Lexus GS300 1996, GS350 1996, GS400 1996, GS430 1996, GS450H 1996 Owner Manual

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SECTION 2

AIR CONDITIONING AND AUDIO

Automatic air conditioning controls 84 Audio system 90

AIR CONDITIONING AND AUDIO

AUTOMATIC AIR CONDITIONING CONTROLS

AIR CONDITIONING AND AUDIO

The automatic air conditioning automatically maintains the set temperature.

This air conditioning features automatic fan speed and air flow control which automatically selects the most suitable fan speed and air flow to control the temperature. The ignition key must be in the “ON” position.

You may use manual control to override the automatic settings.

(a) Climate control

SETTING OPERATION – automatic control

1. Press in the (AUTO) button.

Air flow quantity, switching of the diffusers, on–off of the air conditioning, and switching of the air intake between RECIRCULATED AIR and OUTSIDE AIR are automatically adjusted. The operation status is shown by each indicator.

When one of the manual control buttons or knobs is operated in automatic mode, the operation corresponding to that button or knob is set. Other conditions continue to be adjusted automatically.

2. Turn the “TEMP” knob until the desired temperature is displayed.

The “TEMP” knob is used to set the desired passenger compartment temperature. The temperature of air delivered to the passenger compartment will be controlled automatically according to the setting. The figures on the panel indicate degrees Fahrenheit or Centigrade.

SETTING OPERATION – manual control If manual air flow selection is desired –

The outlets from which air is delivered can be selected manually by turning the air flow control knob. The mode appears on the display. The function of each button is as follows:

PANEL mode – Directs air flow at face level. BI–LEVEL mode – Directs air flow at face level and at

floor level for both front and rear. Except in ventilation, the air to the floor is slightly warmer than air to the face.

FLOOR mode – Directs air flow mostly at floor level for

both front and rear.

FLOOR/WINDSHIELD mode – Directs air flow to the windshield and front side windows as well as floor level for both front and rear.

FRONT WINDSHIELD mode – Directs air flow mostly to the windshield and front side windows.

When this mode is selected while operating in automatic mode, the air conditioning is set to operate and the OUTSIDE AIR mode is set.

If you push the “FRONT WINDSHIELD” button once again while in the FRONT WINDSHIELD mode, the mode then returns to the last mode used.

CAUTION

Do not use the FRONT WINDSHIELD button during cooled air operation in extremely humid weather. The difference between the temperature of the outside air and that of the windshield could cause the outer surface of the windshield to fog up blocking your vision.

AIR CONDITIONING AND AUDIO

If manual fan speed control is desired –

The fan speed can be set to your desired speed by turning the fan speed control knob. The higher the fan speed is, the more air is delivered. Pushing in the “OFF” button turns off the fan.

To remove exterior windshield frost, use the high speed setting.

Stopping the fan –

Push in the (OFF) button. The fan stops in automatic mode or manual mode.

If manual switching of air intake is desired –

(AIR INTAKE) button is used to switch the air intake between the OUTSIDE AIR mode and RECIRCULATED AIR mode.

With the button in the OUTSIDE AIR mode, the OUTSIDE AIR mode indicator light will come on and the system will take fresh outside air into the vehicle.

If quick circulation of cooled air is desired, press in the air intake control button for RECIRCULATED AIR. The RECIRCULATED AIR mode indicator light will come on.

For normal use, it is best to keep the air intake control button set to OUTSIDE AIR mode. If recirculated air is used during heating, the windows will fog up more easily.

AIR CONDITIONING AND AUDIO If manual on–off of the air conditioning is desired –

Push the

A/C

(A/C) button to turn the air conditioning on

and push it again to turn the air conditioning off. The air conditioning does not work if the outside temperature

is lowered down to around 0°C (32°F). If the system is used for ventilation, heating in dry weather

or removing frost or exterior fog on the windshield, turn the air conditioning off once it is no longer required. This will improve fuel economy . The air conditioning can be used for year–round automatic temperature control including cooling and dehumidifying operation.

