Your vehicle has been designed primarily for use on pavement. But its unique 4-wheel drive system allows you to occasionally travel on unpaved roads, to campgrounds, picnic sites, and similar locations. Not only does this ensure better handling on dry, paved roads but also permits better traction when driving on slippery, wet or snow-covered roads and when moving out of mud. But it is not suitable for heavy off road use or towing in rough conditions. It is particularly important to note that 4-wheel drive may not give sufficient hill climbing ability and engine braking on steep slopes. You should try to avoid driving on steep slopes. Also, you must exercise caution when driving on sand and mud and when driving through water because sufficient traction may not be available in certain circumstances. Please avoid driving the vehicle through areas where the tyres may get stuck in deep sand or mud.

WARNING:
● Do not over-rely on the 4-wheel drive vehicles. Even 4-wheel drive vehicles have limits to the system and ability to maintain control and traction. Reckless driving may lead to accidents. Always drive carefully, taking account of the road conditions.
● Improperly operating this vehicle on or off-pavement can cause an accident or rollover in which you and your passengers could be seriously injured or killed. • Follow all instructions and guidelines in the owner’s manual. • Keep your speed low and do not drive faster than conditions.

NOTE:
● Driving on rough roads can be hard on a vehicle. Before you leave the pavement, be sure all scheduled maintenance and service has been done, and that you have inspected your vehicle. Pay special attention to the condition of the tyres, and check the tyre pressures.
● MITSUBISHI MOTORS is not responsible to the operator for any damage or injury caused or liability incurred by improper and negligent operation of a vehicle. All techniques of vehicle operation depend on the skill and experience of the operator and other participating parties. Any deviation from the recommended operating instructions above is at their own risk.
● Note that the stopping distance required of the 4-wheel drive vehicle differs very little from that of the 2-wheel drive vehicle. When driving on a snow-covered road or a slippery, muddy surface, make sure that you keep a sufficient distance between your vehicle and the one ahead of you.
● The driving posture should be more upright; adjust the seat to a good position for easy steering and pedal operation. Be sure to wear the seat belt.
● After driving on rough roads, check each part of the vehicle and wash it thoroughly with water. Refer to the “Inspection and maintenance following rough road operation” section and “Maintenance” sections.

CAUTION:
● Setting the drive mode-selector to “4WD LOCK” to drive on dry paved road will increase fuel consumption, with possible noise generation.

Turning sharp corners

When turning a sharp corner in “4WD LOCK” position at low speed, a slight difference in steering may be experienced similar to feeling as if the brakes were applied. This is called tight corner braking and results from each of the four tyres being at a different distance from the corner. The phenomenon is typical of 4-wheel drive vehicles. If this occurs, either straighten out the steering wheel, or change to “2WD” or “4WD AUTO” mode.

On snowy or icy roads

Set the drive mode-selector to “4WD AUTO” or “4WD LOCK” in accordance with the road conditions, and then gradually depress the accelerator pedal for a smooth start.

NOTE:
● The use of snow tyres is recommended.
● Maintain a safe distance between vehicles, avoid sudden braking, and use engine braking (downshifting).

CAUTION:
● Avoid sudden braking, sudden acceleration and sharp turning. Skidding occurs and control of the vehicle could be lost.

Driving on sandy or muddy roads

Set the drive mode-selector to “4WD LOCK” and then gradually depress the accelerator pedal for a smooth start. Keep the pressure on the accelerator pedal as constant as possible, and drive at low speed.

CAUTION:
● Do not force the vehicle or drive recklessly on sandy surfaces. In comparison with normal road surfaces, the engine and other drive-system components are put under excessive strain when driving on such a surface. This could lead to accidents.
● If the engine coolant temperature displayflashes on the information screen in the multi-information display or the engine power drops suddenly while the vehicle is being driven, immediately park your vehicle in a safe place. Refer to “Engine overheating” on page 6-6 for details and take the required measures.

WARNING:
● When attempting to rock your vehicle out of a stuck position, be sure that the area around the vehicle is clear of people and physical objects. The rocking motion may cause the vehicle to suddenly launch forward/backward, causing injury or damage to nearby people or objects.

NOTE:
● Avoid sudden braking, sudden acceleration and sharp turning; such operations could result in the vehicle becoming stuck.
● If the vehicle becomes stuck in sandy or muddy roads, it can often be moved with a rocking motion. Move the gearshift lever alternately between the 1st and “R” (Reverse) positions while pressing lightly on the accelerator pedal.
● Driving on rough road can cause rust on the vehicle; wash the vehicle thoroughly as soon as possible after such use.

Climbing/descending sharp grades

Your vehicle may not provide sufficient hill climbing ability and engine braking on steep slope. Avoid driving on steep slopes even though the vehicle is an 4-wheel drive vehicle.

Driving through water

If the electrical circuits become wet, further operation of the vehicle will be impossible; therefore, avoid driving through water unless absolutely necessary. If driving through water is unavoidable, use the following procedure: Check the depth of the water and the terrain before attempting to drive through it. Drive slowly to avoid creating excessive water splashing.

CAUTION:
● Never drive through water that is deep enough to cover wheel hubs, axles or exhaust pipe. Do not change gears while driving through water. Frequent driving through water can adversely affect the life span of the vehicle; consult we recommend you to take the necessary measures to prepare, inspect, and repair the vehicle.
● After driving through water, apply the brakes to be sure they are functioning properly. If the brakes are wet and not functioning properly, dry them out by driving slowly while lightly depressing the brake pedal. Inspect each part of the vehicle carefully.