trailer Lexus GS300h 2015 User Guide

2154-1. Before driving
4
Driving
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30F00E_(EE)
■Passing other vehicles
Consider the total combined length of your vehicle and trailer and ensure that
the vehicle-to-vehicle distance is sufficient before executing lane changes.
■Transmission information
To maintain engine braking efficiency, when using engine braking, when driv-
ing on a long steep downgrade, do not use the transmission in D. ( →P. 2 2 7 )
■If the engine overheats
Towing a loaded trailer up a long, steep incline in temperatures exceeding
30 °C (85 °F) may result in the engine overheating. If the engine coolant tem-
perature gauge indicates that the engine is overheating, turn the air condition-
ing off immediately, leave the road and stop the vehicle in a safe place.
( → P. 5 5 6 )
■When parking the vehicle
Always place wheel chocks under the whee ls of both the vehicle and trailer.
Firmly set the parking brake and shift the shift lever to P.
WA R N I N G
Follow all the instructions described in this section. Failure to do so could cause an acci-
dent resulting in death or serious injury.
■Trailer towing precautions
When towing, make sure that none of the weight limits are exceeded. ( →P. 211)
■To avoid accident or injury
●Do not tow a trailer when the compact spare tire is installed on your vehicle.
●Do not tow a trailer when the tire installed is repaired with the emergency tire punc-
ture repair kit.
●Do not use cruise control (if equipped), dynamic radar cruise control (if equipped) or
dynamic radar cruise control with full-speed range (if equipped) when trailer towing.
■Vehicle speed in towing
Observe the legal maximum speeds for trailer towing.
■Before descending hills or long declines
Reduce speed and downshift. However, never downshift suddenly while descending
steep or long downhill grades.
■Operation of the brake pedal
Do not hold the brake pedal depressed often or for long periods of time.
Doing so may result in the brake overheating or reduce braking effects.

2324-2. Driving procedures
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30F00E_(EE)
■Parking brake operation
●When the power switch is not in ON mode, the parking brake cannot be released using
the parking brake switch.
●When the power switch is not in ON mode, automatic mode (automatic brake setting
and releasing) is not available.
●If the parking brake is operated repeatedly over a short period of time, the system may
restrict operation to prevent overheating. If this happens, refrain from operating the
parking brake. Normal operation will return after about 1 minute.
●Vehicles with towing package: In situations such as when parking while towing a trailer,
the maximum amount of braking force can be used by pressing the parking brake
switch with the parking brake already set.
●Vehicles without towing package: In situations such as when parking on a steep slope*,
the maximum amount of braking force can be used by pressing the parking brake
switch with the parking brake already set.
*: Use wheel chocks when parking on a steep slope.
■Parking brake operation sound
When the parking brake operates, a motor sound (whirring sound) may be heard. This
does not indicate a malfunction.
■Parking brake indicator light
●Depending on the power switch mode, the parking brake indicator light will come on
and stay on as described below:
ON mode: Comes on until the parking brake is released.
Not in ON mode: Stays on for approximately 15 seconds.
●When the power switch is turned off with the parking brake set, the parking brake indi-
cator light will stay on for about 15 seco nds. This does not indicate a malfunction.
■When there is a malfunction in the system
Warning lights and/or warning message will turn on or flash. (→P. 4 7 8 , 4 8 2 )
Depending on the condition, the park ing brake indicator light may flash.
■Parking brake engaged warning buzzer
→P. 4 8 8
■Usage in winter time
→P. 3 5 4