If the air conditioning compressor does not operate, the

A/C

(A/C) button will blink. If the

even when the

A/C

(A/C) button is pushed again, have the

A/C

(A/C) button blinks

compressor checked by your nearest Lexus dealer.

Displaying the outside temperature –

When you push the OUTSIDE (OUTSIDE) button, the temperature display shows the outside temperature for about 5 seconds, then returns to the current set temperature

or turns off. The temperature display ranges from –30°C (–22°F) up to 50°C (122°F).

(b) Windshield defogging and defrosting

See “(a) Climate control” for details on each button.

To remove interior fog on the windshield –

Push the (WINDSHIELD) button.

To remove frost or exterior fog on the windshield –

1. Place the temperature control knob at the maximum temperature.

2. Push the (WINDSHIELD) button.

3. Turn the fan speed control knob to set the fan speed at the maximum speed.

AIR CONDITIONING AND AUDIO

 Make sure the air inlet grilles in front of the windshield are

not blocked by leaves or other obstructions.

 If air flow control is not satisfactory, check the dashboard

vents. (See “Center vents,” “Side vents,” “Lower vent” and “Rear vents.”)

 To help cool down the interior after parking in the hot sun,

drive for the first few minutes with the windows open. After the excess heat has blown away, close the windows.

 When driving on dusty roads, close all windows. If dust

thrown up by the vehicle is still drawn into the vehicle after closing the windows, it is recommended that the air intake control button be left to the OUTSIDE AIR mode and the fan speed control button be pressed to anywhere except the “OFF” button.

 If following another vehicle on a dusty road, or driving in

windy and dusty conditions, it is recommended that the air intake control button be temporarily pressed in to the RECIRCULATED AIR mode, which will close off the outside passage and prevent outside air and dust from entering the vehicle interior.

Center vents

The center vents may be opened or closed as shown.

Side vents

The side vents may be opened or closed as shown.

AIR CONDITIONING AND AUDIO

Lower vent

The lower vent may be opened or closed as shown.

Rear vents

The rear vents may be opened or closed as shown.

AUDIO SYSTEM

Car audio operating tips

You can listen to the car audio when the ignition key is at “ON” or “ACC.” However, if the engine is not running, the key must be in the “ACC” position.

NOTICE

To prevent the battery from being discharged, do not leave the car audio on longer than necessary when the engine is not running.

Audio operation is described in detail on the following pages:

 Radio operation – See page 91.  Cassette tape player operation – See page 95.  Compact disc player operation – See page 99.  Anti–theft system – See page 105.

SECTION 6 – 1

SERVICE PROCEDURES AND SPECIFICATIONS

Introduction

Vehicle identification 160 Engine compartment overview 161 Do–it–yourself service precautions 162 Parts and tools 163

159

INTRODUCTION

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is the legal identifier for your vehicle. This number is on the left top of the instrument panel and can be seen through the windshield from outside.

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is also on the Certification Label.

This is the primary identification number for your Lexus. It is used in registering the ownership of your vehicle.

The engine number is stamped on the engine block as shown.

160

ENGINE COMPARTMENT OVERVIEW

INTRODUCTION

161

INTRODUCTION

DO–IT–YOURSELF SERVICE

PRECAUTIONS

If you perform maintenance yourself, be sure to follow the correct procedure given in this Section.

You should be aware that improper or incomplete servicing may result in operating problems.

Performing do–it–yourself maintenance during the warranty period may affect your warranty coverage. Read the separate Lexus Warranty statement for details and suggestions.

This Section gives instructions only for those items that are relatively easy for an owner to perform. As explained in Section 5, there are still a number of items that must be performed by a qualified technician with special tools.

For information on tools and parts for do–it–yourself maintenance, see “Parts and tools.”

