Lexus LX450 2002, LX470 2002, LX570 2002 Owner Manual

SECTION 3 –

STARTING AND DRIVING

Starting and driving

Three–way catalytic converter 198. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Engine exhaust caution 199. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Before starting the engine 200. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Ignition switch with steering lock 200. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Parking brake 201. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

How to start the engine 202. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Automatic transmission 203. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Four–wheel drive system 211. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Cruise control 213. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Active height control suspension (AHC) 216. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Adaptive variable suspension (AVS) 224. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Active traction control system 225. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Vehicle skid control system 227. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Brake system 230. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Brake pad wear limit indicators 234. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Types of tires 234. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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THREE–WAY CATALYTIC

CONVERTER

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Three–way catalytic converters are emission control devices installed in the exhaust system.

It looks somewhat like a muffler, but its purpose is to reduce pollutants in the exhaust gas.

CAUTION

 Keep people and combustible materials away from

the exhaust pipe while the engine is running. The exhaust gas is very hot.

 Do not drive, idle or park your vehicle over anything

that might burn easily such as grass, leaves, paper or rags.

NOTICE

A large amount of unburned gases flowing into the three–way catalytic converter may cause it to overheat and create a fire hazard. To prevent this and other damage, observe the following precautions:



Use only unleaded gasoline.



Do not drive with an extremely low fuel level; running out of fuel could cause the engine to misfire, creating an excessive load on the three–way catalytic converter.



Do not allow the engine to run at idle speed for more than 20 minutes.



Avoid racing the engine.



Do not push–start or pull–start your vehicle.



Do not turn off the ignition while the vehicle is moving.



Keep your engine in good running order. Malfunctions in the engine electrical system, electric ignition system or fuel system could cause an extremely high three–way catalytic converter temperature.



If the engine becomes difficult to start or stalls frequently, take your vehicle in for a check–up as soon as possible. Remember, your Lexus dealer knows your vehicle and its three–way catalytic converter system best.

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To ensure that the three–way catalytic converter and



the entire emission control system operate properly, your vehicle must receive the periodic inspections required by the Lexus Maintenance Schedule. For scheduled maintenance information, refer to the “Owner’s Manual Supplement / Scheduled Maintenance”.

ENGINE EXHAUST CAUTION

CAUTION

 Avoid inhaling the engine exhaust. It contains

carbon monoxide, which is a colorless and odorless gas. It can cause unconsciousness or even death.

 Make sure the exhaust system has no holes or loose

connections. The system should be checked from time to time. If you hit something, or notice a change in the sound of the exhaust, have the system checked immediately.

 Do not run the engine in a garage or enclosed area

except for the time needed to drive the vehicle in or out. The exhaust gases cannot escape, making this a particularly dangerous situation.

 Do not remain for a long time in a parked vehicle with

the engine running. If it is unavoidable, however, do so only in an unconfined area and adjust the heating or cooling system to force outside air into the vehicle.

 Keep the back door closed while driving. An open or

unsealed back door may cause exhaust gases to be drawn into the vehicle.

 To allow proper operation of your vehicle’s

ventilation system, keep the inlet grilles in front of the windshield clear of snow, leaves, or other obstructions.

 If you smell exhaust fumes in the vehicle, drive with

the windows open and the back door closed. Have the cause immediately located and corrected.

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STARTING AND DRIVING

BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE

1. Check the area around the vehicle before entering it.

2. Adjust seat position, seatback angle, head restraint height and steering wheel angle.

3. Adjust the inside and outside rear view mirrors.

4. Lock all doors.

5. Fasten seat belts. Remember to check that the service reminder indicators

function when turning the key to ”ON”, and check the fuel gauge to see that you have sufficient fuel.

IGNITION SWITCH WITH STEERING

LOCK

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”START” – Starter motor on. The key will return to the ”ON” position when released.

For starting tips, see page 202.

”ON” – Engine on and all accessories on.

This is the normal driving position.

NOTICE

Do not leave the key in the ”ON” position if the engine is not running. The battery will discharge and the electronic ignition system could be damaged.

200

”ACC” – Accessories such as the radio operate, but the engine is off.

STARTING AND DRIVING

If you leave the key in the ”ACC” or ”LOCK” position and open the driver’s door, a buzzer will remind you to remove the key.

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”LOCK” – Engine is off and the steering wheel is locked. The ignition key can be removed only at this position.

To turn the key from ”ACC” to the ”LOCK” position, you must put the transmission selector lever in the ”P” position.

Once you remove the key, the engine immobiliser system is automatically set. See ”Engine immobiliser system” on page

11. When starting the engine, the key may seem stuck at the

”LOCK” position. To free it, first be sure the key is pushed all the way in, and then rock the steering wheel slightly while turning the key gently.

If, in an emergency, you must turn the engine off while the vehicle is moving, turn the key only to ”ACC”.

