded weight in
brake on automatic transmission ve- your vehicle. Excess weight puts a
hicles) and slowly pull or back away heavier load on the engine, causing
from the wheel blocks. Stop and apply greater fuel consumption.
your brakes. Avoid lengthy warm- up idling. Once
4. Have someone retrieve the blocks. the engine is running smoothly, begin
drivingbut gently. Remember, howev-
er, that on cold winter days this may
CAUTION
take a little longer.
Do not exceed 72 km/h (45 mph) or Keep the automatic transmission
the posted towing speed limit, overdrive turned on when engine
whichever is lower. Because insta- braking is not required. Driving with
bility (swaying) of a towing vehicle- the overdrive off will reduce the fuel
trailer combination usually in- economy. (For details, see Automatic
creases as the speed increases, ex- transmission on page 121 in Section
ceeding 72 km/h (45 mph) may 1- 7.)
cause loss of control. Accelerate slowly and smoothly.
Avoid jackrabbit starts. Get into high
gear as quickly as possible.
239

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Avoid long engine idling. If you have Keep the front wheels in proper
a long wait and you are not in traffic, alignment. Avoid hitting the curb and CAUTION
it is better to turn off the engine and slow down on rough roads. Improper
start again later. alignment not only causes faster tire Never turn off the engine to coast
down hills. Your power steering and
Avoid engine lugging or overrev- wear but also puts an extra load on
brake booster will not function with-
ving. Use a gear position suitable for the engine, which, in turn, wastes fuel.
out the engine running. Also, the
the road on which you are travelling. Keep the bottom of your vehicle free emission control system operates
Avoid continuous speeding up and from mud, etc. This not only lessens
properly only when the engine is run-
slowing down. Stop- and- go driving weight but also helps prevent corro-
ning.
wastes fuel. sion.
Avoid unnecessary stopping and Keep your vehicle tuned- up and in
braking. Maintain a steady pace. Try top shape. A dirty air cleaner, improp-
to time the traffic signals so you only er valve clearance, dirty plugs, dirty oil
need to stop as little as possible or and grease,brakes not adjusted, etc. all
take advantage of through streets to lower engine performance and contrib-
avoid traffic lights. Keep a proper dis- ute to poor fuel economy. For longer
tance from other vehicles to avoid sud- life of all parts and lower operating
den braking. This will also reduce wear costs, keep all maintenance work on
on your brakes. schedule, and if you often drive under
severe conditions, see that your vehicle
Avoid heavy traffic or traffic jams receives more frequent maintenance.
whenever possible. (For scheduled maintenance informa-
Do not rest your foot on the clutch tion, please refer to the Scheduled
or brake pedal. This causes premature Maintenance Guide or Owners Manu-
wear, overheating and poor fuel econo- al Supplement.)
my.
Maintain a moderate speed on high-
ways. The faster you drive, the greater
the fuel consumption. By reducing your
speed, you will cut down on fuel con-
sumption.
240

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 4
IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY
In case of an emergency
If your vehicle will not start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 242
If your engine stalls while driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 246
If you cannot increase engine speed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 246
If your vehicle overheats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 246
If you have a flat tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 247
If your vehicle becomes stuck . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 257
If your vehicle needs to be towed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 258
If you cannot shift automatic transmission selector lever . . . . . . . . 262
If you lose your keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 263
If you lose your wireless remote control transmitter . . . . . . . . . . . . . 263
241

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
If your vehicle will not start

(a) Simple checks (b) Starting a flooded engine
Before making these checks, make sure If the engine will not start, your engine
NOTICE
you have followed the correct starting pro- may be flooded because of repeated
cedure given in How to start the engine Do not pull- or push- start the vehicle. cranking.
on page 228 in Section 3 and that you It may damage the vehicle or cause If this happens, turn the key to START
have sufficient fuel. If your vehicle is a collision when the engine starts. with the accelerator pedal fully depressed.
equipped with the engine immobilizer sys- Also the three- way catalytic converter Keep the key and accelerator pedal in
tem, also check whether the other keys may overheat and become a fire haz- these positions for 15 seconds and re-
will start the engine. If they work, your ard. lease them. Then try starting the engine
key may be broken. Have the key with your foot off the accelerator pedal.
checked at your Toyota dealer. If none of
If the engine turns over at its normal If the engine does not start after 15 se-
your keys work, there may be a malfunc-
speed but will not start conds of cranking, release the key, wait
tion in the immobilizer system. Call your
Toyota dealer. (See Keys (with engine 1. Turn the ignition key to ACC or a few minutes and try again.
immobilizer system) on page 10 in Sec- LOCK and try starting the engine If the engine still will not start, it needs
tion 1- 2.) again. adjustment or repair. Call a Toyota dealer
If the engine is not turning over or is 2. If the engine will not start, the engine or qualified repair shop for assistance.
turning over too slowly may be flooded because of repeated
cranking. See (b) Starting a flooded NOTICE
1. Check that the battery terminals are
engine on page 242 for further instruc- Do not crank for more than 30 se-
tight and clean.
tions. conds at a time. This may overheat
2. If the battery terminals are O.K., switch
3. If the engine still will not start, it needs the starter and wiring systems.
on the interior light.
adjustment or repair. Call a Toyota
3. If the light is out, dim or goes out dealer or qualified repair shop.
when the starter is cranked, the battery
is discharged. You may try jump start-
ing. See (c) Jump starting on page
243 for further instructions.
If the light is O.K., but the engine still will
not start, it needs adjustment or repair.
Call a Toyota dealer or qualified repair
shop.
242

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
(c) Jump starting

To avoid serious personal injury and
damage to your vehicle which might re- The gas normally produced by a
sult from battery explosion, acid burns, battery will explode if a flame or
electrical burns, or damaged electronic spark is brought near. Use only
components, these instructions must be standardized jumper cables and do
followed precisely. not smoke or light a match while
jump starting.
If you are unsure about how to follow this
procedure, we strongly recommend that
you seek the help of a competent me- NOTICE
chanic or towing service.
The battery used for boosting must
CAUTION be 12 V. Do not jump start unless you
are sure that the booster battery is
Batteries contain sulfuric acid correct.
which is poisonous and corrosive. BEFORE JUMP STARTING
Wear protective safety glasses when Remove the battery cover as shown in the
jump starting, and avoid spilling illustration.
acid on your skin, clothing, or ve-
hicle.
If you should accidentally get acid
on yourself or in your eyes, remove
any contaminated clothing and flush
the affected area with water im-
mediately. Then get immediate medi-
cal attention. If possible, continue
to apply water with a sponge or
cloth while en route to the medical
office.
243

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
JUMP STARTING PROCEDURE

Jumper cable
1. If the booster battery is installed in
another vehicle, make sure the vehicles
are not touching. Turn off all unneces-
sary lights and accessories.
When boosting, use the battery of Discharged
matching or higher quality. Any other Discharged battery Jumper
battery may be difficult to jump start battery Positive cable
with.
terminal
Positive Booster
If jump starting is difficult, charge the (+ mark)
terminal battery
battery for several minutes. Booster battery (+ mark) Negative terminal
2. If required, remove all the vent plugs (- mark)
from the booster and discharged batter-
ies. Lay a cloth over the open vents 4. Make the cable connections in the or- c. Connect the clamp of the negative
on the batteries. (This helps reduce the der a, b, c, d. (black) cable to the negative (- ) termi-
explosion hazard, personal injuries and a. Connect the clamp of the positive nal on the booster battery.
burns.) (red) jumper cable to the positive (+) d. Connect the clamp at the other end
3. If the engine in the vehicle with the terminal on the discharged battery. of the negative (black) jumper cable to
booster battery is not running, start it b. Connect the clamp at the other end a solid, stationary, unpainted, metallic
and let it run for a few minutes. During of the positive (red) jumper cable to point of the vehicle with the discharged
jump starting, run the engine at about the positive (+) terminal on the booster battery.
2000 rpm with the accelerator pedal battery. The recommended connecting point is
lightly depressed. shown in the following illustration:
244

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
5. Start your engine in the normal way. AFTER JUMP STARTING

After starting, run it at about 2000 rpm Install the battery cover securely in its
for several minutes with the accelerator original position.
pedal lightly depressed.
6. Carefully disconnect the cables in the NOTICE
exact reverse order: the negative cable
After installed the battery cover, make
and then the positive cable.
sure the battery cover is securely in
7. Carefully dispose of the battery cover its original position. If it is not se-
clothsthey may now contain sulfuric cured, it may be damaged to your
acid. vehicle.
8. If removed, replace all the battery vent
plugs.
Connecting point If the cause of your battery discharging is
not apparent (for example, lights left on),
you should have it checked at your Toyota
Do not connect it to or near any part dealer.
that moves when the engine is
cranked. If the first start attempt is not success-
ful...
CAUTION Check that the clamp on the jumper
cables are tight. Recharge the discharged
When making the connections, to battery with the jumper cables connected
avoid serious injury, do not lean over for several minutes and restart your en-
the battery or accidentally let the gine in the normal way.
jumper cables or clamps touch any- If the another attempt is not successful,
thing except the correct battery termi- the battery may be depleted. Have it ch-
nals or the ground. ecked at your Toyota dealer.
245

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
If your engine stalls while If you cannot increase engine

driving speed If your vehicle overheats
If your engine stalls while driving... If engine speed does not increase when If your engine coolant temperature
1. Reduce your speed gradually, keeping the accelerator pedal is depressed, there gauge indicates overheating, if you ex-
a straight line. Move cautiously off the may be a problem somewhere in the elec- perience a loss of power, or if you hear
road to a safe place. tronic throttle control system. a loud knocking or pinging noise, the
At this time, vibration may occur. Howev- engine has probably overheated. You
2. Turn on your emergency flashers. should follow this procedure...
er, if you depress the accelerator pedal
3. Turn the ignition key to ACC or more firmly and slowly, you can drive your 1. Pull safely off the road, stop the ve-
LOCK, and try starting the engine vehicle at low speeds. Have your vehicle hicle and turn on your emergency
again. checked by your Toyota dealer as soon as flashers. Put the transmission in P
If the engine will not start, see If your possible. (automatic) or neutral (manual) and ap-
vehicle will not start on page 242 in this Even if the abnormality of the electronic ply the parking brake. Turn off the air
Section. throttle control system is corrected during conditioning if it is being used.
low speed driving, the system may not be 2. If coolant or steam is boiling out of the
CAUTION recovered until the engine is stopped and radiator or reservoir, stop the engine.
the ignition key is turned to the ACC or Wait until the steam subsides before
If the engine is not running, the pow- LOCK position. opening the hood. If there is no coolant
er assist for the brakes and steering boiling over or steam, leave the engine
will not work so steering and braking CAUTION running and make sure the electric
will be much harder than usual. cooling fan is operating. If it is not,
Be especially careful to prevent erro- turn the ignition off.
neous pedal operation.
CAUTION
To help avoid personal injury, keep

the hood closed until there is no
steam. Escaping steam or coolant is
a sign of very high pressure.
246

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
If you have a flat tire

3. Look for obvious coolant leaks from the 6. After the engine coolant temperature 1. Reduce your speed gradually,
radiator, hoses, and under the vehicle. has cooled to normal, again check the keeping a straight line. Move cau-
However, note that water draining from coolant level in the reservoir. If neces- tiously off the road to a safe place
the air conditioning is normal if it has sary, bring it up to half full again. Seri- well away from the traffic. Avoid
been used. ous coolant loss indicates a leak in the
stopping on the center divider of
system. You should have it checked as
a highway. Park on a level spot
CAUTION soon as possible at your Toyota dealer.
with firm ground.
When the engine is running, keep 2. Stop the engine and turn on your
hands and clothing away from the emergency flashers.
moving fan and engine drive belts. 3. Firmly set the parking brake and
put the transmission in P (auto-
4. If the coolant is leaking, stop the en- matic) or reverse (manual).
gine immediately. Call a Toyota dealer
for assistance.
4. Have everyone get out of the ve-
hicle on the side away from traffic.
5. If there are no obvious leaks, check
the coolant reservoir. If it is dry, add 5. Read the following instructions
coolant to the reservoir while the en- thoroughly.
gine is running. Fill it about half full.
For the coolant type, see Coolant type
selection on page 289 in Section 7- 2.
CAUTION
Do not attempt to remove the radiator

cap when the engine and radiator are
hot. Serious injury could result from
scalding hot fluid and steam blown
out under pressure.
247

