2021 Toyota Tundra Owners Manual - Before driving

Bulb Sizes

Before driving

Driving the vehicle

P. 217

1 With the brake pedal depressed, shift the shift lever to D. (P. 225) Release the parking brake. (P. 233)

Gradually release the brake pedal and gently depress the accelera- tor pedal to accelerate the vehicle.

1 With the shift lever in D, depress the brake pedal. If necessary, set the parking brake.

If the vehicle is to be stopped for an extended period of time, shift the shift lever to P or N. (P. 225)

Set the parking brake (P. 233), and shift the shift lever to P (P. 225).

Turn the engine switch to OFF to stop the engine.

Lock the door, making sure that you have the key on your person.

If parking on a hill, block the wheels as needed.

Release the parking brake.

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)

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.

Deactivate TRAC (P. 323)

When the AUTO LSD system is turned on. (P. 318)

4WD models: The four-wheel drive control switch is in “4L” position. (P. 315)

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 of the correct fuel. (P. 551)

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.

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.

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 to stop the vehicle in the normal way: P. 475

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 effectiveness. (P. 225)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 shifting of the transfer mode. (P. 315)

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 brake booster device 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.

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.

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.

Information on what to do in case of a flat tire (P. 506)

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.

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 —

Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your vehicle’s placard.

Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that will be riding in your vehicle.

Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from XXX kg or XXX lbs.

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 x 150) =

650 lbs.)

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.

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 vehicle. (P. 195)

1 Cargo capacity

Total load capacity (vehicle capacity weight) (P. 538)

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

*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.

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.

Vehicle load limits

Total load capacity (vehicle capacity weight): P. 538

Total load capacity means the combined weight of occupants, cargo and luggage.

Seating capacity: P. 537

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 (Trailer Weight Rating): P. 201

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

These details are also described on the tire and loading information label. (P. 442)

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 employ the requisite driving habits. (P. 214)

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.

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.

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 axle weight. The gross axle weight is the load placed on each axle (front and rear).

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.

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.

Unbraked TWR (Unbraked Trailer Weight Rating)

Tongue Weight

The load placed on the trailer hitch ball. (P. 205)

Kingpin Weight

The load placed on the 5th wheel mount or the gooseneck ball. (P. 206)

The gross trailer weight must never exceed the TWR described in the table. (P. 201)

The gross combination weight must never exceed the GCWR described in the table. (P. 201)

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.

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

Model code*1	Engine	Driving system	Bed type	GCWR	TWR
USK51L- CRTSKA	3UR-FE engine	2WD	Standard	14000 lb. (6350 kg)*2	8300 lb. (3760 kg)*2
				16000 lb. (7255 kg)*3	10200 lb. (4625 kg)*3
				16000 lb. (7255 kg)*4	10100 lb. (4580 kg)*4
USK51L- CRTLKA				14000 lb. (6350 kg)*2	8200 lb. (3715 kg)*2
				16000 lb. (7255 kg)*3	10200 lb. (4625 kg)*3
				16000 lb. (7255 kg)*4	10100 lb. (4580 kg)*4
USK52L- CHTSKA			Long	14000 lb. (6350 kg)*2	8100 lb. (3670 kg)*2
				16000 lb. (7255 kg)*3	10100 lb. (4580 kg)*3
				16000 lb. (7255 kg)*4	10000 lb. (4535 kg)*4

*5: These models meet the tow-vehicle trailering requirement of SAE International per SAE J2807.

Model code*1	Engine	Driving system	Bed type	GCWR	TWR
USK56L- CRTSKA	3UR-FE engine	4WD	Standard	14000 lb. (6350 kg)*2	8000 lb. (3625 kg)*2
				16000 lb. (7255 kg)*3	9900 lb. (4490 kg)*3
				15820 lb. (7175 kg)*4	9600 lb. (4355 kg)*4
USK56L- CRTLKA				14000 lb. (6350 kg)*2	7900 lb. (3580 kg)*2
				16000 lb. (7255 kg)*3	9900 lb. (4490 kg)*3
				15310 lb. (6945 kg)*4	9100 lb. (4125 kg)*4
USK57L- CHTSKA			Long	14000 lb. (6350 kg)*2	7800 lb. (3535 kg)*2
				16000 lb. (7255 kg)*3	9800 lb. (4445 kg)*3
				15620 lb. (7085 kg)*4	9300 lb. (4215 kg)*4

*1: The model code is indicated on the Certification Label. (P. 541)