PARKING BRAKE

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To set: Pull up the lever. For better holding power, first depress the brake pedal and hold it while setting the parking brake.

To release: Pull up the lever slightly (1), press the lock release button (2), and lower the lever (3).

Before leaving your vehicle, firmly apply the parking brake. For better holding power, first depress the brake pedal and hold it while setting the parking brake.

CAUTION

Before driving, make sure the parking brake is fully released and that the parking brake reminder light is off.

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STARTING AND DRIVING

HOW TO START THE ENGINE

Before cranking

1. Apply the parking brake firmly.

2. Turn off unnecessary lights and accessories.

3. Put the selector lever in ”P”. If you need to restart the engine while the vehicle is moving, put the selector lever in ”N”. A starter safety device will prevent the starter from operating if the selector lever is in any drive position.

4. Depress the brake pedal and hold it to the floor until driving off.

Starting the engine

Before starting the engine, be sure to follow the instructions in ”Before cranking”.

Normal starting procedure

The multiport fuel injection system/sequential multiport fuel injection system in your engine automatically controls the proper air–fuel mixture for starting. You can start a cold or hot engine as follows:

1. With your foot off the accelerator pedal, crank the engine by turning the key to ”ST ART”. Release it when the engine starts.

2. After the engine runs for about 10 seconds, you are ready to drive.

If the weather is below freezing, let the engine warm up for a few minutes before driving. Do not leave the vehicle while the engine is warming up.

If the engine stalls ...

Simply restart it , using the correct procedure given in normal starting.

If the engine will not start

See ”If your vehicle will not start” on page 256.

NOTICE



Do not crank for more than 30 seconds at a time. This may overheat the starter and wiring systems.



Do not race a cold engine.



If the engine becomes difficult to start or stalls frequently, have the engine checked immediately.

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AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

Your automatic transmission has a shift lock system to minimize the possibility of incorrect operation. This means you can only shift out of ”P” position when the brake pedal is depressed (with the ignition switch in ”ON” position and the lock release button pressed in.) ()

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Lock release button

With the brake pedal depressed, shift while holding the lock release button in. (The ignition switch must be in the ”ON” position.)

Shift while holding the lock release button in.

Shift normally.

STARTING AND DRIVING

Overdrive switch

For selecting either a three–speed or four–speed transmission.

When the cruise control is being used even if you downshift the transmission by turning off the overdrive switch, engine braking will not be enabled because the cruise control is not cancelled. For ways to decrease the vehicle speed, see ”Cruise control” on page 213.

Shift position indicator

The shift position is also displayed on the instrument cluster.

P: Parking, engine starting and key removal position R:Reverse position N:Neutral position D:Normal driving (with overdrive on) position 2: Position for stronger engine braking L: Position for maximum engine braking

Second start mode selector switch

For selecting either second start mode or normal driving mode.

Driving pattern selector switch

For selecting a driving pattern suited to existing driving condition.

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Correct use of the automatic transmission is explained in the following parts.

(a) Overdrive switch (b) Normal driving (c) Using engine braking (d) Using the ”2” and ”L” positions (e) Backing up (f) Parking (g) Good driving practice (h) Rocking your vehicle if stuck (i) If you cannot shift the selector lever (j) Driving in ”2nd STRT” (second start) mode

(a) Overdrive switch

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You can select either third gear (with overdrive off) or fourth gear (with overdrive on) by pushing this switch.

To turn the overdrive off, push the switch. The “O/D OFF” indicator light should come on. To turn the overdrive on again, push the switch again. The “O/D OFF” indicator light should go off.

Always drive your vehicle with the overdrive on for better fuel economy and quieter driving.

If the engine is turned off when the overdrive is off and restarted, the overdrive will automatically be on.

When the cruise control is being used, even if you downshift the transmission by pushing and releasing the overdrive switch, engine braking will not be enabled because the cruise control is not cancelled.

For ways to decrease the vehicle speed, see “Cruise control” on page 213.

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(b) Normal driving

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”P” (Park) position 2”N” (Neutral) position

1. Start the engine as instructed in ”How to start the engine” on page 202.

The transmission must be in ”P” or ”N”. The engine will not start in any drive position even if the ignition key is turned to ”START”.

STARTING AND DRIVING

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Driving pattern selector switch

Normal position 3Power position

2. Set the driving pattern selector switch to the ”Normal” position.

Your transmission has a driving pattern selector switch which allows you to select either ”Normal” or ”Power” to suit your driving condition. For ordinary driving, Lexus recommends that you use the ”Normal” position to improve fuel economy.

3. For more powerful acceleration and sporty driving, use the ”Power” position.

In the ”Power” position, the ”ECT PWR” light in the instrument cluster is on and the transmission is shifted up at higher vehicle speeds and shifted down more responsively than in the ”Normal” position.