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
CAUTION Make sure to set the jack prop- NOTICE

erly in the jack point. Raising
Do not continue driving with a
When jacking, be sure to observe the vehicle with jack improper- deflated tire. Driving even a
the following to reduce the possi- ly positioned will damage the short distance can damage a
bility of personal injury: vehicle or may allow the ve-
tire and wheel beyond repair.
Follow jacking instructions. hicle to fall off the jack and
cause personal injury.
Do not put any part of your
body under the vehicle sup- Never get under the vehicle
ported by the jack. Otherwise, when the vehicle is supported
personal injury may occur. by the jack alone.
Do not start or run the engine Use the jack only for lifting
while your vehicle is supported your vehicle during wheel
by the jack. changing.
Stop the vehicle on a level firm Do not raise the vehicle with
ground, firmly set the parking someone in the vehicle.
brake and put the transmission When raising the vehicle, do
in P (automatic) or reverse not place any objects on top
(manual). Block the wheel diag- of or underneath the jack.
onally opposite to the one be- Raise the vehicle only high
ing changed if necessary. enough to remove and change
the tire.
248

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Required tools and spare

tire
1. Get the required tools and
spare tire.
Tool bag (in the right side box of
luggage compartment)
Jack (under the right front seat)
Spare tire (on the back door)
To prepare yourself for an emergency,
you should familiarize yourself with
the use of the jack, each of the tools
and their storage locations.
249

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
To remove the spare tire on the back

door:
1. Remove the spare tire cover.
Full spare tire coverUnhook the
latch handle which is on the bottom
of the cover. Pull up the cover by
grasping the clearances on both sides
between the cover and latch handle
base.
Clearances Half spare tire coverPry off the cen-
ter cover and loose the nut with wheel
nut wrench, then remove the spare
Full spare tire cover tire cover.
To remove the jack, move the seat
to the rear- most position and turn the
jack joint by hand.
To remove: Turn the joint in direction
1 until the jack is free.
To store: Turn the joint in direction 2
until the jack is firmly secured to pre-
vent it flying forward during a collision
or sudden braking.
Half spare tire cover
250

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Blocking the wheel Loosening wheel nuts
2. Turn the hold- down nuts counter- 2. Block the wheel diagonally op- 3. Loosen all the wheel nuts.
clockwise with the wheel nut posite the flat tire to keep the Always loosen the wheel nuts before
wrench and remove them. vehicle from rolling when it is raising the vehicle.
When storing the spare tire, put it in jacked up.
Turn the wheel nuts counterclockwise
place and secure it to prevent it from When blocking the wheel, place a to loosen. To get maximum leverage,
flying forward during a collision or wheel block in front of one of the front fit the wrench to the nut so that the
sudden braking. wheels or behind one of the rear handle is on the right side, as shown
wheels. above. Grab the wrench near the end
of the handle and pull up on the han-
dle. Be careful that the wrench does
not slip off the nut.
Do not remove the nuts yetjust un-
screw them about one- half turn.
251

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Positioning the jack Raising your vehicle
CAUTION
Never use oil or grease on the

bolts or nuts. The nuts may loose
and the wheels may fall off,
which could cause a serious ac-
cident.
4. Position the jack at the follow- 5. After making sure that no one
ing jack points. is in the vehicle, raise it high
1 Front suspension cross mem- enough so that the spare tire
ber rear mounting can be installed.
2 Rear suspension arm Remember you will need more ground
clearance when putting on the spare
Make sure the jack is positioned on tire than when removing the flat tire.
a level and solid place.
To raise the vehicle, insert the jack
handle into the jack (it is a loose fit)
and turn it clockwise. As the jack
touches the vehicle and begins to lift,
double- check that it is properly posi-
tioned.
252

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Changing wheels
CAUTION
Never get under the vehicle when

the vehicle is supported by the
jack alone.
6. Remove the wheel nuts and Before putting on wheels, remove any
change tires. corrosion on the mounting surfaces
Lift the flat tire straight off and put it with a wire brush or such. Installation
aside. of wheels without good metal- to- met-
al contact at the mounting surface can
Roll the spare wheel into position and cause wheel nuts to loosen and
align the holes in the wheel with the eventually cause a wheel to come off
bolts. Then lift up the wheel and get while driving.
at least the top bolt started through
its hole. Wiggle the tire and press it
back over the other bolts.
253

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Reinstalling wheel nuts Lowering your vehicle
CAUTION
Never use oil or grease on the

bolts or nuts. Doing so may lead
to overtightening the nuts and
damaging the bolts. The nuts
may loose and the wheels may
fall off, which could cause a seri-
ous accident. If there is oil or
grease on any bolt or nut, clean
it.
7. Reinstall all the wheel nuts fin- 8. Lower the vehicle completely
ger tight. and tighten the wheel nuts.
Reinstall the wheel nuts (tapered end Turn the jack handle counterclock-
inward) and tighten them as much as wise to lower the vehicle.
you can by hand. Press back on the Use only the wheel nut wrench and
tire back and see if you can tighten turn it clockwise to tighten the nuts.
them more. Do not use other tools or any addition-
al leverage other than your hands,
such as a hammer, pipe or your foot.
Make sure the wrench is securely en-
gaged over the nut.
Tighten each nut a little at a time in
the order shown. Repeat the process
until all the nuts are tight.
254

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Stowing flat tire

9. Install the flat tire and spare tire
CAUTION cover on the back door. Guides
When lowering the vehicle, CAUTION
make sure all portions of your
body and all other persons Make sure flat tire and spare tire
around will not be injured as cover are securely in place in
the vehicle is lowered to the their storage location to reduce
ground. the possibility of personal injury
Have the wheel nuts tightened during a collision or sudden
with torque wrench to 103 Nm braking.
(10.5 kgfm, 76 ftlbf), as soon
as possible after changing Install the full spare tire cover by the
wheels. Otherwise, the nuts following procedure:
may loosen and the wheels
may fall off, which could cause
a serious accident.
255

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
1. Insert the hooks under the guides

to the upper slots and lower the
cover.
2. Push both sides of the cover and 3. Lock the latch handle which is on
set the cover by hooking the 4 in- the bottom of the cover.
side protrusions. Check that the cover is securely in
Check that the 2 hooks and 4 protru- place.
sions are securely attached.
256

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
After changing wheels If your vehicle becomes stuck

10.Check the air pressure of the re- If your vehicle becomes stuck in snow,
placed tire. CAUTION mud, sand, etc., then you may attempt
to rock the vehicle free by moving it
Adjust the air pressure to the specifi- Before driving, make sure all the forward and backward.
cation designated on page 316 in tools and jack are securely in Two- wheel drive models with traction
Section 8. If the pressure is lower, place in their storage location to control systemTurn off the traction
drive slowly to the nearest service reduce the possibility of person- control system to become unstuck to
station and fill to the correct pressure. al injury during a collision or allow the tires to spin enough to re-
Do not forget to reinstall the tire infla- sudden braking. move the vehicle from the obstruction.
tion valve cap as dirt and moisture (For details, see Traction control sys-
could get into the valve core and tem (two- wheel drive models) on page
possibly cause air leakage. If the cap 126 in Section 1- 7.)
is missing, have a new one put on as
soon as possible. CAUTION
11. Restow all the tools and jack se- Do not attempt to rock the vehicle
curely. free by moving it forward and back-
As soon after changing wheels as ward if people or objects are any-
possible, tighten the wheel nuts to the where near the vehicle. During the
torque specified on page 316 in Sec- rocking operation the vehicle may
suddenly move forward or backward
tion 8 with a torque wrench. Have a
as it becomes unstuck, causing injury
technician repair the flat tire.
or damage to nearby people or ob-
Initial adjustment of the tire pres- jects.
sure warning system is necessary
after you have replaced your tires
or wheels. See Tire pressure
warning system on page 131 in
Section 1- 7.
257

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
If your vehicle needs to be

towed
NOTICE (a) Towing with wheel lift type truck (a) Towing with wheel lift type truck
If you rock your vehicle, observe the
following precautions to prevent dam- From front From front
age to the transmission and other
parts.
Do not depress the accelerator ped-
al while shifting the selector lever
or before the transmission is com-
pletely shifted to forward or reverse
gear. From rear From rear
Do not race the engine and avoid
spinning the wheels.
If your vehicle remains stuck after
rocking the vehicle several times,
consider other ways such as tow-
ing.
(b) Using flat bed truck (b) Using flat bed truck
Two- wheel drive models Four- wheel drive models
258

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
If towing is necessary, we recommend TOWING PRECAUTIONS:

NOTICE
you to have it done by your Toyota Use a safety chain system for all towing,
dealer or a commercial tow truck ser- and abide by the state/provincial and local Do not tow with the key removed or
vice. In consultation with them, have laws. The wheels and axle on the ground in the LOCK position when towing
your vehicle towed using either (a) or must be in good condition. If they are from the rear without a towing dolly.
(b). damaged, use a towing dolly. The steering lock mechanism is not
Only when you cannot receive a towing strong enough to hold the front
service from a Toyota dealer or com- wheels straight.
mercial tow truck service, tow your ve- (a) Towing with wheel lift type truck
hicle carefully in accordance with the From frontRelease the parking brake. Automatic transmission:
instructions given in Emergency tow-
NOTICE Use a towing dolly under the front
ing on page 260 in this Section.
wheels.
Proper equipment will help ensure that When lifting wheels, take care to en-
your vehicle is not damaged while being sure adequate ground clearance for NOTICE
towed. Commercial operators are generally towing at the opposite end of the
aware of the state/provincial and local Never tow a vehicle with an automatic
raised vehicle. Otherwise, the bumper
laws pertaining to towing. transmission from the rear with the
and/or underbody of the towed vehicle
front wheels on the ground, as this
Your vehicle can be damaged if it is will be damaged during towing.
may cause serious damage to the
towed incorrectly. Although most operators transmission.
know the correct procedure, it is possible From rear
to make a mistake. To avoid damage to
Manual transmission: (b) Using flat bed truck
your vehicle, make sure the following pre-
cautions are observed. If necessary, show We recommend using a towing dolly Four- wheel drive models
this page to the tow truck driver. under the front wheels. If you do not
(a) Towing with wheel lift type truck
use a towing dolly, place the ignition
key in the ACC position and put the Use a towing dolly under the wheels not
transmission in neutral. lifted by the truck.
(b) Using flat bed truck
259

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Emergency towing
If towing is necessary, we recommend
(c) Towing with sling type you to have it done by your Toyota
truck
dealer or a commercial tow truck ser-
vice.
If towing service is not available in an
emergency, your vehicle may be tempo-
rarily towed by a cable or chain se-
cured to the emergency towing eyelets
under the front of the vehicle or the
left emergency towing eyelet under the
rear of the vehicle. Use extreme caution
when towing vehicle.
Vehicles with an automatic transmis-
Front sion, use only the front towing eyelet
All models
when towing your vehicle.
(c) Towing with sling type truck
NOTICE
NOTICE
Only use specified towing eyelet;
Do not tow with sling type truck, ei- otherwise your vehicle may be dam-
ther from the front or rear. This may aged.
cause body damage.
Vehicles with an automatic trans-
mission, never tow a vehicle from
the rear with four wheels on the
ground. This may cause serious
damage to the transmission.
Rear
260

