lock Lexus GS430 2006 Scheduled Maintenance Guide / LEXUS 2006 GS430/GS300 FROM JAN. 2005 PROD. (OM30649U) Owners Manual

STARTING AND DRIVING
364
(g) 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 489.
ELECTRONIC THROTTLECONTROL SYSTEM
The electronic throttle control system always maintains
appropriate engine output in relation to the accelerator
opening in all driving conditions.
G31023
 1Power position 2Normal position
3Snow position
The electronic throttle control system has 3 modes:
normal, power and snow modes.
Normal mode: For ordinary driving, Lexus recommends that
you use this mode to improve fuel economy.
Power mode: For more powerful acceleration and sporty
driving.

STARTING AND DRIVING
371
(B) Collision will be avoided by changing the steering
G31056
 3
About 50 cm (1.5 ft.) to about 100 cm (3.0 ft.)
4About 37.5 cm (1.1 ft.) to about 50 cm (1.5 ft.)
5About 25 cm (0.8 ft.) to about 37.5 cm (1.1 ft.)
The steering guide symbol and the arrow indicating which
direction should be steered appear along with the bar
indicators and beeps. The above illustration indicates that the collision will be
avoided by turning the steering wheel clockwise.
When
the possibility that the distance between the vehicle and
the obstacle is less than about 25 cm (0.8 ft.) is eliminated by
turning the steering wheel more, the steering guide symbol will
go out and the beeps will stop sounding.
The steering guide symbol and arrow are not instructions
you must observe. They are just a guide to avoid a
collision.
1 Multiinformation display:
The indicator bars will come on depending on the
distance to the obstacle . The steering guide symbol and
arrow will also come on.
2Screen:
The indicator bars will come on in yellow depending on
the distance to the obstacle. The steering guide symbol
and arrow will also come on. In addition, the current
direction of the tires is also indicated in 3 stages.
Beeps:
As distance to the obstacle gets closer, the interval of the
intermittent sound gets shorter, and then finally to a continuous
sound when the distance between the vehicle and the obstacle
is less than about 25 cm (0.8 ft.).

STARTING AND DRIVING
403
2Cancelling the preset speed
You can cancel the preset speed by doing any of the following:
a. Pulling the control lever, in the ”CANCEL” direction.
b. Depressing the brake pedal.
c. Pushing the “ON− OFF” button.
If cancelled by a. or b., the multi−information display shows
“RADAR READY” and the dynamic radar cruise control enters
the ready mode.
If cancelled by c., the “CRUISE” indicator light goes off in the
instrument cluster and the multi −information display shows
“CRUISE OFF”. In this case, the preset speed data is cleared,
and you must set the speed from the beginning.
In the following case, the preset speed automatically
cancels out. At this time, the multiinformation display
shows “RADAR READY” and the dynamic radar cruise
control enters the ready mode.
The vehicle speed falls below about 40 km/h (25 mph). (40
km/h (25 mph) is designated as a cancel speed.)
CAUTION
In this case, the warning tone reminds you that the
dynamic radar cruise control is cancelled and you must
apply the brakes to slow the vehicle.
In the following cases, the warning messages appear and
the preset speed automatically cancels out. When
dynamic radar cruise control is restored, the warning
messages turn off and dynamic radar cruise control
enters “RADAR READY” mode.
a. The slip indicator light blinks and a warning tone sounds.
(This occurs when the vehicle is about to skid.)
b. The driving pattern selector switch is set to snow mode.
c. The anti −lock brake system is activated by automatic
braking. (The warning tone sounds.)
d. The sensor does not operate properly because a foreign
matter sticks to the sensor.
e. The wipers are operated at high speed (including high
speed operation with the wiper lever in the “AUTO” position.)
NOTICE
If the preset speed automatically cancels out for other
than the above reasons, do not operate the dynamic
radar cruise control. Although it is no problem to
continue driving, have your vehicle checked by your
Lexus dealer at the earliest opportunity.

STARTING AND DRIVING
420
Traction control system failure warning
G31039
 1GS430 2GS300
If the traction control system malfunctions, the slip
indicator light (twowheel drive models only) and brake
system warning light (yellow) come on. At this time, the
above message appears. (GS430 only—In some cases,
the multiinformation display shows either “CHECK VSC”
or “CHECK ECB” only.)
If the message appears, the traction control system, vehicle
stability control system and hill− start assist control system do
not work. Although it is no problem to continue driving, have
your vehicle checked by your Lexus dealer as soon as
possible.
VEHICLE STABILITY CONTROL SYSTEM
The vehicle stability control system helps provide
comprehensive control of the systems such as antilock
brake system, traction control, engine control, etc. This
system automatically controls the brakes and engine to
help prevent the vehicle from skidding when cornering on
a slippery road surface or operating steering wheel
abruptly.
This system activates when the vehicle speed is about more
than 15 km/h (9 mph).
You may hear a sound in the engine compartment for a few
seconds just after the vehicle begins to move. This means that
the system is in the self− check mode, but does not indicate a
malfunction.

