At OnCourse, we teach a failed hill climb recovery technique that requires the driver to do a “key start” (this only relates to manual / stick shift vehicles).  Over the years of instruction this technique is the only one we have confidence in.

As an example, whilst doing training in DRC, we had to use a route which included a very severe climb. It was loose, uneven and wet. We tried different techniques including the common one which is; brake, clutch, into reverse and release pedals, and we had safety implications. Vehicles immediately started to slide sideways as the driver was putting the vehicle into reverse. There was a large drop off on one side and vehicles were sliding toward it. So we went through the slower technique that relies on the three forms of braking and a key start. We had no sliding / loss of control whilst the procedure was carried out and on the descent back down to the base.

So. To the 200 series Land Cruiser. You can’t do a key start. The clutch has to be pushed in to start the engine. So again, under extreme conditions it may let you down.

They are great for taking the kids to school but don’t take one to the hills of DRC.