Before driving
Driving the vehicle
The following procedures should be observed to ensure safe
driving:
Starting the engine
Driving
1
2
Gradually release the brake pedal and gently depress the accelera-
3
tor pedal to accelerate the vehicle.
Stopping
With the shift lever in D, depress the brake pedal.
1
If necessary, set the parking brake.
2
If the vehicle is to be stopped for an extended period of time, shift the shift
Parking the vehicle
With the shift lever in D, depress the brake pedal.
1
2
Turn the engine switch to the “LOCK” position to stop the engine.
3
Lock the door, making sure that you have the key on your person.
4
If parking on a hill, block the wheels as needed.
Starting off on a steep uphill
Make sure that the parking brake is set and shift the shift lever to D.
1
Gently depress the accelerator pedal.
2
Release the parking brake.
3
153
Driving in the rain
Drive carefully when it is raining, because visibility will be reduced, the win-
dows may become fogged-up, and the road will be slippery.
Drive carefully when it starts to rain, because the road surface will be espe-
cially slippery.
Refrain from high speeds when driving on an expressway in the rain,
because there may be a layer of water between the tires and the road sur-
face, preventing the steering and brakes from operating properly.
Engine speed while driving
In the following conditions, the engine speed may become high while driving.
This is due to automatic up-shifting control or down-shifting implementation to
meet driving conditions. It does not indicate sudden acceleration.
The vehicle is judged to be driving uphill or downhill
When the accelerator pedal is released
When the brake pedal is depressed while TOW/HAUL mode is selected (if
equipped)
4
Restraining the engine output (Brake Override System)
When the accelerator and brake pedals are depressed at the same time, the
engine output may be restrained.
A warning message is displayed on the multi-information display while the
system is operating.
Restraining sudden start (Drive-Start Control)
When the following unusual operation is performed, the engine output may
be restrained.
When the shift lever is shifted from R to D, D to R, N to R, P to D, or P to
R (D includes S) with the accelerator pedal depressed, a warning mes-
sage appears on the multi-information display.
When the accelerator pedal is depressed too much while the vehicle is in
reverse.
While Drive-Start Control is being activated, your vehicle may have trouble
escaping from the mud or fresh snow. In such case, perform the following
actions to cancel Drive-Start Control so that the vehicle may become able to
escape from the mud or fresh snow.
4WD models: The four-wheel drive control switch is in “4L” position.
154
Breaking in your new Toyota
To extend the life of the vehicle, observing the following precautions is recom-
mended:
For the first 200 miles (300 km):
Avoid sudden stops.
For the first 500 miles (800 km):
Do not tow a trailer.
For the first 1000 miles (1600 km):
Do not drive at extremely high speeds.
Avoid sudden acceleration.
Do not drive continuously in low gears.
Do not drive at a constant speed for extended periods.
Drum-in-disc type parking brake system
Your vehicle has a drum-in-disc type parking brake system. This type of brake
system needs bedding-down of the brake shoes periodically or whenever the
parking brake shoes and/or drum are replaced. Have your Toyota dealer per-
form the bedding down operation.
Operating your vehicle in a foreign country
Comply with the relevant vehicle registration laws and confirm the availability
When turning off the engine
The emission system operating sounds may continue for a short time after
the engine is turned off. This is not a malfunction, and helps to ensure optimal
performance of the emission system.
155
WARNING
Observe the following precautions.
Failure to do so may result in death or serious injury.
When starting the vehicle
Always keep your foot on the brake pedal while stopped with the engine
running. This prevents the vehicle from creeping.
When driving the vehicle
Do not drive if you are unfamiliar with the location of the brake and accel-
erator pedals to avoid depressing the wrong pedal.
Accidentally depressing the accelerator pedal instead of the brake
pedal will result in sudden acceleration that may lead to an accident.
When backing up, you may twist your body around, leading to difficulty
in operating the pedals. Make sure to operate the pedals properly.
Make sure to keep a correct driving posture even when moving the
vehicle only slightly. This allows you to depress the brake and accelera-
tor pedals properly.
Depress the brake pedal using your right foot. Depressing the brake
pedal using your left foot may delay response in an emergency, result-
ing in an accident.
4
Do not drive the vehicle over or stop the vehicle near flammable materials.
The exhaust system and exhaust gases can be extremely hot. These hot
parts may cause a fire if there is any flammable material nearby.
During normal driving, do not turn off the engine. Turning the engine off
while driving will not cause loss of steering or braking control, but the
power assist to these systems will be lost. This will make it more difficult to
steer and brake, so you should pull over and stop the vehicle as soon as it
is safe to do so.
However, in the event of an emergency, such as if it becomes impossible
Use engine braking (downshift) to maintain a safe speed when driving
down a steep hill.
Using the brakes continuously may cause the brakes to overheat and lose
Do not adjust the positions of the steering wheel, the seat, or the inside or
outside rear view mirrors while driving.
Doing so may result in a loss of vehicle control.
Always check that all passengers’ arms, heads or other parts of their body
are not outside the vehicle.
156
WARNING
Observe the following precautions.
Failure to do so may result in death or serious injury.
