Multi-terrain Select is designed to improve Toyota Tacoma drivability in off-road conditions by adjusting vehicle response to suit different types of terrain.
Select the mode that most closely corresponds to the surface and conditions on which the vehicle is being driven.
Depending on the selected mode, brake control, steering feel, and drive force control are optimized to help the vehicle maintain more appropriate traction and response over challenging terrain.
WARNING
When using the Multi-terrain Select
Observe the following precautions when operating Multi-terrain Select. Failure to judge the terrain correctly or to operate the Toyota Tacoma appropriately may result in an accident causing death or serious injury:
- Before driving, confirm that the indicator for the selected mode is illuminated. Multi-terrain Select is not operating when the applicable mode indicator is off.
- The terrain types described for each mode are intended only as general references.
Actual road conditions can vary considerably in gradient, slipperiness, surface irregularity, and other characteristics. The suggested mode may therefore not always be the most suitable choice. Carefully inspect and evaluate the terrain before proceeding.
- Multi-terrain Select does not increase the fundamental performance limits or capabilities of the vehicle. Check the road and surrounding conditions thoroughly before driving, and operate the vehicle carefully within conditions that can be handled safely.
NOTICE
Precaution for use
Multi-terrain Select is intended specifically for off-road driving. Do not use the system during ordinary driving when off-road assistance is not required.
System components
- Multi-information display
Shows the Multi-terrain Select mode that is currently selected. - Mode select switch used to move between the available terrain modes
- "MTS" switch used to activate or deactivate Multi-terrain Select
Switching modes
1. Press the "MTS" switch to activate Multi-terrain Select.
2. While viewing the multi-information display, turn the mode select switch to the left or right to move through the available Multi-terrain Select settings and choose the mode that best matches the current terrain.
The modes available for selection depend on the current position of the front-wheel drive control switch. Choose from the modes made available for the selected four-wheel-drive range.
Front-wheel drive control switch is in "4L"
If brake control operates while Multi-terrain Select is active, the slip indicator light flashes to indicate that the system is controlling wheel slip.
Front-wheel drive control switch is in "4H"
If brake control is activated, the slip indicator light flashes while the system is operating.
When "SAND", "MUD", or "DEEP SNOW" mode is selected, VSC is automatically turned off as part of the corresponding terrain-control setting.
The VSC OFF indicator light illuminates while VSC is disabled.
Multi-terrain Select
Multi-terrain Select adjusts vehicle operation to maximize usable drive force and improve Toyota Tacoma drivability on rough or low-traction surfaces. Because the system may use engine, brake, and drivetrain control more actively than during normal driving, fuel efficiency may be lower than when operating without Multi-terrain Select.
Automatic system cancelation
Multi-terrain Select is canceled automatically when any of the following conditions occurs:
- When the engine switch is turned off
- When the front-wheel drive control switch is moved to "2H"
- When "TOW HAUL" mode is selected while the front-wheel drive control switch is in "4H"
- When a drive mode is selected while the front-wheel drive control switch is in "4H"
Turning off Multi-terrain Select
Use the following procedure to turn Multi-terrain Select off. Once the system is canceled, the corresponding Multi-terrain Select information disappears from the multi-information display.
When the "MTS" switch indicator is illuminated
Press the "MTS" switch while the system is operating to turn Multi-terrain Select off.
When the "MTS" switch indicator is not illuminated
Press the "MTS" switch once to illuminate the indicator.
With the Multi-terrain Select indicator illuminated, press the "MTS" switch again to cancel the system.
When the vehicle is stuck
If the Toyota Tacoma becomes stuck, operation of the transfer system or differential lock may provide additional traction. For details about the following functions, refer to their respective sections if the vehicle is equipped with them.
- Four-wheel drive system
- Rear differential lock
Driving in Multi-terrain Select
The following sensations or operating characteristics may occur while Multi-terrain Select is functioning. These are normal results of system control and do not necessarily indicate a malfunction.
- Vibration may be felt through the vehicle body or steering wheel as traction and brake control operate.
- Mechanical or operating noises may be heard from the engine compartment while the system adjusts vehicle response.
When an inspection at your Toyota dealer is necessary
The following conditions may indicate a malfunction in Multi-terrain Select. If either condition occurs, have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer as soon as possible.
- The slip indicator light remains illuminated.
- The indicator for the selected mode does not illuminate on the multi-information display even though Multi-terrain Select has been selected.
