Toyota Hilux (2017 year). Manual - part 121

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7-1. Maintenance and care

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NOTICE

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Cleaning detergents

●

Do not use the following types of detergent, as they may discolor the vehi-
cle interior or cause streaks or damage to painted surfaces:
• Non-seat portions: Organic substances such as benzene or gasoline,

alkaline or acidic solutions, dye, and bleach

• Seats: Alkaline or acidic solutions, such as thinner, benzene, and alco-

hol

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Do not use polish wax or polish cleaner. The instrument panel’s or other
interior part’s painted surface may be damaged.

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Preventing damage to leather surfaces
Observe the following precautions to avoid damage to and deterioration of
leather surfaces:

●

Remove any dust or dirt from leather surfaces immediately.

●

Do not expose the vehicle to direct sunlight for extended periods of time.
Park the vehicle in the shade, especially during summer.

●

Do not place items made of vinyl, plastic, or containing wax on the uphol-
stery, as they may stick to the leather surface if the vehicle interior heats
up significantly.

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Water on the floor
Do not wash the vehicle floor with water.
Vehicle systems such as the audio system may be damaged if water comes
into contact with electrical components such as the audio system above or
under the floor of the vehicle. Water may also cause the body to rust.

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When cleaning the inside of the windshield (vehicles with Toyota
Safety Sense)
Do not allow glass cleaner to contact the lens. Also, do not touch the lens.
(

→P. 281)

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Cleaning the inside of the rear window (vehicles with rear window
defogger)

●

Do not use glass cleaner to clean the rear window, as this may cause
damage to the rear window defogger heater wires. Use a cloth dampened
with lukewarm water to gently wipe the window clean. Wipe the window in
strokes running parallel to the heater wires.

●

Be careful not to scratch or damage the heater wires.

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7-2. Maintenance

Maintenance requirements

Scheduled maintenance should be performed at specified intervals
according to the maintenance schedule.

For full details of your maintenance schedule, refer to the “Toyota Service
Booklet” or “Toyota Warranty Booklet”.

What about do-it-yourself maintenance?

Many maintenance items are easy to do yourself if you have a little
mechanical ability and a few basic automotive tools.
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 conducted by any authorized Toyota dealer or repairer, or
another duly qualified and equipped professional. Any authorized 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.

To ensure safe and economical driving, day-to-day care and reg-
ular maintenance are essential. Toyota recommends the follow-
ing maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance

Do-it-yourself maintenance

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7-2. Maintenance

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Where to go for maintenance service?
In order to maintain your vehicle in the best possible condition, Toyota recom-
mends that maintenance service operations as well as other inspections and
repairs be carried out by authorized Toyota dealers or repairers or other duly
qualified and equipped professionals. For repairs and services covered by
your warranty, please visit an authorized Toyota dealer or repairer, who will
use genuine Toyota parts in repairing any difficulties you may encounter.
There can also be advantages in utilizing authorized Toyota dealers or repair-
ers for non-warranty repairs and services, as members of the Toyota network
will be able to expertly assist you with any difficulties you may encounter.
Your Toyota dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped profes-
sional will perform all of the scheduled maintenance on your vehicle reliably
and economically due to their experience with Toyota vehicles.

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Does your vehicle need repairs?
Be on the alert for changes in performance and sounds, and visual tip-offs
that indicate service is needed. Some important clues are:

●

Engine missing, stumbling or pinging

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Appreciable loss of power

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Strange engine noises

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A fluid leak under the vehicle (However, water dripping from the air condi-
tioning system after use is normal.)

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Change in exhaust sound (This may indicate a dangerous carbon monoxide
leak. Drive with the windows open and have the exhaust system checked
immediately.)

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Flat-looking tires, excessive tire squeal when cornering, uneven tire wear

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Vehicle pulls to one side when driven straight on a level road

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Strange noises related to suspension movement

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Loss of brake effectiveness, spongy feeling brake pedal or clutch pedal,
pedal almost touches the floor, vehicle pulls to one side when braking

●

Engine coolant temperature continually higher than normal

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 possible. Your vehicle may need adjustment or repair.

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7-2. Maintenance

WARNING

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If your vehicle is not properly maintained
Improper maintenance could result in serious damage to the vehicle and
possible serious injury or death.

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Handling of the battery
Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead com-
pounds which are known to cause brain damage. Wash your hands after
handling. (

→P. 507)