SECTION 6 ± 1
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
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
253 |
INTRODUCTION
VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is the legal identifier for your vehicle. This number is on the left top of the instrument panel and can be seen through the windshield from outside.
This is the primary identification number for your Lexus. It is used in registering the ownership of your vehicle.
The vehicle identification number (VIN) is also on the Certification Label.
The engine number is stamped on the engine block as shown.
254 |
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
INTRODUCTION
ENGINE COMPARTMENT OVERVIEW
1 |
Engine oil filler cap |
2 |
Brake fluid reservoir |
3 |
Fuse box |
4 |
Battery |
5 |
Fuse box |
6 |
Engine oil level |
|
dipstick |
7 |
Washer fluid tank |
8 |
Engine coolant |
|
reservoir |
9 |
Power steering fluid |
|
reservoir |
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
255 |
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 ªParts and toolsº 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.
256 |
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
INTRODUCTION
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, ªEnergy±Conservingº 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):
ªToyota Long Life Coolantº or equivalent
See ªChecking the engine coolant levelº on page 270 for instructions.
Demineralized or distilled water
Tools:
Funnel (only for adding coolant)
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
257 |
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 II or III
Tools:
Rag or paper towel
Funnel (only for adding fluid)
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
258 |
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
INTRODUCTION
POSITIONING THE JACK
Front
Rear (two±wheel drive models)
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 ªPº. Block the wheels on the opposite side of the jack up point if necessary.
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
259 |
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.
260 |
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
SECTION 6 ± 2
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
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
261 |
ENGINE
SPECIFICATIONS
± GENERAL
Model |
1MZ ± FE |
||
Type |
6 cylinder V type, 4 cycle, gasoline |
||
Bore and stroke |
87.5 83 mm (3.44 3.27 in.) |
||
Displacement |
2995 cm3 (182.7 cu.in.) |
||
Valve clearance (engine cold) |
|
|
|
Intake |
0.15 ± 0.25 mm (0.006 ± 0.010 in.) |
||
Exhaust |
0.25 ± 0.35 mm (0.010 ± 0.014 in.) |
||
Drive belt tension (with Borroughs drive belt tension gauge |
115 20 lb. |
||
No. BT±33±73F) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
± LUBRICATION SYSTEM |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Oil capacity |
|
|
|
Drain and refill |
4.7 L (5.0 qt., 4.1 lmp.qt.) |
||
with filter |
|||
without filter |
4.5 L (4.8 qt., 4.0 lmp.qt.) |
||
Oil grade |
API SJ, ªEnergy±Conservingº multigrade engine oil or |
||
|
ILSAC multigrade engine oil |
||
Recommended oil viscosity (SAE): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Temperature range anticipated before next oil change |
||
|
|
|
|
262 |
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
ENGINE
± COOLING SYSTEM
Capacity |
|
9.0 L (9.5 qt., 7.9 lmp.qt.) |
|
Coolant type |
|
ªToyota Long Life Coolantº 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. |
|
|
|
|
|
± FUEL |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fuel type |
|
Only UNLEADED |
|
Octane Rating |
|
87 (Research Octane Number 91) or higher |
|
|
|
|
|
± IGNITION SYSTEM |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Spark plug ± Make |
DENSO |
SK20R11 |
|
± Gap |
NGK |
IFR6A11 |
|
|
1.1 mm (0.043 in.) |
||
|
|
|
|
± ELECTRICAL SYSTEM |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Battery Open voltage at 20 C (68 F): |
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] |
|
Charging rates |
|
5A max. |
|
|
|
|
|
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
263 |
ENGINE
FUEL
Fuel type
Your 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.
264 |
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
ENGINE
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.
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
265 |
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 ªACCº or ªLOCKº 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 the oil 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.
266 |
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
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 ªChecking the engine oil levelº 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.
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
267 |
ENGINE
CHECKING THE ENGINE OIL LEVEL
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.
1 Add oil 2 O.K. 3 Too full
4. Pull the dipstick out and look at the oil level on the end. If it is between the low level mark ( 4 ) and the full level mark ( 5 ), it is O.K.
268 |
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
ENGINE
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 oil selection
Use API SJ, ªEnergy±Conservingº multigrade engine oil or ILSAC multigrade engine oil.
Recommended viscosity (SAE):
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.
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
269 |
ENGINE
Oil identification marks
CHECKING THE ENGINE COOLANT
LEVEL
API Service Symbol |
ILSAC Certification Mark |
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. ªEnergy±Conservingº, 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.
1 Reservoir cap 2 Upper line 3 Lower line
Look at the see±through coolant reservoir when the engine is cold. The coolant level is satisfactory if it is between the ªFº and ªLº 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 ªLº line, add coolant. Bring the level up to the ªFº line.
Always use ethylene±glycol type coolant for a proper corrosion protection of aluminum components. See information in the next column.
270 |
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
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 ªToyota Long Life Coolantº 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.
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
271 |
ENGINE
SPARK PLUGS
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.
272 |
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
SECTION 5
MAINTENANCE
Maintenance requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 246 General maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 247 Does your vehicle need repairing? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 250
For scheduled maintenance information, please refer to the ªOwner's Manual Supplement / Maintenance Scheduleº.
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
245 |
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 ªOwner's Guideº, ªOwner's Manual Supplementº or ªWarranty Bookletº 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 ªOwner's Manual Supplement / Maintenance Scheduleº are those required to be serviced at regular intervals.
For details of your maintenance schedule, read the ªOwner's Manual Supplement / Maintenance Scheduleº.
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 ªOwner's Guideº, ªOwner's Manual Supplementº or ªWarranty Bookletº 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.
246 |
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
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.
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.
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 ªOwner's Guideº, ªOwner's Manual Supplementº or ªWarranty Bookletº for the details.
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.
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
247 |
MAINTENANCE
Tire rotation
Rotate the tires according to the maintenance schedule. (For scheduled maintenance information, please refer to the ªOwner's Manual Supplement / Maintenance Scheduleº.) See ªRotating tiresº 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.
248 |
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
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 ªParkº 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 ªPº 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 ªFº and ªLº 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.
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
249 |
MAINTENANCE
Power steering fluid level
Check the level through the reservoir. The level should be in the ªHOTº or ªCOLDº 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 ªEngine exhaust cautionsº 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
250 |
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
MAINTENANCE
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.
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
251 |
MAINTENANCE
252 |
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
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
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |
221 |
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 ªACCº or ªLOCKº, and try starting the engine again.
If the engine will not start, see ªIf your vehicle will not startº.
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 ªHow to start the engineº 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 ªKeysº 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 ª(c) Jump startingº 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 ªForewordº.)
222 |
2001 MY RX300_U (OM48431U) |