suspension Lexus GS300h 2013 Owner's Manual

501-1. For safe use
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30D53E_(EE)
CAUTION
SRS airbag precautions
Do not strike or apply significant levels of force to the area of the SRS air-
bag components.
Doing so can cause the SRS airbags to malfunction.
Do not touch any of the component parts immediately after the SRS air-
bags have deployed (inflated) as they may be hot.
If breathing becomes difficult after the SRS airbags have deployed, open a
door or window to allow fresh air in, or leave the vehicle if it is safe to do
so. Wash off any residue as soon as possible to prevent skin irritation.
If the areas where the SRS airbags are stored, such as the steering wheel
pad, door of the glove box and front and rear pillar garnishes are damaged
or cracked, have them replaced by any authorized Lexus dealer or
repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped professional.
Modification and disposal of SRS airbag system components
Do not dispose of your vehicle or perform any of the following modifica-
tions without consulting any authorized Lexus dealer or repairer, or another
duly qualified and equipped professional. The SRS airbags may malfunc-
tion or deploy (inflate) accidentally, causing death or serious injury.
Installation, removal, disassembly and repair of the SRS airbags
Repairs, modifications, removal or replacement of the steering wheel,
instrument panel, dashboard, glove box, seats or seat upholstery, front,
side and rear pillars or roof side rails
Repairs or modifications of the front fender, front bumper, or side of the
occupant compartment
Installation of a grille guard (bull bars, kangaroo bar, etc.), snow plows or
winches
Modifications to the vehicle’s suspension system
Installation of electronic devices such as mobile two-way radios (RF-
transmitter) and CD players
Modifications to your vehicle for a person with a physical disability

235
4 4-1. Before driving
Driving
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30D53E_(EE)
NOTICE
When encountering flooded roads
Do not drive on a road that has flooded after heavy rain etc. Doing so may
cause the following serious damage to the vehicle:
Engine stalling
Short in electrical components
Engine damage caused by water immersion
In the event that you drive on a flooded road and the vehicle is flooded, be
sure to have any authorized Lexus dealer or repairer, or another duly quali-
fied and equipped professional check the following:
Brake function
Changes in quantity and quality of oil and fluid used for the engine, trans-
mission, differential, etc.
Lubricant condition for the propeller shaft, bearings and suspension joints
(where possible), and the function of all joints, bearings, etc.

3464-5. Using the driving support system
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30D53E_(EE)
CAUTION
Situations unsuitable for LKA
Do not use LKA in any of the following situations.
Otherwise, the system may not function correctly and could result in an
accident.
When driving with snow tires, tire chains, a spare tire, or similar equip-
ment
When the tires have been excessively worn, or when the tire inflation
pressure is low
When there are objects or structures along the roadside that might be mis-
interpreted as lane markers (such as guardrails, curb, reflector posts, etc.)
When driving on snowy roads
When pavement lane markers are difficult to see due to rain, snow, fog,
sand, dirt, etc.
When there are visible lines on the pavement from road repairs, or if the
remains of old lane markers are still visible on the road
When driving on slippery roads, such as those covered with rain, ice or
snow
When driving in a lane other than the driving or passing lanes on a free-
way or highway
When driving on a road with lane closures due to maintenance, or when
driving in a temporary lane
When towing a trailer
NOTICE
To prevent damage to or incorrect operation of the LKA system
Do not modify the headlights or attach stickers to the surface of the lights.
Do not modify the suspension, or replace them with non-genuine parts.
Do not install or place anything on the hood or the grille. Also, do not
install a grille guard (bull bars, kangaroo bar etc.).
Do not modify the sun visor or replace it with anything other than a genu-
ine Lexus product.
If your windshield needs repairs, contact any authorized Lexus dealer or
repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped professional.