When driving the vehicle
Do not drive in excess of the speed limit. Even if the legal speed limit per-
mits it, do not drive over 85 mph (140 km/h) unless your vehicle has high-
speed capability tires. Driving over 85 mph (140 km/h) may result in tire
failure, loss of control and possible injury. Be sure to consult a tire dealer
to determine whether the tires on your vehicle are high-speed capability
tires or not before driving at such speeds.
When driving on slippery road surfaces
Sudden braking, acceleration and steering may cause tire slippage and
reduce your ability to control the vehicle.
Sudden acceleration, engine braking due to shifting, or changes in engine
speed could cause the vehicle to skid.
After driving through a puddle, lightly depress the brake pedal to make
sure that the brakes are functioning properly. Wet brake pads may prevent
the brakes from functioning properly. If the brakes on only one side are wet
and not functioning properly, steering control may be affected.
When shifting the shift lever
Do not let the vehicle roll backward while the shift lever is in a driving posi-
tion, or roll forward while the shift lever is in R.
Doing so may cause the engine to stall or lead to poor brake and steering
performance, resulting in an accident or damage to the vehicle.
Do not shift the shift lever to P while the vehicle is moving.
Doing so can damage the transmission and may result in a loss of vehicle
control.
Do not shift the shift lever to R while the vehicle is moving forward.
Doing so can damage the transmission and may result in a loss of vehicle
control.
Do not shift the shift lever to a driving position while the vehicle is moving
backward.
Doing so can damage the transmission and may result in a loss of vehicle
control.
Moving the shift lever to N while the vehicle is moving will disengage the
engine from the transmission. Engine braking is not available when N is
selected.
Be careful not to shift the shift lever with the accelerator pedal depressed.
Shifting the shift lever to a gear other than P or N may lead to moving
unexpectedly of the vehicle that may cause an accident.
157
WARNING
If you hear a squealing or scraping noise (brake pad wear limit indica-
tors)
Have the brake pads checked and replaced by your Toyota dealer as soon
as possible.
Rotor damage may result if the pads are not replaced when needed.
It is dangerous to drive the vehicle when the wear limits of the brake pads
and/or those of the brake discs are exceeded.
When the vehicle is stopped
Do not race the engine.
If the vehicle is in any gear other than P or N, the vehicle may move sud-
denly and unexpectedly, causing an accident.
In order to prevent accidents due to the vehicle rolling away, always keep
depressing the brake pedal while the engine is running, and apply the
parking brake as necessary.
If the vehicle is stopped on an incline, in order to prevent accidents caused
by the vehicle rolling forward or backward, always depress the brake pedal
and securely apply the parking brake as needed.
4
Avoid revving or racing the engine.
Running the engine at high speed while the vehicle is stopped may cause
the exhaust system to overheat, which could result in a fire if combustible
material is nearby.
When the vehicle is parked
Do not leave glasses, cigarette lighters, spray cans, or soft drink cans in
the vehicle when it is in the sun.
Doing so may result in the following:
Gas may leak from a cigarette lighter or spray can, and may lead to a
fire.
The temperature inside the vehicle may cause the plastic lenses and
plastic material of glasses to deform or crack.
Soft drink cans may rupture, causing the contents to spray over the
interior of the vehicle, and may also cause a short circuit in the vehicle’s
electrical components.
Do not leave cigarette lighters in the vehicle. If a cigarette lighter is in a
place such as the glove box or on the floor, it may be lit accidentally when
luggage is loaded or the seat is adjusted, causing a fire.
Do not attach adhesive discs to the windshield or windows. Do not place
containers such as air fresheners on the instrument panel or dashboard.
Adhesive discs or containers may act as lenses, causing a fire in the vehi-
cle.
158
WARNING
Do not leave a door or window open if the curved glass is coated with a
metallized film such as a silver-colored one. Reflected sunlight may cause
the glass to act as a lens, causing a fire.
Always apply the parking brake, shift the shift lever to P, stop the engine
and lock the vehicle.
Do not leave the vehicle unattended while the engine is running.
If the vehicle is parked with the shift lever in P but the parking brake is not
set, the vehicle may start to move, possibly leading to an accident.
Do not touch the exhaust pipes while the engine is running or immediately
after turning the engine off.
Doing so may cause burns.
4WD models: If the shift lever is moved before the “4LO” indicator turns
on/off, the transfer mode may not be shifted completely. The transfer mode
disengages both the front and rear driveshafts from the powertrain and
allows the vehicle to move regardless of the shift position. (At this time, the
indicator blinks and the buzzer sounds.)
Therefore, the vehicle is free to roll even if the automatic transmission is in
P. You or someone else could be seriously injured. You must complete the
When taking a nap in the vehicle
Always turn the engine off. Otherwise, if you accidentally move the shift
lever or depress the accelerator pedal, this could cause an accident or fire
due to engine overheating. Additionally, if the vehicle is parked in a poorly
ventilated area, exhaust gases may collect and enter the vehicle, leading to
death or a serious health hazard.
When braking
When the brakes are wet, drive more cautiously.
Braking distance increases when the brakes are wet, and this may cause
one side of the vehicle to brake differently than the other side. Also, the
parking brake may not securely hold the vehicle.
If the power brake assist function does not operate, do not follow other
vehicles closely and avoid hills or sharp turns that require braking.
