Lexus GS300 2005, GS350 2005, GS400 2005, GS430 2005, GS450H 2005 Owner Manual

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SECTION 6 –

SERVICE PROCEDURES AND SPECIFICATIONS

Chassis

Specifications (GS430) 280. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Specifications (GS300) 284. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Checking brake fluid 288. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Checking power steering fluid (GS430) 289. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Checking power steering fluid (GS300) 290. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Checking tire inflation pressure 292. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Tire information 295. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Types of tires 304. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Rotating tires 305. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Checking and replacing tires 305. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Installing snow tires and chains 308. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Replacing wheels 310. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Aluminum wheel precautions 311. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Suspension and chassis 311. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

279

CHASSIS

SPECIFICATIONS (GS430)

– DIFFERENTIAL

Oil capacity Oil type and

viscosity

Vehicles without synthetic oil information label

Vehicles with synthetic oil information label*

1.35 L (1.42 qt., 1.19 lmp.qt.) Hypoid gear oil API GL–5

Above –18C (0F): SAE 90 Below –18C (0F): SAE 80W or SAE 80W–90

Toyota Genuine Differential Synthetic gear oil API GL–5 SAE 75W–90 or its equivalent

280

NOTE:

*Vehicles with synthetic oil information label only:

The following label is affixed on the right side of the differential carrier. Use the type and viscosity shown on the label when the differential oil is replaced.

Synthetic oil information label

NOTICE

Vehicles with synthetic oil information label only: Use of differential oil other than “Toyota Genuine Differential Synthetic gear oil API GL–5 SAE 75W–90” or its equivalent may d a m age the di fferential gear of your vehicle and diminish fuel efficiency. For the reasons mentioned above, Lexus recommends use of “Toyota Genuine Differential Synthetic gear oil API GL–5 SAE 75W–90”. Another differential oil of matching quality can also be used, (but note that despite the similarity in nomenclature between “Toyota Genuine Differential Synthetic gear oil API GL–5 SAE 75W–90” and oils that meet SAE 75W–90 specifications, compliance with the SAE specification does not guarantee that an oil has all characteristic required to avoid the problem described above.) If you are unable to locate an equivalent to “Toyota Genuine Differential Synthetic gear oil API GL–5 SAE 75W–90”, contact your Lexus dealer for further details or another duly qualified and equipped professional.

– AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Fluid capacity

Drain and refill

1.8 L (1.9 qt., 1.6 lmp.qt.)

Fluid type Toyota Genuine ATF Type T – IV*

CHASSIS

*Change automatic transmission fluid only as necessary. Generally, it is necessary to change automatic transmission fluid only if your vehicle is driven under one of the Special Operating Conditions listed in your “Owner’s Manual Supplement / Scheduled Maintenance”. When changing the automatic transmission fluid, use only “Toyota Genuine ATF Type T–IV” (ATF JWS3309 or NWS6500) to aid in assuring optimum transmission performance.

Using automatic transmission fluid other than “Toyota Genuine ATF Type T–IV” may cause deterioration in shift quality, locking up of your transmission accompanied by vibration, and ultimately damage the automatic transmission of your vehicle.

NOTICE

– BRAKES

Pedal clearance *

93 mm (3.7 in.) Min. Pedal free play 0.2 – 2 mm (0.008 – 0.08 in.) Brake pad wear limit 1.0 mm (0.04 in.) Parking brake lining wear limit 1.0 mm (0.04 in.) Parking brake adjustment *

7 – 9 clicks Fluid type SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3

*1Minimum pedal clearance when depressed with the force of 196 N (20 kgf, 44 lbf.) with the engine running *2Parking brake adjustment when depressed with the force of 294 N (30 kgf, 66.1 lbf.)

281

CHASSIS

– STEERING

Free play Power steering fluid

Less than 30 mm (1.2 in.) Automatic transmission fluid DEXRONII or III

– TIRES AND WHEELS (Type A)

Tire size 225/55R16 94V Tire inflation pressure

Recommended cold tire inflation pressure Front 220 kPa (2.2 kgf/cm

or bar, 32 psi)

Rear 220 kPa (2.2 kgf/cm2 or bar, 32 psi) For sustained high speeds above 160 km/h (100 mph), in

countries where such speeds are permitted by law, add 80 kPa (0.8 kgf/cm2 or bar, 12 psi) to the front tires and rear tires, but never exceed the maximum cold tire inflation pressure molded

on the tire sidewall. Wheel size 16 x 7 1/2 JJ Wheel nut torque 103 N·m (10.5 kgf·m, 76 ft·lbf.)

