Do-it-yourself maintenance 2014 Toyota 4Runner

Owner’s Manuals 2014 Do-it-yourself maintenance

Do-it-yourself maintenance

Do-it-yourself service precautions

If you perform maintenance by yourself, be sure to follow the correct procedure as given in these sections.

CAUTION

The engine compartment contains many mechanisms and fluids that may move suddenly, become hot, or become electrically energized. To avoid death or serious injury, observe the following precautions:

When working on the engine compartment:

• Keep hands, clothing and tools away from the moving fan and engine drive belt.

• Be careful not to touch the engine, radiator, exhaust manifold, etc. right after driving as they may be hot. Oil and other fluids may also be hot.

• Do not leave anything that may burn easily, such as paper and rags, in the engine compartment.

• Do not smoke, cause sparks or expose an open flame to fuel or the battery.

Fuel and battery fumes are flammable.

• Be extremely cautious when working on the battery. It contains poisonous and corrosive sulfuric acid.

Safety glasses

Wear safety glasses to prevent flying or falling material, fluid spray, etc. from getting in your eyes.

NOTICE

If you remove the air cleaner filter

Driving with the air cleaner filter removed may cause excessive engine wear due to dirt in the air.

Hood

Release the lock from the inside of the vehicle to open the hood.

Pull the hood release lever.

The hood will pop up slightly.

Push the auxiliary catch lever to the left and lift the hood.

CAUTION

Pre-driving check

Check that the hood is fully closed and locked.

If the hood is not locked properly, it may open while the vehicle is in motion and cause an accident, which may result in death or serious injury.

Engine compartment

1. Washer fluid tank 2. Power steering fluid reservoir 3. Engine oil level dipstick 4. Engine coolant reservoir 5. Engine oil filler cap 6. Brake fluid reservoir 7. Fuse box
8. Battery
9. Condenser 10. Radiator

Engine compartment cover

Removing the engine compartment cover

Installing the clips

NOTICE

After installing an engine compartment cover

Make sure that the cover is securely installed in its original position.

Engine oil

With the engine at operating temperature and turned off, check the oil level on the dipstick.

Checking the engine oil

Park the vehicle on level
ground. After warming up the engine and turning it off, wait more than 5 minutes for the oil to drain back into the bottom of the engine.

Holding a rag under the end,
pull the dipstick out.

Wipe the dipstick clean.

Reinsert the dipstick fully.

Holding a rag under the end,
pull the dipstick out and check the oil level.

Wipe the dipstick and reinsert
it fully.

1. Low
2. Full

Adding engine oil

If the oil level is below or near the low level mark, add engine oil of the same type as that already in the engine.

Make sure to check the oil type and prepare the items needed before adding oil.

Remove the oil filler cap by
turning it counterclockwise.

Add engine oil slowly, checking
the dipstick.

Install the oil filler cap by
turning it clockwise.

Engine oil consumption

A certain amount of engine oil will be consumed while driving. In the following situations, oil consumption may increase, and engine oil may need to be refilled in between oil maintenance intervals.

• When the engine is new, for example directly after purchasing the vehicle or after replacing the engine • If low quality oil or oil of an inappropriate viscosity is used • When driving at high engine speeds or with a heavy load, when towing, or when driving while accelerating or decelerating frequently • When leaving the engine idling for a long time, or when driving frequently through heavy traffic

CAUTION

Used engine oil

• Used engine oil contains potentially harmful contaminants which may cause skin disorders such as inflammation and skin cancer, so care should be taken to avoid prolonged and repeated contact. To remove used engine oil from your skin, wash thoroughly with soap and water.

• Dispose of used oil and filters only in a safe and acceptable manner. Do not dispose of used oil and filters in household trash, in sewers or onto the ground. Call your Toyota dealer, service station or auto parts store for information concerning recycling or disposal.

• Do not leave used engine oil within the reach of children.

NOTICE

To prevent serious engine damage

Check the oil level on a regular basis.

When replacing the engine oil

• Be careful not to spill engine oil on the vehicle components.

• Avoid overfilling, or the engine could be damaged.

• Check the oil level on the dipstick every time you refill the vehicle.

• Be sure the engine oil filler cap is properly tightened.