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STARTING AND DRIVING

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Brake pedal 2”D” (Drive) position

4. With your foot holding down the brake pedal, shift the selector lever to ”D”.

Always use the ”D” position to improve fuel economy and quiet driving. Only in this position, shifting into the overdrive gear is possible. However, while the engine coolant temperature is low, the transmission will not shift into the overdrive gear even in the ”D” position. (See ”(c) Using engine braking” and ”(g) Good driving practice” for exceptions.)

CAUTION

Never put your foot on the accelerator pedal while shifting.

5. Release the parking brake and brake pedal. Depress the accelerator pedal slowly for smooth starting.

In normal cruising, the vehicle will start in the first gear and automatically shift to the most suitable gear for the running conditions.

When the lever is in the “D” position, the automatic transmission system will select the most suitable gear for the running conditions such as hill climbing, hard towing, etc.

If you need to accelerate rapidly while driving, depress the accelerator pedal to the full throttle position. This provides more acceleration by automatically downshifting the transmission to the next lower gear or beyond, depending on the vehicle speed.

If engine braking is needed, such as in descending a long hill, see ”(c) Using engine braking”.

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Shift into the ”L” position. The transmission will downshift to first gear when the vehicle speed is or becomes lower than the speed listed below and maximum engine braking will be applied.

Transfer ”H” 57 km/h (35 mph)

”L” 12 km/h (7 mph)

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To use the braking power of the engine, downshift the transmission in the way described below:

Push the overdrive switch. The ”O/D OFF” indicator light will come on and the transmission will downshift to third gear.

213.

Shift into the ”2” position. The transmission will downshift to second gear when the vehicle speed is or becomes lower than the speed listed below and stronger engine braking will be obtained.

Transfer ”H” 112 km/h (69 mph)

”L” 39 km/h (25 mph)

CAUTION

Be careful when downshifting on a slippery surface. The abrupt change in engine speed could cause the vehicle to spin or skid.

(d) Using the ”2” and ”L” positions

The ”2” and ”L” positions are used for strong engine braking as described previously.

With the selector lever in ”2” or ”L”, you can start the vehicle in motion as with the lever in ”D”.

With the selector lever in ”2”, the vehicle will start in first gear and automatically shift to second gear.

With the selector lever in ”L”, the transmission is engaged in first gear.

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STARTING AND DRIVING

NOTICE



Be careful not to over–rev the engine. Watch the tachometer to keep engine rpm from going into the red zone. The approximate maximum allowable speed for each position is given below for your reference:

Transmission Transfer

”L” ”H” ”2” 42 km/h (26 mph) 104 km/h (65 mph) ”L” 23 km/h (14 mph) 57 km/h (35 mph)



Do not continue hill climbing or hard towing for a long time in the ”2” or ”L” position. This may cause severe automatic transmission damage from overheating. To prevent such damage, ”D” position should be used in hill climbing or hard towing.

(e) Backing up

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Brake pedal 2”R” (Reverse) position

1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop.

2. With the brake pedal held down with your foot, shift the selector lever to the ”R” position.

NOTICE

Never shift into reverse while the vehicle is moving.

When you are backing up, you can adjust the outside rear view mirror on the passenger’s side down quickly. For details, see page 103.

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STARTING AND DRIVING

(f) Parking

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Brake pedal 2Parking brake lever

”P” (Park) position

1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop.

2. Apply the parking brake fully.

3. With the brake pedal held down with your foot, shift the selector lever to the ”P” position.

CAUTION

While the vehicle is moving, never attempt to move the selector lever into ”P” under any circumstances. Serious mechanical damage and loss of vehicle control may result.

(g) Good driving practice

 If the transmission repeatedly shifts up and down between

the third and overdrive gears when climbing a gentle slope, turn off the overdrive switch. Be sure to turn the switch on immediately after climbing the slope.

 When towing a trailer, in order to maintain efficient engine

braking and electrical charging performance, do not use overdrive.

CAUTION

Always keep y o u r f o o t o n t h e brake pedal while stopped with the engine running. This prevents the vehicle from creeping.

NOTICE

Do not hold the vehicle on an upgrade with the accelerator pedal. This can cause the transmission to overheat. Always u s e t h e b r a k e p ed a l o r parking brake.

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(h) Rocking your vehicle if stuck

CAUTION

If your vehicle becomes stuck in snow, mud, sand, etc., then you may attempt to rock the vehicle free by moving it forward and backward. Do not attempt this procedure if people or objects are anywhere near the vehicle. During the rocking operation the vehicle may suddenly move forward or backward as it becomes un–stuck, causing injury or damage to nearby people or objects.

NOTICE

If you rock your vehicle, observe the following precautions to prevent damage to the transmission and other parts.



Do not depress the accelerator pedal while shifting the selector lever or before the transmission is completely shifted to forward or reverse gear.