Utmost care should be taken when working on your vehicle to prevent accidental injury . Here are a few precautions that you should be especially careful to observe:

CAUTION

 When the engine is running, keep hands, clothing,

and tools away from the moving fan and engine drive belt. (Removing rings, watches, and ties is advisable.)

 Right after driving, the engine compartment – the

engine, radiator, exhaust manifold and power steering fluid reservoir, etc. – will be hot. So be careful not to touch them. Oil and other fluids may also be hot.

 Do not smoke, cause sparks or allow open flames

around fuel or the battery. Their fumes are flammable.

 Be extremely cautious when working on the

battery. It contains poisonous and corrosive sulfuric acid.

 Do not get under your vehicle with just the body

jack supporting it. Always use automotive jack stands or other solid supports.

 Be sure the ignition is off if you work near the

electric cooling fan or radiator grille. With the ignition on, the electric cooling fan may automatically start to run if the air conditioning is on and/or if the coolant temperature is high.

 Use eye protection whenever you work on or under

your vehicle where you may be exposed to flying or falling material, fluid spray, etc.

NOTICE



Remember that battery and ignition cables carry high currents or voltages. Be careful of accidentally causing a short circuit.

162

INTRODUCTION



Before closing the engine hood, check to see that you have not forgotten any tools, rags, etc.



Do not drive with the air cleaner removed, or excessive engine wear could result. Also backfiring could cause a fire in the engine compartment.



Do not overfill automatic transmission fluid, or the transmission could be damaged.



Be careful not to scratch the glass surface with the wiper frame.

PARTS AND TOOLS

Here is a list of parts and tools you will need to perform do–it–yourself maintenance. Remember all Lexus parts are designed in metric sizes, so your tools must be metric.

Checking the engine oil level

Parts (if level is low):

 API SH, Energy–Conserving II multigrade engine oil or

ILSAC multigrade engine oil. For recommended oil viscosity, see page 172.

Tools:

 Rag or paper towel  Funnel (only for adding oil)

Checking the engine coolant level

Parts (if level is low):

 Ethylene–glycol coolant  Demineralized or distilled water

Tools:

 Funnel (only for adding coolant)

Checking brake fluid

Parts (if level is low):

 FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3 or SAE J1703 brake fluid

Tools:

 Funnel (only for adding fluid)

Checking power steering fluid

Parts (if level is low):

 Automatic transmission fluid DEXRON–II or III

Tools:

 Rag or paper towel  Funnel (only for adding fluid)

163

INTRODUCTION

Checking battery condition

Non–maintenance batteries Tools:

 Warm water  Baking soda  Grease  Conventional wrench (for terminal clamp bolts)

Maintenance type batteries Parts (if level is low):

 Distilled water

Tools:

 Warm water  Baking soda  Grease  Conventional wrench (for terminal clamp bolts)  Coin (for vent plugs)  Funnel (only for adding distilled water)

Checking and replacing the blade type fuses

Parts (if replacement is necessary):

 Fuse with same amperage rating as original

Checking the cartridge type fuses

Parts (if replacement is necessary):

 Genuine Lexus fuse or equivalent with same amperage

rating as original

Adding washer fluid

Parts:

 Water  Washer fluid containing antifreeze (for winter use)

Tools:

 Funnel

164

SECTION 5

MAINTENANCE

Maintenance requirements 154 General maintenance 155 Does your vehicle need repairing? 158

For scheduled maintenance information, please refer to the separate “Owner ’s Manual Supplement/ Maintenance Schedule”.

153

MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS

Your Lexus vehicle has been designed to have fewer maintenance requirements with longer service intervals to save both your time and money. However, each regular maintenance as well as day–to–day care is more important than ever before to ensure smooth, trouble–free, safe, and economical driving.

It is the owner ’s responsibility to make sure the specified maintenance, including general maintenance services, is performed. Note that both the new vehicle and emission control system warranties specify that proper maintenance and care must be performed. See the Owner’s Guide, Owner’s Manual Supplement or Warranty Booklet for complete warranty information.

