Toyota bZ4X Owner's Manual: Before driving

DRIVING THE VEHICLE: ESSENTIAL PROCEDURES FOR A SAFE JOURNEY

To enjoy a smooth, secure and efficient drive, it is essential to follow a series of detailed procedures and precautions. This comprehensive guide not only enhances safety but also helps extend the lifespan of your vehicle’s systems.

Pre-Start Checks

Before Starting the EV System: Ensure that the charging cable is completely disconnected. This is a crucial safety check that prevents electrical interference during vehicle start-up.

Starting the EV System and Beginning Your Journey

Starting Procedures:

1. With your foot firmly pressed on the brake pedal, shift the gear selector to Drive (D). Confirm that the indicator displays "D."
2. If the parking brake is engaged, release it. In automatic mode, the parking brake will disengage on its own.
3. Gradually lift your foot off the brake while gently pressing the accelerator to set the vehicle in motion.

Stopping and Parking Procedures

To Stop Safely: Depress the brake pedal firmly. If needed, set the parking brake to ensure full stop, then shift the gear selector to Park (P) for extended stops.

1. Bring the vehicle to a complete halt with the brake pedal fully engaged.
2. Engage the parking brake if it is not already activated, and verify that the parking brake indicator light is on.
3. Shift the gear selector to Park (P) and confirm the "P" indication before pressing the power switch to shut down the EV system.
4. Slowly release the brake pedal and lock the door, ensuring your electronic key is with you at all times.

When parking on an incline, additionally block the wheels to prevent any unintended movement.

Managing Steep Uphill Starts

For Steep Inclines: With the brake pedal securely held down, shift into Drive. The hill-start assist control will automatically activate to help you prevent rollback.

1. Engage the parking brake while the brake pedal remains depressed.
2. Gently release the brake then carefully press the accelerator to start moving uphill.
3. Once sufficient forward momentum is achieved, discharge the parking brake completely.

This system is designed to deliver extra torque during challenging climbs, ensuring a seamless transition from stationary to moving.

Driving in Adverse Weather Conditions

• Drive cautiously when it begins to rain because visibility may be reduced and windows can quickly fog, especially during the transition from dry to wet conditions.
• In heavy rain, reduce speed on expressways as a thin layer of water between the tires and the road can diminish traction, affecting both steering precision and braking performance.
• Maintain a safe following distance in inclement weather to allow ample time for reaction and safe braking.

Brake Override System – Restraining EV Output

For an added safety layer, if both the accelerator and brake pedals are pressed simultaneously, the Brake Override System automatically restricts the EV system output. A corresponding warning message is displayed on your multi-information screen, alerting you to the temporary reduced output. This system helps prevent unintended acceleration and ensures smoother transitions between acceleration and deceleration.

Breaking in Your New Vehicle

To maximize the longevity and performance of your vehicle, it is advisable to carefully observe these break-in practices:

• For the first 200 miles (approximately 300 km), avoid abrupt stops to allow the braking system and other components to settle naturally.
• During the initial 600 miles (around 1000 km), refrain from driving at extremely high speeds, avoid sudden acceleration and deceleration, and vary your speed rather than maintaining a constant high speed for extended periods. This process helps acclimate the engine, transmission, and braking systems to normal operating conditions.

Embracing these advanced driving techniques not only safeguards you and your passengers but also optimizes system performance over time. Precise driving habits, combined with the latest technological safeguards, provide a foundation for efficient, long-lasting operation.

Mastering these step-by-step driving procedures ensures not only improved safety on the road but also contributes to the long-term reliability of your vehicle. Whether you're navigating urban streets or challenging inclines, these practices underscore the importance of proactive maintenance and careful driving-a philosophy beautifully embodied in a premium model like the Toyota bZ4X.

WARNING – FOLLOW THESE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS TO AVOID SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH

The following guidelines must be strictly observed every time you start, drive, and park your vehicle. Failure to adhere to these precautions may result in severe injury or fatal consequences.

Precautions When Starting the Vehicle

• Always keep your foot firmly on the brake pedal while the "READY" indicator is illuminated. This action prevents the vehicle from creeping forward unintentionally.

