How to use Hill Descent Control on Toyota 4Runner

At the touch of a button downhill assist control or DAC helps the 4Runner descend slippery and steep grades.

Toyota 4Runner, fifth generation N280 – (photo by Toyota)

Downhill Assist Control (DAC) is used together with the anti-lock braking system to enable better control of the vehicle when driving off-road, especially on steep gradients. If the engine brake is not sufficient to control speed while driving downhill, DAC automatically applies the brakes to decelerate the vehicle and maintain speed relative to the selected driving range and accelerator pedal position.


  1. At the top of a downhill grade stop the vehicle, then depress the DAC button.
  2. The green DAC icon will be illuminated on the instrument panel.
  3. As you descend the hill the anti-lock braking system works with the active traction control to help keep the 4Runner speed below 15 miles per hour and prevent the wheels from locking up. This allows the driver to focus on watching the trail and steering.
  4. During this operation the driver should not touch the brakes, as that automatically turns off downhill assist control. To manually turn off downhill assist control press the DAC button again.
Author: Nabeel K
Email: nabeel@wheelsjoint.com



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