AWD mode switch

The All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system is used to select the 2WD (Two-Wheel Drive), AWD-V or AWD mode depending on the driving conditions.

The AWD mode indicator lights ( (green),
) are located in the instrument panel.

The AWD mode indicator lights (green)
illuminate when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position. The indicator lights turn off within 1 second.

The AWD mode indicator lights will display the mode selected by the AWD mode switch while engine is running.

If the AWD warning light (yellow)
illuminates, the AWD mode indicator lights will turn off.

Push the AWD mode switch, located on the instrument panel, to select 2WD, AWD-V or AWD.

AWD-V: Push the AWD mode switch to the neutral (AWD-V) position. The All-Wheel Drive (AWD) AWD-V indicator light in
the meter illuminates.

2WD: Push the AWD mode switch to the 2WD position.

AWD: Push the AWD mode switch to the AWD position. The AWD indicator light (green) in the meter illuminates.

AWD shift tips

• If the AWD mode switch is operated while making a turn, accelerating or decelerating, or if the ignition switch is turned off while in the AWD-V or AWD mode, you may feel a jolt. This is normal.

• The oil temperature of power train parts will increase if the vehicle is continuously operated under conditions where the difference in rotation between the front and rear wheels is large (wheel slip), such as when driving the vehicle on rough roads through sand or mud or when freeing a stuck vehicle.

In these cases, the AWD warning light blinks rapidly and the AWD mode changes to the 2WD mode to protect the power train parts.

If you stop driving with the engine idling and wait until the warning light stops blinking, the AWD returns to the AWD-V or AWD mode.

• Brake distance in the AWD mode is the same as 2WD.

CAUTION

•  Do not start the engine with the AWD mode switch in any mode in the following cases:
— when the vehicle is placed on a free-roller or jacking up the vehicle with the front tires raised and the rear tires on the ground.

— when towing the vehicle with the rear tires raised from the ground.

• Operate the AWD mode switch only when driving straight. Do not operate the AWD mode switch when making a turn or backing up.

• Do not operate the AWD mode switch with the front wheel spinning.

•  Engine idling speed is high while warming up the engine. Be especially careful when starting or driving on slippery surfaces with the AWD mode switch set in the AWD-V or AWD mode.