In this case, braking is still possible, but the brake pedal should be
depressed more firmly than usual. Also, the braking distance will increase.
Have your brakes fixed immediately.
Do not pump the brake pedal if the engine stalls.
Each push on the brake pedal uses up the reserve for the power-assisted
brakes.
The brake system consists of 2 individual hydraulic systems; if one of the
systems fails, the other will still operate. In this case, the brake pedal
should be depressed more firmly than usual and the braking distance will
increase. Have your brakes fixed immediately.
159
NOTICE
When driving the vehicle
Do not depress the accelerator and brake pedals at the same time during
driving, as this may restrain the engine output.
Do not use the accelerator pedal or depress the accelerator and brake
pedals at the same time to hold the vehicle on a hill.
When parking the vehicle
Always set the parking brake, and shift the shift lever to P. Failure to do so
may cause the vehicle to move or the vehicle may move suddenly if the
accelerator pedal is accidentally depressed.
Avoiding damage to vehicle parts
Do not turn the steering wheel fully in either direction and hold it there for
an extended period of time.
Doing so may damage the power steering pump.
When driving over bumps in the road, drive as slowly as possible to avoid
damaging the wheels, underside of the vehicle, etc.
4
If you get a flat tire while driving
A flat or damaged tire may cause the following situations. Hold the steering
wheel firmly and gradually depress the brake pedal to slow down the vehi-
cle.
It may be difficult to control your vehicle.
The vehicle will make abnormal sounds or vibrations.
The vehicle will lean abnormally.
When encountering flooded roads
Do not drive on a road that has flooded after heavy rain, etc. Doing so may
cause the following serious damage to the vehicle:
Engine stalling
Short in electrical components
Engine damage caused by water immersion
In the event that you drive on a flooded road and the vehicle is flooded, be
sure to have your Toyota dealer check the following:
Brake function
Changes in quantity and quality of oil and fluid used for the engine, trans-
mission, transfer (4WD models) differentials, etc.
Lubricant condition for the propeller shaft, bearings and suspension joints
(where possible), and the function of all joints, bearings, etc.
160
Cargo and luggage
Take notice of the following information about storage precau-
tions, cargo capacity and load:
Capacity and distribution
Cargo capacity depends on the total weight of the occupants.
(Cargo capacity) = (Total load capacity) − (Total weight of occupants)
Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit —
(1) Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and
cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your vehicle’s
placard.
(2) Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that
will be riding in your vehicle.
(3) Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from
XXX kg or XXX lbs.
(4) The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and lug-
gage load capacity.
For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs. and there will be
five 150 lb passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available
cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1400 − 750 (5 × 150) =
650 lbs.)
(5) Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being loaded
on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the available
cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4.
(6) If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be
transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how
this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your
161
Calculation formula for your vehicle
Cargo capacity
1
Total load capacity (vehicle
2
When 2 people with the combined weight of A lb. (kg) are riding in
your vehicle, which has a total load capacity (vehicle capacity weight)
of B lb. (kg), the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity
will be C lb. (kg) as follows:
B*2 lb. (kg) − A*1 lb. (kg) = C*3 lb. (kg)
*1: A = Weight of people
4
*2: B = Total load capacity
*3: C = Available cargo and luggage load
In this condition, if 3 more passengers with the combined weight of
D lb. (kg) get on, the available cargo and luggage load will be reduced
E lb. (kg) as follows:
C lb. (kg) − D*4 lb. (kg) = E*5 lb. (kg)
*4: D = Additional weight of people
*5: E = Available cargo and luggage load
As shown in the above example, if the number of occupants
increases, the cargo and luggage load will be reduced by an amount
that equals the increased weight due to the additional occupants. In
other words, if an increase in the number of occupants causes an
excess of the total load capacity (combined weight of occupants plus
cargo and luggage load), you must reduce the cargo and luggage on
your vehicle.
162
WARNING
Things that must not be carried in the luggage compartment
The following things may cause a fire if loaded in the luggage compart-
ment:
Receptacles containing gasoline
Aerosol cans
Storage precautions
Observe the following precautions.
Failure to do so may prevent the pedals from being depressed properly,
may block the driver’s vision, or may result in items hitting the driver or
passengers, possibly causing an accident.
Do not stack anything behind the front seats higher than the seat-
backs.
Do not place cargo or luggage in or on the following locations.
At the feet of the driver
On the front passenger or rear seats (when stacking items)
On the instrument panel
On the dashboard
On the auxiliary box or tray that has no lid
Secure all items in the occupant compartment.
Never allow anyone to ride in the rear deck. It is not designed for pas-
sengers. They should ride in their seats with their seat belts properly
fastened. Otherwise, they are much more likely to suffer death or seri-
ous bodily injury, in the event of sudden braking, sudden swerving or
an accident.
Capacity and distribution
Do not exceed the maximum axle weight rating or the total vehicle
weight rating.
Even if the total load of occupant’s weight and the cargo load is less
than the total load capacity, do not apply the load unevenly. Improper
loading may cause deterioration of steering or braking control which
may cause death or serious injury.
163
Vehicle load limits
Vehicle load limits include total load capacity, seating capacity,
TWR (Trailer Weight Rating) and cargo capacity.