Engine coolant

The coolant level is satisfactory if it is between the “F” and “L” lines on the reservoir when the engine is cold.

1. Reservoir cap
2. “F” line
3. “L” line

If the level is on or below the “L” line, add coolant up to the “F” line.

Coolant selection

Only use “Toyota Super Long Life Coolant” or a similar high quality ethylene glycol based non-silicate, non-amine, non-nitrite, and non-borate coolant with long-life hybrid organic acid technology.

U.S.A.: “Toyota Super Long Life Coolant” is a mixture of 50% coolant and 50% deionized water. (Minimum temperature: -31°F [-35°C])

Canada: “Toyota Super Long Life Coolant” is a mixture of 55% coolant and 45% deionized water. (Minimum temperature: -44°F [-42°C])

For more details about engine coolant, contact your Toyota dealer.

If the coolant level drops within a short time of replenishing

Visually check the radiator, hoses, engine coolant reservoir caps, drain cock and water pump.

If you cannot find a leak, have your Toyota dealer test the cap and check for leaks in the cooling system.

CAUTION

When the engine is hot

Do not remove the engine coolant reservoir cap.

The cooling system may be under pressure and may spray hot coolant if the cap is removed, causing serious injuries, such as burns.

NOTICE

When adding coolant

Coolant is neither plain water nor straight antifreeze. The correct mixture of water and antifreeze must be used to provide proper lubrication, corrosion protection and cooling. Be sure to read the antifreeze or coolant label.

If you spill coolant

Be sure to wash it off with water to prevent it from damaging parts or paint.

Radiator and condenser

Check the radiator and condenser and clear away any foreign objects.

If either of the above parts is extremely dirty or you are not sure of their condition, have your vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer.

CAUTION

When the engine is hot

Do not touch the radiator or condenser as they may be hot and cause serious injuries, such as burns.

Brake fluid

Checking fluid level

The brake fluid level should be between the “MAX” and “MIN” lines on the tank.

1. “MAX” line
2. “MIN” line

Adding fluid

Make sure to check the fluid type and prepare the necessary item.

Refilling brake fluid

Vehicles without a smart key
system

Turn the engine switch off.

Vehicles with a smart key system

Turn the “ENGINE START STOP” switch off.

Depress the brake pedal more than
40 times.

Remove the reservoir cap by
hand. Add brake fluid up to the “MAX” line.

If you do not follow the procedure above, the reservoir may overflow.

Brake fluid can absorb moisture from the air

Excess moisture in the brake fluid can cause a dangerous loss of braking efficiency. Use only newly opened brake fluid.

CAUTION

When filling the reservoir

Take care as brake fluid can harm your hands and eyes and damage painted surfaces.

If fluid gets on your hands or in your eyes, flush the affected area with clean water immediately.

If you still experience discomfort, see a doctor.

NOTICE

If the fluid level is low or high

It is normal for the brake fluid level to go down slightly as the brake pads wear out or when the fluid level in the accumulator is high.

If the reservoir needs frequent refilling, there may be a serious problem.

Power steering fluid

Fluid level

The fluid level should be within the appropriate range.

1. Full (when cold)
2. Add fluid (when cold) 3. Full (when hot)
4. Add fluid (when hot)

Hot: Vehicle has been driven around 50 mph (80 km/h) for 20 minutes, or slightly longer in frigid temperatures. (Fluid temperature, 140°F - 175°F [60°C - 80°C]).

Cold: Engine has not been run for about 5 hours. (Room temperature, 50°F - 85°F [10°C - 30°C]).

Checking the fluid level

Make sure to check the fluid type and prepare the necessary items.

Clean all dirt off the
reservoir.

Remove the cap by turning it
counterclockwise.

Wipe the dipstick clean.

Reinstall the cap and remove it
again.

Check the fluid level.

CAUTION

When checking the reservoir

Take care as the reservoir may be hot.

NOTICE

When adding fluid

Avoid overfilling, or the power steering may be damaged.

After replacing the reservoir cap

Check the steering box case, vane pump and hose connections for leaks or damage.

Battery

Check the battery as follows:

Make sure that the battery terminals are not corroded and that there are no loose connections, cracks, or loose clamps.