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Emergency towing eyelet

precautions
A driver must be in the vehicle to steer Before towing, release the parking brake Before emergency towing, check that
it and operate the brakes. and put the transmission in neutral (manu- the eyelet is not broken or damaged
Towing in this manner may be done only al) or N (automatic). The key must be and that the installation bolts are not
on hard- surfaced roads for a short dis- in ACC (engine off) or ON (engine run- loose.
tance and at low speeds. Also, the ning). Fasten the towing cable or chain se-
wheels, axles, drive train, steering and curely to the eyelet.
CAUTION
brakes must all be in good condition. Do not jerk the eyelet. Apply steady
and even force.
CAUTION If the engine is not running, the pow-
er assist for the brakes and steering To avoid damaging the eyelet, do not
Use extreme caution when towing ve- will not work so steering and braking pull from the side or at a vertical
will be much harder than usual. angle. Always pull straight ahead.
hicles. Avoid sudden starts or erratic
driving maneuvers which would place
excessive stress on the emergency
towing eyelet and towing cable or
chain. The eyelet and towing cable or
chain may break and cause serious
injury or damage.
NOTICE
Use only a cable or chain specifically
intended for use in towing vehicles.
Securely fasten the cable or chain to
the towing eyelet provided.
261

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Tips for towing a stuck If you cannot shift automatic

vehicle transmission selector lever
The following methods are effective to get
CAUTION out when your vehicle is struck in mud,
sand or other condition from which the
If the emergency towing eyelet is vehicle cannot be driven out under its own
used to get out when your vehicle power. Use extreme caution when towing
becomes struck in mud, sand or oth- vehicles. In addition, keep away from the
er condition from which the vehicle vehicles and towing cable or chain when
cannot be driven out under its own towing.
power, make sure to observe the pre-
cautions mentioned below. Otherwise,
Remove the soil and sand in the front
and the back of the tires.
excessive stress will be put on the
eyelet and the towing cable or chain Place a stone or wood under the tires.
may break, causing serious injury or
damage.
If the towing vehicle can hardly If you cannot shift the selector lever
move, do not forcibly continue the out of P position to other positions
towing. Contact your Toyota dealer even though the brake pedal is de-
or a commercial tow truck service pressed, use the shift lock override but-
for assistance. ton as follows:
Tow the vehicle as straight ahead 1. Turn the ignition key to LOCK
as possible. position. Make sure the parking
Keep away from the vehicle during brake is applied.
towing. 2. Pry up the cover with a flat- bladed
screwdriver or equivalent.
262

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
If you lose your wireless

If you lose your keys remote control transmitter
You can purchase a new key at your You can purchase a new wireless re-
Toyota dealer if you can give them the mote control transmitter at your Toyota
key number. If your vehicle is equipped dealer.
with the engine immobilizer system, the Have the registered identification numbers
dealer will also need your master key. of your transmitters deleted from your ve-
Vehicles with engine immobilizer system hicle by your Toyota dealer as soon as
Even if you lose only one key, contact possible to avoid the possibility of theft or
your Toyota dealer to make a new key. If an accident. Then, have the identification
you lose all your master keys, you cannot number of your new transmitter registered.
make new keys; the whole engine immobi- At the same time, you must bring all of
lizer system must be replaced. the remaining transmitters to have them
See the suggestion given in Keys on registered again as well.
page 10 in Section 1- 2. You can use the wireless remote control
If your keys are locked in the vehicle and system with the new transmitter. Contact
3. Insert your finger into the hole to
push down the shift lock override you cannot get a duplicate, many Toyota your Toyota dealer for detailed information.
button. You can shift out of P dealers can still open the door for you,
position only while pushing the but- using their special tools. If you must
ton. break a window to get in, we suggest
breaking the smallest side window be-
4. Shift into N position.
cause it is the least expensive to replace.
5. Insert the cover. Be extremely cautious to avoid cuts from
6. Start the engine. For your safety, the glass.
keep the brake pedal depressed.
Be sure to have the system checked by
your Toyota dealer as soon as possible.
263

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
264

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 5
CORROSION PREVENTION AND
APPEARANCE CARE
Corrosion prevention and appearance care
Protecting your Toyota from corrosion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 266
Washing and waxing your Toyota . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 267
Cleaning the interior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 269
265

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Protecting your Toyota from

corrosion
Toyota, through the diligent research, de- Wetness or dampness to certain parts High pressure water or steam is effec-
sign and use of the most advanced of your vehicle for an extended period tive for cleaning the vehicles underside
technology available, helps prevent corro- of time, may cause corrosion even and wheel housings. Pay particular
sion and provides you with the finest qual- though other parts of the vehicle may attention to these areas as it is difficult
ity vehicle construction. Now, it is up to be dry. to see all the mud and dirt. It will do
you. Proper care of your Toyota can help High ambient temperatures can cause more harm than good to simply wet the
ensure long- term corrosion prevention. corrosion to those components of the mud and debris without removing. The
The most common causes of corrosion vehicle which do not dry quickly due to lower edge of doors, rocker panels and
to your vehicle are: lack of proper ventilation. frame members have drain holes which
should not be allowed to clog with dirt
The accumulation of road salt, dirt and The above signifies the necessity to keep as trapped water in these areas can
moisture in hard- to- reach areas under your vehicle, particularly the underside, as cause corrosion.
the vehicle. clean as possible and to repair any dam-
Wash the underside of the vehicle thor-
Chipping of paint, or undercoating age to paint or protective coatings as
oughly when winter is over.
caused by minor accidents or by soon as possible.
stones and gravel. To help prevent corrosion on your See Washing and waxing your Toyota on
Toyota, follow these guidelines: page 267 for more tips.
Care is especially important if you live
in particular areas or operate your ve- Wash your vehicle frequently. It is, of Check the condition of your vehicles
hicle under certain environmental condi- course, necessary to keep your vehicle paint and trim. If you find any chips or
tions: clean by regular washing, but to prevent scratches in the paint, touch them up im-
mediately to prevent corrosion from start-
Road salt or dust control chemicals will corrosion, the following points should be
ing. If the chips or scratches have gone
accelerate corrosion, as will the pres- observed:
through the bare metal, have a qualified
ence of salt in the air near the sea- If you drive on salted roads in the body shop make the repair.
coast or in areas of industrial pollution. winter or if you live near the ocean,
High humidity accelerates corrosion es- you should hose off the undercarriage
pecially when temperatures range just at least once a month to minimize cor-
above the freezing point. rosion.
266

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Washing and waxing your

Toyota
Check the interior of your vehicle. Wa- Washing your Toyota 1. Rinse off loose dirt with a hose. Re-
ter and dirt can accumulate under the Keep your vehicle clean by regular move any mud or road salt from the
floor mats and could cause corrosion. Oc- washing. underside of the vehicle or in the
casionally check under the mats to make wheel wells.
sure the area is dry. Be particularly care- The following cases may cause weakness
to the paint or corrosion to the body and 2. Wash with a mild car- wash soap,
ful when transporting chemicals, cleans- mixed according to the manufacturers
ers, fertilizers, salt, etc; these should be parts. Wash your vehicle as soon as pos-
sible. instructions. Use a soft cotton mitt and
transported in proper containers. If a spill keep it wet by dipping it frequently into
or leak should occur, immediately clean When driving in a coastal area the wash water. Do not rub hardlet
and dry the area. When driving on a road sprinkled with the soap and water remove the dirt.
Use mud shields on your wheels. If you antifreeze Plastic wheel ornaments: The plastic
drive on salted or gravel roads, mud When exposed to coal tar, tree sap, wheel ornaments are damaged easily by
shields help protect your vehicle. Full- size bird droppings and carcass of an insect organic substances. If any organic sub-
shields, which come as near to the ground stances splashes an ornament, be sure to
as possible, are the best. We recommend When driving in areas where there is
a lot of smoke, soot, dust, iron dust or wash it off with water and check if the
that the fittings and the area where the ornament is damaged.
shields are installed be treated to resist chemical substances
corrosion. Your Toyota dealer will be When the vehicle becomes remarkably CAUTION
happy to assist in supplying and installing dirty with dust and mud
the shields if they are recommended for Hand- washing your Toyota Do not attach the heavily damaged
your area.
Work in the shade and wait until the plastic wheel ornament. It may fly off
Keep your vehicle in a well ventilated vehicle body is not hot to the touch. the wheel and cause accidents while
garage or a roofed place. Do not park the vehicle is moving.
your vehicle in a damp, poorly venti-
CAUTION
lated garage. If you wash your vehicle in
the garage, or if you drive it covered with
When cleaning under floor or chassis,
water or snow, your garage may be so
be careful not to injure your hands.
damp as to cause corrosion. Even if your
garage is heated, a wet vehicle can cor-
rode if the ventilation is poor.
267

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Aluminum wheels: Use only a mild soap Automatic car wash Waxing your Toyota
or neutral detergent. Your vehicle may be washed in an auto- Polishing and waxing is recommended
Plastic bumpers: Wash carefully. Do not matic car wash, but remember that the to maintain the original beauty of your
scrub with abrasive cleaners. The bumper paint can be scratched by some types of Toyotas finish.
faces are soft. brushes, unfiltered washing water, or the Apply wax once a month or if the vehicle
Road tar: Remove with turpentine or washing process itself. Scratching reduces surface does not repel water well.
cleaners that are marked safe for painted paint durability and gloss, especially on
darker colors. The manager of the car 1. Always wash and dry the vehicle be-
surfaces. fore you begin waxing, even if you are
wash should be able to advise you wheth-
er the process is safe for the paint on using a combined cleaner and wax.
NOTICE
your vehicle. 2. Use a good quality polish and wax. If
Do not use organic substances (gaso- the finish has become extremely weath-
line, kerosene, benzine or strong sol- NOTICE ered, use a car- cleaning polish, fol-
vents), which may be toxic or cause lowed by a separate wax. Carefully fol-
damage. To prevent damage to the antenna,
low the manufacturers instructions and
make sure it is removed before driv-
precautions. Be sure to polish and wax
ing your Toyota through an automatic
3. Rinse thoroughlydried soap can the chrome trim as well as the paint.
car wash.
cause streaking. In hot weather you 3. Wax the vehicle again when water
may need to rinse each section right does not bead but remains on the sur-
after you wash it. face in large patches.
4. To prevent water spots, dry the vehicle
using a clean soft cotton towel. Do not NOTICE
rub or press hardyou might scratch Always remove the plastic bumpers if
the paint. your vehicle is re- painted and placed
in a high heat paint waxing booth.
High temperatures could damage the
bumpers.
268

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Cleaning the interior

First vacuum over the upholstery to re- Do not apply waterthe best results are
CAUTION move loose dirt. Then, using a sponge or obtained by keeping the carpet as dry as
soft cloth, apply the soap solution to the possible. Read the shampoo instructions
Vehicles with side airbags and cur- vinyl. After allowing it to soak in for a few and follow them closely.
tain shield airbags: minutes to loosen the dirt, remove the dirt Seat belts
Be careful not to splash water or and wipe off the soap with a clean damp
spill liquid on the floor. This may cloth. If all the dirt do not come off, re- The seat belts may be cleaned with
peat the procedure. Commercial foaming- mild soap and water or with lukewarm
prevent the side airbag and curtain
type vinyl cleaners are also available water.
shield airbag from activating cor-
rectly, resulting in serious injury. which work well. Follow the manufacturers Use a cloth or sponge. As you are clean-
instructions. ing, check the belts for excessive wear,
Do not wash the vehicle floor with
fraying, or cuts.
water, or allow water to get onto
NOTICE
the floor when cleaning the vehicle
NOTICE
interior or exterior. Water may get Do not use solvent, thinner, gasoline
into audio components or other or window cleaner on the interior. Do not use dye or bleach on the
electrical components above or un- beltsit may weaken them.
der the floor carpet (or mat) and Carpets Do not use the belts until they be-
cause a malfunction; and it may
Use a good foam- type shampoo to come dry.
cause body corrosion.
clean the carpets.
Begin by vacuuming thoroughly to remove Windows
Vinyl interior
as much dirt as possible. Several types of The windows may be cleaned with any
The vinyl upholstery may be easily foam cleaners are available; some are in household window cleaner.
cleaned with a mild soap or detergent aerosol cans and others are powders or
and water. liquids which you mix with water to pro- NOTICE
duce a foam. To shampoo the carpets,
use a sponge or brush to apply the foam.
When cleaning the inside of the rear
Rub in overlapping circles.
window, be careful not to scratch or
damage the heater wires or connec-
tors.
269