NOTE: For complete information on tires (e.g. replacing tires or replacing wheels), see “Checking tire inflation pressure”

through “Aluminum wheel precautions” on page 292 through 311.

282

– TIRES AND WHEELS (Type B)

Tire size 235/45ZR17

CHASSIS

Tire inflation pressure Recommended cold tire inflation pressure

Front 230 kPa (2.3 kgf/cm Rear 230 kPa (2.3 kgf/cm

or bar, 33 psi)

For sustained high speeds above 160 km/h (100 mph), in countries where such speeds are permitted by law, add 70 kPa (0.7 kgf/cm2 or bar, 10 psi) to the front tires and rear tires, but never exceed the maximum cold tire inflation pressure molded

on the tire sidewall. Wheel size 17 x 8 JJ Wheel nut torque 103 N·m (10.5 kgf·m, 76 ft·lbf.)

NOTE: For complete information on tires (e.g. replacing tires or replacing wheels), see “Checking tire inflation pressure”

through “Aluminum wheel precautions” on page 292 through 311.

283

CHASSIS

SPECIFICATIONS (GS300)

– DIFFERENTIAL

Oil capacity Oil type and

viscosity

Vehicles without synthetic oil information label

Vehicles with synthetic oil information label*

1.35 L (1.42 qt., 1.19 lmp.qt.) Hypoid gear oil API GL–5

Above –18C (0F): SAE 90 Below –18C (0F): SAE 80W or SAE 80W–90

Toyota Genuine Differential Synthetic gear oil API GL–5 SAE 75W–90 or its equivalent

284

NOTE:

*Vehicles with synthetic oil information label only:

The following label is affixed on the right side of the differential carrier. Use the type and viscosity shown on the label when the differential oil is replaced.

Synthetic oil information label

NOTICE

Vehicles with synthetic oil information label only Use of differential oil other than “Toyota Genuine Differential Synthetic gear oil API GL–5 SAE 75W–90” or its equivalent may d a m age the di fferential gear of your vehicle and diminish fuel efficiency. For the reasons mentioned above, Lexus recommends use of “Toyota Genuine Differential Synthetic gear oil API GL–5 SAE 75W–90”. Another differential oil of matching quality can also be used, (but note that despite the similarity in nomenclature between “Toyota Genuine Differential Synthetic gear oil API GL–5 SAE 75W–90” and oils that meet SAE 75W–90 specifications, compliance with the SAE specification does not guarantee that an oil has all characteristic required to avoid the problem described above.) If you are unable to locate an equivalent to “Toyota Genuine Differential Synthetic gear oil API GL–5 SAE 75W–90”, contact your Lexus dealer for further details or another duly qualified and equipped professional.

– AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Fluid capacity

Drain and refill

2.0 L (2.1 qt., 1.8 lmp.qt.)

Fluid type Toyota Genuine ATF Type T – IV*

CHASSIS

Using automatic transmission fluid other than Toyota Genuine ATF T ype T–IV may cause deterioration in shift quality, locking up of your transmission accompanied by vibration, and ultimately damage the automatic transmission of your vehicle.

NOTICE

– BRAKES

Pedal clearance *

93 mm (3.7 in.) Min. Pedal free play 0.2 – 2 mm (0.008 – 0.08 in.) Brake pad wear limit 1.0 mm (0.04 in.) Parking brake lining wear limit 1.0 mm (0.04 in.) Parking brake adjustment *

7 – 9 clicks Fluid type SAE J1703 or FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3

*1Minimum pedal clearance when depressed with the force of 196 N (20 kgf, 44 lbf.) with the engine running *2Parking brake adjustment when depressed with the force of 294 N (30 kgf, 66.1 lbf.)

285

CHASSIS

– STEERING

Free play Power steering fluid Automatic transmission fluid DEXRONII or III

Less than 30 mm (1.2 in.)

