transmission light Lexus ES300 1998 Owner's Manuals (in English)

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section.
2.
PICTORIAL INDEX
2Page
1
Door lock switch and power window
switches 14, 23
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
.
2 Headlight, turn signal and fog light switch 17
. . . . . . . . . . . .
3 Power rear view mirror control switch 63
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Instrument panel light control 35
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 Trunk lid opener 51
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6 Fuel filler door opener 52
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7 Hood lock release lever 50
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8 Parking brake 135
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9 Windshield wiper and washer switch 20
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10 Cruise control switch 144
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page
11 Traction control system off switch
34
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12 Emergency flasher switch 25
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13 Clock 39
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
. . . . . .
14 Car audio 111
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
. .
15 Automatic air conditioning controls 103
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16 Ashtray 40
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
. . . .
17 Automatic transmission selector lever 137
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18 Seat heater switches 25
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19 Electronic modulated suspension
control switch 146 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20 Glovebox/CD automatic changer 41/122
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4.
For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section.
PICTORIAL INDEX
4Page
1
Engine coolant temperature gauge 28
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Tachometer 29
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
.
3 Turn signal indicator light 19
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Automatic transmission indicator lights 137
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 Overdrive off indicator light 139
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6 Odometer and trip meter 30
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7 ODO/TRIP knob 30
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8 Fuel gauge 28
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
.
9 Cruise control indicator light 144
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10 Rear light failure warning light 34
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11 Seat belt reminder light 32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12 Brake system warning light 31
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page
13 Discharge warning light
32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14 Low oil pressure warning light 33
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15 Slip indicator light 147
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16 Headlight indicator light 17
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17 Headlight high beam indicator light 18
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18 Open door warning light 34
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19 Low engine oil level warning light 33
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20 Malfunction indicator lamp 33
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21 Traction control system off
indicator/warning light 34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22 Anti±lock brake system warning light 33
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23 SRS warning light 32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24 Low washer fluid warning light 34
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25 Low fuel level warning light 34
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6.
For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section.
PICTORIAL INDEX
6Page
1
Engine coolant temperature gauge 28
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Tachometer 29
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
.
3 Turn signal indicator light 19
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Automatic transmission indicator lights 137
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 Overdrive off indicator light 139
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6 Odometer and trip meter 30
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7 ODO/TRIP knob 30
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8 Fuel gauge 28
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
.
9 Cruise control indicator light 144
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10 Rear light failure warning light 34
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11 Seat belt reminder light 32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12 Brake system warning light 31
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page
13 Discharge warning light
32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14 Low oil pressure warning light 33
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15 Slip indicator light 147
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16 Tail light indicator light 17
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17 Headlight high beam indicator light 18
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18 Open door warning light 34
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19 Low engine oil level warning light 33
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20 Malfunction indicator lamp 33
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21 Traction control system off
indicator/warning light 34 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22 Anti±lock brake system warning light 33
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23 SRS warning light 32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24 Low washer fluid warning light 34
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25 Low fuel level warning light 34
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

BASIC OPERATION
1
QUICK REFERENCE
Driver's seat2
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
. . . . . . .
Steering wheel 2
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
. . . . . .
Automatic transmission 3
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Headlight and turn signal switch 4
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wiper switch 5
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
. . . . . . .

BE003±4
Note: When the cruise control is being used, even if you downshift the transmissio\
n by turning off the overdrive switch, engine braking will
not be applied because the cruise control is not cancelled. For the operat\
ion to decrease the vehicle speed, see page 146.
Parking, engine starting and key
removal position
Reverse position
Neutral position
Normal driving position
Position for engine braking
Position for stronger engine braking
than that in º2º position
With the brake pedal depressed, shift
while holding the lock release button
in. (The ignition switch must be in
ºONº position.)
Shift while holding the lock release
button
Overdrive switch
ºOFFº position
(Shifting into
overdrive not
possible)
ºO/D OFFº indicator
light on the instrument
cluster
For selecting either a three±speed or
four±speed transmission
ºONº position
(Shifting into
overdrive possible)
Lock release button (To prevent misshifting)
BASIC OPERATION ± QUICK REFERENCE
3
3. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS33
(e) Low Oil Pressure Warning Light
This light warns that the engine oil pressure is too low.
If it flickers or stays on while you are driving, pull off the road to a safe place
and stop the engine immediately. Call a Lexus dealer or qualified repair shop
for assistance.
The light may occasionally flicker when the engine is idling or it may c\
ome
on briefly after a hard stop. There is no cause for concern if it then go\
es out
when the engine is accelerated slightly.
The light may come on when the oil level is extremely low. It is not designed
to indicate low oil level, and the oil level must be checked using the oil\
level
dipstick.
NOTICE
Do not drive the vehicle with the warning light on ± even for one block\
.
It may ruin the engine.
(f) Low Engine Oil Level Warning Light
This light warns that the engine oil level is too low. Add oil as soon as possible.
(For instructions, see ºChecking the engine oil levelº on page 19\
8.)
While driving on steep inclines or rough roads which causes the vehicle to
substantially sway or on curves, this light may come on due to the movement
of engine oil in the engine.
NOTICE
Continued engine operation with low engine oil will damage the engine.
(g) Malfunction Indicator Lamp
This lamp comes on in the following cases.
a. The fuel tank is completely empty. (See ºFuel gaugeº on page 28 for
instructions.)
b. The fuel tank cap is not tightened securely. (See ºFuel tank capº on page
52 for instructions.)
c. There is a problem somewhere in your engine or automatic transmission
electrical system.
If it comes on while you are driving in case c., have your vehicle
checked/repaired by your Lexus dealer as soon as possible.
(h) ºABSº Warning Light
This light warns that there is a problem somewhere in your anti±lock \
brake
system.
If the light comes on while you are driving, have your vehicle checked by \
your
Lexus dealer as soon as possible.
The light will come on when the ignition key is turned to ºONº, and w\
ill go
off after about a few seconds.