2444-3. Operating the lights and wipers
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30F00E_(EE)
●In the situations shown below, the system may not be able to accurately detect sur-
rounding brightness levels. This may cause the low beams to remain on or the high
beams to cause problems for pedestrians, vehicles ahead or other parties. In these
cases, manually switch between the high and low beams.
• In bad weather (rain, snow, fog, sandstorms etc.)
• The windshield is obscured by fog, mist, ice, dirt etc.
• The windshield is cracked or damaged.
• The camera sensor is deformed or dirty.
• The camera sensor temperature is extremely high.
• Surrounding brightness levels are equal to those of headlights, tail lights or fog lights.
• Vehicles ahead have headlights that are either switched off, dirty, are changing color, or have are not aimed properly.
• The vehicle is hit by water, snow, dust, etc. from a preceding vehicle.
• When driving through an area of intermittently changing brightness and darkness.
• When frequently and repeatedly driving ascending/descending roads, or roads with rough, bumpy or uneven surfaces (such as stone-paved roads, gravel tracks etc.).
• When frequently and repeatedly taking curves or driving on a winding road.
• There is a highly reflective object ahead of the vehicle, such as a sign or a mirror.
• The back of a vehicle ahead is highly reflective, such as a container on a truck.
• The vehicle’s headlights are damaged or dirty.
• The vehicle is listing or tilting, due to a flat tire, a trailer being towed etc.
• The high beam and low beam are repeatedly being switched between in an abnor- mal manner.
• The driver believes that the high beam may be causing problems or distress to other
drivers or pedestrians nearby.
■Warning message
Warning messages are used to indicate a system malfunction or to inform the driver
of the need for caution. ( →P. 4 8 2 )
■Customization
Some functions can be customized. ( →P. 5 8 1 )

2484-3. Operating the lights and wipers
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30F00E_(EE)
●In the situations shown below, the system may not be able to accurately detect sur-
rounding brightness levels. This may cause the low beams to remain on or the high
beams to cause problems for pedestrians, vehicles ahead or other parties. In these
cases, manually switch between the high and low beams.
• In bad weather (rain, snow, fog, sandstorms etc.)
• The windshield is obscured by fog, mist, ice, dirt etc.
• The windshield is cracked or damaged.
• The inside rear view mirror or camera sensor is deformed or dirty.
• The camera sensor temperature is extremely high.
• Surrounding brightness levels are equal to those of headlights, tail lights or fog lights.
• Vehicles ahead have headlights that are either switched off, dirty, are changing color, or have are not aimed properly.
• When driving through an area of intermittently changing brightness and darkness.
• When frequently and repeatedly driving ascending/descending roads, or roads with rough, bumpy or uneven surfaces (such as stone-paved roads, gravel tracks etc.).
• When frequently and repeatedly taking curves or driving on a winding road.
• There is a highly reflective object ahead of the vehicle, such as a sign or a mirror.
• The back of a vehicle ahead is highly reflective, such as a container on a truck.
• The vehicle’s headlights are damaged or dirty.
• The vehicle is listing or tilting, due to a flat tire, a trailer being towed etc.
• The high beam and low beam are repeatedly being switched between in an abnor-
mal manner.
• The driver believes that the high beam may be causing problems or distress to other drivers or pedestrians nearby.
• When going through the Straits of Dover.
■Warning message
Warning messages are used to indicate a system malfunction or to inform the driver of
the need for caution. ( →P. 4 8 2 )

2784-5. Using the driving support systems
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30F00E_(EE)
■Situations in which the system may not operate properly
●In some situations such as the following, a vehicle may not be detected by the radar
sensor and camera sensor, preventing the system from operating properly:
• If an oncoming vehicle is approaching your vehicle
• If a vehicle ahead is a motorcycle or bicycle
• When approaching the side or front of a vehicle
• If a preceding vehicle has a small rear end, such as an unloaded truck
• If a vehicle ahead is carrying a load which protrudes past its rear bumper
• If a vehicle ahead is irregularly shaped, such as a tractor or side car
• If the sun or other light is shining directly on a vehicle ahead
• If a vehicle cuts in front of your vehicle or emerges from beside a vehicle
• If a vehicle ahead makes an abrupt maneuver (such as sudden swerving, accelera-
tion or deceleration)
• When suddenly cutting behind a preceding vehicle
• When driving in inclement we ather such as heavy rain, fog, snow or a sandstorm
• When the vehicle is hit by water, snow, dust, etc. from a vehicle ahead
• When driving through steam or smoke
• When driving in a place where the surrounding brightness changes suddenly, such as at the entrance or exit of a tunnel
• When a very bright light, such as the sun or the headlights of oncoming traffic, shines directly into the camera sensor
• When the surrounding area is dim, such as at dawn or dusk, or while at night or in a
tunnel
• If a preceding vehicle has a low rear end,
such as a low bed trailer
• If a vehicle ahead has extremely high ground clearance
• When a vehicle ahead is not directly in front of your vehicle