– TIRES AND WHEELS (Type A)

Tire size P215/60R16 94V Tire inflation pressure

Recommended cold tire inflation pressure Front 210 kPa (2.1 kgf/cm

or bar, 30 psi)

Rear 210 kPa (2.1 kgf/cm2 or bar, 30 psi) For sustained high speeds above 160 km/h (100 mph), in

countries where such speeds are permitted by law, add 90 kPa (0.9 kgf/cm

or bar, 13 psi) to the front tires and rear tires, but never exceed the maximum cold tire inflation pressure molded on the tire sidewall.

Wheel size 16 x 7 1/2 JJ Wheel nut torque 103 N·m (10.5 kgf·m, 76 ft·lbf.)

NOTE: For complete information on tires (e.g. replacing tires or replacing wheels), see “Checking tire inflation pressure”

through “Aluminum wheel precautions” on page 292 through 311.

286

CHASSIS

– TIRES AND WHEELS (Type B)

Tire size 225/55R16 94V Tire inflation pressure

Recommended cold tire inflation pressure

Front 220 kPa (2.2 kgf/cm Rear 220 kPa (2.2 kgf/cm

or bar, 32 psi)

For sustained high speeds above 160 km/h (100 mph), in countries where such speeds are permitted by law, add 80 kPa (0.8 kgf/cm2 or bar, 12 psi) to the front tires and rear tires, but never exceed the maximum cold tire inflation pressure molded on the tire sidewall.

Wheel size 16 x 7 1/2 JJ Wheel nut torque 103 N·m (10.5 kgf·m, 76 ft·lbf.)

NOTE: For complete information on tires (e.g. replacing tires or replacing wheels), see “Checking tire inflation pressure”

through “Aluminum wheel precautions” on page 292 through 311.

287

CHASSIS

CHECKING BRAKE FLUID

63G002a

To check the fluid level, simply look at the see–through reservoir. The level should be between the ”MAX” and ”MIN” lines on the tank.

It is normal for the brake fluid level to go down slightly as the brake pads wear or when the fluid level in the accumulator is high.

If the reservoir needs frequent refilling, it may indicate a serious mechanical problem.

If the level is low, add FMVSS No.116 DOT 3 or SAE J1703 brake fluid to the brake reservoir.

Refilling brake fluid:

1. Turn the ignition switch off.

2. Depress the brake pedal more than 40 times.

3. Remove the reservoir cap by hand. Add brake fluid up to the ”MAX” line.

If you do not follow the procedure above, the reservoir may overflow.

Use only newly opened brake fluid. Once opened, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air, and excess moisture can cause a dangerous loss of braking efficiency.

CAUTION

Take care when filling the reservoir because brake fluid can harm your hands or eyes. If fluid gets on your hands or in your eyes, flush the affected area with clean water immediately. If you still feel uncomfortable with your hands or eyes, go to the doctor.

NOTICE

If you spill some of the fluid, be sure to wipe it off to prevent it from damaging the parts or paintwork.

288

CHECKING POWER STEERING

FLUID (GS430)

63G003–1

Check the fluid level through the reservoir. If necessary, add automatic transmission fluid DEXRON

If the vehicle has been driven around 80 km/h (50 mph) for 20 minutes (a little more in frigid temperatures), the fluid is hot (60C – 80C or 140F – 175F). You may also check the level when the fluid is cold (about room temperature, 10C – 30C or 50F – 85F) if the engine has not been run for about five hours.



II or III.

CHASSIS

63G006–1



If hot O.K. 2If hot add 3If cold O.K.

If cold add

Clean all dirt off the reservoir and look at the fluid level. If the fluid is cold, the level should be in the ”COLD” range. Similarly, if it is hot, the fluid level should be in the ”HOT” range. If the level is at the low side of the appropriate range, add automatic transmission fluid DEXRON the range.

To remove the reservoir cap, turn it counterclockwise and lift up. To reinstall it, turn it clockwise. After replacing the reservoir cap, visually check the steering box case, vane pump and hose connections for leaks or damage.



II or III to bring the level within

CAUTION

The reservoir may be hot so be careful not to burn yourself.

