Lexus RX300 2001, RX330 2001, RX350 2001, RX400H 2001 Owner Manual

SECTION 6 –

SERVICE PROCEDURES AND SPECIFICATIONS

Introduction

Vehicle identification 254. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Engine compartment overview 255. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Do–it–yourself service precautions 256. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Parts and tools 257. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Positioning the jack 259. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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INTRODUCTION

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION

61R001

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.

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

63R004a63R004a

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

61R006

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

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ENGINE COMPARTMENT OVERVIEW

61R028

INTRODUCTION

Engine oil filler cap

Brake fluid reservoir

Fuse box

Battery

Fuse box

Engine oil level dipstick

Washer fluid tank

Engine coolant reservoir

Power steering fluid reservoir

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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” on page 257.

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.

 Do not get under your vehicle with just the body jack

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

 Use eye protection whenever you work on or under

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

 Be extremely cautious when working on the battery.

It contains poisonous and corrosive sulfuric acid.

 Warning: Battery posts, terminals and related

accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

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NOTICE



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



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):

 Use API SJ, “Energy–Conserving” multigrade engine oil or

ILSAC multigrade engine oil. For recommended oil viscosity, see page 269.

Tools:

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

Checking the engine coolant level

Parts (if level is low):

 “Toyota Long Life Coolant” or equivalent

See “Checking the engine coolant level” on page 270 for instructions.

 Demineralized or distilled water

Tools:

 Funnel (only for adding coolant)

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INTRODUCTION

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

Tools:

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

II or III

Checking battery condition

Tools:

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

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

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POSITIONING THE JACK

61R010



Front

61R011



Rear (two–wheel drive models)

INTRODUCTION

61R018



Rear (four–wheel drive models)

When jacking up your vehicle with the jack, position the jack correctly as shown in the illustrations.

CAUTION

When jacking, be sure to observe the following to reduce the possibility of personal injury:

 Follow jacking instructions.  Do not put any part of your body under the vehicle

supported by the jack. Personal injury may occur.

 Do not start or run the engine while your vehicle is

supported by the jack.

 Stop the vehicle on a level firm ground, firmly set the

parking brake and put the transmission in “P”. Block the wheels on the opposite side of the jack up point if necessary.

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INTRODUCTION

 Make sure to set the jack properly in the jack point.

Raising the vehicle with jack improperly positioned will damage the vehicle or may allow the vehicle to fall off the jack and cause personal injury.

 Never get under the vehicle when the vehicle is

supported by the jack alone; use vehicle support stands.

 Do not raise the vehicle with someone in the vehicle.  When raising the vehicle, do not put an object on or

under the jack.

NOTICE

Make sure to place the jack correctly, or your vehicle may be damaged.

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SECTION 6 –

SERVICE PROCEDURES AND SPECIFICATIONS

Engine

Specifications 262. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fuel 264. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Fuel pump shut off system 266. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Facts about engine oil consumption 266. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Used engine oil 267. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Checking the engine oil level 268. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Checking the engine coolant level 270. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Spark plugs 272. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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ENGINE

SPECIFICATIONS

– GENERAL

Model Type Bore and stroke Displacement V alve clearance (engine cold)

Intake Exhaust

Drive belt tension (with Borroughs drive belt tension gauge No. BT–33–73F)

– LUBRICATION SYSTEM

Oil capacity

Drain and refill

with filter without filter

Oil grade Recommended oil viscosity (SAE):

1MZ – FE 6 cylinder V type, 4 cycle, gasoline

87.5  83 mm (3.44  3.27 in.) 2995 cm

0.15 – 0.25 mm (0.006 – 0.010 in.)

0.25 – 0.35 mm (0.010 – 0.014 in.) 115  20 lb.

4.7 L (5.0 qt., 4.1 lmp.qt.)

4.5 L (4.8 qt., 4.0 lmp.qt.) API SJ, “Energy–Conserving” multigrade engine oil or

ILSAC multigrade engine oil

(182.7 cu.in.)

62L005–1

Temperature range anticipated before next oil change

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– COOLING SYSTEM

Capacity Coolant type

– FUEL

Fuel type Octane Rating

– IGNITION SYSTEM

Spark plug – Make DENSO

NGK

– Gap

– ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

Battery Open voltage at 20C (68F):

Charging rates

ENGINE

9.0 L (9.5 qt., 7.9 lmp.qt.) “Toyota Long Life Coolant” or equivalent With ethylene–glycol type coolant for a proper corrosion

protection of aluminum components Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or plain water alone.

Only UNLEADED 87 (Research Octane Number 91) or higher

SK20R11 IFR6A11

1.1 mm (0.043 in.)

