Toyota Matrix (2014 year). Instruction

150

2-4. Using other driving systems

MATRIX_U

■

Cruise control can be set when

●

Automatic transmission:
The shift lever is in the D or range 3 (standard type), or in the D or range
4 or higher of S has been selected (multi-mode type).

●

Vehicle speed is above approximately 25 mph (40 km/h).

■

Accelerating

The vehicle can be accelerated normally. After acceleration, the set speed
resumes.

■

Canceling and resuming the constant speed control

Pulling the lever toward you
cancels the constant speed
control.

The speed setting is also can-
celed when the brakes are
applied or the clutch pedal
(manual transmission only) is
depressed.

Pushing the lever up
resumes the constant
speed control.

Resuming is available when
the vehicle speed is more
than approximately 25 mph
(40 km/h).

151

2-4. Using other driving systems

Wh
en driv

MATRIX_U

■

Automatic cruise control cancelation

Cruise control will stop maintaining the vehicle speed in any of the following
situations.

●

Actual vehicle speed falls more than approximately 10 mph (16 km/h)
below the preset vehicle speed.
At this time, the memorized set speed is not retained.

●

Actual vehicle speed is below approximately 25 mph (40 km/h).

●

VSC is activated.

■

If the cruise control indicator light flashes

Press the “ON-OFF” button once to deactivate the system, and then press
the button again to reactivate the system.
If the cruise control speed cannot be set or if the cruise control cancels
immediately after being activated, there may be a malfunction in the cruise
control system. Have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer.

CAUTION

■

To avoid operating the cruise control by mistake

Switch the cruise control off using the “ON-OFF” button when not in use.

■

Situations unsuitable for cruise control

Do not use cruise control in any of the following situations.
Doing so may result in loss of control and could cause an accident resulting
in death or serious injury.

●

In heavy traffic

●

On roads with sharp bends

●

On winding roads

●

On slippery roads, such as those covered with rain, ice or snow

●

On steep hills
Vehicle speed may exceed the set speed when driving down a steep hill.

●

When your vehicle is towing a trailer or during emergency towing

152

2-4. Using other driving systems

MATRIX_U

Driving assist systems

To help enhance driving safety and performance, the following sys-
tems operate automatically in response to various driving situations.
Be aware, however, that these systems are supplementary and
should not be relied upon too heavily when operating the vehicle.

■

ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)

Helps to prevent wheel lock when the brakes are applied suddenly, or if
the brakes are applied while driving on a slippery road surface.

■

Brake assist

Generates an increased level of braking force after the brake pedal is
depressed, when the system detects a panic stop situation.

■

VSC (Vehicle Stability Control)

Helps the driver to control skidding when swerving suddenly or turning
on slippery road surfaces.

■

TRAC (Traction Control)

Maintains drive power and prevents the front wheels from spinning
when starting the vehicle or accelerating on slippery roads.

■

EPS (Electric Power Steering)

Employs an electric motor to reduce the amount of effort needed to turn
the steering wheel.

■

Active Torque Control 4WD system (if equipped)

Automatically switches from front-wheel drive to AWD (All-Wheel Drive)
according to driving conditions, helping to ensure reliable handling and
stability. Examples of conditions where the system will switch to AWD
are when cornering, going uphill, starting off or accelerating, and when
the road surface is slippery due to snow or rain etc.

153

2-4. Using other driving systems

Wh
en driv

MATRIX_U

When VSC and TRAC are operating

If the vehicle is in danger of slip-
ping or the front wheels (2WD),
or 4 wheels (AWD) spin, the indi-
cator flashes to indicate that
VSC/TRAC have been engaged.

To disable TRAC and/or VSC

If the vehicle gets stuck in fresh snow or mud, TRAC and VSC may
reduce power from the engine to the wheels. You may need to turn
the system off to enable you to rock the vehicle in order to free it.

■

Turning off TRAC

Quickly push and release the
switch to turn off TRAC.

The “TRAC OFF” indicator light
should come on.

Push the switch again to turn the
system back on.

154

2-4. Using other driving systems

MATRIX_U

■

Turning off TRAC and VSC

Push and hold the switch while
the vehicle is stopped to turn off
TRAC and VSC.

The “TRAC OFF” indicator light
and VSC off indicator light should
come on.

Push the switch again to turn the
system back on.

■

When the “TRAC OFF” indicator light comes on even if the VSC off
switch has not been pressed

TRAC cannot be operated. Contact your Toyota dealer.