General maintenance

General maintenance items are those day–to–day care practices that are important to your vehicle for proper operation. It is the owner’s responsibility to ensure that the general maintenance items are performed regularly.

These checks or inspections can be done either by yourself or your Lexus dealer.

Scheduled maintenance

The scheduled maintenance items listed in the “Owner’s Manual Supplement/Maintenance Schedule” are those required to be serviced at regular intervals.

For details of your maintenance schedule, read the separate “Owner’s Manual Supplement/Maintenance Schedule.”

It is recommended that any replacement parts used for maintenance or for the repair of the emission control system be Lexus supplied.

The owner may elect to use non–Lexus supplied parts for replacement purposes without invalidating the emission control system warranty. However, use of replacement parts which are not of equivalent quality may impair the effectiveness of the emission control systems.

You may also elect to have maintenance, replacement, or repair of the emission control devices and system performed by any automotive repair establishment or individual without invalidating this warranty. See Owner’s Guide, Owner’s Manual Supplement or Warranty Booklet for complete warranty information.

Where to go for service?

Lexus technicians are well–trained specialists and are kept up to date with the latest service information through technical bulletins, service tips, and in–dealership training programs. They are well informed about the operation of all the systems on your vehicle.

You can be confident that your Lexus dealer’s service department performs the best job to meet the maintenance requirements of your vehicle.

154

Your copy of the repair order is proof that all required maintenance has been performed for warranty coverage. And if any problems should arise with your vehicle while under warranty , your Lexus dealer will promptly take care of it. Again, be sure to keep a copy of the repair order for any service performed on your Lexus.

What about do–it–yourself maintenance?

Many of the maintenance items are easy to do yourself, if you have a little mechanical ability and a few basic automotive tools. Simple instructions for how to perform them are presented in Section 6.

If you are a skilled do–it–yourself mechanic, the Lexus service manuals are recommended. Please be aware that do–it–yourself maintenance can affect your warranty coverage. See your Owner’s Guide, Owner’s Manual Supplement or Warranty Booklet for the details.

MAINTENANCE

GENERAL MAINTENANCE

Listed below are the general maintenance items that should be performed at the intervals specified. It is recommended that any problem you notice be brought to the attention of your Lexus dealer or qualified service shop for their advice.

CAUTION

Make these checks only where adequate ventilation can be obtained if you run the engine.

Vehicle exterior

Items listed below should be performed from time to time, unless otherwise specified.

Tire pressure

Check the pressure with a gauge every two weeks, or at least once a month and adjust as shown on the tire pressure label. See page 180 for additional information.

Tire surface

Check the tires carefully for cuts, damage or excessive wear . See page 181 for additional information.

Wheel nuts

When checking the tires, make sure to check the nuts for looseness. Tighten them if necessary.

Tire rotation

Rotate the tires every 12000 km (7500 miles). See page 181 for additional information.

155

MAINTENANCE Fluid leaks

Check underneath for leaking fuel, oil, water or other fluid after the vehicle has been parked for a while. If you smell fuel fumes or notice any leak, have the cause found and corrected immediately.

Doors and engine hood

Check that all doors, including trunk lid, operate smoothly and all latches lock securely. Make sure the engine hood secondary latch secures the hood when the primary latch is released.

Vehicle interior

Items listed below should be checked regularly, e.g. while performing periodic services, cleaning the vehicle, etc.

Lights

Make sure the headlight, stop lights, tail lights, turn signal lights, and other lights are working. Check headlight aim.

Service reminder indicators and warning buzzers

Check that all service reminder indicators and warning buzzers function properly.

Steering wheel

Check that it has the specified freeplay. Be alert for changes in steering condition, such as hard steering, excessive freeplay or strange noise.