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Air conditioning control panel, audio Leather Interior

panel, instrument panel, console panel, Mildew may develop on soiled leath-
The leather upholstery may be cleaned er upholstery. Be especially careful
and switches with neutral detergent for wool. to avoid oil spots. Try to keep your
Use a soft damp cloth for cleaning. Remove dirt using a soft cloth dampened upholstery always clean.
Soak a clean soft cloth in water or luke- with 5% solution of neutral detergent for Long exposure to direct sunlight
warm water then lightly wipe off dirt. wool. Then thoroughly wipe off all traces may cause the leather surface to
of detergent with a clean damp cloth. harden and shrink. Keep your ve-
NOTICE After cleaning or whenever any part of the hicle in a shaded area, especially in
Do not use organic substances (sol- leather gets wet, dry with a soft clean the summer.
vents, kerosene, alcohol, gasoline, cloth. Allow the leather to dry in a venti- The interior of your vehicle is apt
etc.) or alkaline or acidic solutions. lated shaded area. to heat up on hot summer days, so
These chemicals can cause discol- avoid placing on the upholstery
oring, staining or peeling of the NOTICE
items made of vinyl or plastic or
surface. If a stain should fail to come out containing wax as these tend to
If you use cleaners or polishing with a neutral detergent, apply a stick to leather when warm.
agents, make sure their ingredients cleaner that does not contain an Improper cleaning of the leather up-
do not include the substances men- organic solvent. holstery could result in discolor-
tioned above. Never use organic substances such ation or staining.
If you use a liquid car freshener, do as benzine, alcohol or gasoline, or
not apply the liquid onto the ve- alkaline or acid solutions for clean- If you have any questions about the
hicles interior surfaces. It may con- ing the leather as these could cleaning of your Toyota, your local
tain the ingredients mentioned cause discoloring. Toyota dealer will be pleased to answer
above. Immediately clean any spill Use of a nylon brush or synthetic them.
using the method mentioned above. fiber cloth, etc. may scratch the
fine grained surface of the leather.
270

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 6
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND CARE
Vehicle maintenance and care
Maintenance requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 272
General maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 273
Does your vehicle need repairing? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275
Emissions Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) programs . . . . . . . . . 276
For scheduled maintenance information, please refer to the Sched-

uled Maintenance Guide or Owners Manual Supplement.
271

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Maintenance requirements
Your Toyota vehicle has been designed for Scheduled maintenance Where to go for service?
fewer maintenance requirements with long- The scheduled maintenance items listed in Toyota technicians are well- trained spe-
er service intervals to save both your time the Scheduled Maintenance Guide or cialists and are kept up to date with the
and money. However, each regular mainte- Owners Manual Supplement are those latest service information through technical
nance, as well as day- to- day care, is required to be serviced at regular inter- bulletins, service tips, and in- dealership
more important than ever before to ensure vals. training programs. They learn to work on
smooth, trouble- free, safe, and economical Toyotas before they work on your vehicle,
drivings. For details of your maintenance schedule,
read the Scheduled Maintenance Guide rather than while they are working on it.
It is the owners responsibility to make or Owners Manual Supplement. You can be confident that your Toyota
sure the specified maintenance, including dealers service department performs the
general maintenance service, is performed. It is recommended that any replacement
parts used for maintenance or for the best job to meet the maintenance require-
Note that both the new vehicle and emis- ments on your vehiclereliably and eco-
sion control system warranties specify that repair of the emission control system
be Toyota supplied. nomically.
proper maintenance and care must be per-
formed. See Owners Warranty Informa- The owner may elect to use non- Toyota Your copy of the repair order is proof that
tion Booklet or Owners Manual Supple- supplied parts for replacement pur- all required maintenance has been per-
ment for complete warranty information. poses without invalidating the emission formed for warranty coverage. If any prob-
control system warranty. However, use lems should arise with your vehicle while
General maintenance under warranty, your Toyota dealer will
of replacement parts which are not of
General maintenance items are those day- equivalent quality may impair the effec- promptly take care of it. Again, be sure
to- day care practices that are important to tiveness of the emission control sys- to keep a copy of the repair order for any
your vehicle for proper operation. It is the tems. service performed on your Toyota.
owners responsibility to ensure that the What about do- it- yourself maintenance?
general maintenance items are performed You may also elect to have mainte-
regularly. nance, replacement, or repair of the Many of the maintenance items are easy
emission control devices and system to do yourself if you have a little mechani-
These checks or inspections can be done performed by any automotive repair es- cal ability and a few basic automotive
either by yourself or a qualified technician, tablishment or individual without invali- tools. Simple instructions for how to per-
or if you prefer, your Toyota dealer will be dating this warranty. See Owners War- form them are presented on page 277 in
pleased to do them at a nominal cost. ranty Information Booklet or Owners Section 7.
Manual Supplement for complete war-
ranty information.
272

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
General maintenance
If you are a skilled do- it- yourself mechan- Listed below are the general maintenance Engine coolant level
ic, the Toyota service manuals are recom- items that should be performed as fre- Make sure the coolant level is between
mended. Please be aware that do- it- your- quently as specified. In addition to check- the FULL and LOW lines on the see-
self maintenance can affect your warranty ing the items listed, if you notice any through reservoir when the engine is cold.
coverage. See Owners Warranty Informa- unusual noise, smell or vibration, you See page 288 in Section 7- 2 for addition-
tion Booklet or Owners Manual Supple- should investigate the cause or take your al information.
ment for the details. vehicle to your Toyota dealer or a quali-
fied service shop immediately. It is recom- Radiator, condenser and hoses
mended that any problem you notice be Check that the front of the radiator and
brought to the attention of your dealer or condenser are clean and not blocked with
the qualified service shop for their advice. leaves, dirt, or insects. See page 289 in
Section 7- 2 for additional information.
CAUTION Battery electrolyte level
Your Toyota has a maintenance free bat-
Make these checks only with ade-
tery. You do not have to add distilled wa-
quate ventilation if you run the en-
ter. For longer life of the battery, however,
gine.
see page 300 for additional information.
Brake fluid level
IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT
Make sure the brake fluid level is correct.
Items listed below should be checked
See page 290 in Section 7- 2 for addition-
from time to time, e.g. each time when
al information.
refueling.
Engine oil level
Washer fluid
Check the level on the dipstick with the
Make sure there is sufficient fluid in the
engine turned off and the vehicle parked
tank. See page 303 in Section 7- 3 for
on a level spot. See page 286 in Section
additional information.
7- 2 for additional information.
273

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Power steering fluid level Seats Parking brake

Check the level through the reservoir. The Check that all seat controls such as seat Check that the lever has the proper travel
level should be in the HOT or COLD adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. operate and that, on a safe incline, your vehicle
range depending on the fluid temperature. smoothly and that all latches lock securely is held securely with only the parking
See page 290 in Section 7- 2 for addition- in any position. For folding- up rear seat- brake applied.
al information. backs, check that the latches lock secure- Automatic transmission Park mecha-
Exhaust system ly. nism
If you notice any change in the sound of Seat belts Check the lock release button of the se-
the exhaust or smell exhaust fumes, have Check that the seat belt system such as lector lever for proper and smooth opera-
the cause located and corrected immedi- buckles, retractors and anchors operate tion. On a safe incline, check that your
ately. (See Engine exhaust cautions on properly and smoothly. Make sure the belt vehicle is held securely with the selector
page 203 in Section 2.) webbing is not cut, frayed, worn or dam- lever in P position and all brakes re-
INSIDE THE VEHICLE aged. leased.
Items listed below should be checked Accelerator pedal OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE
regularly, e.g. while performing periodic Check the pedal for smooth operation and Items listed below should be performed
services, cleaning the vehicle, etc. uneven pedal effort or catching. from time to time, unless otherwise
Lights Clutch pedal specified.
Make sure the headlights, stop lights, tail Check the pedal for smooth operation. Fluid leaks
lights, turn signal lights, and other lights Brake pedal Check underneath for leaking fuel, oil, wa-
are all working. ter or other fluid after the vehicle has
Check the pedal for smooth operation and been parked for a while. If you smell fuel
Service reminder indicators and warning that the pedal has the proper clearance.
buzzers fumes or notice any leak, have the cause
Check the brake booster function. found and corrected immediately.
Check that all service reminder indicators Brakes
and warning buzzers function properly. Doors and engine hood
In a safe place, check that the brakes do Check that all doors and back door oper-
Steering wheel not pull to one side when applied. ate smoothly and all latches lock securely.
Check that it has the specified free play. Make sure the engine hood secondary
Be alert for changes in steering condition, latch secures the hood from opening when
such as hard steering or strange noise. the primary latch is released.
274

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Does your vehicle need

repairing?
Tire inflation pressure Be on the alert for changes in perfor- If you notice any of these clues, take your
mance, sounds, and visual tip- offs that vehicle to your Toyota dealer as soon as
Check the pressure with a gauge ev- indicate service is needed. Some impor- possible. It probably needs adjustment or
ery two weeks, or at least once a tant clues are as follows: repair.
month. See page 291 in Section 7- 2
for additional information. Engine missing, stumbling, or pinging
CAUTION
Appreciable loss of power
Tire surface and wheel nuts
Strange engine noises Do not continue driving with the ve-
Check the tires carefully for cuts,
damage or excessive wear. See page A leak under the vehicle (However, wa- hicle unchecked. It could result in se-
ter dripping from the air conditioning rious vehicle damage and possibly
293 in Section 7- 2 for additional in- personal injury.
after use is normal.)
formation. When checking the tires,
make sure no nuts are missing, and Change in exhaust sound (This may
check the nuts for looseness. Tighten indicate a dangerous carbon monoxide
them if necessary. leak. Drive with the windows open and
have the exhaust system checked im-
Tire rotation mediately.)
Rotate the tires according to the Flat- looking tire; excessive tire squeal
maintenance schedule. (For sched- when cornering; uneven tire wear
uled maintenance information, please Vehicle pulls to one side when driving
refer to the Scheduled Maintenance straight on a level road
Guide or Owners Manual Supple- Strange noises related to suspension
ment.) See page 295 in Section 7- 2 movement
for additional information.
Loss of brake effectiveness; spongy
feeling brake or clutch pedal; pedal al-
most touches floor; vehicle pulls to one
side when braking
Engine coolant temperature continually
higher than normal
275

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Emissions Inspection and

Maintenance (I/M) programs
Some states have vehicle emission in- The malfunction indicator lamp will go off
spection programs which include OBD after taking several driving trips, but the
(On- Board Diagnostics) checks. error code in the OBD system will not be
The OBD system monitors the operation cleared unless about 40 trips or more are
of the emission control system. When the taken.
OBD system determines that a problem If your vehicle does not pass the I/M test
exists somewhere in the emission control even the malfunction indicator lamp does
system, the malfunction indicator lamp not come on, contact your Toyota dealer
comes on. In this case, your vehicle may to prepare the vehicle for re- testing.
not pass the I/M test and need to be
repaired. Contact your Toyota dealer to
service the vehicle.
Even if the malfunction indicator lamp
does not come on, your vehicle may not
pass the I/M test as readiness codes
have not been set in the OBD system.
Readiness codes are automatically set
during ordinary driving. However, when the
battery is disconnected or run down, the
codes are erased. Also, depending on
your driving habits, the codes may not be
completely set.
Also, if the malfunction indicator lamp had
come on recently due to temporary mal-
function such as a loose fuel tank cap,
your vehicle may not pass the I/M test.
276

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 7- 1
DO- IT- YOURSELF MAINTENANCE
Introduction
Engine compartment overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 278
Fuse locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 279
Do- it- yourself service precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 279
Parts and tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281
Positioning the jack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 282
277

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Engine compartment overview

1. Battery
2. Power steering fluid reservoir
3. Engine oil filler cap
4. Brake fluid reservoir
5. Fuse block
6. Engine coolant reservoir
7. Radiator
8. Condenser
9. Electric cooling fans
10. Engine oil level dipstick
11. Windshield and rear window washer
fluid tank
278

