Catalytic Converter

The catalytic converter is an emission control device installed in the exhaust system.

It looks somewhat like a muffler, but its purpose is to reduce pollutants in the exhaust gas.

CAUTION: Keep people and combustible materials away from the exhaust pipe while the engine is running. The exhaust gas is very hot. Do not drive, idle or park your vehicle over anything that might burn easily such as grass, leaves, paper or rags.

NOTICE:
A large amount of unburned gas flowing into the converter may cause it to overheat and create a fire hazard. To precent this and other damage, oserve the folloing precautions:

• Use only unleaded gasoline.
• Do not drive with an extremely low fuel level; running out of gas could cause the engine to misfire, creating an excessive load on the converter.
• Do not allow the engine to run at idle speed for more than 20 minutes.
• Avoid racing the engine.
• Do not push-start or pull-start your vehicle
• Do not turn off the ignition while the vehicle is moving.
• Keep your engine in good running order. Malfunctions in the engine electrical, ignition or fuel systems could cause an extremely high converter temperature.
• If the engine becomes difficult to start or stalls frequently, take you vehicle in for a check-up as sson as possible. Remember, your Toyota dealer knows your vehicle and its catalytic converter system best.
• To insure that the converter and the entire emission control system operate properly, your vehicle myst receive the periodic inspections required by the Toyota Maintenance Schedule.

Engine Exhaust Cautions

CAUTION: Avoid inhaling the exhaust. It contains carbon monoxide, which is a colorless and odorless gas. It can cause unconsciousness or even death. Make sure the exhaust system has no holes or loose connections. The system should be checked from time to time. If you hit something, or notice a change in the sound of the exhaust, have the system checked immediately. Do not run the engine in a garage or enclosed area except for the time needed to drive the vehivle in or out. The exhaust gasses cannot escape, making this a particularly dangerous situation. Do not remain for a long time in a parked vehicle with the engine running. If it unavoidable, however, do so only in an unconfined area and adjust the heating or cooling system to force outside air into the vehicle. Keep the trunk lid, back door or tailgate closed while driving. An open or unsealed trunk lid, back door or tailgate may cause exhaust gases to be drawn into the vehicle. If you must drive with the trunk lid, back door or tailgate open to accommodate a large object, close the windows, open all the dashboard vents and have the heating or cooling system deliver fresh air into the vehicle by turning the fan to high speed with the air intake control button set in the OUTSIDE AIR mode. To allow proper operation of your vehicle's ventilation system, keep the inlet grilles in front of the winshield clear of snow, leaves or other obstructions. If you semll exhaust fumes in the vehicle, drive with the windows open and the trunk lid, back door or tailgate closed. Have the cause immediately located and corrected.