*2: Vehicles without towing package

*3: Vehicles with towing package

*4: Vehicles with towing package and large fuel tank

CrewMax models

Model code*1	Engine	Driving system	Bed type	GCWR	TWR
USK51L- PSTSKA	3UR-FE engine	2WD	Short	14000 lb. (6350 kg)*2	8100 lb. (3670 kg)*2
				16000 lb. (7255 kg)*3	10100 lb. (4580 kg)*3
				15890 lb. (7205 kg)*4	9900 lb. (4490 kg)*4
USK51L- PSTLKA				14000 lb. (6350 kg)*2	8000 lb. (3625 kg)*2
				16000 lb. (7255 kg)*3	10000 lb. (4535 kg)*3
				15530 lb. (7045 kg)*4	9400 lb. (4260 kg)*4
USK51L- PSTZKA				14000 lb. (6350 kg)*2	8000 lb. (3625 kg)*2
				16000 lb. (7255 kg)*3	10000 lb. (4535 kg)*3
				15520 lb. (7040 kg)*4	9400 lb. (4260 kg)*4
USK56L- PSTSKA		4WD		14000 lb. (6350 kg)*2	7800 lb. (3535 kg)*2
				16000 lb. (7255 kg)*3	9800 lb. (4445 kg)*3
				15510 lb. (7035 kg)*4	9200 lb. (4170 kg)*4
USK56L- PSTLKA				14000 lb. (6350 kg)*2	7800 lb. (3535 kg)*2
				16000 lb. (7255 kg)*3	9700 lb. (4400 kg)*3
				15140 lb. (6865 kg)*4	8800 lb. (3990 kg)*4

Model code*1	Engine	Driving system	Bed type	GCWR	TWR
USK56L- PSTZKA	3UR-FE engine	4WD	Short	14000 lb. (6350 kg)*2	7800 lb. (3535 kg)*2
				16000 lb. (7255 kg)*3	9800 lb. (4445 kg)*3
				15160 lb. (6875 kg)*4	8800 lb. (3990 kg)*4

*1: The model code is indicated on the Certification Label. (P. 541)

*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.

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.

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

Tongue Weight

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.

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

Kingpin weight

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.

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 hitch ball whenever you are not towing a trailer. Remove the trailer hitch if you do not need it. After removing the hitch, seal any mounting hole in the vehicle body to prevent entry of any substances into the vehicle.

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 exceed the TWR (P. 201) or 5000 lb. (2268 kg) whichever is lower.

Trailer ball load rating

Matches or exceeds the gross trailer weight rating of the trailer.

Matches the size of the trailer cou- pler. Most couplers are stamped with the required trailer ball size.

Trailer class	IV	II and III	I
Typical trailer ball size	2 5/16 in.	2 in.	1 7/8 in.

Protrudes beyond the bottom of the lock washer and nut by at least 2 threads.

Matches the ball mount hole diameter size.

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- age

Vehicles with towing package

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.

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.

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.

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.

(P. 529)

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.

Have someone place wheel blocks under both the vehicle’s and trailer’s wheels.

When the wheel blocks are in place, release the brakes slowly until the blocks absorb the load.

Apply the parking brake firmly. Shift into P and turn off the engine.

When restarting after parking on a slope:

With the transmission in P, start the engine. Be sure to keep the brake pedal pressed.

Shift into D or R (if reversing).

Release the parking brake and brake pedal, and slowly pull or back away from the wheel blocks. Stop and apply the brakes.

Have someone retrieve the blocks.

Trailer brake controller

P. 327

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 Trailer ball

Before towing

Check that the following conditions are met:

Ensure that your vehicle’s tires are properly inflated. (P. 548)

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.

Depress TOW/HAUL button (if equipped). (P. 228)

The manual headlight leveling dial is correctly adjusted. (P. 236)

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Turn the engine switch to the “START” position to start the engine.

The steering wheel is locked and the key can be removed. (The key can be removed only when the shift lever is in P.)

Some electrical components such as the audio system can be used.

All electrical components can be used.

For starting the engine.

Turning the key from ACC to OFF

1 Shift the shift lever to P.

2 Push in the key and turn it to OFF.

If the engine does not start

The engine immobilizer system may not have been deactivated. (P. 85) Contact your Toyota dealer.

When the steering lock cannot be released

When starting the engine, the engine switch may seem stuck in the OFF. To free it, turn the key while turning the steer- ing wheel slightly left and right.

Key reminder function

A buzzer sounds if the driver’s door is opened while the engine switch is in ACC or OFF to remind you to remove the key.

and a message will be dis-

played on the multi-information dis- play.

If it is not displayed, the engine cannot be started.

When operating the engine switch, one short, firm press is enough. It is not necessary to press and hold the switch.

The engine will crank until it starts or for up to 30 seconds, whichever is less.

Continue depressing the brake pedal until the engine is completely started.

The engine can be started from any engine switch mode.

Set the parking brake (P. 233), and shift the shift lever to P. Press the engine switch.

Release the brake pedal and check that the display on the instru- ment cluster is off.

Modes can be changed by pressing the engine switch with brake pedal released. (The mode changes each time the switch is pressed.)

OFF*

The emergency flashers can be used.

Some electrical components such as the audio system can be used.

“ACCESSORY” will be displayed on the multi-information display.

All electrical components can be used.

“IGNITION ON” will be displayed on the multi-information display.

*: If the shift lever is in a position other than P when turning off the engine, the engine switch will be turned to ACC, not to off.

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