289

CHASSIS

NOTICE

Avoid overfilling, or the power steering could be damaged.

CHECKING POWER STEERING

FLUID (GS300)

63G004–1

Check the fluid level on the dipstick. If necessary, add automatic transmission fluid DEXRON



II or III.

290

63L003–1



If cold O.K. 2If hot O.K. 3Add fluid

1. Clean all dirt off the reservoir.

2. Remove the reservoir cap by turning it counterclockwise and wipe the dipstick clean.

3. Reinstall the reservoir cap.

4. Remove the reservoir cap again and look at the fluid level. If the fluid is cold, the level should be in the ”COLD” range on the dipstick. Similarly, if it is ho t, t he flu id lev el sho ul d be in the ”HOT” range. If the level is at the low side of either range, add automatic transmission fluid DEXRON level within the range.

5. After replacing the reservoir cap, visually check the steering box case, vane pump and hose connections for leaks or damage.



II or III to bring the

CHASSIS

CAUTION

The reservoir may be hot so be careful not to burn yourself.

NOTICE

Avoid overfilling, or the power steering could be damaged.

291

CHASSIS

CHECKING TIRE INFLATION

PRESSURE

63g018a

The recommended cold tire inflation pressure, tire size and the combined weight of occupants and cargo (vehicle capacity weight) are described on the tire and loading information label.

You should check the tire inflation pressure every two weeks, or at least once a month. And do not forget the spare! The inflation pressure for the spare tire should be the same with that for the standard tire. (See page 282 or 286.)

The following instructions for checking tire inflation pressure should be observed:

 The pressure should be checked only when the

tires are cold. If your vehicle has been parked for at

least 3 hours and has not been driven for more than

1.5 km or 1 mile since, you will get an accurate cold tire inflation pressure reading.

 Always use a tire pressure gauge. Th e appearance

of the tire can be misleading. Besides, tire inflation pressures that are even just a few pounds off can

degrade ride and handling.

 Do not bleed or reduce tire inflation pressure after

driving. It is normal for the tire inflation pressure to

be higher after driving.

 Never exceed the vehicle capacity weight.

Passengers and luggage weight should be located so

that the vehicle is balanced.

292

CHASSIS

Inspection and adjustment procedure

63g013



Tire valve

Tire pressure gauge

1. Remove the tire valve cap.

2. Press the tip of the tire pressure gauge to the tire valve.

3. Read the pressure using the graduations of the gauge.

4. In case the tire inflation pressure is not within the prescribed range, insert the compressed air from the valve. In case of applying too much air, press the center of the valve and release the air to adjust.

5. After completing the tire inflation pressure measurement and adjustment, apply soapy water to the valve and check for leakage.

6. Install the tire valve cap. If a gauge and air pump are not available, have your

vehicle checked by your Lexus dealer.

CAUTION

Be sure to reinstall the tire valve caps. Without the valve caps, dirt or moisture could get into the valve core and cause air leakage. If the caps have been lost, have new ones put on as soon as possible.

Incorrect tire inflation pressure may waste fuel, reduce the comfort of driving, reduce tire life and make your vehicle less safe to drive.

If a tire needs frequent refilling, have it checked by your Lexus dealer.

293

CHASSIS

CAUTION

Keep your tires properly inflated. Otherwise, the following conditions may occur and cause an accident resulting in death or serious injuries.

Low tire pressure (underinflation):

 Excessive wear  Uneven wear  Poor handling  Possibility of blowouts from an overheated tire  Poor sealing of the tire bead  Wheel deformation and/or tire separation  A greater possibility of tire damage from road

hazards

High tire pressure (overinflation):

 Poor handling  Excessive wear  Uneven wear  A greater possibility of tire damage from road

hazards

294

Tire symbols

CHASSIS

TIRE INFORMATION

63g017



The illustration indicates typical tire symbols.

295

CHASSIS

1 Tire size: For details, see “Tire size” on page

297.

2 DOT and Tire Identification Number (TIN): For

details, see “DOT and Tire Identification Number (TIN)” on page 297.

3 Location of tread wear indicators: For details,

see “Checking and replacing tires” on page 305.

4 Tire ply composition and materials : Plies

mean a layer of rubber–coated parallel cords. Cords mean the strands forming the plies in the tire.