Seats

Check that all front seat controls such as seat adjusters, seatback recliner, etc. operate smoothly and that all latches lock securely in any position. Check that the head restraints move up and down smoothly and that the locks hold securely in any latched position.

Seat belts

Check that the seat belt system such as buckles, retractors and anchors operate properly and smoothly. Make sure the belt webbing is not cut, frayed, worn or damaged.

Accelerator pedal

Check the pedal for smooth operation and uneven pedal effort or catching.

Brake pedal

Check the pedal for smooth operation and the proper clearance and freeplay. Check the brake booster function.

Brakes

At a safe place, check that the brakes do not pull to one side when applied.

Parking brake

Check that the lever has the proper travel and that, on a safe incline, your vehicle is held securely with only the parking brake applied.

156

Automatic transmission “Park” mechanism

Check the lock release button of the selector lever for proper and smooth operation. On a safe incline, check that your vehicle is held securely with the selector lever in “P” position and all brakes released.

Engine compartment

Items listed below should be checked from time to time, e.g. each time when refueling.

Washer fluid

Make sure there is sufficient fluid in the tank. See page 199 for additional information.

Engine coolant level

Make sure the coolant level is between the Upper and Lower lines on the see–through reservoir when the engine is cool. See page 173 for additional information.

Battery

Y our Lexus has a maintenance free battery. You do not have to add distilled water. For longer life of the battery, however, see page 192 for additional information.

Brake fluid level

Make sure the brake fluid level is correct. See page 178 for additional information.

MAINTENANCE

Engine oil level

Check the level on the dipstick with the engine turned off and the vehicle parked on a level spot. See page 171 for additional information.

Power steering fluid level

Check the level on the dipstick. The level should be in the “HOT” or “COLD” range depending on the fluid temperature. See page 179 for additional information.

Exhaust system

Look for cracks, holes and loose supports. If you notice any change in the sound of the exhaust or smell exhaust fumes, have the cause located and corrected immediately. (See engine exhaust cautions in Section 3–1.)

157

MAINTENANCE

DOES YOUR VEHICLE NEED

REPAIRING?

Be on the alert for changes in performances and sounds, and visual tip–offs that indicate service is needed. Some important clues are:

 Engine missing, stumbling, or pinging  Appreciable loss of power  Strange engine noises  A fluid leak under the vehicle (however, water dripping from

the air conditioning after use is normal.)

 Change in exhaust sound (This may indicate a dangerous

carbon monoxide leak. Drive with the windows open and have the exhaust system checked immediately.)

 Flat–looking tires, excessive tire squeal when cornering,

uneven tire wear

 Vehicle pulls to one side when driving straight on a level

road

 Strange noises related to suspension movement  Loss of brake effectiveness, spongy feeling brake pedal,

pedal almost touches floors, vehicle pulls to one side when braking

 Engine coolant temperature continually higher than normal

If you notice any of these clues, take your vehicle to your Lexus dealer as soon as possible. It probably needs adjustment or repair.

CAUTION

Do not continue driving with the vehicle unchecked. It could result in serious vehicle damage and possibly personal injury.

158

SECTION 3 – 2

STARTING AND DRIVING

Driving tips

Break–in period 130 Operation in foreign countries 130 Tips for driving in various conditions 130 Winter driving tips 131 Trailer towing 132 How to save fuel and make your vehicle

last longer 133

129

DRIVING TIPS

BREAK–IN PERIOD

Drive gently and avoid high speeds.

You need not follow a break–in schedule with your new Lexus. But following a few simple tips for the first 1600 km (1000 miles) can add to the future economy and long life of your vehicle:

 Do not drive over 88 km/h (55 mph).  Avoid overrevving. Maintain engine speed between 2000

and 4000 rpm.

 Avoid full–throttle starts.  Try to avoid hard stops during the first 300 km (200 miles).  Do not drive for a long time at any single speed, either fast

or slow.