Do not race the engine and avoid spinning the wheels.



If your vehicle remains stuck after rocking the vehicle several times, consider other ways such as towing.

(i) If you cannot shift the selector lever

If you cannot shift the selector lever even though the brake pedal is depressed, use the shift lock override button. For instructions, see ”If you cannot shift automatic transmission selector lever” on page 277.

(j) Driving in ”2nd STRT” (second start)

mode

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In the ”2nd STRT” (second start) mode, the transmission system shifts up from second gear. Use this mode when starting your vehicle in sand, mud, ice or snow.

T o set the ”2nd STRT” mode, push the ”2nd” switch. In the ”2nd STRT” mode, the ”2nd STRT” indicator light comes on. To cancel the ”2nd STRT” mode, push the ”2nd” switch again.

The ”PWR” mode is automatically cancelled when you push the ”2nd” switch.

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FOUR–WHEEL DRIVE SYSTEM

(a) Four–wheel drive control

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Use the four–wheel drive control lever and center differential lock button to select the following transfer and center differential modes.

The “H” and “L” position of the four–wheel drive control lever provides either lock or unlock mode of the center differential depending on the center differential lock button position.

Use the center differential lock system if your wheels get stuck in a ditch, or when you are driving on a slippery or bumpy surface. When the center differential is locked, the vehicle skid control system is automatically turned off and the center differential lock and “VSC OFF” indicator lights come on because the function that controls engine performance interferes with the process of freeing your wheels.

NOTICE

As soon as the center differential lock switch is turned on, the “VSC OFF” indicator light comes on. After the wheels are out of the ditch or off the slippery or bumpy surface, turn the center differential lock switch off. Make sure t h e c e nter differential lock indicator light and vehicle skid control system off indicator light turn off.

”H” (high speed position, center differential unlocked):

Lever at ”H”, center differential lock button left out Use this for normal driving on all types of roads, from dry

hard–surfaced roads to wet, icy or snow–covered roads. This position gives greater economy, quietest ride, least wear and better vehicle control.

”H” (high speed position, center differential locked):

Lever at ”H”, center differential lock button pushed in Use this for greater traction when you experience a loss of

power, such as wheel slipping, in the center differential unlock mode.

”N” (neutral position): Lever at ”N” No power is delivered to the wheels. The vehicle must be

stopped.

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”L” (low speed position, center differential unlocked):

Lever at ”L”, center differential lock button left out Use this for maximum power and traction. Use this for climbing

or descending steep hills, off–road driving, and hard pulling in sand or mud.

In this mode, the braking feeling that occurs when the wheels are negotiating a sharp corner is further reduced than in the “L” (low position, center differential locked) mode.

“L” (low speed position, center differential locked): Lever at “L”, center differential lock button pushed in

Use this for maximum power and traction. Use this for hard pulling in situations the vehicle cannot negotiate even in the “L” (low speed position, center differential unlocked) mode. Also, using this mode when driving down steep off–road inclines will help contribute to increased vehicle stability.

The indicator light tells when the differential lock is engaged. Note that the differential is not still locked as long as the indicator light remains off.

If the indicator light does not go off when you push out the center differential lock button, drive straight ahead while accelerating or decelerating, or drive in reverse.

See ”(b) Shifting procedure” for further instructions.

Advice for driving on slippery roads in “L” (low speed position) mode

If you shift the four–wheel drive control lever to “L”, the automatic transmission lever to “2” when you drive in steep off–road areas, the output of the brake can be controlled effectively by the active traction control system, which assists the driver to control the driving power of 4 wheels.

Use the “L” position of the automatic transmission lever for maximum power and traction when your wheels get stuck or when you drive down a steep incline. In the following cases, the out put of the brake can be controlled by the active traction control system if the engine speed is under 3,000 rpm (normally engine speed is under 3,000 rpm when the wheels get unstuck).

 The four–wheel drive control lever in the “L” position and the

automatic transmission lever in the “L” position or the automatic transmission lever in the “D” or “2” with the transmission downshifting to the first gear.

 The four–wheel drive control lever in the “L” position and the

automatic transmission lever in the “R” position

(As for the automatic transmission lever positions, see “Automatic transmission” on page 203.)

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(b) Shifting procedure

To shift between unlock and lock modes in ”H”, push the

center differential lock button. To shift between unlock and lock modes in ”L”, push the

center differential lock button. To shift between ”H” and ”L”, stop the vehicle, put the

transmission into ”N” and move the four–wheel drive control lever.

CAUTION

Never move the four–wheel drive control lever if wheels are slipping. Stop the slipping or spinning before shifting.

NOTICE

For normal driving on dry and hard surface roads, unlock the center differential. To prevent damage to the center differential lock system, do not push the center differential lock button when the vehicle is cornering or when its wheels are spinning freely off the ground. If the indicator light does not go off when unlocking the center differential, drive straight ahead while accelerating or decelerating, or drive in reverse.