3584-5. Using the driving support system
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30D53E_(EE)
Lexus parking assist-sensor display
When an obstacle is detected while the rear view monitor system, is in use,
the warning indicator will appear in the top right of the screen even if the dis-
play setting has been set to off.
Sensor detection information
The sensor’s detection areas are limited to the areas around the vehicle’s
bumpers.
Certain vehicle conditions and the surrounding environment may affect the
ability of the sensor to correctly detect obstacles. Particular instances where
this may occur are listed below.
• There is dirt, snow or ice on the sensor. (Wiping the sensors will resolve
this problem.)
• The sensor is frozen. (Thawing the area will resolve this problem.)
In especially cold weather, if a sensor is frozen the screen may show an
abnormal display, or obstacles may not be detected.
• The sensor is covered in any way.
• The vehicle is leaning considerably to one side.
• On an extremely bumpy road, on an incline, on gravel, or on grass.
• The vicinity of the vehicle is noisy due to vehicle horns, motorcycle
engines, air brakes of large vehicles, or other loud noises producing
ultrasonic waves.
• There is another vehicle equipped with parking assist sensors in the
vicinity.
• The sensor is coated with a sheet of spray or heavy rain.
• The vehicle is equipped with a fender pole or wireless antenna.
• Towing eyelets are installed.
• The bumper or sensor receives a strong impact.
• The vehicle is approaching a tall or curved curb.
• In harsh sunlight or intense cold weather.
• The area directly under the bumpers is not detected.
• If obstacles draw too close to the sensor.
• A non-genuine Lexus suspension (lowered suspension etc.) is installed.
• People may not be detected if they are wearing certain types of clothing.
In addition to the examples above, there are instances in which, because of
their shape, signs and other objects may be judged by the sensor to be closer
than they are.

3954-5. Using the driving support system
4
Driving
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30D53E_(EE)
Sport mode
• SPORT S mode
Assists acceleration response by controlling the hybrid system.
When not in SPORT S mode and the driving mode select switch is
turned to the right, the “SPORT S” indicator comes on in the multi-
information display, and the Hybrid System Indicator changes to the
tachometer. (P. 109)
Also, on vehicles equipped with
a 12.3-inch display, the driving
mode is also automatically dis-
played on the “Side Display”.
(P. 444)
• SPORT S+ mode
Helps to ensure steering performance and driving stability by
simultaneously controlling the steering and suspension in
addition to the hybrid system. Suitable for sporty driving.
When in SPORT S mode and the driving mode select switch is turned to
the right, the “SPORT S+” indicator comes on in the multi-information
display, and the Hybrid System Indicator changes to the tachometer.
(P. 109)
Also, on vehicles equipped with
a 12.3-inch display, the driving
mode is also automatically dis-
played on the “Side Display”.
(P. 444)
3

3984-5. Using the driving support system
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30D53E_(EE)
DRS (Dynamic Rear Steering) (if equipped)
Contributes to the turning characteristics and responsiveness of
the vehicle by slightly adjusting the rear wheel angle of the vehi-
cle in accordance with steering wheel movement
EPS (Electric Power Steering)
Employs an electric motor to reduce the amount of effort needed
to turn the steering wheel
AVS (Adaptive Variable Suspension system) (if equipped)
By independently controlling the damping force of the shock
absorbers for each of the 4 wheels according to the road and driv-
ing conditions, this system helps riding comfort with superior
steering stability, and helps good vehicle posture
When SPORT S+ mode is selected by the driving mode select
switch, the damping force is suitable for sporty driving (P.
394)
LDH (Lexus Dynamic Handling system) (if equipped)
Provides independent control of the VGRS, DRS and EPS. Con-
tributes to turning characteristics at low speeds, responsiveness
at medium speeds and safety at high speeds by controlling the
steering angle of the front and rear wheels in accordance with the
steering wheel operation and vehicle speed
VDIM (Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management)
Provides integrated control of the ABS, brake assist, TRC, VSC,
EPS, VGRS (if equipped) and DRS (if equipped) systems
Helps to maintain vehicle stability when swerving on slippery
road surfaces by controlling the brakes, hybrid system output,
steering assist, and steering ratio and rear wheel angle

4054-5. Using the driving support system
4
Driving
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30D53E_(EE)
CAUTION
Replacing tires
Make sure that all tires are of the specified size, brand, tread pattern and
total load capacity. In addition, make sure that the tires are inflated to the
recommended tire inflation pressure level.
The ABS, TRC and VSC systems will not function correctly if different
tires are installed on the vehicle.
Contact any authorized Lexus dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified
and equipped professional for further information when replacing tires or
wheels.
Handling of tires and the suspension
Using tires with any kind of problem or modifying the suspension will
affect the driving assist systems, and may cause a system to malfunction.