■

Automatic reactivation of TRAC and VSC

Turning the engine switch OFF after turning off the TRAC and VSC systems
will automatically re-enable them.

■

Automatic TRAC reactivation

If only the TRAC system is turned off, the TRAC system will turn on when
vehicle speed increases.

■

Automatic TRAC and VSC reactivation

If the TRAC and VSC systems are turned off, the systems will not turn on
even when vehicle speed increases.

■

Sounds and vibrations caused by ABS, brake assist, VSC and TRAC

●

A sound may be heard from the engine compartment when the engine is
started or just after the vehicle begins to move. This sound does not indi-
cate that a malfunction has occurred in any of these systems.

●

Any of the following conditions may occur when the above systems are
operating. None of these indicates that a malfunction has occurred.

• Vibrations may be felt through the vehicle body and steering.
• A motor sound may be heard after the vehicle comes to a stop.
• The brake pedal may pulsate slightly after ABS is activated.
• The brake pedal may move down slightly after ABS is activated.

155

2-4. Using other driving systems

Wh
en driv

MATRIX_U

■

If the slip indicator light comes on

There is a malfunction in the TRAC and VSC systems. Contact your Toyota
dealer and have your Toyota inspected.

■

EPS system operation sound

When the steering wheel is operated, a motor sound (whirring sound) may
be heard. This does not indicate a malfunction.

■

Reduced effectiveness of EPS system

The effectiveness of the EPS system is reduced to prevent the system from
overheating when there is frequent steering input over an extended period of
time. The steering wheel may feel heavy as a result. Should this occur,
refrain from excessive steering input or stop the vehicle and turn the engine
off. The EPS system should return to normal within 10 minutes.

CAUTION

■

ABS does not operate effectively when

●

The limits of tire gripping performance have been exceeded (such as
excessively worn tires on a snow covered road).

●

The vehicle hydroplanes while driving at high speed on the wet or slick
road.

■

Stopping distance when the ABS is operating may exceed that of nor-
mal conditions

ABS is not designed to shorten the vehicle's stopping distance. Always
maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, especially in the fol-
lowing situations.

●

When driving on dirt, gravel or snow-covered roads

●

When driving with tire chains

●

When driving over bumps in the road

●

When driving over roads with potholes or uneven roads

■

TRAC may not operate effectively when

Directional control and power may not be achievable while driving on slip-
pery road surfaces, even if the TRAC system is operating.
Drive the vehicle carefully in conditions where stability and power may be
lost.

156

2-4. Using other driving systems

MATRIX_U

CAUTION

■

When VSC is activated

The slip indicator light flashes. Always drive carefully. Reckless driving may
cause an accident. Exercise particular care when the indicator light flashes.

■

When TRAC and VSC are off

Be especially careful and drive at a speed appropriate to the road condi-
tions. As these are systems to ensure vehicle stability and driving force, do
not turn off TRAC and VSC unless necessary.

■

Replacing tires

Make sure that all tires are of the same size, brand, tread pattern and total
load capacity. In addition, make sure that the tires are inflated to the recom-
mended tire pressure level.

The ABS and VSC systems will not function correctly if different tires are fit-
ted on the vehicle.

Contact your Toyota dealer for further information when replacing tires or
wheels.

■

Handling of tires and suspension

Using tires with any kind of problem or modifying the suspension will affect
the driving assist systems, and may cause the system to malfunction.

■

Active Torque Control 4WD system

●

The AWD system of this vehicle is intended to ensure driving stability on
normal roads. It is not designed for use in demanding situations such as
rally driving.

●

Take care when driving on slippery road surfaces.

157

Wh
en driv

MATRIX_U

2-5. Driving information

Cargo and luggage

Capacity and distribution

Cargo capacity depends on the total weight of the occupants.

(Cargo capacity) = (Total load capacity) - (Total weight of occupants)

Steps for Determining Correct Load Limit



(1)Locate the statement “The combined weight of occupants and

cargo should never exceed XXX kg or XXX lbs.” on your vehicle's
placard.

(2)Determine the combined weight of the driver and passengers that

will be riding in your vehicle.

(3)Subtract the combined weight of the driver and passengers from

XXX kg or XXX lbs.