2844-5. Using the driving support systems
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30F00E_(EE)
WA R N I N G
■Before using LKA system
Do not rely solely upon the LKA system. LKA is not a system which automatically
drives the vehicle or reduces the amount of attention that must be paid to the area in
front of the vehicle. The driver must always assume full responsibility for driving safely
by always paying careful attention to the surrounding conditions and operate the steer-
ing wheel to correct the path of the vehicle. Also, make sure to take adequate breaks
when fatigued, such as from driving for a long period of time.
Failure to perform appropriate driving operations and pay careful attention may lead to
an accident, resulting in death or serious injury.
■To avoid operating LKA by mistake
When not using the LKA system, use the LKA switch to turn the system off.
■Situations unsuitable for LKA
Do not use the LKA system in the following situations.
The system may not operate properly and lead to an accident, resulting in death or
serious injury.
●A spare tire, tire chains, etc., are equipped.
●When the tires have been excessively worn, or when the tire inflation pressure is low.
●Tires which differ by structure, manufacturer, brand or tread pattern are used.
●Objects or patterns that could be mistaken for white (yellow) lines are present on the
side of the road (guardrails, curbs, reflective poles, etc.).
●Vehicle is driven on a snow-covered road.
●White (yellow) lines are difficult to see due to rain, snow, fog, dust, etc.
●Asphalt repair marks, white (yellow) line ma rks, etc., are present due to road repair.
●Vehicle is driven in a temporary lane or restricted lane due to construction work.
●Vehicle is driven on a road surface which is slippery due to rainy weather, fallen snow,
freezing, etc.
●Vehicle is driven in traffic lanes other than on highways and freeways.
●Vehicle is driven in a construction zone.
●Vehicle is towing a trailer or another vehicle.
■Preventing LKA system malfunctions and operations performed by mistake
●Do not modify the headlights or place stickers, etc., on the surface of the lights.
●Do not modify the suspension etc. If the suspension etc. needs to be replaced, con-
tact any authorized Lexus dealer or repair er, or another duly qualified and equipped
professional.
●Do not install or place anything on the hood or grille. Also, do not install a grille guard
(bull bars, kangaroo bar, etc.).
●If your windshield needs repairs, contact any authorized Lexus dealer or repairer, or
another duly qualified and equipped professional.

2924-5. Using the driving support systems
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30F00E_(EE)
WA R N I N G
■Before using LDA system
Do not rely solely upon the LDA system. LDA is not a system which automatically
drives the vehicle or reduces the amount of attention that must be paid to the area in
front of the vehicle. The driver must always assume full responsibility for driving safely
by always paying careful attention to the surrounding conditions and operate the steer-
ing wheel to correct the path of the vehicle. Also, make sure to take adequate breaks
when fatigued, such as from driving for a long period of time.
Failure to perform appropriate driving operations and pay careful attention may lead to
an accident, resulting in death or serious injury.
■To avoid operating LDA by mistake
When not using the LDA system, use the LDA switch to turn the system off.
■Situations unsuitable for LDA
Do not use the LDA system in the following situations.
The system may not operate properly and lead to an accident, resulting in death or
serious injury.
●A spare tire, tire chains, etc., are equipped.
●When the tires have been excessively worn, or when the tire inflation pressure is low.
●Tires which differ by structure, manufacturer, brand or tread pattern are used.
●Objects or patterns that could be mistaken for white (yellow) lines are present on the
side of the road (guardrails, curbs, reflective poles, etc.).
●Vehicle is driven on a snow-covered road.
●White (yellow) lines are difficult to see due to rain, snow, fog, dust, etc.
●Asphalt repair marks, white (yellow) line ma rks, etc., are present due to road repair.
●Vehicle is driven in a temporary lane or restricted lane due to construction work.
●Vehicle is driven on a road surface which is slippery due to rainy weather, fallen snow,
freezing, etc.
●Vehicle is driven in traffic lanes other than on highways and freeways.
●Vehicle is driven in a construction zone.
●Vehicle is towing a trailer or another vehicle.
■Preventing LDA system malfunctions and operations performed by mistake
●Do not modify the headlights or place stickers, etc., on the surface of the lights.
●Do not modify the suspension etc. If the suspension etc. needs to be replaced, con-
tact any authorized Lexus dealer or repair er, or another duly qualified and equipped
professional.
●Do not install or place anything on the hood or grille. Also, do not install a grille guard
(bull bars, kangaroo bar, etc.).
●If your windshield needs repairs, contact any authorized Lexus dealer or repairer, or
another duly qualified and equipped professional.