1. Terminals
2. Hold-down clamp

Before recharging

When recharging, the battery produces hydrogen gas which is flammable and explosive. Therefore, observe the following before recharging:

• If recharging with the battery installed on the vehicle, be sure to disconnect the ground cable.

• Make sure the power switch on the charger is off when connecting and disconnecting the charger cables to the battery.

After recharging/reconnecting the battery (vehicles with smart key system)

• Unlocking the doors using the smart key system may not be possible immediately after reconnecting the battery. If this happens, use the wireless remote control or the mechanical key to lock/unlock the doors.

• Start the engine with the “ENGINE START STOP” switch in ACCESSORY mode. The engine may not start with the “ENGINE START STOP” switch turned OFF. However, the engine will operate normally from the second attempt.

• The “ENGINE START STOP” switch mode is recorded by the vehicle. If the battery is reconnected, the vehicle will return the “ENGINE START STOP” switch mode to the status it was in before the battery was disconnected.

Make sure to turn off the engine before disconnect the battery.

Take extra care when connecting the battery if the “ENGINE START STOP” switch mode prior to discharge is unknown.

If the system will not start even after multiple attempts, contact your Toyota dealer.

CAUTION

Chemicals in the battery

Batteries contain poisonous and corrosive sulfuric acid and may produce hydrogen gas which is flammable and explosive. To reduce the risk of death or serious injury, take the following precautions while working on or near the battery:

• Do not cause sparks by touching the battery terminals with tools.

• Do not smoke or light a match near the battery.

• Avoid contact with eyes, skin and clothes.

• Never inhale or swallow electrolyte.

• Wear protective safety glasses when working near the battery.

• Keep children away from the battery.

CAUTION

Where to safely charge the battery

Always charge the battery in an open area. Do not charge the battery in a garage or closed room where there is insufficient ventilation.

How to recharge the battery

Only perform a slow charge (5 A or less). The battery may explode if charged at a quicker rate.

Emergency measures regarding electrolyte

• If electrolyte gets in your eyes

Flush your eyes with clean water for at least 15 minutes and get immediate medical attention. If possible, continue to apply water with a sponge or cloth while traveling to the nearest medical facility.

• If electrolyte gets on your skin

Wash the affected area thoroughly. If you feel pain or burning, get medical attention immediately.

• If electrolyte gets on your clothes

It can soak through clothing on to your skin. Immediately take off the clothing and follow the procedure above if necessary.

• If you accidentally swallow electrolyte

Drink a large quantity of water or milk. Get emergency medical attention immediately.

NOTICE

When recharging the battery

Never recharge the battery while the engine is running. Also, be sure all accessories are turned off.

Washer fluid

Type A

If any washer does not work or the low washer fluid warning light comes on, the washer tank may be empty. Add washer fluid.

Type B

If the washer fluid level is at “LOW”, add washer fluid.

Using the gauge (Type B only)

The washer fluid level can be checked by observing the position of the level on the liquid-covered holes in the gauge.

If the level falls below the second hole from the bottom (the “LOW” position), refill the washer fluid.

CAUTION

When adding washer fluid

Do not add washer fluid when the engine is hot or running as washer fluid contains alcohol and may catch fire if spilled on the engine etc.

NOTICE

Do not use any fluid other than washer fluid

Do not use soapy water or engine antifreeze instead of washer fluid.

Doing so may cause streaking on the vehicle’s painted surfaces.

Diluting washer fluid

Dilute washer fluid with water as necessary.

Refer to the freezing temperatures listed on the label of the washer fluid bottle.

Tires

Replace or rotate tires in accordance with maintenance schedules and treadwear.

Checking tires

1. New tread
2. Treadwear indicator
3. Worn tread

The location of treadwear indicators is shown by the “TWI” or “Δ” marks, etc., molded on the sidewall of each tire.

Check spare tire condition and pressure if not rotated.

Tire rotation

Rotate the tires in the order shown.

To equalize tire wear and extend tire life, Toyota recommends that tire rotation is carried out at the same interval as tire inspection.

Tire pressure warning system

Your vehicle is equipped with a tire pressure warning system that uses tire pressure warning valves and transmitters to detect low tire inflation pressure before serious problems arise.