12.7V Fully charged

12.3V Half charged

11.9V Discharged [Voltage that is checked 20 minutes after the key is removed with all the lights turned off]

5A max.

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ENGINE

FUEL

Fuel type

Y our vehicle must use only unleaded gasoline.

To help prevent gas station mixups, your Lexus has a smaller fuel tank opening. The special nozzle on pumps with unleaded fuel will fit it, but the larger standard nozzle on pumps with leaded gas will not.

At a minimum, the gasoline you use should meet the specifications of ASTM D4814 in the U.S.A. and CGSB

3.5–M93 in Canada.

NOTICE

Do not use leaded gasoline. Use of leaded gasoline will cause the three–way catalytic converter to lose its effectiveness and the emission control system to function improperly. Also, this can increase maintenance costs.

Octane rating

Select Octane Rating 87 (Research Octane Number 91) or higher. For improved vehicle performance, the use of premium unleaded gasoline with an Octane Rating of 91 (Research Octane Number 96) or higher is recommended.

Use of unleaded fuel with an Octane Rating or Research Octane Number lower than stated above will cause persistent heavy knocking. If it is severe, this will lead to engine damage.

If your engine knocks ...

If you detect heavy knocking even when using the recommended fuel, or if you hear steady knocking while holding a steady speed on level roads, consult your Lexus dealer.

However, now and then, you may notice light knocking for a short time while accelerating or driving up hills. This is no cause for concern.

Gasoline containing detergent additives

Lexus recommends the use of gasoline that contains detergent additives to avoid build–up of engine deposits.

However, all gasoline sold in the U.S. contains detergent additives to keep clean and/or clean intake systems.

Quality gasoline

Automotive manufacturers in the U.S., Europe and Japan have developed a specification for quality fuel named World–Wide Fuel Charter (WWFC) that is expected to be applied world wide. The WWFC consists of three categories that depend on required emission levels. In the U.S., category 3 has been adopted. The WWFC improves air quality by providing for better emissions in vehicle fleets, and customer satisfaction through better vehicle performance.

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Cleaner burning gasoline

Cleaner burning gasoline, including reformulated gasoline that contains oxygenates such as ethanol or MTBE is available in many areas.

Lexus recommends the use of cleaner burning gasoline and appropriately blended reformulated gasoline. These types of gasoline provide excellent vehicle performance, reduce vehicle emissions, and improve air quality.

Oxygenates in gasoline

Lexus allows the use of oxygenate blended gasoline where the oxygenate content is up to 10% ethanol or 15% MTBE. If you use gasohol in your Lexus, be sure that it has an octane rating no lower than 87.

Lexus does not recommend the use of gasoline containing methanol.

Sulfur in gasoline

If your vehicle is certified to California Emission Regulation, the vehicle is designed to operate on California cleaner burning gasoline (CBG) that contains lower sulfur. If you cannot use California CBG, your emission control system may suffer damage and turn on the Malfunction Indicator Lamp.

If the malfunction is caused by the type of fuel used, repairs may not be covered by your warranty.

Gasoline containing MMT

Some gasoline contain an octane enhancing additive called MMT (Methylcyclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl).

Lexus does not recommend the use of gasoline that contains MMT. If fuel containing MMT is used, your emission control system may be adversely affected. The Malfunction Indicator Lamp on the instrument cluster may come on. If this happens, contact your Lexus dealer for service.

Gasoline quality

In a very few cases, you may experience driveability problems caused by the particular gasoline that you are using. If you continue to have unacceptable driveability, try changing gasoline brands. If this does not rectify your problem, then consult your Lexus dealer.

NOTICE



Do not use gasohol other than stated above. It will cause fuel system damage or vehicle performance problems.



If drivability problems are encountered (poor hot starting, vaporizing, engine knock, etc.), discontinue its use.

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ENGINE



Take care not to spill gasohol during refueling. Gasohol may cause paint damage.

Fuel tank capacity

75 L (19.8 gal., 16.5 lmp.gal.)

FUEL PUMP SHUT OFF SYSTEM

The fuel pump shut off system stops supplying fuel to the engine to minimize the risk of fuel leakage when the engine stalls or an airbag inflates upon collision. To restart the engine after the fuel pump shut off system activates, turn the ignition switch to “ACC” or “LOCK” once and start it.

CAUTION

Inspect the ground under the vehicle before restarting the engine. If you find that liquid has leaked onto the ground, it is the fuel system has been damaged and it is in need of repair. In this case, do not restart the engine.

FACTS ABOUT ENGINE OIL

CONSUMPTION

Functions of engine oil

Engine oil has the primary function of lubricating and cooling the inside of the engine, and plays a major role in maintaining the engine in proper working order.