CRUISE CONTROL

The cruise control allows you to cruise the vehicle at a desired speed over about 40 km/h (25 mph) with your foot off the accelerator pedal.

Y our cruising speed can be maintained although a slight speed change may occur when driving up or down a gradient, within the limits of engine performance. On steeper hills, a greater speed change will occur so it is better to drive without the cruise control.

When the cruise control is on, the driving pattern of the automatic transmission is fixed in the normal position, regardless of the position of the driving pattern selector switch.

CAUTION

 To help maintain maximum control of your vehicle,

do not use the cruise control when driving in heavy or varying traffic, or on slippery (rainy, icy or snow–covered) or winding roads.

 Avoid vehicle speed increases when driving

downhill. If the vehicle speed is too fast in relation to the cruise control set speed, cancel the cruise control then downshift the transmission to use engine braking to slow down.

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Turning on the system

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To operate the cruise control, push the main switch. This turns the system on. The indicator light in the instrument cluster shows that you can now set your desired cruising speed. Another push o n t h e sw itch will turn the system completely of f.

When the ignition key is turned off, the main switch is also automatically turned off. To use the cruise control again, push the main switch again to turn it on.

CAUTION

To avoid accidental cruise control engagement, keep the main switch off when not using the cruise control.

Setting operation

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Each function is described below.

Setting at a desired speed.

The transmission must be in ”D” before you set the cruise control speed.

Bring the vehicle to the desired speed, press the control lever downward in the ”SET/COAST” direction and release it. This sets the vehicle at that speed. Now you may take your foot off the accelerator pedal. If you need acceleration – for example, when passing – depress the accelerator pedal enough for the vehicle to exceed the set speed. When you release the accelerator pedal, the vehicle will return to the speed set prior to the acceleration.

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Cancelling the preset speed

You can cancel the preset speed by either of the following: a. Pulling the control lever in the ”CANCEL” direction. b. Depressing the brake pedal. If the vehicle speed falls below about 40 km/h (25 mph), the

preset speed will be automatically cancelled. If the vehicle speed drops 16 km/h (10 mph) below the preset

speed, the preset speed will also automatically be cancelled. If the preset speed automatically cancels out for other than

these reasons, have your vehicle checked by your Lexus dealer at the earliest opportunity.

Resetting to a faster speed

Press the control lever upward in the ”RES/ACC” direction and hold it. Release the lever when the desired speed is attained. While the lever is held upward, the vehicle will gradually gain speed.

When the difference between the actual vehicle speed and the set speed is less than 5 km/h (3 mph), the set speed can be increased 1.6 km/h (1 mph) each time by pressing the control lever upward in the ”RES/ACC” direction quickly within 0.6 seconds.

However, a quicker way to reset is to accelerate the vehicle and then press the control lever downward in the ”SET/COAST” direction.

Resetting to a slower speed

Press the control lever downward in the ”SET/COAST” direction and hold it. Release the lever when the desired speed is attained. While the lever is held downward, the vehicle speed will gradually decrease.

When the difference between the actual vehicle speed and the set speed is less than 5 km/h (3 mph), the set speed can be lowered 1.6 km/h (1 mph) each time by pressing the control lever downward in the ”SET/COAST” direction quickly within

0.6 seconds. However, a quicker way to reset is to depress the brake pedal

and then press the control lever downward in the ”SET/COAST” direction.

Even if you turn off the overdrive switch with the cruise control on, engine braking will not be applied because the cruise control is not cancelled. To decrease the vehicle speed, reset to a slower speed with the cruise control lever or depress the brake pedal. If you use the brake pedal, cruise control is cancelled.

Resuming the preset speed

If the preset speed is cancelled by pulling the control lever or by depressing the brake pedal, pushing the lever up in the ”RES/ACC” direction will restore the speed set prior to cancellation. However, once the vehicle speed falls below about 40 km/h (25 mph), the preset speed will not be resumed.

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Cruise control failure warning

If the ”CRUISE” indicator light in the instrument cluster flashes when using the cruise control, push the main switch to turn the system off and then push it again to turn it on.

If any of the following conditions then occurs, there is some trouble in the cruise control system.

 The indicator light does not come on.  The indicator light flashes again.  The indicator light goes out after it comes on.

If this is the case, contact your Lexus dealer and have your Lexus inspected.

ACTIVE HEIGHT CONTROL

SUSPENSION (AHC)

This active height control suspension controls the vehicle height depending on the vehicle driving condition. Select your desired height among the ”HI” (high), ”N” (normal) and ”LO” (low) modes with the height select switch.

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(a) Vehicle height modes

 ”HI” (high) mode The vehicle height is about 40 mm (1.6 in.) higher at front

and about 50 mm (2.0 in.) higher at rear than the normal mode height.