(4)The resulting figure equals the available amount of cargo and lug-

gage load capacity.
For example, if the “XXX” amount equals 1400 lbs. and there will
be five 150 lb passengers in your vehicle, the amount of available
cargo and luggage load capacity is 650 lbs. (1400 - 750 (5

× 150) =

650 lbs.)

(5)Determine the combined weight of luggage and cargo being

loaded on the vehicle. That weight may not safely exceed the avail-
able cargo and luggage load capacity calculated in Step 4.

Take notice of the following information about storage precau-
tions, cargo capacity and load.

● Stow cargo and luggage in the luggage compartment whenever

possible. Be sure all items are secured in place.

● Be careful to keep the vehicle level. Placing the weight as far for-

ward as possible helps maintain vehicle balance.

● For better fuel economy, do not carry unnecessary weight.

158

2-5. Driving information

MATRIX_U

(6)If your vehicle will be towing a trailer, load from your trailer will be

transferred to your vehicle. Consult this manual to determine how
this reduces the available cargo and luggage load capacity of your
vehicle.

(

→P. 167)

Calculation formula for your vehicle

Cargo capacity
Total load capacity (vehicle
capacity weight) (

→P. 438)

When 2 people with the combined weight of A lb. (kg) are riding in
your vehicle, which has a total load capacity (vehicle capacity weight)
of B lb. (kg), the available amount of cargo and luggage load capacity
will be C lb. (kg) as follows:

lb. (kg) - A

lb. (kg) = C

lb. (kg)

: A = Weight of people

: B = Total load capacity

: C = Available cargo and luggage load

In this condition, if 3 more passengers with the combined weight of D
lb. (kg) get on, the available cargo and luggage load will be reduced E
lb. (kg) as follows:

C lb. (kg) - D

lb. (kg) = E

lb. (kg)

: D = Additional weight of people

: E = Available cargo and luggage load

159

2-5. Driving information

Wh
en driv

MATRIX_U

As shown in the above example, if the number of occupants
increases, the cargo and luggage load will be reduced by an amount
that equals the increased weight due to the additional occupants. In
other words, if an increase in the number of occupants causes an
excess of the total load capacity (combined weight of occupants plus
cargo and luggage load), you must reduce the cargo and luggage on
your vehicle.

160

2-5. Driving information

MATRIX_U

CAUTION

■

Storage precautions
Observe the following precautions.
Failing to do so may result in death or serious injury.

●

To prevent cargo and luggage from sliding forward during braking, do
not stack anything in the luggage compartment. Keep cargo and lug-
gage low, as close to the floor as possible.

●

Never allow anyone to ride in the luggage compartment. It is not
designed for passengers. They should ride in their seats with their seat
belts properly fastened. Otherwise, they are much more likely to suffer
death or serious bodily injury, in the event of sudden braking, sudden
swerving or an accident.

●

Do not place cargo or luggage in or on the following locations as the
item may get under the clutch, brake or accelerator pedal and prevent
the pedals from being depressed properly, block the driver’s vision, or
hit the driver or passengers, causing an accident.
• Driver’s feet
• Front passenger or rear seats (when stacking items)
• Instrument panel
• Dashboard
• Tonneau cover (if equipped)

●

Secure all items in the occupant compartment, as they may shift and
injure someone during sudden braking, sudden swerving or an acci-
dent.

■

Capacity and distribution

●

Do not exceed the maximum axle weight rating or the total vehicle
weight rating.

●

Even if the total load of occupant's weight and the cargo load is less
than the total load capacity, do not apply the load unevenly.
Improper loading may cause deterioration of steering or braking con-
trol which may cause death or serious injury.

161

2-5. Driving information

Wh
en driv

MATRIX_U

Vehicle load limits

■

Total load capacity and seating capacity
These details are also described on the tire and loading information
label. (

→P. 358)

CAUTION

■

Overloading the vehicle
Do not overload the vehicle.
It may not only cause damage to the tires, but also degrade steering and
braking ability, resulting in an accident.

Vehicle load limits include total load capacity, seating capacity,
trailer weight rating and cargo capacity.

■

Total load capacity (vehicle capacity weight): (

→P. 438)

Total load capacity means the combined weight of occupants, cargo
and luggage.

■

Seating capacity: 5 occupants (Front 2, Rear 3)

Seating capacity means the maximum number of occupants whose
estimated average weight is 150 lb. (68 kg) per person.

■

Trailer weight rating
1.8 L 4-cylinder (2ZR-FE) engine

Toyota does not recommend towing a trailer with your vehicle.