Total load capacity means the combined weight of occupants, cargo
and luggage.
Seating capacity
Vehicles with front separated type seats —
5 occupants (Front 2, Rear 3)
Vehicles with front bench type seat —
6 occupants (Front 3, Rear 3)
4
Seating capacity means the maximum number of occupants whose
estimated average weight is 150 lb. (68 kg) per person.
Even if the number of occupants are within the seating capacity, do
not exceed the total load capacity.
TWR means the maximum gross trailer weight (trailer weight plus
its cargo weight) that your vehicle is able to tow.
Cargo capacity
Cargo capacity may increase or decrease depending on the weight
and the number of occupants.
Total load capacity and seating capacity
164
WARNING
Overloading the vehicle
Do not overload the vehicle.
It may not only cause damage to the tires, but also degrade steering
and braking ability, resulting in an accident.
165
Trailer towing
Your vehicle is designed primarily as a passenger-and-load-car-
rying vehicle. Towing a trailer can have an adverse impact on
handling, performance, braking, durability, and fuel consump-
tion. For your safety and the safety of others, you must not over-
load your vehicle or trailer. You must also ensure that you are
using appropriate towing equipment, that the towing equipment
has been installed correctly and used properly, and that you
Vehicle-trailer stability and braking performance are affected by
trailer stability, brake performance and setting, trailer brakes,
the hitch and hitch systems (if equipped).
To tow a trailer safely, use extreme care and drive the vehicle in
accordance with your trailer’s characteristics and operating
conditions.
4
Toyota warranties do not apply to damage or malfunction
caused by towing a trailer for commercial purposes.
Contact your Toyota dealer for further information about additional
requirements such as a towing kit, etc.
166
Towing related terms
GCWR (Gross Combination Weight Rating)
The maximum allowable gross
combination weight. The gross
combination weight is the sum
of the total vehicle weight
(including the occupants, cargo
and any optional equipment
installed on the vehicle) and the
weight of the trailer being towed
(including the cargo in the
trailer).
GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating)
The maximum allowable gross
vehicle weight. The gross vehi-
cle weight is the total weight of
the vehicle. When towing a
trailer, it is the sum of the vehi-
cle weight (including the occu-
pants, cargo and any optional
equipment installed on the vehi-
cle) and the tongue weight.
GAWR (Gross Axle Weight Rating)
The maximum allowable gross
Front GAWR
axle weight. The gross axle
weight is the load placed on
each axle (front and rear).
Rear GAWR
167
TWR (Trailer Weight Rating)
The maximum allowable gross
trailer weight. The gross trailer
weight is the sum of the trailer
weight and the weight of the
cargo in the trailer.
(With brakes)
TWR is calculated assuming
base vehicle with one driver,
one front passenger, towing
package (if available), hitch and
hitch systems (if required).
Additional optional equipment, passengers and cargo in the vehicle will
reduce the trailer weight rating so as not to exceed GCWR, GVWR and
GAWR.
If the gross trailer weight exceeds 3000 lb. (1360 kg), it is recommended
to use a trailer with 2 or more axles.
4
Unbraked TWR (Unbraked Trailer Weight Rating)
The trailer weight rating for tow-
ing a trailer without a trailer ser-
vice brake system.
(Without brakes)
Tongue Weight
The load placed on the trailer
168
Kingpin Weight
The load placed on the 5th
wheel mount or the gooseneck
Weight limits
The gross trailer weight must never exceed the TWR described in
The gross combination weight must never exceed the GCWR
The gross vehicle weight must
never exceed the GVWR indi-
cated on the Certification Label.
The gross axle weight on each
axle must never exceed the
GAWR indicated on the Certifi-
cation Label.
If the gross trailer weight is over the unbraked TWR, trailer service
brakes are required.
If the gross trailer weight is over 2000 lb. (907 kg), a sway control
device with sufficient capacity is required.
If the gross trailer weight is over 5000 lb. (2268 kg), a weight distrib-
uting hitch with sufficient capacity is required.
169
GCWR, TWR, Unbraked TWR, Fifth wheel and Gooseneck towing
TWR
Confirm that the gross trailer weight, gross combination weight, gross
vehicle weight, gross axle weight and tongue weight are all within the
limits.
GCWR*5 and TWR*5
Double Cab models
Driving
Model code*1
Engine
Bed type
GCWR
TWR
system
UPK51L-
CRTSKA
12500 lb.
(5670 kg)
6800 lb.
(3080 kg)
2WD
1UR-FE
engine
UPK56L-
CRTSKA
12500 lb.
(5670 kg)
6500 lb.
(2945 kg)
4WD
14000 lb.
8300 lb.
4
(6350 kg)* (3760 kg)
2
*2
USK51L-
CRTSKA
16000 lb.
10200 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4625 kg)
3
*3
*4
*2
*3
*4
*2
*3
*4
16000 lb. 10100 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4580 kg)
4
3UR-FE
engine
14000 lb. 8200 lb.
Standard
(6350 kg)* (3715 kg)
2
USK51L-
CRTLKA
16000 lb. 10200 lb.
