2004 Toyota Matrix Owners Manual - Page 199

'04 MATRIX_U (L/O 0307) NOTICE z Do not crank for more than 30 seconds at a time. This may overheat the starter and wiring systems. z Do not race a cold engine. z If the engine becomes difficult to start or stalls frequently, have the engine checked immediately. Tips for driving in various conditions D Always slow down in gusty crosswinds. This will allow you much better control. D Washing your vehicle or driving through deep water may get the brakes wet. To see whether they are wet, check that there is no traffic near you, and then press the pedal lightly. If you do not feel a normal braking force, the brakes are probably wet. To dry them, drive the vehicle cautiously while lightly pressing the brake pedal with the parking brake applied. If they still do not work safely, pull to the side of the road and call a Toyota dealer for assistance. D Drive slowly onto curbs and, if possible, at a right angle. Avoid driving onto high, sharp−edged objects and other road hazards. Failure to do so can lead to severe tire damage such as a tire burst. Drive slowly when passing over bumps or travelling on a bumpy road. Otherwise the impact could cause severe damage to the tires and/or wheels. D When parking on a hill, turn the front wheels until they touch the curb so that the vehicle will not roll. Apply the parking brake, and place the transmission in "P" (automatic) or in first or reverse (manual). If necessary, block the wheels. CAUTION D Before driving off, make sure that the parking brake is fully released and the parking brake reminder light is off. D Do not leave your vehicle unattended while the engine is running. D Do not rest your foot on the brake pedal while driving. It can cause dangerous overheating, needless wear, and poor fuel economy. D To drive down a long or steep hill, reduce your speed and downshift. Remember, if you ride the brakes excessively, they may overheat and not work properly. 199 2004 MATRIX from Oct. '03 Prod. (OM12861U)