This mode is suitable when driving on bumpy roads and through water.

This mode is available when the vehicle speed is under about 30 km/h (19 mph).

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CAUTION

The ”HI” (high) or ”Extra high” mode should be used for severe off–road driving condition only. Because the vehicle’s center of gravity is higher in this setting, the vehicle may become unstable when turning abruptly, resulting in an unexpected accident.

When the four–wheel drive control lever is put at ”L”, this mode may change to the extra high mode automatically in accordance with the driving condition.

When the vehicle exceeds the specified vehicle speed, the vehicle height changes to the following:

With the four–wheel drive control lever at ”H” and at the vehicle speed of 30 km/h (19 mph) or over, the normal mode

is automatically selected.

With the four–wheel drive control lever at ”L” and at the vehicle speed of 50 km/h (30 mph) or over, the vehicle

height becomes automatically about 25 mm (1.0 in.) higher than the normal mode height. If the vehicle speed is lowered about 20 km/h (12 mph) or less after that, the high mode automatically resumes.

Extra high mode This mode is automatically selected from the high mode

with the four–wheel drive control lever placed in ”L” position depending on the vehicle driving condition.

If the vehicle becomes stuck, the vehicle height rises automatically to the extra high mode (slightly higher or at about 70 mm (2.8 in.) higher than normal mode height).

In the following cases, the extra high mode changes to the high mode automatically:

 When your vehicle is no longer stuck.  When the four–wheel drive control lever is put in a position

other than ”L”.

When you push the height select switch on the ”” side in the extra high mode, the normal mode is selected.

Since the extra high mode is automatically selected, you cannot select this mode on purpose with the height select switch.

 ”N” (normal) mode The vehicle height in this mode is standard.

This mode is suitable for ordinary driving.

 ”LO” (low) mode The vehicle height is about 50 mm (2.0 in.) lower at front

and about 40 mm (1.6 in.) lower at rear than the normal mode height.

This mode allows you easy access to the vehicle (getting in and out) and easy loading and unloading operation.

This mode is available when the vehicle is stopped. When you start the vehicle, the normal mode is automatically selected.

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NOTICE

The normal mode is automatically selected when the vehicle begins to move in the low mode. So be careful when you drive in any place where the overhead height is limited.

(b) Automatic leveling function

Regardless of the number of occupants or the luggage loading condition, the vehicle height is always automatically adjusted to a fixed height in any mode.

However, the vehicle height cannot be raised if the vehicle load exceeds the limits. (See page 219.)

To change the vehicle height, it is necessary to meet the following 3 conditions.

 The engine should be running.  All the side doors and back door should be closed.  The height control ”OFF” indicator light should go off.

When selecti n g a mode with the four–wheel drive control lever at ”H”, there is a vehicle speed limit. Refer to the following table.

 = The mode can be selected.  = The mode cannot be selected.

Low

mode

At vehicle stoppage

Under about 30 km/h (19 mph)

About 30 km/h (19 mph) or over

In the following cases the active height control suspension does not operate even if the above conditions are all met.

 The brake pedal has been depressed for longer than about

5 seconds with the vehicle stopped.

 The suspension fluid temperature is lower than –30C

(–22F). If the engine is warmed up, the suspension fluid temperature will be raised as the inside of the engine compartment becomes warmer. Then the active height control suspension becomes operable.

 Driving on bumpy roads, which may cause the suspension

to fully elongate.

 The steering wheel is operated abruptly more than 3/4 turns

with center differential lock system activated.

  

  

  

Normal

mode

High

mode

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(d) Vehicle height adjustment

31X049b



Higher 2Lower

To change the mode, push the height select switch on either side of ”” and ””.

The height control indicator light indicates which mode is selected. (See page 221.)

NOTICE



If you change the vehicle height frequently, the pump may overheat. To prevent this, the active height control suspension should be stopped temporarily for a minute between selections. Operate it again.



Before you lower the vehicle height with the height select switch, check under the vehicle to make sure that nothing to damage the vehicle or no one to be injured is there and the underbody of the vehicle does not touch the ground.



After unloading, the height of a vehicle equipped with the active height control suspension becomes slightly higher than the normal vehicle height. Take sufficient care where the overhead height is restricted.

The vehicle height cannot be raised if the vehicle load exceeds the following limits:

 Up to 4 occupants* plus about 300 kg (661 lb.) in the normal

mode

 Up to 4 occupants* plus about 170 kg (375 lb.) in the high

mode *About 68 kg (150 lb.) for a person If the above load capacity is exceeded, the desired vehicle

height may not be obtained even if the height select switch is pushed. (If the vehicle height cannot be raised in the normal mode and the height control indicator indicates ”LO”, this is because the vehicle is loaded too heavily. Under these conditions, drive your vehicle with due care.)