Engine oil consumption

It is normal that an engine should consume some engine oil during normal engine operation. The causes of oil consumption in a normal engine are as follows.

 Oil is used to lubricate pistons, piston rings and cylinders.

A thin film of oil is left on the cylinder wall when a piston moves downwards in the cylinder. High negative pressure generated when the vehicle is decelerating sucks some of this oil into the combustion chamber. This oil as well as some part of t h e o i l film left on the cylinder wall is burned by the high temperature combustion gases during the combustion process.

 Oil is also used to lubricate the stems of the intake valves.

Some of this oil is sucked into the combustion chamber together with the intake air and is burned along with the fuel. High temperature exhaust gases also burn the oil used to lubricate the exhaust valve stems.

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ENGINE

The amount of engine oil consumed depends on the viscosity of the oil, the quality of the oil and the way the vehicle is driven.

More oil is consumed under driving conditions such as high speeds and frequent acceleration and deceleration.

A new engine consumes more oil, since its pistons, piston rings and cylinder walls have not become conditioned.

When judging the amount of oil consumption, keep in mind that the oil may have become diluted, making it difficult to judge the true level accurately.

For example, if a vehicle is used for repeated short trips and consumes a normal amount of oil, the dipstick may not show any drop in the oil level at all, even after 1000 km (600 miles) or more. This is because the oil is gradually becoming diluted with fuel or moisture, making it appear that the oil level has not changed.

The diluting ingredients evaporate out when the vehicle is then driven at high speeds, as on an expressway , making it appear that oil is excessively consumed after driving at high speeds.

Importance of engine oil level check

One of the most important points in proper vehicle maintenance is to keep the engine oil at the optimum level so that oil function will not be impaired. Therefore, it is essential that the oil level be checked regularly. Lexus recommends that the oil level be checked every time you refuel the vehicle.

NOTICE

Failure to check the oil level regularly could lead to serious engine trouble due to insufficient oil.

For detailed information on oil level check, see “Checking the engine oil level” on page 268.

USED ENGINE OIL

CAUTION

 Used engine oil contains potentially harmful

contaminants which may cause skin disorders such as inflammation or skin cancer, so care should be taken to avoid prolonged and repeated contact with it. To remove used engine oil from your skin, wash thoroughly with soap and water.

 Do not leave used oil within the reach of children.  Dispose of used oil and used oil filters only in a safe

and acceptable manner. Do not dispose of used oil and used oil filters in household trash, in sewers or onto the ground. Call your Lexus dealer or a service station for information concerning recycling or disposal.

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ENGINE

CHECKING THE ENGINE OIL LEVEL

62R042

With the engine at operating temperature and turned off, check the oil level on the dipstick.

1. To get a true reading, the vehicle should be on a level spot. After turning off the engine, wait a few minutes for the oil to drain back into the bottom of the engine.

2. Pull out the dipstick, and wipe it clean with a rag.

3. Reinsert the dipstick and push it in as far as it will go, or the reading will not be correct.

62e002a



Add oil 2O.K. 3Too full

4. Pull the dipstick out and look at the oil level on the end. If it is between the low level mark (

), it is O.K.

(

) and the full level mark

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62R003b

If the oil level is below or only slightly above the low mark, add engine oil of the same type as already in the engine.

Remove the oil filler cap and add engine oil a little at a time, checking the dipstick. The approximate quantity of oil needed to fill between the low level mark and the full level mark on the dipstick is indicated below for reference.

When the level reaches within the correct range, return the filler cap and turn the cap clockwise until you hear a click.

Oil quantity. L (qt., lmp. qt.) 1.5 (1.6, 1.3)

NOTICE

Avoid overfilling, or the engine could be damaged. Check the oil level on the dipstick once again after adding the oil.

ENGINE

Engine oil selection

Use API SJ, “Energy–Conserving” multigrade engine oil or ILSAC multigrade engine oil.

Recommended viscosity (SAE):

62L005

Temperature range anticipated before next oil change

SAE 5W–30 is the best choice for your vehicle, for good fuel economy, and good starting in cold weather.

If you use SAE 10W–30 engine oil in extremely low temperatures, the engine may become difficult to start, so SAE 5W–30 engine oil is recommended.

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ENGINE

Oil identification marks

62L006



API Service Symbol

Either or both API registered marks are added to some oil containers to help you select the oil you should use.

 The API Service Symbol is located anywhere on the outside

of the container. The top portion of the label shows the oil quality by API

(American Petroleum Institute) designation such as SJ. The center portion of the label shows the SAE viscosity grade such as SAE 5W–30. “Energy–Conserving”, shown in the lower portion, indicates that the oil has fuel–saving capabilities.

