1998 Toyota RAV4 Owners Manual - Page 158

Does your vehicle need repairing? Transaxle "Park" mechanism Check the lock release button of the selector lever for proper and smooth operation. On a safe incline, check that your vehicle is held securely with the selector lever in "P" position and all brakes released. IN THE MOTOR COMPARTMENT Items listed below should be checked from time to time, e.g. each time when refueling. Washer fluid Make sure there is sufficient fluid in the tank. See Chapter 8- 3 for additional information. Auxiliary battery electrolyte level Make sure the electrolyte level of all battery cells is between upper and lower level lines on the case. Add only distilled water when replenishing. See Chapter 8- 3 for additional information. Brake fluid level Make sure the brake fluid level is correct. See Chapter 8- 2 for additional information. Power steering fluid level Check the level through the reservoir. The level should be in the "HOT" or "COLD" range depending on the fluid temperature. See Chapter 8- 2 for additional information. Be on the alert for changes in performance, sounds, and visual tip- offs that indicate service is needed. Some important clues are as follows: D Traction motor missing, stumbling, or pinging D Appreciable loss of power D Strange traction motor noises D A leak under the vehicle (however, water dripping from the air conditioning after use is normal.) D Flat- looking tire; excessive tire squeal when cornering; uneven tire wear D Vehicle pulls to one side when driving straight on a level road D Strange noises related to suspension movement D Loss of brake effectiveness; spongy feeling brake pedal; pedal almost touches floor; vehicle pulls to one side when braking If you notice any of these clues, take your vehicle to your EV service station as soon as possible. It probably needs adjustment or repair. 150