2WD
(7255 kg)* (4625 kg)
3
16000 lb. 10100 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4580 kg)
4
14000 lb. 8300 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3760 kg)
2
USK51L-
CRTSGA
3UR-FBE
engine
16000 lb. 10200 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4625 kg)
3
16000 lb. 10100 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4580 kg)
4
*5: These models meet the tow-vehicle trailering requirement of SAE
International per SAE J2807.
170
Model code*1
Driving
system
Engine
Bed type
Standard
GCWR
TWR
14000 lb.
8200 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3715 kg)
2
*2
USK51L-
CRTLGA
3UR-FBE
engine
16000 lb.
10200 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4625 kg)
3
*3
*4
*2
*3
*4
*2
*3
*4
*2
*3
*4
16000 lb. 10100 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4580 kg)
4
14000 lb. 8100 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3670 kg)
2
USK52L-
CHTSKA
3UR-FE
engine
16000 lb. 10100 lb.
2WD
(7255 kg)* (4580 kg)
3
16000 lb. 10000 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4535 kg)
4
Long
14000 lb. 8100 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3670 kg)
2
USK52L-
CHTSGA
3UR-FBE
engine
16000 lb. 10100 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4580 kg)
3
16000 lb. 10000 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4535 kg)
4
14000 lb. 8000 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3625 kg)
2
USK56L-
CRTSKA
16000 lb. 9900 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4490 kg)
3
15900 lb. 9700 lb.
(7210 kg)* (4395 kg)
4
3UR-FE
engine
4WD Standard
14000 lb.
7900 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3580 kg)
2
*2
*3
*4
USK56L-
CRTLKA
16000 lb. 9900 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4490 kg)
3
15400 lb. 9100 lb.
(6985 kg)* (4125 kg)
4
171
Driving
system
Model code*1
Engine
Bed type
GCWR
TWR
7800 lb.
14000 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3535 kg)
2
*2
USK57L-
CHTSKA
3UR-FE
engine
16000 lb.
9800 lb.
Long
(7255 kg)* (4445 kg)
3
*3
*4
*2
*3
*4
15700 lb. 9300 lb.
(7120 kg)* (4215 kg)
4
14000 lb. 8000 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3625 kg)
2
USK56L-
CRTSGA
16000 lb. 9900 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4490 kg)
3
15900 lb. 9700 lb.
(7210 kg)* (4395 kg)
4
4WD Standard
4
14000 lb.
7900 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3580 kg)
2
*2
*3
*4
*2
*3
*4
USK56L-
CRTLGA
3UR-FBE
engine
16000 lb. 9900 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4490 kg)
3
15400 lb. 9100 lb.
(6985 kg)* (4125 kg)
4
14000 lb. 7800 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3535 kg)
2
USK57L-
CHTSGA
16000 lb. 9800 lb.
Long
(7255 kg)* (4445 kg)
3
15700 lb. 9300 lb.
(7120 kg)* (4215 kg)
4
*2: Vehicles without towing package
*3: Vehicles with towing package
*4: Vehicles with towing package and large fuel tank
172
CrewMax models
Driving
system
Model code*1
Engine
Bed type
GCWR
TWR
UPK51L-
PSTSKA
12500 lb.
(5670 kg)
6700 lb.
(3035 kg)
2WD
4WD
1UR-FE
engine
UPK56L-
PSTSKA
12500 lb.
(5670 kg)
6400 lb.
(2900 kg)
14000 lb.
8100 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3670 kg)
2
*2
USK51L-
PSTSKA
16000 lb.
10100 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4580 kg)
3
*3
*4
*2
*3
*4
*2
16000 lb. 9900 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4490 kg)
4
14000 lb. 8000 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3625 kg)
2
USK51L-
PSTLKA
3UR-FE
engine
16000 lb. 10000 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4535 kg)
3
15600 lb. 9400 lb.
(7075 kg)* (4260 kg)
4
14000 lb. 8000 lb.
Short
(6350 kg)* (3625 kg)
2
USK51L-
PSTZKA
16000 lb. 10000 lb.
2WD
(7255 kg)
*3 (4535 kg)*3
15600 lb.
9400 lb.
(7075 kg)* (4260 kg)
4
*4
14000 lb. 8100 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3670 kg)
2
*2
USK51L-
PSTSGA
16000 lb. 10100 lb.
(7255 kg)
*3 (4580 kg)*3
16000 lb.
9900 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4490 kg)
4
*4
3UR-FBE
engine
14000 lb. 8000 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3625 kg)
2
*2
USK51L-
PSTLGA
16000 lb. 10000 lb.
(7255 kg)
*3 (4535 kg)*3
15600 lb.
9400 lb.
(7075 kg)* (4260 kg)
4
*4
173
Driving
system
Model code*1
Engine
Bed type
GCWR
TWR
8000 lb.
14000 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3625 kg)
2
*2
USK51L-
PSTZGA
3UR-FBE
engine
16000 lb.
(7255 kg)
10000 lb.
2WD
*3 (4535 kg)*3
15600 lb.
9400 lb.
(7075 kg)* (4260 kg)
4
*4
*2
*3
*4
*2
*3
*4
*2
*3
*4
*2
*3
*4
14000 lb. 7800 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3535 kg)
2
USK56L-
PSTSKA
16000 lb. 9800 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4445 kg)
3
15600 lb. 9200 lb.
