The downhill assist control system helps the Toyota Tacoma maintain a controlled speed when descending steep slopes, reducing the need for continuous brake pedal operation and helping prevent excessive acceleration. The system can operate when vehicle speed is below 18 mph (30 km/h) and the transfer mode is set to "4H".
System components
- "DAC/CRAWL" switch used to activate or deactivate the downhill assist control system
- Mode select switch used to adjust the desired downhill control speed
- Multi-information display showing the system status and selected speed
System operation
Press the "DAC/CRAWL" switch to activate the downhill assist control system.
The downhill assist control system indicator illuminates to confirm that the function is active and ready to control the Toyota Tacoma while descending.
While the system is operating, the slip indicator flashes and the stop lights and high-mounted stop light illuminate as required by system control. Operating sounds may also be heard while automatic braking is being applied. These sounds and indications are normal and do not by themselves indicate a malfunction.
Setting the speed of the downhill assist control system
Turn the mode select switch to set the desired downhill control speed within the available range of approximately 3 mph (4 km/h) to 18 mph (30 km/h). The selected speed appears on the multi-information display so the driver can confirm the current setting before or during the descent.
- Multi-information display showing the selected downhill assist control speed
- Turn in this direction to decrease the set speed
- Turn in this direction to increase the set speed
Turning off the system
When the "DAC/CRAWL" switch indicator illuminates
Press the "DAC/CRAWL" switch again to begin canceling the downhill assist control system.
When the "DAC/CRAWL" switch indicator does not illuminate
Press the "DAC/CRAWL" switch once so that the indicator illuminates.
With the indicator illuminated, press the "DAC/CRAWL" switch again to turn the downhill assist control system off.
When cancellation begins, the downhill assist control system indicator flashes while system operation is reduced gradually. The indicator turns off after the function has been completely deactivated.
If the "DAC/CRAWL" switch is pressed while the downhill assist control system indicator is still flashing, the system will begin operating again rather than completing the cancellation.
Operating tips
- The downhill assist control system can be used whether "TOW HAUL" mode, drive mode select, or Multi-terrain Select is ON or OFF, allowing it to support downhill driving under several applicable Toyota Tacoma operating configurations.
- Vehicles with an Automatic transmission: The system can operate when the shift lever is in any position other than P. However, selecting a lower shift range is recommended when greater control is desired on a steep descent.
Vehicles with a manual transmission: The system can operate when the shift lever is in a position other than N. For more effective downhill control, selecting a lower gear range is recommended.
If the downhill assist control system indicator flashes
- In any of the following situations, the downhill assist control system indicator flashes and the system will not operate:
- The front-wheel drive control switch is moved from "4H" to another transfer position.
- The shift lever is in P on vehicles equipped with an Automatic transmission.
- The clutch pedal is depressed.
(Vehicles with a manual transmission)
- Vehicle speed exceeds approximately 18 mph (30 km/h).
- The brake system has overheated and system operation must be temporarily restricted.
- In the following situations, the indicator flashes to notify the driver, but the downhill assist control system can continue operating:
- The shift lever is in N.
- The "DAC/CRAWL" switch is pressed while the "DAC/CRAWL" switch indicator is illuminated.
When the system is being canceled, operation decreases gradually rather than stopping abruptly. The indicator continues flashing during this transition and turns off once the downhill assist control system is fully deactivated.
When the downhill assist control system is operated continuously
Continuous operation for an extended period can cause the brake actuator to overheat. If this occurs, the downhill assist control system stops operating, a buzzer sounds, and the downhill assist control system indicator begins flashing. The "Traction Control Turned OFF" indication also illuminates. Avoid further use of the system until the downhill assist control indicator remains steadily illuminated again and the "Traction Control Turned OFF" indication turns off. The Toyota Tacoma can still be driven normally during this cooling period if road and driving conditions permit.
Sounds and vibrations caused by the downhill assist control system
- An operating sound may be heard from the engine compartment when the engine is started or shortly after the vehicle begins moving. This sound is associated with normal system operation and does not necessarily indicate a malfunction in the downhill assist control system.
- Either of the following conditions may occur while the downhill assist control system is actively controlling vehicle speed.
These characteristics are normal results of automatic brake and system operation and do not indicate a fault by themselves.
- Vibrations may be transmitted through the Toyota Tacoma body or steering system while downhill speed control is being applied.
- A motor operating sound may be heard after the vehicle has come to a complete stop.
System malfunction
If either of the following conditions occurs, the downhill assist control system may require inspection. Have the Toyota Tacoma checked by your Toyota dealer.
- The downhill assist control system indicator does not illuminate after the "DAC/CRAWL" switch is pressed under appropriate operating conditions.
- The slip indicator light remains illuminated, indicating that a system-related condition may require diagnosis.
WARNING
The system may not operate on the following surfaces, which may lead to an accident causing death or serious injury
- Wet, muddy, or similarly slippery surfaces where sufficient tire traction may not be available
- Icy surfaces where the tires may be unable to maintain predictable grip
- Unpaved roads where loose or uneven material can prevent the system from maintaining the intended downhill speed
