Off-Road Vehicle Precautions - Toyota 2003 Tacoma Owner's Manual

Off–road vehicle precautions
(four–wheel drive models and
Pre Runner)
192
'03 Tacoma U (L/O 0209)
This vehicle has higher ground clear-
ance and narrower tread in relation to
the height of its center of gravity to
make it capable of performing in a wide
variety of off–road applications. Specific
design characteristics give it a higher
center of gravity than ordinary passen-
ger cars. This vehicle design feature
causes this type of vehicle to be more
likely to rollover. And, it has a signifi-
cantly higher rollover rate than other
types of vehicles. An advantage of the
higher ground clearance is a better
view of the road allowing you to antici-
pate problems. It is not designed for
cornering at the same speeds as ordi-
nary passenger cars any more than
low–slung sports cars are designed to
perform satisfactorily under
conditions. Therefore, sharp turns at
excessive speeds may cause rollover.
CAUTION
Always observe the following precau-
tions to minimize the risk of serious
personal injury or damage to your ve-
hicle:
2003 MY TACOMA (OM35800U)
D
In a rollover crash, an unbelted per-
son is significantly more likely to
die than a person wearing a seat
belt. Therefore, the driver and all
passengers should fasten their seat
belts whenever the vehicle is mov-
ing.
D
Avoid sharp turns or abrupt maneu-
vers, if at all possible. Failure to
operate this vehicle correctly may
result in loss of control or vehicle
rollover causing death or serious
injury.
D
Loading cargo on the roof luggage
carrier will make the center of the
vehicle gravity higher. Avoid high
speeds, sudden starts, sharp turns,
off–road
sudden braking or abrupt maneu-
vers, otherwise it may result in loss
of control or vehicle rollover due to
failure to operate this vehicle cor-
rectly.
D
Always slow down in gusty cross-
winds. Because of its profile and
higher center of gravity, your ve-
hicle is more
winds than an ordinary passenger
car. Slowing down will allow you to
have much better control.
sensitive to side