(7075 kg)* (4170 kg)
4
4
14000 lb. 7800 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3535 kg)
2
USK56L-
PSTLKA
3UR-FE
engine
16000 lb. 9800 lb.
Short
(7255 kg)* (4445 kg)
3
15200 lb. 8800 lb.
(6890 kg)* (3990 kg)
4
4WD
14000 lb. 7800 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3535 kg)
2
USK56L-
PSTZKA
16000 lb. 9800 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4445 kg)
3
15200 lb. 8800 lb.
(6890 kg)* (3990 kg)
4
14000 lb. 7800 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3535 kg)
2
USK56L-
PSTSGA
3UR-FBE
engine
16000 lb. 9800 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4445 kg)
3
15600 lb. 9200 lb.
(7075 kg)* (4170 kg)
4
174
Model code*1
Driving
system
Engine
Bed type
GCWR
TWR
14000 lb.
7800 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3535 kg)
2
*2
USK56L-
PSTLGA
16000 lb.
9800 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4445 kg)
3
*3
*4
*2
*3
*4
15200 lb. 8800 lb.
(6890 kg)* (3990 kg)
4
3UR-FBE
engine
4WD
Short
14000 lb. 7800 lb.
(6350 kg)* (3535 kg)
2
USK56L-
PSTZGA
16000 lb. 9800 lb.
(7255 kg)* (4445 kg)
3
15200 lb. 8800 lb.
(6890 kg)* (3990 kg)
4
*2: Vehicles without towing package
*3: Vehicles with towing package
*4: Vehicles with towing package and large fuel tank
Unbraked TWR*5
1000 lb. (453 kg)
*5: These models meet the tow-vehicle trailering requirement of SAE
International per SAE J2807.
175
Trailer Tongue Weight and Trailer Kingpin Weight
A recommended tongue weight or kingpin weight varies in accor-
dance with the types of trailers or towing as described below.
To ensure the recommended values shown below, the trailer must
be loaded by referring to the following instructions.
1.Conventional Towing
The gross trailer weight should be distributed so that the tongue
weight is 9% to 11%. (Tongue Weight/Gross trailer weight x 100
= 9% to 11%)
Gross trailer weight
1
Tongue Weight
2
4
If using a weight distributing hitch when towing, return the front
axle to the same weight as before the trailer connection.
If front axle weight cannot be measured directly, measure the
front fender height above the front axle before connection. Adjust
weight distributing hitch torque until front fender is returned to the
same height as before connection.
Do not reduce front fender height below original measurement.
The gross trailer weight, gross axle weight and tongue weight
can be measured with platform scales found at a highway weigh-
ing station, building supply company, trucking company, junk
yard, etc.
176
2.Fifth wheel Towing or Gooseneck Towing
The gross trailer weight should be distributed so that the kingpin
weight is 14% to 16%. (Kingpin weight/Gross trailer weight x 100
= 14% to 16%)
Gross trailer weight
1
Kingpin weight
2
The gross trailer weight and kingpin weight can be measured
with platform scales found at a highway weighing station, build-
ing supply company, trucking company, junk yard, etc.
CrewMax models: Current fifth wheel trailer designs are not com-
patible with short bed.
Hitch
Trailer hitch assemblies have different weight capacities. Toyota rec-
ommends the use of Toyota hitch/bracket for your vehicle. For details,
contact your Toyota dealer.
If you wish to install a trailer hitch, contact your Toyota dealer.
Use only a hitch that conforms to the gross trailer weight require-
ment of your vehicle.
Follow the directions supplied by the hitch manufacturer.
Lubricate the hitch ball and kingpin with a light coating of grease.
Remove the trailer hitch whenever you are not towing a trailer. After
removing the hitch, seal any mounting hole in the vehicle body to
prevent entry of any substances into the vehicle.
177
Bumper towing (vehicles with steel bumper only)
The rear bumper of your vehicle is
equipped with a hole to install a
trailer ball. If you have any ques-
tions, contact your Toyota dealer.
The gross trailer weight (trailer
weight plus cargo weight) when
towing with the bumper must never
5000 lb. (2268 kg) whichever is
lower.
Selecting trailer ball
Use the correct trailer ball for your application.
Trailer ball load rating
1
4
Matches or exceeds the gross
trailer weight rating of the trailer.
Ball diameter
2
Matches the size of the trailer cou-
pler. Most couplers are stamped
with the required trailer ball size.
Trailer class
IV
II and III
2 in.
I
Typical trailer ball size
2 5/16 in.
1 7/8 in.
Shank length
3
4
Protrudes beyond the bottom of the lock washer and nut by at least 2
threads.
Shank diameter
Matches the ball mount hole diameter size.
178
Positions for towing hitch receiver
Hitch receiver pin hole position:
1
46.4 in. (1179 mm)
Connecting trailer lights
Use the wire harness stored in the rear end of the vehicle.
The tow lighting system is designed for 64 watts/5 amps of electrical
current per side (right and left) for the trailer brake/turn light functions.
Please contact your Toyota dealer with any questions or concerns.
Vehicles without towing pack- Vehicles with towing package
age
Service connector for towing brake controllers (vehicles without an
installed trailer brake controller)
Your vehicle is equipped with a service
connector for supplemental trailer brake
controllers.
