Turning sharp corners
When turning a sharp corner in “4WD
LOCK” (Electronically controlled 4WD) or
“LOCK” (S-AWC) position at low speed, a
slight difference in steering may be experi-
enced similar to feeling as if the brakes were
applied. This is called tight corner braking
and results from each of the 4 tyres being at a
different distance from the corner. The phe-
nomenon is typical of 4-wheel drive vehicles.
If this occurs, either straighten out the steer-
ing wheel, or change to another mode.
On snowy or icy roads
Set the drive mode-selector to “4WD AUTO”
or “4WD LOCK” (Electronically controlled
4WD) or “SNOW” (S-AWC) in accordance
with the road conditions, and then gradually
depress the accelerator pedal for a smooth
start.
NOTE
l
The use of snow tyres and/or snow traction
device (tyre chains) is recommended.
l
Maintain a safe distance between vehicles,
avoid sudden braking, and use engine brak-
ing (downshifting).
CAUTION
l
Avoid sudden braking, sudden acceleration
and sharp turning. Skidding occurs and con-
trol of the vehicle could be lost.
Driving on sandy or muddy
roads
Set the drive mode-selector to “4WD LOCK”
(Electronically controlled 4WD) or “LOCK”
(S-AWC) and then gradually depress the ac-
celerator pedal for a smooth start. Keep the
pressure on the accelerator pedal as constant
as possible, and drive at low speed.
CAUTION
l
Do not force the vehicle or drive recklessly
on sandy surfaces. In comparison with nor-
mal road surfaces, the engine and other
drive-system components are put under ex-
cessive strain when driving on such a sur-
face. This could lead to accidents.
l
If the engine is overheating or the engine
power drops suddenly while the vehicle is
being driven, immediately park your vehicle
in a safe place.
Refer to “Engine overheating” on page
8-04 for details and take the required meas-
ures.
WARNING
l
When attempting to rock your vehicle out
of a stuck position, be sure that the area
around the vehicle is clear of people and
physical objects. The rocking motion may
cause the vehicle to suddenly launch for-
ward or backward, causing injury or
damage to nearby people or objects.
NOTE
l
Avoid sudden braking, sudden acceleration
and sharp turning; such operations could re-
sult in the vehicle becoming stuck.
l
If the vehicle becomes stuck in sandy or
muddy roads, it can often be moved with a
rocking motion. Move the gearshift lever or
selector lever alternately between the 1
st
and
“R” (Reverse) positions (with M/T), the “D”
(DRIVE) and “R” (REVERSE) positions
(with A/T, CVT), while pressing lightly on
the accelerator pedal.
l
Driving on rough roads can cause rust on the
vehicle; wash the vehicle thoroughly as soon
as possible after such use.
Climbing/descending sharp
grades
Your vehicle may not provide sufficient hill
climbing ability and engine braking on steep
slopes. Avoid driving on steep slopes even
though the vehicle is a 4-wheel drive vehicle.
4-wheel drive operation
6-58
OGFE16E1
Starting and driving
6