Toyota RAV4 EE Owner's Manual page 507

Note, however, that some maintenance
tasks require special tools and skills.
These are best performed by qualified
technicians. Even if you're an experienced
do−it−yourself mechanic, we recommend
that repairs and maintenance be con-
ducted by an authorized Toyota dealer or
repairer, or another duly qualified and
equipped professional.
Toyota dealer or repairer will keep a
record of maintenance, which could be
useful should you ever require Warranty
Service. Should you choose to select a
qualified and equipped professional other
than an authorized Toyota repairer to
service or maintain your vehicle, we
recommend that you request that a record
of maintenance be kept.
The service interval for scheduled main-
tenance is determined by the odometer
reading or time interval, whichever
comes first, shown in the schedule.
Rubber hoses (for cooling and heater
system, brake system and fuel system)
should be inspected by a qualified tech-
nician in accordance with the Toyota
maintenance schedule.
They are particularly important mainte-
nance items. Have any deteriorated or
damaged hoses replaced
Note that rubber hoses will deteriorate
with age, resulting in swelling, chafing or
cracks.
RAV4_EE
MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS
Does your vehicle need
repairing?
Be on the alert for changes in perfor-
mance, sounds, and visual tip−offs that
indicate service is needed. Some impor-
tant clues are as follows:
Engine missing, stumbling, or pinging
D
Appreciable loss of power
D
Strange engine noises
D
Any authorized
A leak under the vehicle (however, wa-
D
ter dripping from the air conditioning
after use is normal.)
Change in exhaust sound (This may
D
indicate a dangerous carbon monoxide
leak. Drive with the windows open and
have the exhaust system checked im-
mediately.)
Flat−looking tire; excessive tire squeal
D
when cornering; uneven tire wear
Vehicle pulls to one side when driving
D
straight on a level road
Strange noises related to suspension
D
movement
Loss of brake effectiveness; spongy
D
feeling brake or clutch pedal; pedal al-
most touches floor; vehicle pulls to one
side when braking
Engine coolant temperature continually
D
higher than normal
immediately.
If you notice any of these clues, take your
vehicle to any authorized Toyota dealer or
repairer, or another duly qualified and
equipped professional, as soon as pos-
sible. It probably needs adjustment or re-
pair.
Do not continue driving with the ve-
hicle unchecked. It could result in se-
rious vehicle damage and possibly
personal injury.
497
CAUTION
Finish