4074-5. Using the driving support system
4
Driving
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30D53E_(EE)
Suspension control (if equipped)
When the system determines that there is a high possibility of a
frontal collision, the operation of AVS (P. 398) optimally con-
trols the damping force of the shock absorber.
Steering control (if equipped)
There is a high possibility of collision and if the steering wheel is
operated, the steering angles of the front and rear wheels and the
heaviness of the steering wheel are controlled by LDH, thus
heightening responsiveness in response to the steering operation.
Driver monitor system (if equipped)
When the system determines that there is a possibility of a colli-
sion, and either the driver is not facing forward or the driver’s
eyes are closed, PCS warnings are given in advance to warn the
driver. If the system determines that the conditions to operate
pre-crash alert braking have been met even when the possibility
of a collision increases further, pre-crash alert braking will oper-
ate.

4104-5. Using the driving support system
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30D53E_(EE)
The pre-crash safety system is operational when
The PCS OFF switch is not pressed and the following conditions are met:
Pre-crash warning:
• Vehicle speed is greater than about 15 km/h (10 mph).
• The speed at which your vehicle is approaching the obstacle or the vehi-
cle running ahead of you is greater than about 15 km/h (10 mph).
Pre-crash seat belts (operating conditions A):
• Vehicle speed is greater than about 30 km/h (19 mph).
• The system detects sudden braking or skidding.
• The front occupants are wearing a seat belt.
Pre-crash seat belts (operating conditions B):
• Vehicle speed is greater than about 5 km/h (4 mph).
• The speed at which your vehicle is approaching the obstacle or the vehi-
cle running ahead of you is greater than about 30 km/h (19 mph).
• The front occupants are wearing a seat belt.
Pre-crash brake assist:
• Vehicle speed is greater than about 30 km/h (19 mph).
• The speed at which your vehicle is approaching the obstacle or the vehi-
cle running ahead of you is greater than about 30 km/h (19 mph).
• The brake pedal is depressed.
Pre-crash braking:
• Vehicle speed is greater than about 15 km/h (10 mph).
• The speed at which your vehicle is approaching the obstacle or the vehi-
cle running ahead of you is greater than about 15 km/h (10 mph).
Suspension control:
• Vehicle speed is greater than about 5 km/h (4 mph).
• The speed at which your vehicle is approaching the obstacle or the vehi-
cle running ahead of you is greater than about 30 km/h (19 mph).
Steering control:
• Vehicle speed is greater than about 30 km/h (19 mph).
• The speed at which your vehicle is approaching the obstacle or the vehi-
cle running ahead of you is greater than about 30 km/h (19 mph).

7296-2. Maintenance
6
Maintenance and care
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30D53E_(EE)
Where to go for maintenance service?
In order to maintain your vehicle in the best possible condition, Lexus rec-
ommends that maintenance service operations as well as other inspections
and repairs be carried out by authorized Lexus dealers or repairers or other
duly qualified and equipped professionals. For repairs and services covered
by your warranty, please visit an authorized Lexus dealer or repairer, who
will use genuine Lexus parts in repairing any difficulties you may encounter.
There can also be advantages in utilizing authorized Lexus dealers or repair-
ers for non-warranty repairs and services, as members of the Lexus network
will be able to expertly assist you with any difficulties you may encounter.
Your Lexus dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped profes-
sional will perform all of the scheduled maintenance on your vehicle reliably
and economically due to their experience with Lexus vehicles.
Does your vehicle need repairs?
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 condi-
tioning system 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 driven straight on a level road
Strange noises related to suspension movement
Loss of brake effectiveness, spongy feeling brake pedal, pedal almost
touches the floor, vehicle pulls to one side when braking
Engine coolant temperature continually higher than normal (P. 1 1 0 )
If you notice any of these clues, take your vehicle to any authorized Lexus
dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped professional as
soon as possible. Your vehicle may need adjustment or repair.