Installing tire pressure warning valves and transmitters

When replacing tires or wheels, tire pressure warning valves and transmitters must also be installed.

When new tire pressure warning valves and transmitters are installed, new tire pressure warning valve and transmitter ID codes must be registered in the tire pressure warning computer and the tire pressure warning system must be initialized. Have tire pressure warning valve and transmitter ID codes registered by your Toyota dealer.

Registering ID codes

The tire pressure warning valve and transmitter is equipped with a unique ID code. When replacing a tire pressure warning valve and transmitter, it is necessary to register the ID code of tire pressure warning valve and transmitter. Have the ID code registered by your Toyota dealer.

When to replace your vehicle’s tires

Tires should be replaced if:

• You have tire damage such as cuts, splits, cracks deep enough to expose the fabric, and bulges indicating internal damage

• A tire goes flat repeatedly or cannot be properly repaired due to the size or location of a cut or other damage

If you are not sure, consult with your Toyota dealer.

Replacing tires and wheels

If the ID code of the tire pressure warning valve and transmitter is not registered, the tire pressure warning system will not work properly. After driving for about 20 minutes, the tire pressure warning light comes on after blinking for 1 minute to indicate a system malfunction.

Tire life

Any tire over 6 years old must be checked by a qualified technician even if they have seldom or never been used or damage is not obvious.

Routine tire inflation pressure checks

The tire pressure warning system does not replace routine tire inflation pressure checks. Make sure to check tire inflation pressure as part of your routine of daily vehicle checks.

Maximum load of tire

Check that the number given by dividing the maximum load by 1.10 of the replacement tire is greater than 1/2 of the Gross Axle Weight Ratings (GAWR) of either the front axle or the rear axle, whichever is greater.

For the GAWR, see the Certification Label. For the maximum load of the tire, see the load limit at maximum cold tire inflation pressure mentioned on the sidewall of the tire.

Tire types

• Summer tires

Summer tires are high-speed performance tires best suited to highway driving under dry conditions. Since summer tires do not have the same traction performance as snow tires, summer tires are inadequate for driving on snow-covered or icy roads. For driving on snow-covered roads or icy roads, the use of snow tires is recommended. When installing snow tires, be sure to replace all four tires.

• All season tires

All season tires are designed to provide better traction in snow and to be adequate for driving in most winter conditions as well as for use year-round. All season tires, however, do not have adequate traction performance compared with snow tires in heavy or loose snow. Also, all season tires fall short in acceleration and handling performance compared with summer tires in highway driving.

• Snow tires

For driving on snow-covered roads or icy roads, we recommend using snow tires. If you need snow tires, select tires of the same size, construction and load capacity as the originally installed tires. Since your vehicle has radial tires as original equipment, make sure your snow tires also have radial construction. Do not install studded tires without first checking local regulations for possible restrictions. Snow tires should be installed on all wheels.

If the tread on snow tires wears down below 0.16 in. (4 mm)

The effectiveness of the tires as snow tires is lost.

Tire pressure warning system certification

FCC ID: PAXPMV107J

FCC ID: HYQ13BCX

For vehicles sold in the U.S.A.

NOTE:

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

FCC WARNING:

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

For vehicles sold in Canada

NOTE:

Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

CAUTION

When inspecting or replacing tires

Observe the following precautions to prevent accidents. Failure to do so may cause damage to parts of the drive train as well as dangerous handling characteristics, which may lead to an accident resulting in death or serious injury.

• Do not mix tires of different makes, models or tread patterns. Also, do not mix tires of remarkably different treadwear.

• Do not use tire sizes other than those recommended by Toyota.

• Do not mix differently constructed tires (radial, bias-belted or bias-ply tires.)

• Do not mix summer, all season and snow tires.

NOTICE

Repairing or replacing tires, wheels, tire pressure warning valves, transmitters and tire valve caps

• When removing or fitting the wheels, tires or the tire pressure warning valves and transmitters, contact your Toyota dealer as the tire pressure warning valves and transmitter may be damaged if not handled correctly.

• When replacing tire valve caps, do not use tire valve caps other than those specified. The cap may become stuck.