2.4 L 4-cylinder (2AZ-FE) engine

→P. 171, 438

■

Cargo capacity

Cargo capacity may increase or decrease depending on the weight
and the number of occupants.

162

2-5. Driving information

MATRIX_U

Winter driving tips

Carry out the necessary preparations and inspections before driving
the vehicle in winter. Always drive the vehicle in a manner appropri-
ate to the prevailing weather conditions.

■

Pre-winter preparations
● Use fluids that are appropriate to the prevailing outside tem-

peratures.

• Engine oil
• Engine coolant
• Washer fluid

● Have a service technician inspect the level and specific grav-

ity of battery electrolyte.

● Have the vehicle fitted with four snow tires or purchase a set

of tire chains for the front tires.

Ensure that all tires are the same size and brand, and that chains
match the size of the tires.

■

Before driving the vehicle
Perform the following according to the driving conditions.

● Do not try to forcibly open a window or move a wiper that is

frozen. Pour warm water over the frozen area to melt the ice.
Wipe away the water immediately to prevent it from freezing.

● To ensure proper operation of the climate control system fan,

remove any snow that has accumulated on the air inlet vents
in front of the windshield.

● Remove any ice that has accumulated on the vehicle chassis.
● Periodically check for and remove any excess ice or snow

that may have accumulated in the wheel well or on the
brakes.

163

2-5. Driving information

Wh
en driv

MATRIX_U

Selecting tire chains

Snow chains can be mounted on 16- and 17-inch tires. They cannot
be mounted on 18-inch tires. Use the correct snow chain size when
mounting the snow chains. Chain size is regulated for each tire size.

Side chain:

0.12 in. (3 mm) in diameter
0.39 in. (10 mm) in width
1.18 in. (30 mm) in length

Cross chain:

0.16 in. (4 mm) in diameter
0.55 in. (14 mm) in width
0.98 in. (25 mm) in length

Regulations on the use of snow chains

● Regulations regarding the use of tire chains vary according to loca-

tion and type of road. Always check local regulations before install-
ing chains.

● Install the chains on the front tires.
● Retighten the chains after driving 1/4 - 1/2 mile (0.5 - 1.0 km).

■

When driving the vehicle
Accelerate the vehicle slowly and drive at a reduced speed suit-
able to road conditions.

■

When parking the vehicle
Park the vehicle and move the shift lever to P (automatic trans-
mission), 1 or R (manual transmission) without setting the park-
ing brake. The parking brake may freeze up, preventing it from
being released. If necessary, block the wheels to prevent inad-
vertent sliding or creeping.

164

2-5. Driving information

MATRIX_U

■

Snow chain installation (vehicles with 16-inch and 17-inch tires)

Observe the following precautions when installing and removing chains.

●

Install and remove tire chains in a safe location.

●

Install tire chains on the front tires only. Do not install tire chains on rear
tires.

●

Install tire chains following the instructions provided in the accompanying
manual.

CAUTION

■

Driving with snow tires

Observe the following precautions to reduce the risk of accidents.
Failing to do so may result in a loss of vehicle control and cause death or
serious injury.

●

Use tires of the size specified for your vehicle.

●

Maintain the recommended level of air pressure.

●

Do not drive in excess of 75 mph (120 km/h), regardless of the type of
snow tires being used.

●

Use snow tires on all, not just some wheels.

■

Driving with tire chains

Observe the following precautions to reduce the risk of accidents.
Failing to do so may result in the vehicle being unable to be driven safely,
and may cause death or serious injury.

●

Do not drive in excess of the speed limit specified for the tire chains being
used or 30 mph (50 km/h), whichever is lower.

●

Avoid driving on bumpy road surfaces or over potholes.

●

Avoid sudden turns and braking, as use of chains may adversely affect
vehicle handling.

●

Slow down sufficiently before entering a curve to ensure that vehicle con-
trol is maintained.

165

2-5. Driving information

Wh
en driv

MATRIX_U

NOTICE

■

Repairing or replacing snow tires

Request repairs of and obtain replacement snow tires from Toyota dealers or
legitimate tire retailers.
This is because the removal and attachment of snow tires affects the opera-
tion of the tire pressure warning valves and transmitters.

■

Fitting tire chains

The tire pressure warning valves and transmitters may not function correctly
when tire chains are fitted.

Toyota Matrix (2014 year). Instruction - part 10