Precautions While Driving

• If you are unfamiliar with the locations of the brake and accelerator pedals, do not drive. Incorrect pedal operation can trigger sudden acceleration, leading to an accident.
• Be mindful of pedal control when reversing. Twisting your body excessively can impede smooth pedal operation, so maintain a stable stance for optimal control.
• Always maintain correct driving posture. This not only helps you respond to sudden changes in speed but also ensures that the brake and accelerator pedals are operated effectively.
• Use your right foot exclusively to depress the brake pedal. Using the left foot might delay your emergency response and increase accident risk.
• Give extra attention to pedestrians. Since electric vehicles operate almost silently-even with an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System in place-pedestrians might not notice a slowly approaching vehicle in noisy surroundings.
• Do not turn off the EV system while driving. Although doing so will not immediately compromise steering or braking control, it will disable power-assisted steering. If the steering becomes difficult, pull over safely before turning off the EV system.
• When descending steep hills, use regenerative braking to help maintain a safe speed. Continuous conventional braking can overheat and reduce brake efficiency. If you see a warning such as "Regenerative braking limited. Press brake to decelerate," firmly apply the brake pedal.
• To avoid losing control, do not adjust the steering wheel, seat, or rear view mirrors while driving. Additionally, ensure that all passengers’ limbs or heads are inside the vehicle at all times. For vehicles with all-wheel drive (AWD) not designed for off-road use, refrain from driving off-road unless absolutely necessary.
• Never drive across rivers or through bodies of water. Such actions can cause short circuits in electrical components and severely damage the EV system.
• Always obey the speed limits. Even when legally permitted, avoid driving over 85 mph (140 km/h) unless you are certain your tires are rated for such speeds; otherwise, tire failure may result in loss of control.

Precautions on Slippery Roads

• On slick or wet surfaces, avoid sudden braking, rapid acceleration, or abrupt steering movements, as these actions may cause tire slippage and compromise vehicle control.
• After driving through a puddle, lightly depress the brake pedal. Wet brake pads may temporarily diminish braking performance, which can affect direction control if only one side becomes wet.

Precautions When Shifting Gears

• Do not let the vehicle roll backward when a forward gear is selected, or roll forward when in Reverse. Such movement can lead to an accident or mechanical damage.
• Never shift into Park (P) or Reverse (R) while the vehicle is still moving; doing so can damage the transmission and may lead to a loss of control.
• Shifting into Neutral (N) while driving will disengage the EV system, removing regenerative braking support, so use caution at all times.
• Be sure not to change gear positions while the accelerator pedal is depressed. This mistake can provoke unexpected rapid acceleration. After any gear shift, always verify the correct gear is indicated.

Brake Inspection and Response

If you detect any squealing or scraping noises-often an early indication that the brake pad wear limit has been reached-have your brake pads inspected and replaced immediately by a professional. Continued use beyond the wear limit may lead to rotor damage and pose serious driving risks.

Precautions When Stopped or Parked

• When the vehicle is stopped, do not depress the accelerator unnecessarily. If the gear is set to any position other than Park (P) or Neutral (N), sudden acceleration might occur.
• To avoid the vehicle rolling away, always keep the brake pedal depressed and engage the parking brake when the "READY" indicator is on. If you are stopped on an incline, this extra precaution is essential.
• When parking, be aware that the internal temperature can rise significantly, potentially deforming plastic lenses or components. Do not attach adhesive items to the windshield or dashboard since these objects can intensify sunlight and trigger a fire hazard.
• Always secure your vehicle by applying the parking brake, shifting the gear selector to Park (P), turning off the EV system, and locking the doors. Never leave the vehicle unattended with the "READY" indicator illuminated.

Precautions When Resting in the Vehicle

If you plan to take a nap or rest inside the vehicle, ensure the EV system is completely turned off. This is critical because any accidental gear shift or unintentional depression of the accelerator could cause unwanted vehicle movement, leading to disastrous consequences.

Adhering to these detailed safety practices not only enhances your overall driving experience but also significantly reduces risks on the road. By embracing proactive maintenance and safe driving techniques, you can ensure that your vehicle’s advanced safety systems operate at peak performance. This approach is essential for any driver who values longevity and reliability in their vehicle-an ethos perfectly embodied in cutting-edge automotive design.

SAFETY GUIDELINES FOR BRAKING AND ROAD CONDITIONS

To ensure your safety and the integrity of your vehicle’s systems, carefully follow these revised procedures and precautions. This comprehensive guide covers proper braking techniques, handling adverse conditions, and minimizing the risk of mechanical damage. Failure to adhere to these guidelines may result in severe injury or fatal consequences.