STARTING AND DRIVING
140
In ºDº position, the automatic transmission system will select the most
suitable
gear for the running conditions such as hill climbing, hard towing, etc.\
If you need to accelerate rapidly while driving, push the accelerator pe\
dal all
the way to the floor. The transmission will automatically downshift to the
third, second or first gear, according to the vehicle speed.
If engine braking is needed, such as in descending a long hill, see º(\
b) Using
engine brakingº.
(b) Using engine braking
31E009±2
To use the braking power of the engine, downshift the transmission in the way
described below:
1 Turn off the overdrive switch. (This is effective only when you are
driving in the ºDº position.) The ºO/D OFFº indicator light in th\
e
instrument cluster will come on and the transmission will downshift to
the third gear and engine braking will be obtained.
When the cruise control is being used, even if you downshift the
transmission by t urning off the overdrive switch, engine braking will not
be applied because the cruise control is not cancelled. If you need to
decrease the vehicle speed, see page 146.
2 Shift into the º2º position. The transmission will downshift to t\
he
second gear when the vehicle speed is lower than 122 km/h (76 mph) and
more powerful engine braking will be obtained.

STARTING AND DRIVING
144
CRUISE CONTROL
The cruise control allows you to cruise the vehicle at a desired speed over
40 km/h (25 mph) with your foot off the accelerator pedal.
Your cruising speed can be maintained although a slight speed change may
occur when driving up or down a gradient, within the limits of engine
performance. On steeper hills, a great speed change will occur so it is better
to drive without the cruise control.
CAUTION
To help maintain maximum control of your vehicle, do not
use the cruise control when driving in heavy or varying
traffic, or on slippery (rainy, icy or snow±covered) or
winding roads.
 Avoid vehicle speed increases when driving downhill. If the
vehicle speed is too fast in relation to the cruise control set
speed, cancel the cruise control then downshift the
transmission to use engine braking to slow down.
Turning on the system
31L013
To operate the cruise control, push the main switch. This turns the syste\
m on.
The indicator light in the instrument cluster shows that you can now set yo\
ur
desired cruising speed. Another push on the switch will turn the system
completely off.
When the ignition key is turned off, the main switch is also automatically
turned off. To use the cruise control again, push the main switch again to turn
it on.
CAUTION
To avoid accidental cruise control engagement, keep the main
switch off when not using the cruise control.

DRIVING TIPS
152
BREAK±IN PERIOD
Drive gently and avoid high speeds.
You need not follow a break±in schedule with your new Lexus. But follow\
ing
a few simple tips for the first 1600 km (1000 miles) can add to the fu\
ture
economy and long life of your vehicle:
Do not drive over 88 km/h (55 mph).
 Avoid overrevving. Maintain engine speed between 2000 and 4000 rpm.
 Avoid full±throttle starts.
 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.
 Do not tow a trailer during the first 800 km (500 miles).
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 resulting in tire bursts.
 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 ºPº. 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 safely, pull to the side of the road and call a Lexus dealer for
assistance.

DRIVING TIPS
156
Brakes and safety chains
Lexus recommends trailers with brakes that conform to any
applicable federal and state/provincial regulations.
 A safety chain must always be used between the towing vehicle and the
trailer. Leave sufficient slack in the chain for turns. The chain should
cross under the trailer tongue to prevent the tongue from dropping to
the ground in case it becomes damaged or separated. For correct
safety chain procedures, follow the hitch or trailer manufacturer's
recommendations.
CAUTION
 If the total trailer weight exceeds 450 kg (1000 lb.), trailer
brakes are required.
 Never tap into your vehicle's hydraulic system as it will
lower its braking effectiveness.
 Never tow a trailer without using a safety chain securely
attached to both the trailer and the vehicle. If damage
occurs to the coupling unit or hitch ball, there is possible
danger of the trailer wandering over into another lane.
Tires
Ensure that your vehicle's tires are properly inflated. Adjust the tire
pressure to the recommended cold tire pressure indicated below:
Tire pressure, kPa (kgf/cm
2 or bar, psi)
Front 220 (2.2, 32)
Rear 220 (2.2, 32)
 The trailer tires should be inflated to the pressure recommended by the
trailer manufacturer in respect to the total trailer weight.
Trailer lights
Trailer lights must comply with federal, state/provincial and local
regulations. See your local recreational vehicle dealer or rental agency for
the correct type of wiring and relays for your trailer. Check for correct
operation of the turn signals and stop lights e ach time you hitch up. Direct
splicing may damage your vehicle's electrical system and cause a
malfunction of your lights.
Break±in schedule
 Lexus recommends that you do not tow a trailer with a new vehicle or a
vehicle with any new power train component (engine, transmission,
differential, wheel bearing, etc.) for the first 800 km (500 miles) of driving.
Maintenance
If you tow a trailer, your vehicle will require more frequent maintenance
due to the additional load. For this information, please refer to the
scheduled maintenance information in the ºOwner's Manual Supplement/
Maintenance Scheduleº.
 Retighten all fixing bolts of the towing ball and bracket after
approximately 1000 km (600 miles) of trailer driving.
Pre±towing safety check
Check that your vehicle remains level when a loaded or unloaded trailer is
hitched. Do not drive if the vehicle has an abnormal nose±up or
nose±down condition, and check for improper tongue load, overload, worn
suspension or other possible causes.
 Make sure the trailer cargo is securely loaded so that it cannot shift.
 Check that your rear view mirrors conform to any federal, state/provincial
or local regulation. If they do not, install required rear view mirrors\
appropriate for towing purposes.