To avoid damage to the tire pressure warning valves and transmitters

When a tire is repaired with liquid sealants, the tire pressure warning valve and transmitter may not operate properly. If a liquid sealant is used, contact your Toyota dealer or other qualified service shop as soon as possible. Make sure to replace the tire pressure warning valve and transmitter when replacing the tire.

Driving on rough roads

Take particular care when driving on roads with loose surfaces or potholes.

These conditions may cause losses in tire inflation pressure, reducing the cushioning ability of the tires. In addition, driving on rough roads may cause damage to the tires themselves, as well as the vehicle’s wheels and body.

If tire inflation pressures of each tire becomes low while driving

Do not continue driving, or your tires and/or wheels may be ruined.

Tire inflation pressure

Tire inflation pressure

The recommended cold tire inflation pressure and tire size are displayed on the tire and loading information label.

Inspection and adjustment procedure

1. Tire valve 2. Tire pressure gauge

Remove the tire valve cap.

Press the tip of the tire
pressure gauge onto the tire valve.

Read the pressure using the
gauge gradations.

If the tire inflation pressure
is not at the recommended level, adjust the pressure.

If you add too much air, press the center of the valve to deflate.

After completing the tire
inflation pressure measurement and adjustment, apply soapy water to the valve and check for leakage.

Put the tire valve cap back on.

Tire inflation pressure check interval

You should check tire inflation pressure every two weeks, or at least once a month.

Do not forget to check the spare.

Effects of incorrect tire inflation pressure

Driving with incorrect tire inflation pressure may result in the following:

• Reduced fuel efficiency

• Reduced driving comfort and tire life

• Reduced safety

• Damage to the drive train

If a tire needs frequent inflating, have it checked by your Toyota dealer.

Instructions for checking tire inflation pressure

When checking tire inflation pressure, observe the following:

• Check only when the tires are cold.

If your vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours or has not been driven for more than 1 mile or 1.5 km, you will get an accurate cold tire inflation pressure reading.

• Always use a tire pressure gauge.

The appearance of the tire can be misleading. In addition, tire inflation pressure that is even just a few pounds off can affect ride quality and handling.

• Do not reduce tire inflation pressure after driving. It is normal for tire inflation pressure to be higher after driving.

• Never exceed the vehicle capacity weight.

Passengers and luggage weight should be placed so that the vehicle is balanced.

CAUTION

Proper inflation is critical to save tire performance

Keep your tires properly inflated. Otherwise, the following conditions may occur and result in an accident causing death or serious injury:

• Excessive wear

• Uneven wear

• Poor handling

• Possibility of blowouts resulting from overheated tires

• Poor sealing of the tire bead

• Wheel deformation and/or tire separation

• A greater possibility of tire damage from road hazards

NOTICE

When inspecting and adjusting tire inflation pressure

Be sure to put the tire valve caps back on.

Without the valve caps, dirt or moisture could get into the valve and cause air leakage, which could result in an accident. If the caps are lost, replace them as soon as possible.

Wheels

If a wheel is bent, cracked or heavily corroded, it should be replaced. Otherwise, the tire may separate from the wheel or cause a loss of handling control.

Wheel selection

When replacing wheels, care should be taken to ensure that they are equivalent to those removed in load capacity, diameter, rim width and inset*.

Replacement wheels are available at your Toyota dealer.

*: Conventionally referred to as “offset”.

Toyota does not recommend using the following:

• Wheels of different sizes or types

• Used wheels

• Bent wheels that have been straightened

Aluminum wheel precautions

• Use only Toyota wheel nuts and wrenches designed for use with your aluminum wheels.

• When rotating, repairing or changing your tires, check that the wheel nuts are still tight after driving 1000 miles (1600 km).

• Be careful not to damage the aluminum wheels when using tire chains.

• When balancing your wheels, use only Toyota genuine balance weights or the equivalent. If clip-on balance weights are being used, use a plastic or rubber hammer to install the weight.

When replacing wheels

The wheels of your vehicle are equipped with tire pressure warning valves and transmitters that allow the tire pressure warning system to provide advanced warning in the event of a loss in tire inflation pressure. Whenever wheels are replaced, the tire pressure warning valves and transmitters must be installed.

CAUTION

When replacing wheels

• Do not use wheels that are a different size from those recommended in the Owner’s Manual, as this may result in a loss of handling control.

