1997 Toyota Avalon Owners Manual - Page 139

Operation in foreign countries If you plan to drive your Toyota in another country...First, comply with the vehicle registration laws. Second, confirm the availability of the correct fuel (unleaded and minimum octane number). Three-way catalytic converter ! CAUTION S Keep people and combustible materials away from the exhaust pipe while the engine is running. The exhaust gas is very hot. S Do not drive, idle or park your vehicle over anything that might burn easily such as grass, leaves, paper or rags. NOTICE The three-way catalytic converter is an emission control device installed in the exhaust system. Its purpose is to reduce pollutants in the exhaust gas. A large amount of unburned gases flowing into the three-way catalytic converter may cause it to overheat and create a fire hazard. To prevent this and other damage, observe the following precautions: zUse only unleaded gasoline. zDo not drive with an extremely low fuel level; running out of fuel could cause the engine to misfire, creating an excessive load on the three-way catalytic converter. 131