OPERATION IN FOREIGN

COUNTRIES

If you plan to drive your Lexus in another country... First, comply with the vehicle registration laws. Second, confirm the availability of the correct fuel (unleaded

and minimum octane number).

TIPS FOR DRIVING IN VARIOUS

CONDITIONS

 Always slow down in gusty crosswinds. This will allow you

much better control.

 Drive slowly onto curbs and, if possible, at a right angle.

Avoid driving onto high, sharp–edged objects and other road hazards. Failure to do so can lead to severe tire damage resulting in tire bursts.

 When parking on a hill, turn the front wheels until they

touch the curb so that the vehicle will not roll. Apply the parking brake, and place the transmission in “P.” If necessary, block the wheels.

 Washing your vehicle or driving through deep water may

get the brakes wet. To see whether they are wet, check that there is no traffic near you and then press the pedal lightly. If you do not feel a normal braking force, the brakes are probably wet. To dry them, drive the vehicle cautiously while lightly pressing the brake pedal with the parking brake applied. If they still do not work safely, pull to the side of the road and call a Lexus dealer for assistance.

CAUTION

 Before driving off, make sure the parking brake is

fully released and that the parking brake reminder light is off.

 Do not rest your foot on the brake pedal while

driving. It can cause dangerous overheating, needless wear, and poor fuel economy.

130

DRIVING TIPS

 To drive down a long or steep hill, reduce your

speed and downshift. Remember, if you ride the brakes excessively, they may overheat and not work properly. See page 120.

 Be careful when accelerating, upshifting,

downshifting or braking on a slippery surface. The abrupt change in engine speed, such as sudden acceleration or engine braking, could cause the vehicle to spin or skid.

 Even if the legal speed limit permits it, do not drive

over 140 km/h (85 mph) unless your vehicle has high–speed capability tires. Driving over 140 km/h (85 mph) may result in tire failure, loss of control and possible injury. Be sure to consult a tire dealer to determine whether the tires on your vehicle are high–speed capability tires or not before driving at such speeds.

 Do not continue normal driving when the brakes

are wet. If they are wet, your vehicle will require a longer stopping distance, and it may pull to one side when the brakes are applied. Also, the parking brake will not hold the vehicle securely.

WINTER DRIVING TIPS

Make sure you have ethylene–glycol antifreeze in the radiator.

NOTICE

Do not use alcohol type antifreeze.

Check the condition of the battery and cables.

Cold temperatures reduce the capacity of any battery, so it must be in top shape to provide enough power for winter starting. Page 192 tells you how to visually inspect the battery. Your Lexus dealer and most service stations will be pleased to check the battery charge level.

Make sure the engine oil viscosity is suitable for the cold weather.

See page 172 for recommended viscosity . Leaving a heavy summer oil in your vehicle during winter months may cause harder starting. If you are not sure about which oil to use, call your Lexus dealer – they will be pleased to help.

Check the electronic ignition system/distributor ignition system for loose connections or obvious damage.

Keep the door locks from freezing.

Squirt lock de–icer or glycerine into the locks to keep them from freezing. To open a frozen lock, try heating the key before inserting it.

131

DRIVING TIPS Use a washer fluid containing an antifreeze solution.

This product is available at your Lexus dealer and most auto parts stores. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for how much to mix with water.

NOTICE

Do not use engine antifreeze or any other substitute because it may damage your vehicle’s paint.

Do not use your parking brake when there is a possibility it could freeze.

When parking, put the transmission into “P” and block the front wheels. Do not use the parking brake, or snow or water accumulated in and around the parking brake mechanism may freeze the parking brake, making it hard to release.

Keep ice and snow from accumulating under the fenders.

Ice and snow built up under your fenders can make steering difficult. During bad winter driving, stop and check under the fenders occasionally.

Depending on where you are driving, we recommend you carry some emergency equipment.

Some of the things you might put in the vehicle are tire chains, window scraper, bag of sand or salt, flares, small shovel, jumper cables, etc.