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Do- it- yourself service

Fuse locations precautions
If you perform maintenance by yourself,
be sure to follow the correct procedure
given in this Section.
Spare fuses You should be aware that improper or in-
complete servicing may result in operating
problems.
Performing do- it- yourself maintenance
during the warranty period may affect your
warranty coverage. Read the separate
Toyota Warranty statement for details and
suggestions.
This Section gives instructions only for
those items that are relatively easy for an
owner to perform. As explained in Section
6, there are still a number of items that
must be done by a qualified technician
with special tools.
For information on tools and parts for do-
it- yourself maintenance, see Parts and
tools on page 281 in this Section.
Utmost care should be taken when work-
ing on your vehicle to prevent accidental
injury. Here are a few precautions that
you should be especially careful to ob-
serve:
279

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
CAUTION Be sure that the ignition is off if Be extremely cautious when work-
you work near the electric cooling ing on the battery. It contains poi-
When the engine is running, keep fans or radiator grille. With the sonous and corrosive sulfuric acid.
hands, clothing, and tools away ignition on, the electric cooling fans
from the moving fan and engine will automatically start to run if the
drive belts. (Removing rings, engine coolant temperature is high NOTICE
watches, and ties is advisable.) and/or the air conditioning is on.
Remember that battery and ignition
Right after driving, the engine Use eye protection whenever you cable carry high currents or volt-
compartmentthe engine, radiator, work on or under your vehicle ages. Be careful of accidentally
exhaust manifold, power steering where you may be exposed to flying causing a short circuit.
fluid reservoir and spark plug or falling material, fluid spray, etc.
Add only Toyota Super Long Life
boots, etc.will be hot. So be care- Used engine oil contains potentially Coolant or similar high quality eth-
ful not to touch them. Oil, fluids harmful contaminants which may ylene glycol based non- silicate,
and spark plugs may also be hot. cause skin disorders such as in- non- amine, non- nitrite, and non- bo-
If the engine is hot, do not remove flammation or skin cancer, so care rate coolant with long- life hybrid
the radiator cap or loosen the drain should be taken to avoid prolonged organic acid technology to fill the
plugs to prevent burning yourself. and repeated contact with it. To re- radiator. Toyota Super Long Life
Do not leave anything that may move used engine oil from your Coolant is a mixture of 50% cool-
burn easily, such as paper or rags, skin, wash thoroughly with soap ant and 50% deionized water (for
in the engine compartment. and water. the U.S.A.) or 55% coolant and 45%
Do not smoke, cause sparks or al- Do not leave used oil within the deionized water (for Canada).
low open flames around fuel or the reach of children. If you spill some of the coolant, be
battery. Their fumes are flammable. Dispose of used oil and filter only sure to wash it off with water to
prevent it from damaging the parts
Do not get under your vehicle with in a safe and acceptable manner.
Do not dispose of used oil and fil- or paint.
just the body jack supporting it. Al-
ways use automotive jack stands or ter in household trash, in sewers or
other solid supports. onto the ground. Call your dealer or
a service station for information
concerning recycling or disposal.
280

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Parts and tools

Here is a list of parts and tools you will Tools:
Do not allow dirt or anything else
to fall through the spark plug holes.
need to perform do- it- yourself mainte- Funnel (only for adding coolant)
nance. Remember all Toyota parts are de-
Use only spark plugs of the speci- signed in metric sizes, so your tools must CHECKING BRAKE FLUID
fied type. Using other types will be metric. Parts (if level is low):
cause engine damage, loss of per- CHECKING THE ENGINE OIL LEVEL SAE J1703 or FMVSS No.116 DOT 3
formance or radio noise. brake fluid
Parts (if level is low):
Do not reuse iridium- tipped spark
plugs by cleaning or regapping. Toyota Genuine Motor Oil or equiva- Tools:
lent Rag or paper towel
Do not overfill automatic transmis-
sion fluid, or the transmission See page 286 in Section 7- 2 for de- Funnel (only for adding fluid)
could be damaged. tails about engine oil selection. CHECKING POWER STEERING FLUID
Do not drive with the air cleaner Tools: Parts (if level is low):
filter removed, or excessive engine Rag or paper towel Automatic transmission fluid DEXRONII
wear could result. Also backfiring Funnel (only for adding oil) or III
could cause a fire in the engine
compartment. CHECKING THE ENGINE COOLANT Tools:
Be careful not to scratch the glass
LEVEL Rag or paper towel
surface with the wiper frame. Parts (if level is low): Funnel (only for adding fluid)
When closing the engine hood, Toyota Super Long Life Coolant or CHECKING BATTERY CONDITION
check to see that you have not for- similar high quality ethylene glycol
based non- silicate, non- amine, non- ni- Tools:
gotten any tools, rags, etc.
trite, and non- borate coolant with long- Warm water
life hybrid organic acid technology. Baking soda
Toyota Super Long Life Coolant is a Grease
mixture of 50% coolant and 50% deion-
ized water (for the U.S.A.) or 55% Conventional wrench (for terminal
coolant and 45% deionized water (for clamp bolts)
Canada).
281

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Positioning the jack

CHECKING AND REPLACING FUSES
Parts (if replacement is necessary):
Fuse with same amperage rating as
original
ADDING WASHER FLUID
Parts:
Water
Washer fluid containing antifreeze
(for winter use)
Tools:
Funnel
Front Rear (four- wheel drive models)
REPLACING LIGHT BULBS
Parts:
Bulb with same number and wattage
rating as original (See charts in
Replacing light bulbs on page 304 in
Section 7- 3.)
Tools:
Screwdriver
Rear (two- wheel drive models)
282

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
When jacking up your vehicle with the

jack, position the jack correctly as Never get under the vehicle when
shown in the illustrations. the vehicle is supported by the jack
alone; use vehicle support stands.
CAUTION Do not raise the vehicle with some-
one in the vehicle.
When jacking, be sure to observe the When raising the vehicle, do not
following to reduce the possibility of place any objects on top of or un-
personal injury: derneath the jack.
Follow jacking instructions.
Do not put any part of your body
under the vehicle supported by the
NOTICE
jack. Personal injury may occur. Make sure to place the jack correctly,
Do not start or run the engine while or your vehicle may be damaged.
your vehicle is supported by the
jack.
Stop the vehicle on a level firm
ground, firmly set the parking brake
and put the transmission in P
(automatic) or reverse (manual).
Block the wheels on the opposite
side of the jack up point if neces-
sary.
Make sure to set the jack properly
in the jack point. Raising the ve-
hicle with jack improperly posi-
tioned will damage the vehicle or
may allow the vehicle to fall off the
jack and cause personal injury.
283

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
284

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 7- 2
Engine and Chassis
Checking the engine oil level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 286
Checking the engine coolant level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 288
Checking the radiator and condenser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 289
Checking brake fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 290
Checking power steering fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 290
Checking tire inflation pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 291
Checking and replacing tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 293
Rotating tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 295
Installing snow tires and chains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 296
Replacing wheels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 298
Aluminum wheel precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 298
285

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Checking the engine oil level
CAUTION NOTICE
Low level Full level
Be careful not to spill engine oil on
Be careful not to touch the hot ex-
the vehicle components.
haust manifold.
Avoid overfilling, or the engine
could be damaged.
NOTICE Check the oil level on the dipstick
Be careful not to drop engine oil on once again after adding the oil.
the vehicle components.
Add oil O.K. Too full
If the oil level is below or only slightly

above the low level, add engine oil of
the same type as already in the engine.
With the engine at operating tempera-
ture and turned off, check the oil level Remove the oil filler cap and add engine
on the dipstick. oil in small quantities at a time, checking
the dipstick. We recommend that you use
1. To get a correct reading, the vehicle
a funnel when adding oil.
should be on level ground. After turning
off the engine, wait a few minutes for The approximate quantity of oil needed to
the oil to drain back into the bottom of raise the level between low and full on the
the engine. dipstick is indicated below for reference.
2. Pull the dipstick out, hold a rag under When the level reaches within the correct
the end and wipe it clean. range, install the filler cap hand- tight.
3. Reinsert the dipstickpush it in as far Oil quantity, L (qt., Imp. qt.):
as it will go, or the reading will not be 1.0 (1.1, 0.9)
correct.
4. Pull the dipstick out and look at the oil
level while holding a rag under the
end.
286

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
ENGINE OIL SELECTION SAE 5W- 30 is the best choice for good
Toyota Genuine Motor Oil is used in fuel economy and good starting in cold
your Toyota vehicle. Use Toyota approved weather.
Toyota Genuine Motor Oil or equivalent If SAE 5W- 30 is not available, SAE
to satisfy the following grade and 10W- 30 may be used. However, it
viscosity. should be replaced with SAE 5W- 30 at
Oil grade: the next oil change.
API grade SL Energy- Conserving or
ILSAC multigrade engine oil
Recommended viscosity:
SAE 5W- 30
API service symbol
Outside temperature
ILSAC certification mark
287

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Checking the engine coolant

level
Oil identification marks Look at the see- through coolant reser-
Either or both API registered marks are voir when the engine is cold. The cool-
added to some oil containers to help ant level is satisfactory if it is between
you select the oil you should use. the FULL and LOW lines on the
reservoir. If the level is low, add the
The API Service Symbol is located any- coolant. (For the coolant type, see
where on the outside of the container. Coolant type selection described be-
The top portion of the label shows the oil low.)
quality by API (American Petroleum Insti- The coolant level in the reservoir will vary
tute) designations such as SL. The center with engine temperature. However, if the
portion of the label shows the SAE viscos- level is on or below the LOW line, add
ity grade such as SAE 5W- 30. Energy- coolant. Bring the level up to the FULL
Conserving shown in the lower portion, line.
indicates that the oil has fuel- saving ca-
pabilities. If the coolant level drops within a short
To ensure excellent lubrication perfor-
mance for your engine, Toyota Genuine time after replenishing, there may be a
The ILSAC (International Lubricant Stan- leak in the system. Visually check the
dardization and Approval Committee) Certi- Motor Oil is available, which has been
radiator, hoses, radiator cap and drain
fication Mark is displayed on the front of specifically tested and approved for all
Toyota engines. cock and water pump.
the container.
If you can find no leak, have your Toyota
Please contact your Toyota dealer for fur-
ther details about Toyota Genuine Motor dealer test the cap pressure and check
for leaks in the cooling system.
Oil.
CAUTION
To prevent burning yourself, do not

remove the radiator cap when the en-
gine is hot.
288

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Checking the radiator and

condenser
Coolant type selection If any of the above parts are extremely
Use of improper coolants may damage dirty or you are not sure of their condi-
your engine cooling system. tion, take your vehicle to a Toyota dealer.
Only use Toyota Super Long Life Coolant

CAUTION
or similar high quality ethylene glycol
based non- silicate, non- amine, non- nitrite, To prevent burning yourself, be care-
and non- borate coolant with long- life
ful not to touch the radiator or con-
hybrid organic acid technology. (Coolant
denser when the engine is hot.
with long- life hybrid organic acid
technology is a combination of low
phosphates and organic acids.) NOTICE
For the U.S.A.Toyota Super Long Life
Coolant is a mixture of 50% coolant and To prevent damage to the radiator
50% deionized water. This coolant pro- Toyota recommends Toyota Super Long
and condenser, do not perform the
vides protection down to about -35C Life Coolant, which has been tested to
work by yourself.
(- 31F). ensure that it will not cause corrosion nor
For CanadaToyota Super Long Life result in malfunction of your engine
Coolant is a mixture of 55% coolant and coolant system with proper usage. Toyota
45% deionized water. This coolant pro- Super Long Life Coolant is formulated
vides protection down to about -42C with long- life hybrid organic acid
(- 44F). technology and has been specifically
designed to avoid engine cooling system
NOTICE malfunction on Toyota vehicles.
Please contact your Toyota dealer for
Do not use plain water alone.
further details.
289

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Checking brake fluid Checking power steering fluid