STARTING AND DRIVING
426
VEHICLE DYNAMICS
INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT (GS430 only)
Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) helps
manage control for vehicle stability control system,
antilock brake system, brake assist system, traction
control system, engine output control, hillstart assist
control system and also manages variable gear ratio
steering system and electric power steering system.
In order to control sudden steering wheel operation and
the sideslip on slippery road surfaces, this system
provides excellent vehicle stability by automatically
controlling the brake, engine output and front wheel
angle.
The state of the tires will affect the performance of the vehicle
dynamics integrated management system. Be sure to check
the following:
 Are tires of specified size installed?
 Are tires of identical type installed?
 Do the tires have stipulated tire pressure?
 Are the tires worn?
A problem with the tires or modified suspension systems will
have an adverse effect on the system and may cause a
malfunction, so be careful. When the slip indicator light comes on, and the message
“CHECK ECB” appears on the multi
−information display, the
vehicle dynamics integrated management does not operate.
Have your vehicle checked by your Lexus dealer as soon as
possible.
In addition, when the master warning light comes on, and the
message “CHECK VGRS” or “CHECK P/S” appears on the
multi−information display, the system will not be temporarily
functioning. Although it is no problem in driving as usual, have
your vehicle checked by your Lexus dealer as soon as
possible.
CAUTION
Do not overestimate the vehicle dynamics integrated
management. Even when this management is
functional, there is a limit to vehicle stability, and
irresponsible driving may lead to an accident. When
driving, you should always pay attention to your speed
and keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the
vehicle in front.

STARTING AND DRIVING
428
Antilock brake system
The antilock brake system is designed to automatically
help prevent lockup of the wheels during a sudden
braking or braking on slippery road surfaces. This assists
in providing directional stability and steering
performance of the vehicle under these circumstances.
Effective way to press the ABS brake pedal: When the
anti−lock brake system function is in action, you may feel the
brake pedal pulsating and hear a noise. In this situation, to
let the anti−lock brake system work for you, just hold the
brake pedal down more firmly. Do not pump the brake in a
panic stop. This will result in reduced braking performance.
The anti −lock brake system becomes operative after the
vehicle has accelerated to a speed in excess of approximately
10 km/h (6 mph). It stops operating when the vehicle
decelerates to a speed below approximately 5 km/h (3 mph).
Depressing the brake pedal on slippery road surfaces such as
on a manhole cover, a steel plate at a construction site, joints
in a bridge, etc. on a rainy day tends to activate the anti −lock
brake system.
You may hear a click or motor sound in the engine
compartment for a few seconds when the engine is started or
just after the vehicle begins to move. This means that the
anti−lock brake system is in the self− check mode, and does not
indicate a malfunction. When the antilock brake system is activated, the
following conditions may occur. They do not indicate a
malfunction of the system:

You may hear the anti− lock brake system operating and feel
the brake pedal pulsating and the vibrations of the vehicle
body and steering wheel. You may also hear the motor
sound in the engine compartment even after the vehicle is
stopped.
 At the end of the anti−lock brake system activation, the
brake pedal may move a little forward.

STARTING AND DRIVING
429
CAUTION
Do not overestimate the antilock brake system:
Although the antilock brake system assists in
providing vehicle control, it is still important to drive
with all due care and maintain a moderate speed and
safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, because
there are limits to the vehicle stability and effectiveness
of steering wheel operation even with the antilock
brake system on.
If tire grip performance exceeds its capability, or if
hydroplaning occurs during high speed driving in the
rain, the antilock brake system does not provide
vehicle control.
Antilock brake system is not designed to shorten the
stopping distance: Always drive at a moderate speed
and maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of
you. Compared with vehicles without an antilock
brake system, your vehicle may require a longer
stopping distance in the following cases:
 Driving on rough, gravel or snowcovered roads.
 Driving with tire chains installed.
 Driving over the steps such as the joints on the road.
 Driving on roads where the road surface is pitted or
has other differences in surface height.
Install all 4 tires of specified size at appropriate
pressure: The antilock brake system detects vehicle
speeds using the speed sensors for respective wheels’
turning speeds. The use of tires other than specified
may fail to detect the accurate turning speed resulting
in a longer stopping distance.