3054-5. Using the driving support systems
4
Driving
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30F00E_(EE)
WA R N I N G
■Situations unsuitable for dynamic radar cruise control with full-speed range
Do not use dynamic radar cruise control with full-speed range in any of the following
situations.
Doing so may result in inappropriate speed control and could cause an accident result-
ing in death or serious injury.
●Roads where there are pedestrians, cyclists, etc.
●In heavy traffic
●On roads with sharp bends
●On winding roads
●On slippery roads, such as those covered with rain, ice or snow
●On steep downhills, or where there are sudden changes between sharp up and down
gradients
Vehicle speed may exceed the set speed when driving down a steep hill.
●At entrances to freeways and highways
●When weather conditions are bad enough that they may prevent the sensors from
detecting correctly (fog, snow, sandstorm, heavy rain, etc.)
●When there is rain, snow, etc. on the front surface of the radar sensor or camera sen-
sor
●In traffic conditions that require frequent repeated acceleration and deceleration
●When your vehicle is towing a trailer or during emergency towing
●When an approach warning buzzer is heard often

3174-5. Using the driving support systems
4
Driving
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30F00E_(EE)
WA R N I N G
■Situations unsuitable for dynamic radar cruise control
Do not use dynamic radar cruise control in any of the following situations.
Doing so may result in inappropriate speed control and could cause an accident result-
ing in death or serious injury.
●Roads where there are pedestrians, cyclists, etc.
●In heavy traffic
●On roads with sharp bends
●On winding roads
●On slippery roads, such as those covered with rain, ice or snow
●On steep downhills, or where there are sudden changes between sharp up and down
gradients
Vehicle speed may exceed the set speed when driving down a steep hill.
●At entrances to freeways and highways
●When weather conditions are bad enough that they may prevent the sensors from
detecting correctly (fog, snow, sandstorm, heavy rain, etc.)
●When there is rain, snow, etc. on the front surface of the radar sensor or camera sen-
sor
●In traffic conditions that require frequent repeated acceleration and deceleration
●When your vehicle is towing a trailer or during emergency towing
●When an approach warning buzzer is heard often

3294-5. Using the driving support systems
4
Driving
GS450h_300h_OM_OM30F00E_(EE)
■Automatic cruise control cancelation
Cruise control will stop maintaining the vehicle speed in any of the following situations.
●Actual vehicle speed falls more than approximately 16 km/h (10 mph) below the preset
vehicle speed.
At this time, the memorized set speed is not retained.
●Actual vehicle speed is below approximately 40 km/h (25 mph).
●VSC is activated.
●TRC is activated for a period of time.
●When the VSC or TRC system is turned off by pressing the VSC OFF switch.
■If the warning message for the cruise control is shown on the multi-information display
Press the “ON/OFF” button once to deactivate the system, and then press the button
again to reactivate the system.
If the cruise control speed cannot be set or if the cruise control cancels immediately after
being activated, there may be a malfunction in the cruise control system. Have the vehi-
cle inspected by any authorized Lexus dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified and
equipped professional.
WA R N I N G
■To avoid operating the cruise control by mistake
Switch the cruise control off using the “ON/OFF” button when not in use.
■Situations unsuitable for cruise control
Do not use cruise control in any of the following situations.
Doing so may result in loss of control and could cause an accident resulting in death or
serious injury.
●In heavy traffic
●On roads with sharp bends
●On winding roads
●On slippery roads, such as those covered with rain, ice or snow
●On steep hills
Vehicle speed may exceed the set sp eed when driving down a steep hill.
●When your vehicle is towing a trailer or during emergency towing