Remove and replace the reservoir cap by
hand. Fill the brake fluid to the dotted Open
line. This brings the fluid to the correct
level when you put the cap back on. If hot O.K.
Close
Use only newly opened brake fluid. Once
opened, brake fluid absorbs moisture from If cold O.K.
the air, and excess moisture can cause a
dangerous loss of braking.
If hot add
CAUTION
Take care when filling the reservoir If cold add

because brake fluid can harm your
hands or eyes. If fluid gets on your
To check the fluid level, simply look at hands or in your eyes, flush the af- Check the fluid level through the reser-
the see- through reservoir. The level fected area with clean water immedi- voir. If necessary, add automatic trans-
should be between the MAX and ately. If you still feel uncomfortable mission fluid DEXRONII or III.
MIN lines on the reservoir. with your hands or eyes, go to the If the vehicle has been driven around 80
It is normal for the brake fluid level to go doctor. km/h (50 mph) for 20 minutes (a little
down slightly as the brake pads wear. So more in frigid temperatures), the fluid is
be sure to keep the reservoir filled. hot (80C or 175F). You may also check
If the reservoir needs frequent refilling, it
NOTICE the level when the fluid is cold (about
may indicate a serious mechanical prob- room temperature, 10C30C or
If you spill some of the fluid, be sure 50F85F) if the engine has not been
lem. to wipe it off to prevent it from dam- run for about five hours.
If the level is low, add SAE J1703 or aging the parts or paintwork.
FMVSS No.116 DOT 3 brake fluid to the
brake reservoir.
290

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Checking tire inflation

pressure
Clean all dirt from the outside of the res- Keep your tire inflation pressures
ervoir tank and look at the fluid level. If at the proper level.
the fluid is cold, the level should be in the
COLD range. Similarly, if it is hot, the
The recommended cold tire inflation
fluid level should be in the HOT range. pressures, tire sizes and the com-
If the level is at the low side of either bined weight of occupants and cargo
range, add automatic transmission fluid (vehicle capacity weight) are de-
DEXRONII or III to bring the level within scribed on page 312 and 316. They
the range. are also on the tire and loading infor-
To remove the reservoir cap, turn it coun- mation label.
terclockwise and lift up. To reinstall it, You should check the tire inflation
turn it clockwise. After replacing the reser- pressure every two weeks, or at least
voir cap, visually check the steering box once a month. And do not forget the
case, vane pump and hose connections spare!
for leaks or damage.
CAUTION
The reservoir tank may be hot so be

careful not to burn yourself.
NOTICE
Avoid overfilling, or the power steer-
ing could be damaged.
291

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
The following instructions for Tire pressure gauge 5. After completing the tire inflation
checking tire inflation pressure pressure measurement and ad-
should be observed: justment, apply soapy water to the
The pressure should be valve and check for leakage.
checked only when the tires are 6. Install the tire valve cap.
cold. If your vehicle has been If a gauge and air pump are not avail-
parked for at least 3 hours and has able, have your vehicle checked by
not been driven for more than 1.5 your Toyota dealer.
km or 1 mile since, you will get
an accurate cold tire inflation pres- CAUTION
sure reading.
Always use a tire pressure Be sure to reinstall the tire valve
gauge. The appearance of a tire caps. Without the valve caps, dirt
INSPECTION AND ADJUSTMENT
can be misleading. Besides, tire or moisture could get into the
PROCEDURE
inflation pressures that are even valve core and cause air leakage.
just a few pounds off can degrade 1. Remove the tire valve cap. If the caps have been lost, have
ride and handling. 2. Press the tip of the tire pressure new ones put on as soon as pos-
Do not bleed or reduce tire gauge to the tire valve. sible.
inflation pressure after driving. 3. Read the pressure using the grad-
It is normal for the tire inflation uations of the gauge. Incorrect tire inflation pressure may
pressure to be higher after driving. 4. In case the tire inflation pressure waste fuel, reduce the comfort of driv-
Never exceed the vehicle capac- is not within the prescribed range, ing, reduce tire life and make your ve-
ity weight. Passenger and lug- insert the compressed air from the hicle less safe to drive.
gage weight should be located so valve. In case of applying too If a tire frequently needs refilling,
that the vehicle is balanced. much air, press the center of the have it checked by your Toyota deal-
valve and release the air to adjust. er.
292

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Checking and replacing tires
CAUTION High tire pressure (overinfla- Tread wear indicator

tion)
Keep your tires properly inflated. Poor handling
Otherwise, the following condi-
tions may occur and cause an ac- Excessive wear
cident resulting in death or seri- Uneven wear
ous injuries. A greater possibility of tire
Low tire pressure (underinfla- damage from road hazards
tion)
Excessive wear
Uneven wear
Poor handling CHECKING YOUR TIRES
Possibility of blowouts from an Check the tires tread for tread
overheated tire wear indicators. If the indicators
Poor sealing of the tire bead show, replace the tires. The loca-
tion of tread wear indicators is
Wheel deformation and/or tire
shown by the TWI or marks,
separation
etc., molded on the sidewall of
A greater possibility of tire each tire.
damage from road hazards
293

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
The tires on your Toyota have built- in If air loss occurs while driving, do not REPLACING YOUR TIRES
tread wear indicators to help you continue driving. Driving even a short When replacing a tire, use a tire of
know when the tires need replace- distance can damage a tire beyond the same size and construction,
ment. When the tread depth wears to repair. and the same or greater maximum
1.6 mm (0.06 in.) or less, the indica- Any tires which are over 6 years load as the originally installed
tors will appear. If you can see the old must be checked by a qualified tires. Also, on four- wheel drive
indicators in two or more adjacent technician even if damage is not models, all the tires must be the
grooves, the tire should be replaced. obvious. same brand and have the same
The lower the tread, the higher the tread patterns.
risk of skidding. Tires deteriorate with age even if they
have never or seldom been used. Using any other size or type of tire
The effectiveness of snow tires is may seriously affect handling, ride,
lost if the tread wears down below This applies also to the spare tire and
tires stored for future use. speedometer/odometer calibration,
4 mm (0.16 in.). ground clearance, and clearance be-
If you have tire damage such as tween the body and tires or snow
cuts, splits, cracks deep enough to chains.
expose the fabric, or bulges indi- Check that the maximum load of the
cating internal damage, the tire replaced tire is greater than 1/2 of the
should be replaced. Gross Axle Weight Ratings (GAWR)
If a tire often goes flat or cannot be of either the front axle or the rear
properly repaired due to the size or axle, whichever is greater. As for the
location of a cut or other damage, it maximum load of the tire, see the load
should be replaced. If you are not limit at maximum cold tire inflation
sure, consult with your Toyota dealer. pressure mentioned on the sidewall
of the tire, and as for the Gross Axle
Weight Ratings (GAWR), see the Cer-
tification Label.
294

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Rotating tires
For details about the side wall of the
tire and the Certification Label, see Four- wheel drive models:
pages 210 and 213. Do not use tires of different
brands, sizes, construction or
CAUTION tread patterns, as this may
cause dangerous handling
Observe the following instruc- characteristics resulting in
tions. Otherwise, an accident loss of control.
may occur resulting in death or
serious injuries. Toyota recommends all four tires,
Do not mix radial, bias belted, or at least both of the front or rear
or bias- ply tires on your ve- tires be replaced at a time as a set.
hicle, as this may cause dan- See If you have a flat tire on page
gerous handling characteris- 247 for tire change procedure. To equalize tire wear and help ex-
tics resulting in loss of control. tend tire life, Toyota recommends
When a tire is replaced, the wheel
that you rotate your tires accord-
Do not use tires other than the should always be balanced.
ing to the maintenance schedule.
manufacturers recommended An unbalanced wheel may affect ve- (For scheduled maintenance infor-
size, as this may cause danger- hicle handling and tire life. Wheels mation, please refer to the Sched-
ous handling characteristics can get out of balance with regular uled Maintenance Guide or Own-
resulting in loss of control. use and should therefore be balanced ers Manual Supplement.)
occasionally. However, the most appropriate tim-
When replacing a tubeless tire, the ing for tire rotation may vary ac-
air valve should also be replaced cording to your driving habits and
with a new one. road surface conditions.
See If you have a flat tire on page
247 in Section 4 for tire change proce-
dure.
295

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Installing snow tires and

chains
When rotating tires, check for uneven WHEN TO USE SNOW TIRES OR
wear and damage. Abnormal wear is CHAINS Four- wheel drive models:
Do not use snow tires of different
usually caused by incorrect tire pres- Snow tires or chains are recommended
brands, sizes, construction or tread
sure, improper wheel alignment, out- when driving on snow or ice. patterns, as this may cause danger-
of- balance wheels, or severe braking. On wet or dry roads, conventional tires ous handling characteristics result-
Initial adjustment of the tire pres- provide better traction than snow tires. ing in loss of control.
sure warning system is necessary SNOW TIRE SELECTION
after you have rotated your tires. If you need snow tires, select tires of SNOW TIRE INSTALLATION
See Tire pressure warning sys- the same size, construction and load Snow tires should be installed on all
tem on page 131 in Section 1- 7. capacity as the originally installed tires. wheels.
Also, on four- wheel drive models, all
Installing snow tires on the front wheels
the tires must be the same brand and
only can lead to an excessive difference
have the same tread patterns.
in road grip capability between the front
Do not use tires other than those men- and rear tires, which could cause loss of
tioned above. Do not install studded tires vehicle control.
without first checking local regulations for
When storing removed tires, you should
possible restrictions.
store them in a cool dry place.
CAUTION Mark the direction of rotation and be sure
to install them in the same direction when
Observe the following instructions. replacing.
Otherwise, an accident may occur re-
sulting in death or serious injuries. CAUTION
Do not use snow tires other than Do not drive with the snow tires
the manufacturers recommended si-
incorrectly inflated.
ze, as this may cause dangerous
handling characteristics resulting in Never drive over 120 km/h (75 mph)
loss of control. with any type of snow tires.
296

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Side chain NOTICE CAUTION

If the wrong combination of tire and
chain is used, the chains could dam-
Do not exceed 50 km/h (30 mph) or
the chain manufacturers recom-
age the vehicle body.
mended speed limit, whichever is
lower.
CHAIN INSTALLATION
Cross chain Drive carefully avoiding bumps,
Install the chains on the front tires as holes, and sharp turns, which may
tightly as possible. Do not use tire cause the vehicle to bounce.
chains on the rear tires. Retighten
chains after driving 0.51.0 km Avoid sharp turns or locked- wheel
(1/41/2 mile). braking, as use of chains may ad-
versely affect vehicle handling.
When installing chains on your tires, care-
TIRE CHAIN SELECTION fully follow the instructions of the chain When driving with chains installed,
manufacturer. be sure to drive carefully. Slow
Use the tire chains of correct size. down before entering curves to
For 215/70R16 and 235/60R16 tires, use If wheel covers are used, they will be avoid losing control of the vehicle.
the following type chains. scratched by the chain band, so remove Otherwise an accident may occur.
the covers before putting on the chains.
mm (in.)
A Diameter of side chain 3 (0.12)
B Width of side chain 10 (0.39)
C Length of side chain 30 (1.18)
D Diameter of cross chain 4 (0.16)
E Width of cross chain 14 (0.55)
F Length of cross chain 25 (0.98)
Regulations regarding the use of tire
chains vary according to location or
type of road, so always check local reg-
ulations before installing chains.
297

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Replacing wheels Aluminum wheel precautions

WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR WHEELS Replacement with used wheels is not rec- When installing aluminum wheels,
If you have wheel damage such as ommended as they may have been sub- check that the wheel nuts are tight
bending, cracks or heavy corrosion, the jected to rough treatment or high mileage after driving your vehicle the first 1600
wheel should be replaced. and could fail without warning. Also, bent km (1000 miles).
If you fail to replace a damaged wheel,
wheels which have been straightened may If you have rotated, repaired, or
have structural damage and therefore changed your tires, check that the
the tire may slip off the wheel or cause should not be used. Never use an inner
loss of handling control. wheel nuts are still tight after driving
tube in a leaking wheel which is designed 1600 km (1000 miles).
WHEEL SELECTION for a tubeless tire.
When using tire chains, be careful not
When replacing wheels, care should be to damage the aluminum wheels.
taken to ensure that the wheels are re- CAUTION
placed by ones with the same load ca- Use only Toyota wheel nuts and
pacity, diameter, rim width, and offset. Observe the following instructions. wrench designed for your aluminum
Otherwise, an accident may occur re- wheels.
Correct replacement wheels are available
at your Toyota dealer.
sulting in death or serious injuries. When balancing your wheels, use only
Do not use wheels other than the Toyota balance weights or equivalent
A wheel of a different size or type may and a plastic or rubber hammer.
manufacturers recommended size,
adversely affect handling, wheel and bear-
ing life, brake cooling, speedometer/odom-
as this may cause dangerous han- As with any wheel, periodically check
dling characteristics resulting in your aluminum wheels for damage. If
eter calibration, stopping ability, headlight
loss of control. damaged, replace immediately.
aim, bumper height, vehicle ground clear-
ance, and tire or snow chain clearance to Four- wheel drive models:
the body and chassis. Do not use wheels of different
brands, sizes and types, as this
may cause dangerous handling
characteristics resulting in loss of
control.
298