5 Radial tires or bias–ply tires : A radial tire has

“RADIAL” on the sidewall. A tire not marked with “RADIAL” is a bias–ply tire.

6 “TUBELESS” or “TUBE TYPE”: A tubeless tire

does not have a tube inside the tire and air is directly filled in the tire. A tube type tire has a tube inside the tire and the tube maintains the air pressure.

7 Load limit at maximum cold tire inflation

pressure: For details, see “Checking and

replacing tires” on page 305.

8 Maximum cold tire inflation pressure: This

means the pressure to which a tire may be inflated. For recommended cold tire inflation pressure, see “Specifications” on page 286.

9 Uniform tire quality grading For details, see

“Uniform tire quality grading” on page 299.

10 Summer tire or all season tire: An all season

tire has “M+S” on the sidewall. The tire not marked with “M+S” is a summer tire. For details, see “Types of tires” on page 304.

296

CHASSIS

DOT and Tire Identification Number (TIN)

63SA11a



The illustration indicates typical DOT and Tire

Identification Number (TIN)

“DOT” symbol

Tire Identification Number (TIN)

Tire manufacturer’s identification mark

Tire size code

Manufacturer’s optional tire type code

Manufacturing week

Manufacturing year

The “DOT” symbol certifies that the tire conforms to applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.

Tire size



Type A

63g015a

297

CHASSIS

298

63g016



Type B

The illustrations indicate typical tire sizes.

Tire use (P=Passenger car, T=Temporary use)

Section width (in millimeters)

Aspect ratio (tire height to section width)

Speed category (alphabet with one letter)

Tire construction code

(R=Radial, D=Diagonal)

Wheel diameter (in inches)

Load index (2 digits or 3 digits)

Speed symbol (alphabet with one letter)



Section width

Tire height

Wheel diameter

63g014b

CHASSIS

Name of each section of tire

63sa14



Bead

Sidewall

Shoulder

Tread

Belt

Inner liner

Reinforcing rubber

Carcass

Rim lines

Bead wires

Chafer

Uniform tire quality grading

This information has been prepared in accordance with regulations issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration of the U.S. Department of Transportation. It provides the purchasers and/or prospective purchasers of Lexus vehicles with information on uniform tire quality grading.

Your Lexus dealer will help answer any questions you may have as you read this information.

DOT quality grades – All passenger vehicle tires must conform to Federal Safety Requirements in addition to these grades. Quality grades can be found where applicable on the tire sidewall between tread shoulder and maximum section width. For example: Treadwear 200 Traction AA Temperature A

Treadwear – The treadwear grade is a comparative

rating based on the wear rate of the tire when tested under controlled conditions on a specified government test course. For example, a tire graded 150 would wear one and a half (1 – 1/2) times as well on the government course as a tire graded 100. The relative performance of tires depends upon the actual conditions of their use, however, and may depart significantly from the norm due to variations in driving habits, service practices and differences in road characteristics and climate.

299

CHASSIS

Traction AA, A, B, C – The traction grades, from highest

to lowest, are AA, A, B and C, and they represent the tire’s ability to stop on wet pavement as measured under controlled conditions on specified government test surfaces of asphalt and concrete. A tire marked C may have poor traction performance.

Warning: The traction grade assigned to this tire is based on braking (straight ahead) traction tests and does not include cornering (turning) traction.

Temperature A, B, C – The temperature grades are A (the highest), B, and C, representing the tire’s resistance to the generation of heat and its ability to dissipate heat when tested under controlled conditions on a specified indoor laboratory test wheel. Sustained high temperature can cause the material of the tire to degenerate and reduce tire life, and excessive temperature can lead to sudden tire failure. The grade C corresponds to a level of performance which all passenger car tires must meet under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 109. Grades B and A represent higher levels of performance on the laboratory test wheel than the minimum required by law.

Warning: The temperature grades for this tire are established for a tire that is properly inflated and not overloaded. Excessive speed, underinflation, or excessive loading, either separately or in combination, can cause heat buildup and possible tire failure.