TRAILER T OWING

Lexus does not recommend towing a trailer with your GS300. It is not designed for trailer towing.

132

DRIVING TIPS

HOW TO SAVE FUEL AND MAKE

YOUR VEHICLE LAST LONGER

Getting more kilometer/mileage from a liter/gallon of fuel is easy – just take it easy. It will help make your vehicle last longer, too. Here are some specific tips on how to save money on both fuel and repairs:

 Keep your tires inflated at the correct pressure. Check

the pressure every two weeks, or at least once a month. Underinflation causes tire wear and wastes fuel.

 Do not carry unneeded weight in your vehicle. Excess

weight puts a heavier load on the engine, causing greater fuel consumption.

 Avoid lengthy warm–up idling. Once the engine is

running smoothly, begin driving – but gently. Remember, however, that on cold winter days this may take a little longer.

 Accelerate slowly and smoothly. Avoid jackrabbit starts.  Avoid long engine idling. If you have a long wait and you

are not in traffic, it is better to turn off the engine and start again later.

 Avoid engine overrevving. Use a gear position suitable

for the road on which you are traveling.

 Avoid continuous speeding up and slowing down.

Stop–and–go driving wastes fuel.

 Avoid unnecessary stopping and braking. Maintain a

steady pace. Try to time the traffic signals so you only need to stop as little as possible or take advantage of through streets to avoid traffic lights. Keep a proper distance from other vehicles to avoid sudden braking. This will also reduce wear on your brakes.

 Avoid heavy traffic or traffic jams whenever possible.  Do not rest your foot on the brake pedal. This causes

needless wear, overheating and poor fuel economy.

 Maintain a moderate speed on highways. The faster

you drive, the greater the fuel consumption. By reducing your speed, you will cut down on fuel consumption.

 Keep the front wheels in proper alignment. Avoid

hitting the curb and slow down on rough roads. Improper alignment not only causes faster tire wear but also puts an extra load on the engine, which, in turn, wastes fuel.

 Keep the bottom of your vehicle free from mud, etc.

This not only lessens weight but also helps prevent corrosion.

 Keep your vehicle tuned–up and in top shape. A dirty

air cleaner, improper valve clearance, dirty plugs, dirty oil and grease, brakes not adjusted, etc. all lower engine performance and contribute to poor fuel economy. For longer life of all parts and lower operating costs, keep all maintenance work on schedule, and if you often drive under severe conditions, see that your vehicle receives more frequent maintenance. (For scheduled maintenance information, please refer to the separate “Owner’s Manual Supplement/Maintenance Schedule”.)

133

DRIVING TIPS

CAUTION

Never turn off the engine to coast down hills. Your power steering and brake booster will not function without the engine running. Also, the emission control system operates properly only when the engine is running.

134

SECTION 4

IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY

If your engine stalls while driving 136 If your vehicle will not start 136 If your vehicle overheats 139 If you have a flat tire 140 If your vehicle needs to be towed 145 If you cannot shift automatic transmission

selector lever 150 If you lose your keys or lock yourself out 151

135

IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY

IF YOUR ENGINE STALLS WHILE

DRIVING

If your engine stalls while driving....

1. Reduce your speed gradually, keeping a straight line. Move cautiously off the road to a safe place.

2. Turn on your emergency flashers.

3. Try starting the engine again. If the engine will not start, see “If your vehicle will not start.”

CAUTION

If the engine is not running, the power assist for the brakes and steering will not work, so steering and braking will be much harder than usual.

IF YOUR VEHICLE WILL NOT START

(a) Simple checks

Before making these checks, make sure you have followed the correct starting procedure instructions in “How to start the engine” on page 115 and that you have sufficient fuel.

