What does Prado 2ndstrt mean?
4 Answers
Prado 2ndstrt means starting in second gear. The following is a related introduction to starting in second gear: The function of starting in second gear: After turning on this switch, the automatic transmission starts in second gear. Its main function is to be used on slippery roads to prevent the high torque of first gear from causing wheel spin, similar to the function of TRC (Traction Control). The hazards of starting in second gear: The main hazards of starting in second gear: The biggest damage is to the clutch disc, as the wear is most severe in the semi-clutch state; it wastes fuel because increasing the throttle in the semi-clutch state causes much of the fuel to only make the engine idle without converting into forward motion; it is prone to stalling and carbon buildup. If the throttle is not increased sufficiently during startup, it can lead to insufficient power, resulting in incomplete combustion, carbon buildup, and even engine knocking.
The 'Prado' you're referring to is the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado that I usually drive. The '2nd start' you asked about likely refers to its second-gear start function. This feature is particularly useful on slippery surfaces, such as during snow or rain, where starting in first gear can easily cause wheel spin. However, switching to second-gear start provides a smoother power output, almost like adding a cushion to the tires. I remember when I first drove the Prado to the mountains during rainy and foggy conditions, using this feature prevented any skidding. The operation is simple—usually, there's a button near the gearshift that you just press lightly. But avoid using it too often on normal roads to prevent accidentally damaging the transmission. New drivers can also try this to reduce driving anxiety and prioritize safety.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I often use the Land Cruiser Prado's second-gear start feature to tackle muddy or snowy road conditions. It makes the engine's low-speed torque more gentle, preventing wheel spin and loss of control. The operation simply involves pressing a designated switch after starting the engine, and the dashboard will display an indicator. This feature isn't unique to the Prado—many SUVs are equipped with it—but I find the Prado's tuning to be the most stable. Beginners might find it confusing, but the principle is straightforward: it skips first gear and goes directly into second gear, reducing torque to prevent slipping. It's especially useful for winter driving in northern mountainous areas, giving me peace of mind and elevating the driving experience to another level.
I've repaired many vehicles, and the Prado's second-gear start system is actually quite common. Essentially, it's programmed into the transmission to skip first gear, reducing initial driving force on low-traction surfaces like mud. During operation, the engine doesn't immediately run at high load, preventing tire spin. Prado owners often overlook it, but before winter I recommend checking if the button is responsive to avoid wiring aging failures. Similar features are standard in off-road vehicles – don't overuse it to prevent increased fuel consumption, but when used correctly, it genuinely improves traction.