STARTING AND DRIVING
430“ABS” warning light
G31080
 1
U.S.A. 2Canada
GS430—The light comes on when the engine switch is
selected in “IG −ON” mode. If the anti −lock brake system and
the brake assist system work properly, the light turns off in a
few seconds after the engine is started.
GS300—The light comes on for a few seconds when the
engine switch is selected in “IG −ON” mode. It indicates the
anti− lock brake system and the brake assist system work
properly.
If either system malfunctions, the light comes on again.
When the “ABS” warning light is on, the anti− lock brake system
and the brake assist system do not operate, but the brake
system still operates conventionally. If either of the following conditions occur, this indicates a
malfunction
somewhere in the components monitored by
the warning light system. Contact your Lexus dealer as
soon as possible to service the vehicle.
 The light does not come on when engine switch is selected
in “IG− ON” mode.
 The light remains on after the engine is started (GS430), or
remains on after the engine switch is selected in “IG −ON”
mode (GS300).
 The light comes on while you are driving.
A warning light turning on briefly during operation does not
indicate a problem.
CAUTION
If the “ABS” warning light remains on together with the
brake system warning light (red), immediately stop your
vehicle at a safe place and contact your Lexus dealer.
In this case, not only the antilock brake system will fail
but also the vehicle will become extremely unstable
during braking.
GS430 only—Either of the following conditions may
occur, but does not indicate a malfunction:
 The light may stay on for about 60 seconds after the engine
is started. It is normal if it turns off after a while.
 Depressing the brake pedal repeatedly may turn on the
light. It is normal if it turns off after a few seconds.

DRIVING TIPS
450
BREAKIN PERIOD
Drive gently and avoid high speeds.
You need not follow a break−in schedule with your new Lexus.
But following a few simple tips for the first 1600 km (1000 miles)
can add to the future economy and long life of your vehicle:
 Avoid full throttle acceleration when starting and driving.
 Avoid racing the engine.
 Try to avoid hard stops during the first 300 km (200 miles).
 Do not drive for a long time at any single speed, either fast
or slow.
OPERATION IN FOREIGN
COUNTRIES
If you plan to drive your Lexus in another country ...
First, comply with the vehicle registration laws.
Second, confirm the availability of the correct fuel (unleaded
and minimum octane rating).
TIPS FOR DRIVING IN VARIOUS CONDITIONS
Always slow down in gusty crosswinds. This will allow you
much better control.
 Drive slowly onto curbs and, if possible, at a right angle.
Avoid driving onto high, sharp −edged objects and other
road hazards. Failure to do so can lead to severe tire
damage such as a tire burst.
Drive slowly when passing over bumps or travelling on a
bumpy road. Otherwise, the impact could cause severe
damage to the tires and/or wheels.
 When parking on a hill, turn the front wheels until they touch
the curb so that the vehicle will not roll. Apply the parking
brake, and place the transmission in ”P”. If necessary, block
the wheels.
 Washing your vehicle or driving through deep water may get
the brakes wet. To see whether they are wet, check that
there is no traffic near you and then press the pedal lightly.
If you do not feel a normal braking force, the brakes are
probably wet. To dry them, drive the vehicle cautiously while
lightly pressing the brake pedal with the parking brake
applied. If they still do not work safel y, pull to the side of the
road and call a Lexus dealer for assistance.

DRIVING TIPS
452
WINTER DRIVING TIPS
Make sure your coolant is properly protected against
freezing.
Only use ”Toyota Super Long Life Coolant” or similar high
quality ethylene glycol based non−silicate, non −amine,
non− nitrite, and non −borate coolant with long −life hybrid
organic acid technology. (Coolant with long −life hybrid organic
acid technology is a combination of low phosphates and
organic acids.)
See “Checking the engine coolant level” on page 527 for
details of coolant type selection.
For the U.S.A.—“Toyota Super Long Life Coolant” is a mixture
of 50% coolant and 50% deionized water. This coolant
provides protection down to about −35C (− 31F).
For Canada—“Toyota Super Long Life Coolant” is a mixture of
55% coolant and 45% deionized water. This coolant provides
protection down to about −42C (− 44F).
NOTICE
Do not use plain water alone.
Check the condition of the battery and cables.
Cold temperatures reduce the capacity of any battery, so it
must be in top shape to pr ovide enough power for winter
starting. Page 571 tells you how to visually inspect the battery.
Your Lexus dealer and most service stations will be pleased to
check the battery charge level. Make sure the engine oil viscosity is suitable for the cold
weather.
See page 525 for recommended viscosity. Leaving a heavy
summer oil in your vehicle during winter months may cause
harder starting. If you are not sure about which oil to use, call
your Lexus dealer
− they will be pleased to help.
Check the electronic ignition system for loose
connections or obvious damage.
Keep the door locks from freezing.
Squirt lock de −icer or glycerine into the locks to keep them from
freezing.
Use a washer fluid containing an antifreeze solution.
This product is available at your Lexus dealer and most auto
parts stores. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for how
much to mix with water.
NOTICE
Do not use engine antifreeze or any other substitute
because it may damage your vehicle’s paint.
Do not use your parking brake when there is a possibility
it could freeze.
When parking, put the transmission into ”P” and block the front
wheels. Do not use the parking brake, or snow or water
accumulated in and around the parking brake mechanism may
freeze the parking brake, making it hard to release.