2001 Toyota Sequoia Owners Manual - Page 231

01_SEQUOIA_U (L/O 0009) D U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management D After driving through tall grass, mud, rock, sand, rivers, etc., check that there is no grass, bush, paper, rags, stone, sand, etc. adhering or trapped on the underbody. Clear off any such matter from the underbody. If the vehicle is used with these materials trapped or adhering to the underbody, a breakdown or fire could occur. NOTICE z If driving through water, such as when crossing shallow streams, first check the depth of the water and the bottom of the river bed for firmness. Drive slowly and avoid deep water. z Take all necessary safety measures to ensure that water damage to the engine or other components does not occur. Water entering the engine air intake will cause severe engine damage. Water can wash the grease from wheel bearings, causing rusting and premature failure, and may also enter the differentials, transmission and transfer case, reducing the gear oil's lubricating qualities. z Sand and mud that has accumulated in brake drums and around brake discs may affect braking efficiency and may damage brake system components. CAUTION Always observe the following precautions to minimize the risk of serious personal injury or damage to your vehicle: D Drive carefully when off the road. Do not take unnecessary risks by driving in dangerous places. D In a rollover crash, an unbelted person is significantly more likely to die than a person wearing a seat belt. Therefore, the driver and all passengers should fasten their seat belts whenever the vehicle is moving. D Do not grip the steering wheel spokes when driving off −road. A bad bump could jerk the wheel and injure your hands. Keep both hands and especially your thumbs on the outside of the rim. tiveness immediately after driving in sand, mud, water or snow. D Always check your brakes for effec- D When driving off−road or in rugged terrain, do not drive at excessive speeds, jump, make sharp turns, strike objects, etc. This may cause loss of control or vehicle rollover causing death or serious injury. You are also risking expensive damage to your vehicle's suspension and chassis. 2001 SEQUOIA (OM34414U) 231