Please consult your dealer on how to
access the service connector.
179
Trailer towing tips
Your vehicle will handle differently when towing a trailer. To help avoid
an accident, death or serious injury, keep the following in mind when
towing:
Speed limits for towing a trailer vary by state or province. Do not
exceed the posted towing speed limit.
Toyota recommends that the vehicle-trailer speed limit is 65 mph
(104 km/h) on a flat, straight, dry road. Do not exceed this limit, the
posted towing speed limit or the speed limit for your trailer as set
forth in your trailer owner’s manual, whichever is lowest. Instability
of the towing vehicle-trailer combination (trailer sway) increases as
speed increases. Exceeding speed limits may cause loss of control.
Before starting out, check the trailer lights, tires and the vehicle-
trailer connections. Recheck after driving a short distance.
Practice turning, stopping and reversing with the trailer attached in
an area away from traffic until you become accustomed to the feel
of the vehicle-trailer combination.
4
Reversing with a trailer attached is difficult and requires practice.
Grip the bottom of the steering wheel and move your hand to the
left to move the trailer to the left. Move your hand to the right to
move the trailer to the right. (This is generally opposite to reversing
without a trailer attached.) Avoid sharp or prolonged turning. Have
someone guide you when reversing to reduce the risk of an acci-
dent.
As stopping distance is increased when towing a trailer, vehicle-to-
vehicle distance should be increased. For each 10 mph (16 km/h)
of speed, allow at least one vehicle and trailer length.
180
Avoid sudden braking as you may skid, resulting in the trailer jack-
knifing and a loss of vehicle control. This is especially true on wet or
slippery surfaces.
Avoid jerky starts or sudden acceleration.
Avoid jerky steering and sharp turns, and slow down before making
a turn.
Note that when making a turn, the trailer wheels will be closer than
the vehicle wheels to the inside of the turn. Compensate by making
a wider than normal turning radius.
Slow down before making a turn, in crosswinds, on wet or slippery
surfaces, etc.
Increasing vehicle speed can destabilize the trailer.
Take care when passing other vehicles. Passing requires consider-
able distance. After passing a vehicle, do not forget the length of
your trailer, and be sure you have plenty of room before changing
lanes.
To maintain engine braking efficiency and charging system perfor-
mance when using engine braking, do not use the transmission in
D.
Transmission shift range position must be in 4 in the S mode.
Instability happens more frequently when descending steep or long
downhill grades. Before descending, slow down and downshift. Do
not make sudden downshifts while descending steep or long down-
hill grades.
Avoid holding the brake pedal down too long or applying the brakes
too frequently. This could cause the brakes to overheat and result in
reduced braking efficiency.
Due to the added load of the trailer, your vehicle’s engine may over-
heat on hot days (at temperatures over 85°F [30°C]) when driving
up a long or steep grade. If the engine coolant temperature gauge
indicates overheating, immediately turn off the air conditioning (if in
use), pull your vehicle off the road and stop in a safe spot.
181
Always place wheel blocks under both the vehicle’s and the trailer’s
wheels when parking. Apply the parking brake firmly, and put the
transmission in P. Avoid parking on a slope, but if unavoidable, do
so only after performing the following:
Apply the brakes and keep them applied.
1
Have someone place wheel blocks under both the vehicle’s and
2
trailer’s wheels.
When the wheel blocks are in place, release the brakes slowly
3
until the blocks absorb the load.
Apply the parking brake firmly.
4
Shift into P and turn off the engine.
5
When restarting after parking on a slope:
With the transmission in P, start the engine. Be sure to keep the
1
brake pedal pressed.
4
Shift into D or R (if reversing).
2
Release the parking brake and brake pedal, and slowly pull or
3
back away from the wheel blocks. Stop and apply the brakes.
Have someone retrieve the blocks.
4
182
Trailer brake controller
Matching trailer ball height to trailer coupler height
No matter which class of tow hitch
applies, for a more safe trailer hookup,
the trailer ball setup must be the proper
height for the coupler on the trailer.
Coupler
1
Trailer ball
2
Before towing
Check that the following conditions are met:
Trailer tires are inflated according to the trailer manufacturer’s recommen-
dation.
All trailer lights work as required by law.
All lights work each time you connect them.
The trailer ball is set at the proper height for the coupler on the trailer.
The trailer is level when it is hitched.
Do not drive if the trailer is not level, and check for improper tongue weight,
overloading, worn suspension, or other possible causes.
The trailer cargo is securely loaded.
The rear view mirrors conform to all applicable federal, state/provincial or
local regulations. If they do not, install rear view mirrors appropriate for tow-
ing purposes.
183
Break-in schedule
If your vehicle is new or equipped with any new power train components
(such as an engine, transmission, differential or wheel bearing), Toyota rec-
ommends that you do not tow a trailer until the vehicle has been driven for
over 500 miles (800 km).
After the vehicle has been driven for over 500 miles (800 km), you can start
towing. However, for the next 500 miles (800 km), drive the vehicle at a speed
of less than 50 mph (80 km/h) when towing a trailer, and avoid full throttle
acceleration.