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 7- 3
Electrical components
Checking battery condition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 300
Battery recharging precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 301
Checking and replacing fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 302
Adding washer fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 303
Replacing light bulbs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 304
299

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Checking battery condition

Precautions Checking battery exterior
CAUTION If electrolyte gets on your skin,

thoroughly wash the contact area. If Ground cable Terminals
BATTERY PRECAUTIONS you feel pain or burning, get medi-
The battery produces flammable and cal attention immediately.
explosive hydrogen gas. If electrolyte gets on your clothes,
Do not cause a spark from the bat- there is a possibility of its soaking
tery with tools. through to your skin, so immediate-
ly take off the exposed clothing and
Do not smoke or light a match near follow the procedure above, if nec-
the battery. essary.
The electrolyte contains poisonous If you accidentally swallow electro- Hold- down clamp
and corrosive sulfuric acid. lyte, drink a large quantity of water
Avoid contact with eyes, skin or or milk. Follow with milk of magne-
clothes. sia, beaten raw egg or vegetable Before checking the battery, remove the
oil. Then go immediately for emer- battery cover. (See (c) Jump starting
Never ingest electrolyte. on page 243 in Section 4.)
gency help.
Wear protective safety glasses when Check the battery for corroded or loose
working near the battery. terminal connections, cracks, or loose
Keep children away from the bat- hold- down clamp.
tery. a. If the battery is corroded, wash it off
EMERGENCY MEASURES with a solution of warm water and bak-
If electrolyte gets in your eyes, ing soda. Coat the outside of the termi-
flush your eyes with clean water nals with grease to prevent further cor-
immediately and get immediate rosion.
medical attention. If possible, con- b. If the terminal connections are loose,
tinue to apply water with a sponge tighten their clamp nutsbut do not
or cloth while en route to the medi- overtighten.
cal office.
300

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Checking battery condition Battery recharging precautions

c. Tighten the hold- down clamp only During recharging, the battery is pro-
enough to keep the battery firmly in ducing hydrogen gas.
Type A Clear or
place. Overtightening may damage the Therefore, before recharging:
battery case. Green Dark light yellow
1. If recharging with the battery installed
After checking the battery, reinstall the on the vehicle, be sure to disconnect
battery cover. the ground cable.
NOTICE Type B 2. Be sure the power switch on the re-
Blue White Red charger is off when connecting the
Be sure the engine and all accesso- charger cables to the battery and when
ries are off before performing main- disconnecting them.
tenance.
When checking the battery, remove CAUTION
the ground cable from the negative
terminal (- mark) first and rein- CHECKING BY INDICATOR Always charge the battery in an un-
stall it last. Check the battery condition by the indi- confined area. Do not charge the
battery in a garage or closed room
Be careful not to cause a short cir- cator color.
where there is not sufficient ventila-
cuit with tools.
Indicator color tion.
Take care no solution gets into the Condition
battery when washing it. Type A Type B Only do a slow charge (5 A or
less). Charging at a quicker rate is
Green Blue Good dangerous. The battery may ex-
Charging necessary. plode, causing personal injuries.
Have battery
Dark White
checked by your
Toyota dealer. NOTICE
Clear or Have battery Never recharge the battery while the
light Red checked by your engine is running. Also, be sure all
yellow Toyota dealer. accessories are turned off.
301

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Checking and replacing fuses

Type A fuses can be pulled out by using
the pull- out tool. The location of the pull-
out tool is shown in the illustration.
If you are not sure whether the fuse has
blown, try replacing the suspected fuse
with one that you know is good.
If the fuse has blown, push a new fuse
into the clip.
Only install a fuse with the amperage rat-
Good Blown ing designated on the fuse box lid.
If you do not have a spare fuse, in an
emergency you can pull out the RADIO
Type A or A/C fuse, which may be dispensable
If the headlights or other electrical for normal driving, and use it if its amper-
components do not work, check the age rating is the same.
fuses. If any of the fuses are blown,
they must be replaced. If you cannot use one of the same amper-
age, use one that is lower, but as close
See Fuse locations on page 279 in Sec- to the rating as possible. If the amperage
tion 7- 1 for locations of the fuses. is lower than that specified, the fuse
Turn the ignition switch and inoperative might blow out again but this does not
component off. Pull the suspected fuse indicate anything wrong. Be sure to get
straight out and check it. the correct fuse as soon as possible and
return the substitute to its original clip.
Determine which fuse may be causing the
problem. The lid of the fuse box shows It is a good idea to purchase a set of
the name of the circuit for each fuse. See spare fuses and keep them in your ve-
Good Blown
page 316 in Section 8 for the functions hicle for emergencies.
controlled by each circuit.
Type B
302

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Adding washer fluid

If the new fuse immediately blows out,
NOTICE
there is a problem with the electrical sys-
tem. Have your Toyota dealer correct it as Do not use engine antifreeze or any
soon as possible. other substitute because it may dam-
age your vehicles paint.
CAUTION
Never use a fuse with a higher am-

perage rating, or any other object, in
place of a fuse. This may cause ex-
tensive damage and possibly a fire.
If any washer does not work or wind-

shield washer fluid level warning light
comes on, the washer tank may be
empty. Check the washer fluid level on
the level gauge. If the washer fluid lev-
el is below LOW, add washer fluid.
You may use plain water as washer fluid.
However, in cold areas where tempera-
tures range below the freezing point, use
washer fluid containing antifreeze. This
product is available at your Toyota dealer
and most auto parts stores. Follow the
manufacturers directions for how much to
mix with water.
303

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Replacing light bulbs

The following illustrations show how to The inside of the lens of exterior lights Bulb
gain access to the bulbs. When replacing such as headlights may temporarily fog up Light bulbs W Type
No.
a bulb, make sure the ignition switch and when the lens becomes wet in the rain or
light switch are off. Use bulbs with the in a car wash. This is not a problem Headlights 9003 60/55 A
wattage ratings given in the table. because the fogging is caused by the Parking and front
temperature difference between the outside 168 5 B
side marker lights
CAUTION and inside of the lens, just like the
windshield fogs up in the rain. However, if Front turn signal
7440 21 B
To prevent burning yourself, do not there is a large drop of water on the lights
replace the light bulbs while they inside of the lens, or if there is water Front fog lights 51 C
are hot. pooled inside the light, contact your
Toyota dealer. Rear turn signal
Halogen bulbs have pressurized gas lights
7440 21 B
inside and require special handling.
They can burst or shatter if Stop/tail and rear
7443 21/5 B
scratched or dropped. Hold a bulb side marker lights
only by its plastic or metal case. Back- up lights 921 16 B
Do not touch the glass part of a
bulb with bare hands. High mounted stop
7440 21 B
light
License plate light 168 5 B
NOTICE
Interior lights 8 D
Only use a bulb of the listed type.
Personal light 10 D
A: HB2 halogen bulbs

B: Wedge base bulbs
C: HB4 halogen bulbs
D: Double end bulbs
304

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Headlights
1. Open the hood. Unplug the connec- 2. Release the bulb retaining spring 3. Install the rubber cover and fit it
tor. Remove the rubber cover. and remove the bulb. Install a new securely on the boss. Plug in the
If the connector is tight, wiggle it. bulb and the bulb retaining spring. connector.
To install a bulb, align the tabs of the Make sure the rubber cover fits securely
bulb with the cutouts of the mounting on the bulb base and the mounting body.
hole. Aiming is not necessary after replacing
the bulb. When aiming adjustment is nec-
essary, contact your Toyota dealer.
305

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Parking and front side

marker lights Front turn signal lights Front fog lights
306

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
1. Remove the bolts and the cover clip.

The steps for removing and installing the
cover clip is shown in the following il-
lustrations.
Removing clip
2. Unplug the connector while depress-
ing the lock release.
If the connector is tight, wiggle it.
Installing clip
307

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Rear turn signal, stop/tail,

rear side marker and back- up
lights
3. Turn the bulb counterclockwise and 4. Install a new bulb and the connector
remove it. into the mounting hole by turning it
clockwise.
308

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
High mounted stoplight
a: Stop/tail and rear side marker light

b: Back- up light
c: Rear turn signal light
309

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
License plate light
Use a Flat- bladed screwdriver.
310

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 8
SPECIFICATIONS
Specifications
Dimensions and weights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 312
Engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 313
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 313
Service specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 313
Tires . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 316
Fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 316
311

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Dimensions and weights

1 : Unladen vehicle
215/70R16 tires 235/60R16 tires 2 : With steel wheel spare tire and half
4205 (165.6) spare tire cover
4220 (166.1) 3 : With aluminum wheel spare tire and
Overall length mm (in.) 4210 (165.7)2 4225 (166.3)3 half spare tire cover
4215 (165.9)3 4255 (167.5)4 4 : With full spare tire cover
4255 (167.5)4 5 : With over fender
6 : Two- wheel drive models
1735 (68.3) 7 : Four- wheel drive models
1785 (70.3)
Overall width mm (in.) 1785 (70.3)5 8 : With roof rails
9 : With automatic transmission
1670 (65.7)6 10 :With manual transmission
1680 (66.1)7 1670 (65.7)
Overall height1 mm (in.) (67.1)8
1705 (67.1)6, 8 1705
1715 (67.5)7, 8
Wheelbase mm (in.) 2490 (98.0) 2490 (98.0)
1505 (59.3)7
Front tread mm (in.) 1525 (60.0)
1510 (59.4)6
Rear tread mm (in.) 1495 (58.9)7 1520 (59.8)

1500 (59.1)6
345 (761)7, 9 345 (761)7, 9
Vehicle capacity
375 (826)7, 10 375 (826)7, 10
weight (occupants
417 (919)6, 9 417 (919)6, 9
+ luggage) kg (lb.)
447 (985)6, 10 447 (985)6, 10
Towing capacity (trailer
weight + cargo weight) 680 (1500) 680 (1500)
kg (lb.)
312

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Engine Fuel Service specifications

Model: Fuel type: ENGINE
2AZ- FE Unleaded gasoline, Octane Rating 87 Valve clearance (engine cold), mm (in.):
Type: (Research Octane Number 91) or higher Intake 0.190.29 (0.0070.011)
4 cylinder in line, 4 cycle, gasoline Fuel tank capacity, L (gal., Imp. gal.): Exhaust 0.300.40 (0.0120.016)
Bore and stroke, mm (in.): 56 (14.8, 12.3) Spark plug type:
88.5 96.0 (3.48 3.78) DENSO SK20R11
Displacement, cm3 (cu. in.): NGK IFR6A11
2362 (144.1) Spark plug gap, mm (in.):
1.1 (0.043)
ENGINE LUBRICATION
Oil capacity (drain and refill),
L (qt., Imp. qt.):
With filter 3.8 (4.0, 3.3)
Without filter 3.6 (3.8, 3.2)
Toyota Genuine Motor Oil is used in
your Toyota vehicle. Use Toyota approved
Toyota Genuine Motor Oil or equivalent
to satisfy the following grade and
viscosity.
Oil grade:
API grade SL Energy- Conserving or
ILSAC multigrade engine oil
313

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Recommended oil viscosity: COOLING SYSTEM CLUTCH

