Pre−Trip Safety Check - Toyota land cruiser prado Owner's Manual

Pre−trip safety check
It is a good idea to do a safety check
before starting out on a trip. A few min-
utes of checking can help ensure safe and
pleasant driving. Just a basic familiarity
with your vehicle is required and a careful
eye! Or, if you would like, your Toyota
dealer will be pleased to make this check
for you at a nominal cost.
CAUTION
If you make this check in an enclosed
garage, make sure there is adequate
ventilation. Engine exhaust is poison-
ous.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
Outside the vehicle
Tires (spare included). Check the pres-
sure with a gauge and look carefully for
cuts, damage, or excessive wear.
Wheel nuts. Make sure no nuts are mis-
sing or loose.
Fluid leaks. After the vehicle has been
parked for a while, check underneath for
leaking fuel, oil, water, or fluid. (Water
dripping from the air conditioning after use
is normal.)
Lights. Make sure the headlights, stop
lights, tail lights, turn signals and other
lights are all working. Check the headlight
aim.
Inside the vehicle
Jack and wheel nut wrench. Make sure
you have your jack and wheel nut wrench.
Seat belts. Check that the buckles lock
securely. Make sure the belts are not
worn or frayed.
Instruments and controls.
make sure the service reminder indicators,
instrument lights, and defroster are work-
ing.
Brakes. Make sure the pedal has enough
clearance.
In the engine compartment
Spare fuses. Make sure you have spare
fuses. They should cover all the amperage
ratings designated on the fuse box lid.
Coolant level. Make sure the coolant lev-
el is correct. (See page 316 in Section
7−2 for instructions.)
Battery and cables. All the battery cells
should be filled to the proper level with
distilled water. Look for corroded or loose
terminals and a cracked case. Check the
cables for good condition and connections.
Wiring. Look for damaged, loose, or dis-
connected wires.
Fuel lines. Check the lines for leaks or
loose connections.
AFTER STARTING THE ENGINE
Exhaust system. Listen for any leakage.
Have any leaks fixed immediately. (See
"Engine exhaust cautions" on page 235 in
Section 2.)
Engine oil level. Stop the engine and
Especially check the dipstick with the vehicle parked
on a level spot. (See page 312 in Section
7−2 for instructions.)
WHILE DRIVING
Instruments. Make sure the speedometer
and gauges are working.
Brakes. In a safe place, check that the
brakes do not pull to one side when ap-
plied.
Anything unusual? Look for loose parts
and leaks. Listen for abnormal noises.
If everything looks O.K., set your mind at
ease and enjoy your trip!
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