If the vehicle height cannot be raised even after unloading, push the height select switch on the ”” side and then on the ”” side. If this does not work, turn off the ignition once and then turn on. Operate the select switch again.

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 Selecting the high mode:

Push the height select switch on the ”” side when the vehicle speed is under about 30 km/h (19 mph).

To change the normal mode to high, push the switch once. To change the low mode to high, push the switch twice. It

takes about 30 seconds until the low mode changes to the high mode.

 Selecting the normal mode: To change the high mode to normal, push the height select

switch on the ”” side once. To change the low mode to normal, push the height select

switch on the ”” side once.

 Selecting the low mode:

Push the height select switch on the ”” side while the vehicle is stopped.

To change the high mode to low, push the switch twice. To change the normal mode to low, push the switch once.

NOTICE

Do not select the low mode on bumpy roads. If the underbody of the vehicle touches the rugged road surface, the vehicle may be damaged.

(e) Turning off the active height control

suspension

31X051b

To turn off the active height control suspension with the vehicle stopped, push the height control switch. The height control ”OFF” indicator light comes on and the vehicle height is fixed in the same mode as the height control switch is pushed.

This status is memorized in the system even after the engine is stopped.

If you push the switch again, the height control ”OFF” indicator light goes out and the active height control suspension is turned on.

Even if the engine is stopped while the vehicle height is being lowered, the operation continues for up to 12 seconds.

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STARTING AND DRIVING

CAUTION

If you drive through deep water over about 500 mm (20 in.) in depth, put the vehicle height in the HI (High) mode with the active height select switch and then turn off the active height control suspension by pushing the height control switch. Drive your vehicle at 30 km/h (19 mph) or lower speed.

NOTICE



When jacking up or installing tire chains, be sure to turn off the active height control suspension and stop the engine. Otherwise, the vehicle height may change because of the automatic leveling function, resulting in an unexpected accident.



If your vehicle must be towed, put the vehicle height in the normal mode and turn off the active height control suspension. Otherwise, the vehicle height may change because of the automatic leveling function, resulting in an unexpected accident.



If your vehicle gets ditched, turn off the active height control suspension with the height control switch. Otherwise, the vehicle height may change because of the automatic leveling function, resulting in an unexpected accident.

(f) Height control indicator lights

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

Height control indicator lights

Height control ”OFF” indicator light

When the ignition switch is turned on, all the indicator lights come on. The indicator light showing the present mode only remains on and all other lights go off after a few seconds. This means the system operates correctly.

If you change the vehicle height mode, the indicator lights change as follows:

Even after the active height control suspension is turned off with the height control switch, if the vehicle speed exceeds 30 km (19 mph), the active height control automatically selects the normal mode.

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STARTING AND DRIVING

31X052



: Blinking : Illuminating

When changing the vehicle height from the normal mode to high:

1. The ”N” (normal) mode indicator light goes off and the ”HI” (high) mode indicator light blinks.

2. After the vehicle height control reaches the high mode, the high mode indicator light remains on.

With the active height control suspension turned off, if you operate the height select switch or the vehicle height is changing depending on the vehicle speed, the vehicle height control enters the ready mode. In this case, the height control indicator lights change as follows:

1. The present mode indicator light comes on and at the same time the ready mode indicator light blinks.

2. When the active height control suspension is turned on, the present mode indicator light goes off and the ready mode indicator light blinks. (The vehicle height changes.)

3. After the vehicle height has changed completely, the changed mode indicator light stays on.

If the vehicle is loaded heavily, the vehicle height cannot be raised even if the height select switch is operated. If the underbody of the vehicle has touched the surface on bumpy roads, the vehicle height cannot be lowered with the height select switch. The height control indicator lights change as follows:

1. The present mode indicator light goes off and the selected mode indicator light blinks.

2. The selected mode indicator light goes off. (The vehicle height does not change.) The present mode indicator light comes on again.

Height control ”OFF” indicator light: When the ignition switch is turned on, this light comes on. If it goes out after a few seconds, the active height control suspension operates correctly. If you push the height control switch, the active height control is turned off. The height control ”OFF” indicator light comes on.

In the following cases, there is a problem somewhere in your active heig h t c o n t r o l s u s pension. Although there is no problem to continue normal driving, have the active height control suspension checked by your Lexus dealer as soon as possible.

 The height control ”OFF” indicator light does not come on

when the ignition switch is turned on.

 The height control ”OFF” indicator light blinks.

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(g) Operation in cold weather

The active height control suspension does not operate in cold weather when the suspension fluid temperature drops below –30C (–22F).

In this case, operating the height select switch does not change the vehicle height. The vehicle height control enters the ready mode and the selected height control indicator light blinks. The active height control becomes operable if the engine is warmed up with the suspension fluid temperature being raised within normal operating limits. The vehicle changes to the s e l e c t e d h e i ght when the vehicle height control is in the ready mode.