SAE 5W- 30 Total capacity, L (qt., Imp. qt.): Pedal free play, mm (in.):
With manual transaxle 6.6 (7.0, 5.9) 515 (0.20.6)
With automatic transaxle 6.8 (7.2, 6.0) Fluid type:
Coolant type: SAE J1703 or FMVSS No.116 DOT 3
Toyota Super Long Life Coolant is MANUAL TRANSAXLE
used in your Toyota vehicle at factory Oil capacity, L (qt., Imp. qt.):
fill. In order to avoid technical problems, Two- wheel drive models
only use Toyota Super Long Life 2.5 (2.6, 2.2)
Coolant or similar high quality ethylene Four- wheel drive models
glycol based non- silicate, non- amine, 3.4 (3.6, 3.0)
Outside temperature non- nitrite, and non- borate coolant with
long- life hybrid organic acid technology. Oil type:
(Coolant with long- life hybrid organic Gear oil API GL- 4 or GL- 5
acid technology is a combination of low Recommended oil viscosity:
phosphates and organic acids.) SAE 75W- 90
ther details. Do not use plain water alone.
Please contact your Toyota dealer for
further details.
BATTERY
Open voltage at 20C (68F):
12.612.8 V Fully charged
12.212.4 V Half charged
11.812.0 V Discharged
: Voltage that is checked 20 minutes af-
ter the key is removed with all the lights
turned off
Charging rates:
5 A max.
314

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
AUTOMATIC TRANSAXLE TRANSFER BRAKES

Fluid capacity (drain and refill), L (qt., (four- wheel drive models) Minimum pedal clearance when depressed
Imp. qt.): Oil capacity, L (qt., Imp. qt.): with the force of 490 N (50 kgf, 110 lbf)
Up to 3.5 (3.7, 3.1) 0.9 (1.0, 0.8) with the engine running, mm (in.):
Fluid type: Oil type: 118 (4.6)
Toyota Genuine ATF Type T- IV Hypoid gear oil API GL- 5 Pedal free play, mm (in.):
Change automatic transmission fluid only Recommended oil viscosity: 16 (0.040.24)
as necessary. Above -18C (0F) Pad wear limit, mm (in.):
Generally, it is necessary to change SAE 90 1.0 (0.04)
automatic transmission fluid only if your Below -18C (0F) Lining wear limit, mm (in.):
vehicle is driven under one of the Special SAE 80W or 80W- 90 1.0 (0.04)
Operating Conditions listed in your REAR DIFFERENTIAL Parking brake adjustment when pulled with
Scheduled Maintenance Guide or (four- wheel drive models) the force of 196 N (20 kgf, 44 lbf):
Owners Manual Supplement. When Oil capacity, L (qt., Imp. qt.): 68 clicks
changing the automatic transmission fluid, 0.9 (1.0, 0.8)
use only Toyota Genuine ATF Type T- IV Fluid type:
(ATF JWS3309 or NWS6500) to aid in Oil type: SAE J1703 or FMVSS No.116 DOT 3
assuring optimum transaxle performance. Hypoid gear oil API GL- 5 STEERING
Notice: Using automatic transmission Recommended oil viscosity: Wheel free play:
fluid other than Toyota Genuine ATF Above -18C (0F) Less than 30 mm (1.2 in.)
Type T- IV may cause deterioration in SAE 90
Below -18C (0F) Power steering fluid type:
shift quality, locking up of your trans- Automatic transmission fluid DEXRONII
mission accompanied by vibration, and SAE 80W or 80W- 90
or III
ultimately damage the automatic trans-
mission of your vehicle.
ther details.
315

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Tires Fuses
Tire size:
215/70R16 99S
235/60R16 100H
Cold tire inflation pressure, kPa
(kgf/cm2 or bar, psi):
200 (2.0, 29)
Wheel size:
Steel wheel 16 6 1/2J
Aluminum Wheel 16 7JJ
Wheel nut torque, Nm (kgfm, ftlbf):
103 (10.5, 76)
NOTE: For a complete information Instrument panel
on tires (e.g. replacing tires
or replacing wheels), see Fuses (type A)
Checking tire inflation pres-
sure through Aluminum 1. RADIO 15 A: Audio system
wheel precautions, pages 2. DOME 10 A: Clock, personal light, in-
291 through 298 in Section terior lights, vanity lights, garage door
7- 2. opener, air conditioning system, wire-
less remote control system, gauges
and meters
3. CUT 30 A: RADIO and DOME fuses
4. A/C 5 A: Air conditioning system
5. MAIN 30 A: H- LP RH and H- LP LH
fuses
6. HAZ 10 A: Emergency flashers
Engine compartment
316

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
7. ALT- S 5 A: Charging system 18. STOP 10 A: Stop lights, high- mounted 30. OBD 7.5 A: On- board diagnosis sys-
8. IGN 15 A: Starting system, multiport stoplight, anti- lock brake system, shift tem
fuel injection system/sequential multi- lock control system, multiport fuel in- 31. IG2 10 A: Discharge warning light,
port fuel injection system jection system/sequential multiport fuel multiport fuel injection system/sequen-
injection system, cruise control system tial multiport fuel injection system,
9. EFI3 10 A: Multiport fuel injection sys-
tem/sequential multiport fuel injection 19. CIG 15 A: Cigarette lighter starting system, gauges and meters,
system, emission control system 20. POWER OUTLET 15 A: Power outlets SRS airbag system
10. EFI2 5 A: Multiport fuel injection sys- 21. S- HTR 10 A: Seat heaters 32. DOOR 20 A: Power door lock system
tem/sequential multiport fuel injection 22. PANEL 7.5 A: Instrument panel lights, 33. MIR HTR 10 A: Outside rear view mir-
system gauges and meters, front fog lights, ror defoggers
11. RADIO NO.2 30 A: Audio system instrument panel light control, outside 34. RR WIP 15 A: Rear window wiper and
12. ABS 2 30 A: Anti- lock brake system, rear view mirror defoggers, air condi- washer
vehicle stability control system, traction tioning system 35. WIP 25 A: Windshield wipers and
control system, brake assist system 23. FR FOG 15 A: Front fog lights washer
13. EFI1 20 A: Multiport fuel injection sys- 24. HORN 10 A: Horn 36. ECU IG 10 A: Emergency flashers,
tem/sequential multiport fuel injection 25. TAIL 7.5 A: Tail lights, license plate gauges and meters, anti- lock brake
system, automatic transmission fluid lights system, vehicle stability control system,
temperature sensor, EFI2 and EFI3 traction control system, SRS airbag
fuses 26. TAIL&PANEL 15 A: PANEL and system, shift lock control system,
TAIL fuses cruise control system
14. H- LP RH 15 A: Right- hand headlight
27. ACC 7.5 A: Audio system, shift lock Fuses (type B)
15. H- LP LH 15 A: Left- hand headlight control system, clock, power rear view
16. ETCS 10 A: Electronic throttle control mirrors 37. RDI 30 A: Electric cooling fan
system 28. DEF 20 A: Rear window defogger 38. CDS 30 A: Electric cooling fan
17. ST 5 A: Starting system 29. GAUGE 10 A: Back- up lights, electric 39. AM2 30 A: Discharge warning light,
cooling fans, air conditioning system, multiport fuel injection system/sequen-
automatic transmission indicator lights, tial multiport fuel injection system,
charging system starting system, SRS airbag system,
IG2 fuse
317

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
40. ABS 1 50 A: Anti- lock brake system

41. HTR 40 A: Air conditioning system
42. F- HTR or H- LP CLN 30 A: No circuit
43. PWR 30 A: Electric moon roof, power
windows
44. AM1 40 A: Power outlets, rear window
defogger, ACC, CIG, ECU IG,
GAUGE, RR WIP, S- HTR and
WIP fuses
318

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
SECTION 9
REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS FOR U.S.
OWNERS
Reporting safety defects for U.S. owners
Reporting safety defects for U.S. owners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 320
319

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Reporting safety defects for

U.S. owners
If you believe that your vehicle To contact NHTSA, you may ei-
has a defect which could cause a ther call the Auto Safety Hotline
crash or could cause injury or toll- free at 1- 800- 424- 9393 (or
death, you should immediately in- 366- 0123 in Washington, D.C.
form the National Highway Traffic area) or write to: NHTSA, U.S.
Safety Administration (NHTSA) in Department of Transportation,
addition to notifying Toyota Motor Washington, D.C. 20590. You can
Sales, U.S.A., Inc. also obtain other information about
(Toll- free: 1- 800- 331- 4331). motor vehicle safety from the Hot-
If NHTSA receives similar com- line.
plaints, it may open an investiga-
tion, and if it finds that a safety
defect exists in a group of ve-
hicles, it may order a recall and
remedy campaign. However,
NHTSA cannot become involved
in individual problems between
you, your dealer, or Toyota Motor
Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
320

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
U 3
Quick index
If a service reminder indicator or warning buzzer comes on . . . . . . . . 109
If your vehicle will not start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 242
If your engine stalls while driving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 246
If your vehicle overheats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 246
If you have a flat tire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 247
If your vehicle needs to be towed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 258
Tips for driving during break- in period . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
How to start the engine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228
General maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 273
Complete index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . NO TAG
Gas station information
Fuel type:
UNLEADED gasoline, Octane Rating 87 (Research Octane Number 91)
or higher
See page 199 for detailed information.
Fuel tank capacity:
56 L (14.8 gal., 12.3 Imp. gal.)
Engine oil:
API grade SL Energy- Conserving or ILSAC multigrade engine oil is
recommended.
See page 287 for detailed information.
Tire information: See pages 291 through 298.
Tire inflation pressure: See page 316.
Publication No. OM42570U
Part No. 01999-42570
Printed in Japan 01-0409-00 I

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
You should know as much about the quality and

importance of proper maintenance of your new
vehicle as the people who built it.
The Toyota authorized Repair Manual
tells you how to maintain your vehicle and
enables you to correctly perform your own
maintenance.
The best way to keep your new vehicle in top
running order is to maintain it properly from
the moment you drive it off the showroom
floor.
The Toyota authorized Repair Manual is
packed with literally everything you need to
know to perform your own maintenance in
virtually every area of your new vehicle.

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
Maintenance procedures for the engine,

chassis, body, electrical system, and more,
are clearly explained and illustrated.
Periodic maintenance and tuneup

Where to obtain the
Periodic maintenance and tune up helps to prevent
small problems from growing into larger ones later on.
Repair Manual
The repair manual outlines exactly what maintenance
is required and clearly explains how to do the work The repair manual for RAV4 may be purchased
yourself step by step. from any Toyota dealer or the Material Distribu
Areas covered include such things as spark plug re tion Center. To purchase the repair manual, please
placement, valve clearance adjustment and engine oil contact your Toyota dealer or call the Material
and filter replacement. Distribution Center toll free at 1 800 622 2033.

05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)
WE REALLY CARE ABOUT YOU PLEASE BUCKLE UP
Toyota has made a special effort to encourage use of seat belts.
Toyota belts are:
Comfortable
Easy to use
Convenient
We encourage you to use your belts every time you drive.
U 2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

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05 Rav4_U (L/O 0409)

2004 TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

Important information about this manual

Safety and vehicle damage warnings Safety symbol

This is a warning against anything which may cause

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

Important information about your Toyota

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

SRS airbag system diagnostic data New vehicle warranty

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

Important health and safety Accessories, spare parts and

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

Spark ignition system of your Tires and loading on your

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

Scrapping of your Toyota On- pavement and off- road

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

Instrument panel overview

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

1. Power rear view mirror control switches

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

19. TRAC OFF (traction control off)

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

Instrument cluster overview

1. Speedometer 4. Fuel gauge 7. Odometer and two trip meters

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

Indicator symbols on the instrument panel

Low fuel level warning light1

or Anti- lock brake system warning light1

Open door warning light1

Automatic transmission fluid temperature

Vehicle stability control system/traction control

Low tire pressure warning light1

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

1: For details, see Service reminder indicators and warning

Turn signal indicator lights

Automatic transmission indicator lights

Overdrive- off indicator light

Slip indicator light

Traction control system off indicator light

Cruise control indicator light2

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

Keys (without engine Keys (with engine immobilizer

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

A transponder chip for engine immobilizer

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

Do not cover the key grip with any

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

Engine immobilizer system

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

Wireless remote control

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

The battery may have been consumed.

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

Locking and unlocking

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)

Special care should be taken to pre-

2005 RAV4 from Sep. 04 Prod. (OM42570U)