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TOYOTA 2012 Matrix User Manual

Page 424

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5-2. Steps to take in an emergency

Avoiding a discharged battery

Turn off the headlights and the audio system while the engine is turned
off.

Turn off any unnecessary electrical components when the vehicle is run-
ning at a low speed for an extended period, such as in heavy traffic, etc.

Charging the battery

The electricity stored in the battery will discharge gradually even when the
vehicle is not in use, due to natural discharge and the draining effects of cer-
tain electrical appliances. If the vehicle is left for a long time, the battery may
discharge, and the engine may be unable to start. (The battery recharges
automatically during driving.)

CAUTION

Avoiding battery fires or explosions

Observe the following precautions to prevent accidentally igniting the flam-
mable gas that may be emitted from the battery.

Make sure the jumper cable is connected to the correct terminal and that it
is not unintentionally in contact with any part other than the intended termi-
nal.

Do not allow the jumper cables to come into contact with the “+” and “-” ter-
minals.

Do not smoke, use matches, cigarette lighters or allow open flame near
the battery.