 The ILSAC (International Lubricant Standardization and

Approval Committee) Certification Mark is displayed on the front of the container.



ILSAC Certification Mark

CHECKING THE ENGINE COOLANT

LEVEL

62R043



Reservoir cap 2Upper line 3Lower line

Look at the see–through coolant reservoir when the engine is cold. The coolant level is satisfactory if it is between the “F” and “L” lines on the reservoir . If the level is low, add ethylene–glycol type coolant for a proper corrosion protection of aluminum components.

The coolant level in the reservoir will vary with engine temperature. However, if the level is on or below the “L” line, add coolant. Bring the level up to the “F” line.

Always use ethylene–glycol type coolant for a proper corrosion protection of aluminum components. See information in the next column.

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ENGINE

If the coolant level drops within a short time after replenishing, there may be a leak in the system. Visually check the radiator, hoses, engine coolant filler cap, radiator cap and drain cock and water pump.

If you can find no leak, have your Lexus dealer test the radiator cap pressure and check for leaks in the cooling system.

CAUTION

To prevent burning yourself, do not remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot.

Coolant type selection

Use of improper coolants may damage your engine cooling system. Your coolant must contain ethylene–glycol type coolant for a proper corrosion protection of your engine that contains aluminum components. Use “Toyota Long Life Coolant” or equivalent.

In addition to preventing freezing and subsequent damage to the engine, this type of coolant will also prevent corrosion. Further supplemental inhibitors or additives are neither needed nor recommended.

Read the coolant container for information on freeze protection. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for how much to mix with plain water (preferably demineralized water or distilled water). The total capacity of the cooling system is given on page 263.

We recommend to use 50% solution for your Lexus, to provide protection down to about –35C (–31F). When it is extremely cold, to provide protection down to about –50C (–58F), 60% solution is recommended. Do not use more than 70% solution for better coolant performance.

NOTICE

Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or plain water alone.

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ENGINE

SPARK PLUGS

62R031c

Your engine is fitted with iridium–tipped spark plugs.

NOTICE

Use only iridium–tipped spark plugs and do not adjust gaps for your engine performance and smooth drivability.

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SECTION 5

MAINTENANCE

Maintenance requirements 246. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

General maintenance 247. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Does your vehicle need repairing? 250. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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

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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 “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 “Owner’s Manual Supplement / Maintenance Schedule”.

It is recommended that any genuine Lexus parts be used for maintenance.

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.

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MAINTENANCE

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 “Owner’s Guide”, “Owner’s Manual Supplement” or “Warranty Booklet” for the details.

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 279 for additional information.

Tire surface

Check the tires carefully for cuts, damage or excessive wear. See page 280 for additional information.

Wheel nuts

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

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MAINTENANCE

Tire rotation

Rotate the tires according to the maintenance schedule. (For scheduled maintenance information, please refer to the “Owner’s Manual Supplement / Maintenance Schedule”.) See “Rotating tires” on page 280.

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 and back door 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 free play. Be alert for changes in steering condition, such as hard steering, excessive free play or strange noise.

Seats

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

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.

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MAINTENANCE

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

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 298 for additional information.

Engine coolant level

Make sure the coolant level is between the “F” and “L” lines on the see–through reservoir when the engine is cold. See page 270 for additional information.

Battery

Your Lexus has a maintenance free battery. You do not have to add distilled water. For longer life of the battery, however, see page 291 for additional information.

Brake fluid level

Make sure the brake fluid level is correct. See page 277 for additional information.

Engine oil level

Check the level on the dipstick with the engine turned off and the vehicle parked on a level spot. See page 268 for additional information.

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Power steering fluid level

Check the level through the reservoir. The level should be in the “HOT” or “COLD” range depending on the fluid temperature. See page 278 for additional information.

Exhaust system

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.)

DOES YOUR VEHICLE NEED

REPAIRING?

Be on the alert for changes in performance 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

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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.

MAINTENANCE

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MAINTENANCE

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SECTION 4

IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY

If your engine stalls while driving 222. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

If your vehicle will not start 222. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

If your vehicle overheats 226. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

If you have a flat tire 227. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

If your vehicle needs to be towed 235. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

If you cannot shift automatic transmission selector lever 242. . . . . .

If you lose your keys or lock yourself out 243. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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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. Turn the ignition key to “ACC” or “LOCK”, and 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 179 and that you have sufficient fuel. Since your vehicle is equipped with the engine immobiliser system, also check whether the other keys will start the engine. If they work, your key may be broken. Have the key checked at your Lexus dealer. If none of your keys work, the system is possibly broken. Call your Lexus dealer. See “Keys” on page 8.

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”.)

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