300

Glossary of tire terminology

Tire related term Meaning

CHASSIS

Cold tire inflation pressure

Maximum inflation pressure

Recommended inflation pressure

Accessory weight

Curb weight

Maximum loaded vehicle weight

tire pressure when the vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours or more, or it has not been driven more than 1.5 km or 1 mile under that condition

the maximum cold inflation pressure to which a tire may be inflated and it is shown on the sidewall of the tire

cold tire inflation pressure recommended by a manufacturer

the combined weight (in excess of those standard items which may be replaced) of automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, power windows, power seats, radio, and heater, to the extent that these items are available as factory–installed equipment (whether installed or not)

the weight of a motor vehicle with standard equipment including the maximum capacity of fuel, oil, and coolant, and, if so equipped, air conditioning and additional weight optional engine

the sum of — (a) curb weight; (b) accessory weight; (c) vehicle capacity weight; and (d) production options weight

301

CHASSIS

Tire related term Meaning

Normal occupant weight

Production options weight

Vehicle capacity weight (Total load capacity)

Intended outboard sidewall

Occupant distribution

Rim

Rim diameter (Wheel diameter)

68 kg (150 lb.) times the number of occupants specified in the second column of Table 1 that follows

the combined weight of those installed regular production options weighing over

2.3 kg (5 lb.) in excess of those standard items which they replace, not previously considered in curb weight or accessory weight, including heavy duty brakes, ride levelers, roof rack, heavy duty battery, and special trim

the rated cargo and luggage load plus 68 kg (150 lb.) times the vehicle’s designated seating capacity

(a) the sidewall that contains a whitewall, bears white lettering or bears

manufacturer, brand, and/or model name molding that is higher or deeper than the same molding on the other sidewall of the tire, or

(b) the outward facing sidewall of an asymmetrical tire that has a particular side

that must always face outward when mounted on a vehicle

distribution of occupants in a vehicle as specified in the third column of Table 1 that follows

a metal support for a tire or a tire and tube assembly upon which the tire beads are seated

nominal diameter of the bead seat

302

Tire related term Meaning Rim size designation rim diameter and width Rim type designation the industry of manufacturer’s designation for a rim by style or code Rim width nominal distance between rim flanges

CHASSIS

Vehicle maximum load on the tire

Vehicle normal load on the tire

the load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its share of the maximum loaded vehicle weight and dividing by two

the load on an individual tire that is determined by distributing to each axle its share of the curb weight, accessory weight, and normal occupant weight (distributed in accordance with Table 1 that follows) and dividing by two

Weather side the surface area of the rim not covered by the inflated tire

Table 1 – Occupant loading and distribution for vehicle normal load for various designated seating capacities

Designated seating capacity,

Number of occupants

Vehicle normal load,

Number of occupants

Occupant distribution in a normally

loaded vehicle 2 through 4 2 2 in front 5 through 10 3 2 in front, 1 in second seat

303

CHASSIS

TYPES OF TIRES

Determine what kind of tires your vehicle is originally equipped with.

1. Summer tires

Summer tires are high–speed capability tires best suited to highway driving under dry conditions.

Since summer tires do not have the same traction performance as snow tires, summer tires are inadequate for driving on snow–covered or icy roads. For driving on snow–covered or icy roads, we recommend using snow tires. If installing snow tires, be sure to replace all four tires.

2. All season tires

All season tires are designed to provide better traction in snow and to be adequate for driving in most winter conditions, as well as for use all year round.

All season tires, however, do not have adequate traction performance compared with snow tires in heavy or loose snow. Also, all season tires fall short in acceleration an d handling performance compared with summer tires in highway driving.

CAUTION

 Do not mix summer and all season tires on your

vehicle as this can cause dangerous handling characteristics, resulting in loss of control.

 Do not use tires other than the manufacturer’s

designated tires, and never mix tires or wheels of the sizes different from the originals as this could result in loss of control and could cause death or serious injury.

304

CHASSIS

ROTATING TIRES

63L020a

To equalize tire wear and help extend tire life, Lexus recommends that you rotate your tires according to the maintenance schedule. (For scheduled maintenance information, please refer to the “Owner’s Manual Supplement / Scheduled Maintenance”.) However, the most appropriate timing for tire rotation may vary according to your driving habits and road surface conditions.