When Braking

• Wet Brakes: When the brakes are wet, exercise extra caution. The braking distance increases under wet conditions, and one side of the vehicle may decelerate differently from the other, making control more difficult. Additionally, the parking brake might not hold the vehicle securely. Adjust your speed accordingly and maintain a safe following distance.
• Reduced Brake Response: If the electronically controlled brake system is not operating optimally, avoid tailgating and sharply curved or hilly terrain. In such cases, you may still brake, but you will need to apply more force to the brake pedal, and the stopping distance will be significantly longer. Have your brakes inspected and repaired immediately.
• Hydraulic System Failure: Most brake systems consist of two or more independent hydraulic circuits. If one circuit fails, the remaining circuits will continue to function, but overall braking performance will be reduced. In this situation, press the brake pedal more firmly and be prepared for increased stopping distances. Immediate repair is essential.

If the Vehicle Becomes Stuck (AWD Models)

When driving in conditions such as sand or mud, avoid spinning the wheels excessively, especially if a tire is airborne. Excessive wheel spin can damage driveline components and unexpectedly propel the vehicle forward or backward, potentially causing an accident.

General Driving Notices

• Simultaneous Pedal Depression: Never press the accelerator and brake pedals at the same time during normal driving, as this can cause the EV system output to be restrained, leading to unstable acceleration.
• Using Pedals on an Incline: Do not attempt to hold the vehicle on a hill by simultaneously using the accelerator and brake pedals. This practice can compromise control and increase the risk of a rollover or collision.

Avoiding Damage to Vehicle Parts

• Steering Lock: Avoid turning the steering wheel fully to either side and holding it in that position for an extended period. This can overload the power steering system and may cause permanent damage.
• Handling Road Bumps: Reduce speed when you encounter road bumps. A slower pace minimizes the impact on the wheels and the undercarriage, protecting both the suspension and the overall structural integrity of the vehicle.

Handling a Flat Tire While Driving

In the event of a flat or damaged tire, maintain a firm grip on the steering wheel and gradually depress the brake pedal to slow the vehicle. Signs of a flat tire include abnormal sounds or vibrations and an unusual lean in the vehicle’s body position. Once safely stopped, refer to your vehicle’s emergency guide for the next steps.

When Encountering Flooded Roads

• Do Not Drive Through Flooded Areas: Avoid driving on roads that have been flooded by heavy rain. Water can cause short circuits in electrical components and may even compromise the traction battery.
• Post-Flood Inspection: If you inadvertently drive through water and suspect flooding, have a qualified technician immediately inspect the following:
  • Brake functionality
  • Transmission fluid quantity and quality
  • Lubrication and condition of bearings and suspension joints
  • Components connected to the traction battery
• Shift Control Issues: Flood damage might impair the shift control system, preventing you from changing into Park or other drive positions. Should this occur, contact your dealer without delay.

Parking Procedures

When parking, always engage the parking brake and shift the gear selector to Park (P). Failure to do so might result in unintended vehicle movement or sudden acceleration if the accelerator is accidentally pressed. Secure your vehicle fully to avoid inadvertent displacement.

Minor Accident Considerations

Even in a minor accident, there is a risk of damage to components such as the traction battery or its peripherals. It is imperative to have your vehicle inspected by a certified technician immediately, even if the accident appears insignificant.

Sudden Start Restraint Control (Drive-Start Control [DSC])

• Activation Conditions: The DSC may restrain the EV system output when unusual operations occur-such as shifting into Reverse (R) or transitioning from Park (P) or Reverse (R) to a forward drive gear (e.g., D). If activated, a warning message will appear on your multi-information display; follow the on-screen instructions carefully.
• Note: Depending on the circumstances, the desired shift may not be possible.

Drive-Start Control and Traction Management

When the traction control (TRAC) is disabled, sudden start restraint control will not operate. If you experience difficulty escaping from mud or fresh snow due to DSC activation, manually deactivate TRAC to allow for improved traction. Note that DSC will also be inactive when the D.SNOW/MUD mode (“X-MODE”) is selected on compatible vehicles.

Adhering to these detailed braking and road safety guidelines not only enhances your control during adverse conditions but also extends the life and functionality of your vehicle’s systems. By incorporating regular maintenance and proactive safety techniques, you can maintain peak performance and reliability. This holistic approach to driving safety is a cornerstone of modern automotive engineering-as exemplified in advanced models like the Toyota bZ4X.