If the engine is not turning over or is turning over too slowly –

1. Check that the battery terminals are tight and clean.

2. If the battery terminals are O.K., switch on the interior light.

3. If the light is out, dim or goes out when the starter is cranked, the battery is discharged. You may try jump starting. See “(c) Jump starting” for further instruction.

If the light is O.K., but the engine still will not start, it needs adjustment or repair. Call a Lexus dealer, Roadside Assistance or Customer Service Assistance. (See “Foreword.”)

NOTICE

Do not pull– or push–start the vehicle. It may damage the vehicle or cause a collision when the engine starts. Also the three–way catalytic converter may overheat and become a fire hazard.

If the engine turns over at its normal speed but will not start –

1. The engine may be flooded because of repeated cranking. See “(b) Starting a flooded engine” for further instructions.

2. If the engine still will not start, it needs adjustment or repair. Call a Lexus dealer, Roadside Assistance or Customer Service Assistance. (See “Foreword.”)

(b) Starting a flooded engine

If the engine will not start, your engine may be flooded because of repeated cranking.

If this happens, turn the key to “START” with the accelerator pedal held down. Continue this operation for 15 seconds and then stop cranking. Then try starting the engine with your foot off the accelerator pedal.

If the engine does not start after 15 seconds of cranking, release the key, wait a few minutes and try again.

136

If the engine still will not start, it needs adjustment or repair. Call a Lexus dealer, Roadside Assistance or Customer Service

Assistance. (See “Foreword.”)

NOTICE

Do not crank for more than 15 seconds at a time. This may overheat the starter and wiring systems.

To avoid serious personal injury and damage to your vehicle which might result from battery explosion, acid burns, electrical burns, or damaged electronic components, these instructions must be followed precisely.

If you are unsure about how to follow this procedure, we strongly recommend that you seek help from your Lexus

dealer , Roadside Assistance or Customer Service Assistance. (See “Foreword.”)

CAUTION

 Batteries contain sulfuric acid which is poisonous

and corrosive. Wear protective safety glasses when jump starting, and avoid spilling acid on your skin, clothing, or vehicle.

IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY

 If you should accidentally get acid on yourself or

in your eyes, remove any contaminated clothing and flush the affected area with water for at least 15 minutes. Then get immediate medical attention. If possible, continue to apply water with a sponge or cloth while en route to the medical office.

 The gas normally produced by a battery will

explode if a flame or spark is brought near. Use only standardized jumper cables and do not smoke or light a match while jump starting.

NOTICE

The battery used for boosting must be 12 V. Do not jump start unless you are sure that the booster battery is correct.

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IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY

battery. (This helps reduce the explosion hazard, personal injuries and burns.)

3. If the engine in the vehicle with the booster battery is not running, start it and let it run for about 5 minutes. During jump starting, run the engine at about 2000 rpm with the accelerator pedal lightly depressed.

4. Connect the jumper cables in the exact order shown in the illustration: positive terminal (“+” mark)–to–positive terminal (“+” mark), and negative terminal (“–” mark) –to–engine or body ground. Note that you first connect the positive cable to the discharged battery and then to the booster battery. Next, connect the negative cable to the booster battery and then to a solid, stationary, unpainted metallic point (e.g. oil level gauge bracket) away from the battery. Do not connect it to or near any part that moves when the engine is cranked.

NOTICE

When making the connections, do not lean over the battery or accidentally let the jumper cables or clamps touch anything except the correct battery terminals or the ground.

JUMP STARTING PROCEDURE

1. If the booster battery is installed in another vehicle, make sure the vehicles are not touching. Turn off all unnecessary lights and accessories.

2. If required, remove all the vent plugs from the booster battery. Lay a cloth over the open vents on the booster

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5. Start your engine in the normal way. After starting, run it at about 2000 rpm for several minutes with the accelerator pedal lightly depressed.

6. Carefully disconnect the cables in the exact reverse order: the negative cable and then the positive cable.

7. Carefully dispose of the battery cover cloths which may now contain sulfuric acid.

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