The wheel assemblies must be rotated as illustrated above.

When rotating tires, check for uneven wear and damage. Abnormal wear is usually caused by incorrect tire inflation pressure, improper wheel alignment, out–of–balance wheels, or severe braking.

Before storing radial, snow or studded tires, mark the direction of rotation and be sure to install them in the same direction when using them again. Tires should be stored in a cool dry place.

CHECKING AND REPLACING TIRES

When to replace your tires

63G001d



New tread 2Tread wear indicator

Worn tread

Replace the tires when the tread wear indicators show. The location of tread wear indicators is shown by the ”TWI” or ”∆” marks, etc., molded on the sidewall of each tire.

305

CHASSIS

The tires on your Lexus have built–in tread wear indicators to help you know when the tires need replacement. When the tread depth wears to 1.6 mm (0.06 in.) or less, the indicators will appear. If you can see the indicators in two or more adjacent grooves, the tire should be replaced.

Vehicles equipped with 235/45ZR17 tires: Your Lexus has been fitted with specially developed tires which provide exceptional dynamic performance under general road conditions. However your riding comfort may worsen a little and road noise may increase during driving. You may also notice that your tires will wear more rapidly and tire grip performance will be reduced on the snowy and/or icy roads when compared to standard tires. Be sure to have snow tires or tire chains on the snowy and/or icy roads and drive carefully with the speed appropriate for road conditions.

NOTICE

Low profile tire like 235/45ZR17 may have greater damage than usual tires to its tire wheel when receiving impact from the road surface. Therefore, pay attention to the following.

Be sure to use with proper tire inflation pressure. If the tire inflation pressure is low, the tire may have greater damage. For detailed information about tire inflation pressure, see page 282.

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

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The effectiveness of snow tires is lost if the tread wears down below 4 mm (0.16 in.).

CHASSIS

If you have tire damage such as cuts, splits, cracks deep enough to expose the fabric, or bulges indicating internal damage, the tire should be replaced.

If a tire often goes flat or cannot be properly repaired due to the size or location of a cut or other damage, it should be replaced. If you are not sure, consult with your Lexus dealer.

If air loss occurs while driving, do not continue driving. Driving even a short distance can damage a tire beyond repair.

Any tires which are over 6 years old must be checked by a qualified technician even if damage is not obvious.

Tires deteriorate with age even if they have never or seldom been used.

This applies also to the spare tire and tires stored for future use.

Tire selection

When replacing a tire, use a tire of the same size and construction, and the same or greater maximum load as the originally installed tires.

Using any other size or type of tire may seriously affect handling, ride, speedometer/odometer calibration, ground clearance, and clearance between the body and tires or snow chains.

Check that the maximum load of the replaced tire is greater than 1/2 of the Gross Axle Weight Ratings (GAWR) of either the front axle or the rear axle, whichever is greater. As for the maximum load of the tire, see the load limit at maximum cold tire inflation pressure mentioned on the sidewall of the tire, and as for the Gross Axle Weight Ratings (GAWR), see the Certification Label. For details about the Certification Label and sidewall of the tire, see pages 250 and 295.

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CHASSIS

CAUTION

Observe the following instructions. Otherwise, an accident may occur resulting in death or serious injuries.

 Do not mix radial, bias belted, or bias–ply tires

on your vehicle, as this may cause dangerous handling characteristics resulting in loss of control.

 Do not use tires other than the manufacturer’s

recommended size, as this may cause dangerous handling characteristics resulting in loss of control.

INSTALLING SNOW TIRES AND

CHAINS

When to use snow tires or chains

Snow tires or chains are recommended when driving on snow or ice.

On wet or dry roads, conventional or radial tires provide better traction than snow or studded tires.

Snow tire selection

If you need snow tires, select tires of the same size, construction and load capacity as the originally installed tires.

Do not use tires other than stated above. Since your vehicle has radial tires as original equipment, make sure your snow tires also have radial construction. Do not install studded tires without first checking local regulations for possible restrictions.

CAUTION

Observe the following instruction. Otherwise, an accident may occur resulting in death or serious injuries.

 Do not use snow tires other than the manufacturer’s

recommended size, as this may cause dangerous handling characteristics resulting in loss of control.

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