Maintenance
If you tow a trailer, your vehicle will require more frequent maintenance due
to the additional load. (See “Owner’s Warranty Information Booklet” or
“Scheduled Maintenance Guide”/“Owner’s Manual Supplement”.)
Retighten the fixing bolts of the towing ball and bracket after approximately
600 miles (1000 km) of trailer towing.
If trailer sway occurs
One or more factors (crosswinds, passing vehicles, rough roads, etc.) can
adversely affect handling of your vehicle and trailer, causing instability.
4
If trailer swaying occurs:
Firmly grip the steering wheel. Steer straight ahead.
Do not try to control trailer swaying by turning the steering wheel.
Begin releasing the accelerator pedal immediately but very gradually to
reduce speed.
Do not increase speed. Do not apply vehicle brakes.
If you make no extreme correction with the steering or brakes, your vehicle
and trailer should stabilize. (if enabled, Trailer Sway Control can also help to
stabilize the vehicle and trailer.)
After the trailer swaying has stopped:
Stop in a safe place. Get all occupants out of the vehicle.
Check the tires of the vehicle and the trailer.
Check the load in the trailer.
Make sure the load has not shifted.
Make sure the tongue weight is appropriate, if possible.
Check the load in the vehicle.
Make sure the vehicle is not overloaded after occupants get in.
If you cannot find any problems, the speed at which trailer swaying occurred
is beyond the limit of your particular vehicle-trailer combination.
Drive at a lower speed to prevent instability. Remember that swaying of the
towing vehicle-trailer increases as speed increases.
184
WARNING
Trailer towing precautions
To tow a trailer safely, use extreme care and drive the vehicle in accordance
with the trailer’s characteristics and operating conditions. Failure to do so
could cause an accident resulting in death or serious injury. Vehicle stability
and braking performance are affected by trailer stability, brake setting and
performance, and the hitch. Your vehicle will handle differently when towing
a trailer.
To avoid accident or injury
Do not exceed the TWR, unbraked TWR, GCWR, GVWR or GAWR.
If the gross trailer weight is over 2000 lb. (907 kg), a sway control device
with sufficient capacity is required.
If the gross trailer weight is over 5000 lb. (2268 kg), a weight distributing
hitch with sufficient capacity is required.
Adjust the tongue weight within the appropriate range. Place heavier loads
as close to the trailer axle as possible.
Do not exceed 65 mph (104 km/h), the posted towing speed limit or the
speed limit for your trailer as set forth in your trailer owner’s manual,
whichever is lowest. Slow down sufficiently before making a turn, in cross-
winds, on wet or slippery surface, etc., to help avoid an accident. If you
experience a vehicle-trailer instability from reducing a certain speed, slow
down and make sure you keep your vehicle speed under the speed of
which you experience the instability.
Do not make jerky, abrupt or sharp turns.
Do not apply the brakes suddenly as you may skid, resulting in jackknifing
and loss of vehicle control. This is especially true on wet or slippery sur-
faces.
Do not exceed the trailer hitch assembly weight, gross vehicle weight,
gross axle weight and trailer tongue weight capacities.
Do not use cruise control when towing.
Slow down and downshift before descending steep or long downhill
grades. Do not make sudden downshifts while descending steep or long
downhill grades.
Vehicle-trailer instability is more likely on steep long downhills. Before
descending steep or long downhill grades, slow down and downshift. Do
not make sudden downshifts when descending steep or long downhill
grades. Avoid holding the brake pedal down too long or applying the
brakes too frequently. This could cause the brakes to overheat and result
in reduced braking efficiency.
Do not tow a trailer when the temporary spare tire is installed on your vehi-
cle.
185
WARNING
Hitch
Trailer hitch assemblies have different weight capacities established by the
hitch manufacturer. Even though the vehicle may be physically capable of
towing a higher weight, the operator must determine the maximum weight
rating of the particular hitch assembly and never exceed the maximum
weight rating specified for the trailer-hitch. Exceeding the maximum weight
rating set by the trailer-hitch manufacturer can cause an accident resulting
in death or serious personal injuries.
When towing a trailer
Toyota recommends trailers with brakes that conform to any applicable fed-
eral and state/provincial regulations.
If the gross trailer weight exceeds unbraked TWR, trailer brakes are
required. Toyota recommends trailers with brakes that conform to all appli-
cable federal and state/provincial regulations.
Never tap into your vehicle’s hydraulic system, as this will lower the vehi-
cle’s braking effectiveness.
4
Never tow a trailer without using a safety chain securely attached to both
the trailer and the vehicle. If damage occurs to the coupling unit or hitch
ball, there is danger of the trailer wandering into another lane.
NOTICE
When installing a trailer hitch
Use only the position recommended by your Toyota dealer. Do not install
the trailer hitch on the bumper; this may cause body damage.
Do not directly splice trailer lights
Do not directly splice trailer lights. Directly splicing trailer lights may damage
your vehicle’s electrical system and cause a malfunction.
When towing a fifth wheel trailer
Be careful not to hit the cabin or bed with
the trailer while making a sharp turn.
186
Dinghy towing
Your vehicle is not designed to be dinghy towed (with 4 wheels
on the ground) behind a motor home.
NOTICE
To avoid serious damage to your vehicle
Do not tow your vehicle with the four wheels on the ground.
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