When the suspension fluid temperature is around –30C (–22F), the vehicle height cannot be raised even within the available load capacity. After warming up the engine, push the control switch on the ”” side once and then on the ”” side to select the desired vehicle height.

It takes longer to change the vehicle height when the suspension fluid temperature drops below –15C (5F).

(h) Parking and stopping tips

If you immediately stop the engine to park the vehicle after off–road driving, the vehicle height is lowered slightly as the vehicle becomes cool. When parking, make sure there is nothing that will be in contact with the underbody of the vehicle. When you start the engine, the vehicle returns to the previous height.

If you park the vehicle for a long time, the vehicle height may gradually lower . When parking for a long time, make sure there is nothing that will come in contact with the underbody of the vehicle. When you start the engine, the vehicle returns to the previous height.

If you stop the engine, the vehicle height may change in accordance with the change in the temperature. When you start the engine, the vehicle returns to the previous height.

(i) Installing or removing heavy equipment

If you install or remove heavy equipment exceeding 15 kg (33 lb.), the front torsion bar should be adjusted. Consult your Lexus dealer.

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(j) Active height control failure warning

If there is a problem somewhere in the active height control suspension, the nor m a l m o d e i s a u t o m atically selected. If this occurs, the height control ”OFF” indicator light blinks and the vehicle height control cannot be activated until the malfunction is corrected.

Stop the engine and start it again. If the height control ”OFF” indicator light goes out, the active height control suspension returns to normal. If the height control ”OFF” indicator blinks again, bring your vehicle to your Lexus dealer as soon as possible and have it checked.

ADAPTIVE VARIABLE SUSPENSION

(AVS)

This adaptive variable suspension adjusts the damping effect on the shock absorbers with the damping mode select switch. Select one of the 4 modes which is suited to the driving conditions with the damping mode select switch to provide good riding comfort and stability.

31X053c



For driving on a bumpy road

For ordinary driving such as in the city traffic

For moderate high speed driving

For sporty type driving such as on winding

mountain roads and high speed driving

We recommend you to select the mode driving. The damping effect will be changed automatically to provide good riding comfort.

for ordinary

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When your vehicle is loaded heavily or you are driving in an unpaved road, the mode provide good vehicle stability , the damping effect will be harder than for ordinary driving mode.

With the four–wheel drive control lever at ”L”, the damping effect suitable for off–road driving will be provided.

or 4 will be recommended. To

ACTIVE TRACTION CONTROL

SYSTEM

31X062c



Active traction control system indicator light

The active traction control system automatically helps control the spinning of 4 wheels which may occur when accelerating on slippery road surfaces, by controlling the output of the brake and engine. Thus, the system assists driver to control the driving power of 4 wheels. When you turn the ignition switch on, the active traction control system always turns on automatically, and the active traction control indicator light will come on. The indicator light will go off after a few seconds.

When active traction control is applied, the active traction control system indicator light blinks.

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STARTING AND DRIVING

You may hear a sound in the engine compartment for a few seconds when the engine is started or just after the vehicle is started. This means that the active traction control system is in the self–check mode, and does not indicate malfunction. When the active traction control system is operating, you may feel vibration or noise of your vehicle, caused by operation of the brakes. This indicates the system is functioning properly .

When getting the vehicle out of mud or new snow, etc., the active traction control system will help operate to prevent the wheels from spinning.

31X064b



Active traction control system failure warning

This light warns when there is a problem somewhere in the active traction control system or vehicle skid control system.

If the “VSC/TRAC” warning light comes on, have your vehicle checked by your Lexus dealer as soon as possible.

The brake actuator temperature increases during the active traction control system or vehicle skid control system operating. If the brake actuator temperature becomes too high while the active traction control system or vehicle skid control system is operating, a buzzer will start to sound intermittently to indicate that the active traction control system can no longer operate. In this case, immediately stop your vehicle at a safe place. If the system continues to operate, the buzzer sound changes from intermittent to continuous. (The continuous buzzer sound will stop after about 3 seconds.) At the time the “VSC/TRAC” warning light will come on and the active traction control system temporarily stops operating in order to protect the brake actuator. (Although the active traction control system does not operate, there is no problem to continue your driving.) The system will be automatically restored after a short time and “VSC/TRAC” warning light goes off if the accelerator pedal is released.

When the “ABS” warning light comes on, the active traction control system is not operating.

The “VSC/TRAC” warning light will come on when the ignition key is turned to “ON”, and will go off after a few seconds.

The “VSC/TRAC” warning light may stay on for 60 seconds after the ignition key is turned to the “ON” position. It is normal if it goes off after a few seconds.

Depressing the brake pedal repeatedly may turn on the “VSC/TRAC” warning light. It is normal if it goes off after a few seconds.

When the “VSC/TRAC” warning light comes on, the active traction control system is not operating, but there is no problem if you continue to drive.

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