• Never use an inner tube in a leaking wheel which is designed for a tubeless tire. Doing so may result in an accident, causing death or serious injury.

When installing the wheel nuts

• Be sure to install the wheel nuts with the tapered end facing inward. Installing the nuts with the tapered end facing outward can cause wheel to break and eventually cause a wheel to come off while driving, which could lead to an accident resulting in death or serious injury.

• Never use oil or grease on the wheel bolts or wheel nuts.

Oil and grease may cause the wheel nuts to be excessively tightened, leading to bolt or disc wheel damage. In addition, the oil or grease can cause the wheel nuts to loosen and the wheel may fall off, causing an accident and resulting in death or serious injury. Remove any oil or grease from the wheel bolts or wheel nuts.

NOTICE

Replacing tire pressure warning valves and transmitters

• Because tire repair or replacement may affect the tire pressure warning valves and transmitters, make sure to have tires serviced by your Toyota dealer or other qualified service shop. In addition, make sure to purchase your tire pressure warning valves and transmitters at your Toyota dealer.

• Ensure that only genuine Toyota wheels are used on your vehicle.

Tire pressure warning valves and transmitters may not work properly with non-genuine wheels.

Air conditioning filter

The air conditioning filter must be changed regularly to maintain air conditioning efficiency.

Removal method

Turn the engine switch (vehicles
without a smart key system) or “ENGINE START STOP” switch (vehicles with a smart key system) off.

Open the glove box and remove the cover.

Remove the filter cover.

Remove the filter.

The “↑UP” marks shown on the filter should be pointing up.

Checking interval

Replace the air conditioning filter according to the maintenance schedule. In dusty areas or areas with heavy traffic flow, early replacement may be required. (For scheduled maintenance information, please refer to the “Scheduled Maintenance Guide” or “Owner’s Manual Supplement”.)

If air flow from the vents decreases dramatically

The filter may be clogged. Check the filter and replace if necessary.

NOTICE

When using the air conditioning system

Make sure that a filter is always installed.

Using the air conditioning system without a filter may cause damage to the system.

Wireless remote control/electronic key battery

Replace the battery with a new one if it is depleted.

You will need the following items:

• Flathead screwdriver • Lithium battery CR2016 (vehicles without a smart key system), or CR1632 (vehicles with a smart key system)

Replacing the battery (vehicles without a smart key system)

Remove the cover.

To prevent damage to the key, cover the tip of the screwdriver with a rag.

Remove the module.

Open the case cover using a coin protected with tape etc. and remove the depleted battery.

Insert a new battery with the “+” terminal facing up.

Replacing the battery (vehicles with a smart key system)

Take out the mechanical key.

Remove the cover.

To prevent damage to the key, cover the tip of the screwdriver with a rag.

Remove the depleted battery.

Insert a new battery with the “+” terminal facing up.

Use a CR2016 (vehicles without a smart key system) or CR1632 (vehicles with a smart key system) lithium battery

• Batteries can be purchased at your Toyota dealer, local electrical appliance shops or camera stores.

• Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by the manufacturer.

• Dispose of used batteries according to local laws.

If the key battery is depleted

The following symptoms may occur:

• The smart key system and wireless remote control will not function properly.

• The operational range will be reduced.

CAUTION

Removed battery and other parts

Keep away from children. These parts are small and if swallowed by a child, they can cause choking. Failure to do so could result in death or serious injury.

NOTICE

For normal operation after replacing the battery

Observe the following precautions to prevent accidents:

• Always work with dry hands.

Moisture may cause the battery to rust.

• Do not touch or move any other component inside the remote control.

• Do not bend either of the battery terminals.

Checking and replacing fuses

If any of the electrical components do not operate, a fuse may have blown. If this happens, check and replace the fuses as necessary.

Vehicles without a smart key
system

Turn the engine switch off.

Vehicles with a smart key system

Turn the “ENGINE START STOP” switch off.

Open the fuse box cover.

Engine compartment

Push the tab in and lift the lid off.

Driver’s side instrument panel

Remove the lid.

After a system failure, see
“Fuse layout and amperage ratings” for details about which fuse to check.

Remove the fuse.

Only type A fuse can be removed using the pull-out tool.

Check if the fuse is blown.