coolant level Lexus IS300 2003 Basic Functions / LEXUS 2003 IS300 OWNER'S MANUAL (OM53439U)

8.
For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section\
.
PICTORIAL INDEX
viii
Page
1Tachometer43
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2Headlight high beam indicator light 30
. . . . . . . . . . .
3Low engine oil level warning light 49
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
4Vehicle skid control system warning light 51 . . . . . .
5Turn signal indicator lights 30
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6Cruise control indicator light 241
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7Momentary fuel consumption meter 42. . . . . . . . . . .
8Voltmeter42
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9Automatic headlight leveling system warning
light 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . .
10Engine coolant temperature gauge 41
. . . . . . . . . . . .
11Anti±lock brake system warning light 50
. . . . . . . . . .
12Malfunction indicator lamp 49
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13Fuel gauge 40
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14Low fuel level warning light 51
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15Odometer and trip meter 44
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16Power mode indicator light 232
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page
17Snow mode indicator light
232
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18ODO/TRIP knob 44
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19Automatic transmission indicator lights 230 . . . . . .
20M mode indicator 233
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21Gear position indicator for manual control 233 . . . .
22Discharge warning light 48
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23Rear light failure warning light 51
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24Security indicator light 176. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25Traction control system
off indicator/warning light 51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26Low engine oil pressure warning light 48
. . . . . . . . .
27Slip indicator light 244
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
28Brake system warning light 46
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
29SRS warning light 47
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
30Open door warning light 50
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
31Driver's seat belt reminder light 47
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2003 IS300 from Aug. '02 Prod. (OM53439U)

10.
For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section\
.
PICTORIAL INDEX
x
Page
1Tachometer43
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2Headlight high beam indicator light 30
. . . . . . . . . . .
3Low engine oil level warning light 49
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
4Vehicle skid control system warning light 51 . . . . . .
5Turn signal indicator lights 30
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6Cruise control indicator light 241
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7Momentary fuel consumption meter 42. . . . . . . . . . .
8Voltmeter42
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9Automatic headlight leveling system warning
light 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . .
10Engine coolant temperature gauge 41
. . . . . . . . . . . .
11Anti±lock brake system warning light 50
. . . . . . . . . .
12Malfunction indicator lamp 49
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13Fuel gauge 40
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14Low fuel level warning light 51
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15Odometer and trip meter 44
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16Power mode indicator light 232
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page
17Snow mode indicator light
232
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18ODO/TRIP knob 44
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19Automatic transmission indicator lights 230 . . . . . .
20M mode indicator 233
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21Gear position indicator for manual control 233 . . . .
22Discharge warning light 48
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23Rear light failure warning light 51
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24Security indicator light 176. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25Traction control system
off indicator/warning light 51 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26Low engine oil pressure warning light 48
. . . . . . . . .
27Slip indicator light 244
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
28Brake system warning light 46
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
29SRS warning light 47
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
30Open door warning light 50
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
31Driver's seat belt reminder light 47
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2003 IS300 from Aug. '02 Prod. (OM53439U)

DRIVING TIPS
260

Do not continue normal driving when the brakes are
wet. If they are wet, your vehicle will require a longer
stopping distance, and it may pull to one side when
the brakes are applied. Also, the parking brake will
not hold the vehicle securely.WINTER DRIVING TIPS
Make sure you have a proper freeze protection of engine
coolant.
Your coolant must contain ethylene±glycol type coolant for a
proper corrosion protection of aluminum components. Use
ºToyota Genuine Long Life Coolantº or equivalent. See
ºChecking the engine coolant levelº on page 319 for
instructions.
NOTICE
Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or plain water alone.
When it is extremely cold, we recommend to use 60% solution
for your Lexus, to provide protection down to about ±50 C
(±58 F). Do not use more than 70% solution for better coolant
performance.
Check the condition of the battery and cables.
Cold temperatures reduce the capacity of any battery, so it
must be in top shape to provide enough power for winter
starting. Page 348 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 317 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.
2003 IS300 from Aug. '02 Prod. (OM53439U)

MAINTENANCE
295
Parking brake
Check that the lever has the proper travel and that, on a safe
incline, your vehicle is held securely with only the parking
brake applied.
Automatic transmission ºParkº mechanism
On a safe incline, check that your vehicle is held securely with
the selector lever in ºPº 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 354 for
additional information.
Engine coolant level
Make sure the coolant level is between the Upper and Lower
lines on the see±through reservoir when the engine is cold.
See page 319 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 348 for additional information.
Brake fluid level
Make sure the brake fluid level is correct. See page 329 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 315 for additional
information.
Power steering fluid level
Check the level on the dipstick. The level should be in the
ºHOTº or ºCOLDº range depending on the fluid temperature.
See page 330 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 cautionº on page 225 in
Section 3±1.)
2003 IS300 from Aug. '02 Prod. (OM53439U)

MAINTENANCE
296
DOES YOUR VEHICLE NEEDREPAIRING?
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
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.
2003 IS300 from Aug. '02 Prod. (OM53439U)

INTRODUCTION
301
ENGINE COMPARTMENT OVERVIEW
1Battery
2Fuse box
3Engine oil filler cap
4Engine oil leveldipstick
5Brake fluid reservoir
6Washer fluid tank
7Power steering fluidreservoir
8Engine coolantreservoir
9Electric cooling fans
10Condenser
11Radiator
2003 IS300 from Aug. '02 Prod. (OM53439U)
SV61007a

INTRODUCTION
303
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 backfiringcould cause a fire in the engine compartment.

Do not overfill automatic transmission fluid, or thetransmission could be damaged.

Be careful not to scratch the glass surface with thewiper 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):

ºToyota Genuine Motor Oilº or equivalent
Oil grade: API grade SL ºEnergy±Conservingº or ILSAC
multigrade engine oil. For recommended oil viscosity, see
page 317.
Tools:

Rag or paper towel

Funnel (only for adding oil)
CHECKING THE ENGINE COOLANT LEVEL
Parts (if level is low):

ºToyota Genuine Long Life Coolantº or equivalent
See ºChecking the engine coolant levelº on page 319 for
instructions.

Demineralized or distilled water
Tools:

Funnel (only for adding coolant)
2003 IS300 from Aug. '02 Prod. (OM53439U)

SECTION 6 ± 2
307
SERVICE PROCEDURES AND
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine
Specifications308
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . .
Fuel 311
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel pump shut off system 313
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Facts about engine oil consumption 313
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Used engine oil 315
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . .
Checking the engine oil level 315
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking the engine coolant level 319
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking the radiator and condenser 320
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Spark plugs 321
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . . .
2003 IS300 from Aug. '02 Prod. (OM53439U)

ENGINE
319
CHECKING THE ENGINE COOLANTLEVEL
SV62006

1Reservoir 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 theºFULLº and ºLº 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 ºLº line,
add coolant. Bring the level up to the ºFULLº line.
Always use ethylene±glycol type coolant for a proper corrosion
protection of aluminum components. See information in the
next column. If the coolant level drops within a short time after replenishing,
there
may be a leak in the system. V isually 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 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. We have used ºToyota
Genuine Long Life Coolantº in your Lexus vehicle. In order to
avoid technical problems, we strongly recommend using
ºToyota Genuine 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 310.
2003 IS300 from Aug. '02 Prod. (OM53439U)