traction control Lexus IS300 2005 Basic Functions / LEXUS 2005 IS300 OWNER'S MANUAL (OM53489U)

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section\
.
PICTORIAL INDEX
xi
Page
1Power door lock switch and power window switches 22, 37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2Power rear view mirror control switches 181 . . . . . .
3Rear fog light switch 33
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4Headlight cleaner switch 36
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5Driving position memory switches 176
. . . . . . . . . . .
6Headlight, turn signal and fog light
switches 30, 32, 33
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7Transmission shift switches 242
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8Instrument panel light control 58
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9Cruise control switch 249
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10Wiper and washer switches 34
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11Ignition switch 235
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12Emergency flasher switch 40
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13Auxiliary box /Navigation system
(See ªNavigation System Owner's Manualº) 72 . . . .
14Outside temperature display/Clock 62
. . . . . . . . . . . . Page
15Front passenger's seat belt reminder light 51
. . . . .
16Automatic air conditioning controls 190
. . . . . . . . . .
17Audio system 204
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18Seat heater switches 40
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19Glove box 66
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20Parking brake lever 236
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21Driving pattern selector switch
(Automatic transmission) 238 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22Ashtray 64
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
.
23Cigarette lighter 64
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24Automatic transmission selector lever/
Manual transmission gear shift lever 238, 247 . . . . .
25Traction control system off/Snow mode
switch (Manual transmission) 252, 255
. . . . . . . . . . . .
26Hood lock release lever 86
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
04 06.30

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section\
.
PICTORIAL INDEX
xiii
Page
1Driver's seat belt reminder light51
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2Open door warning light 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3Tachometer 47
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4Headlight high beam indicator light 32
. . . . . . . . . . .
5Low engine oil level warning light 53
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
6Vehicle stability control system
warning light 56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7Turn signal indicator lights 32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8Cruise control indicator light 249
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9Momentary fuel consumption meter 46
. . . . . . . . . . .
10Voltmeter 46
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
11Automatic headlight leveling system warning
light 56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . .
12Engine coolant temperature gauge 45
. . . . . . . . . . . .
13Anti±lock brake system warning light 54
. . . . . . . . . .
14Malfunction indicator lamp 54
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15Fuel gauge 44
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16Low fuel level warning light 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page
17Odometer and trip meter
48
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18Power mode indicator light 240
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19Snow mode indicator light 240
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20ODO/TRIP knob 48
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21Automatic transmission indicator lights 238 . . . . . .
22M mode indicator 241
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23Gear position indicator for manual control 241 . . . .
24Discharge warning light 52
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25Rear light failure warning light 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26Security indicator light 27
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
27Traction control system
off indicator/warning light 55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
28Low engine oil pressure warning light 52
. . . . . . . . .
29Slip indicator light 252, 255, 258
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
30Brake system warning light 50
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
31SRS warning light 51
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
32Engine oil replacement reminder light 53
. . . . . . . . .
04 06.30

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section\
.
PICTORIAL INDEX
xv
Page
1Tachometer47
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2Headlight high beam indicator light 32
. . . . . . . . . . .
3Low engine oil level warning light 53
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
4Vehicle stability control system warning light 56 . .
5Turn signal indicator lights 32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6Cruise control indicator light 249
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7Momentary fuel consumption meter 46
. . . . . . . . . . .
8Voltmeter 46
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
9Automatic headlight leveling system warning
light 56 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . .
10Engine coolant temperature gauge 45
. . . . . . . . . . . .
11Anti±lock brake system warning light 54
. . . . . . . . . .
12Malfunction indicator lamp 54
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13Fuel gauge 44
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14Low fuel level warning light 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15Odometer and trip meter 48
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16Power mode indicator light 240
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page
17Snow mode indicator light
240
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18ODO/TRIP knob 48
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19Automatic transmission indicator lights 238 . . . . . .
20M mode indicator 241
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21Gear position indicator for manual control 241 . . . .
22Discharge warning light 52
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23Rear light failure warning light 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24Security indicator light 27
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25Traction control system
off indicator/warning light 55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26Low engine oil pressure warning light 52
. . . . . . . . .
27Slip indicator light 252, 255, 258
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
28Brake system warning light 50
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
29SRS warning light 51
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
30Open door warning light 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
31Driver's seat belt reminder light 51
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
04 06.30

GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
55
When the ªABSº warning light is on (and the brake system
warning light is off), the anti±lock brake system, the brake
assist system, the traction control system and/or the vehicle
stability control system do not operate, but the brake system
still operates conventionally.
When the ªABSº warning light is on (and the brake system
warning light is off), the anti±lock brake system and/or the
traction
control system do/does not operate so that the wheels
could lock up during a sudden braking or braking on slippery
road surfaces.
If either of the following conditions occurs, 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 the ignition key is turned
to the ªONº position, or remains on.
 The light comes on while you are driving.
A warning light turning on briefly during operation does not
indicate a problem.
CAUTION
If the ªABSº warning light remains on together with the
brake system warning light, immediately stop your
vehicle at a safe place and contact your Lexus dealer.
In this case, not only the anti±lock brake system will fail
but also the vehicle will become extremely unstable
during braking.
(k) Open Door Warning Light
This light remains on until all the doors are completely closed.
(l) Rear Light Failure Warning Light
If this light comes on when the headlight switch is turned on (at
the first or second clickstop), it indicates that one or more of the
tail lights are burned out.
If it comes on when the brake pedal is depressed, one or more
stop lights are burned out.
Have defective bulbs replaced as soon as possible.
(m) Low Fuel Level Warning Light
This light comes on when the fuel level in the tank becomes
nearly empty. Fill the tank as soon as possible.
On inclines or curves, due to the movement of fuel in the tank,
the low fuel level warning light may come on earlier than usual.
(n) ªTRAC OFFº Indicator / Warning Lights
This light comes on when the ignition key is turned to ªONº, and
will go off after a few seconds. This means that the system is
operating properly.
If one of the following conditions occurs, 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 after the ignition key is turned
to ªONº.
04 06.30

GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
56
The light remains on after the ignition key is turned to ªONº.
 The light comes on with the normal driving mode while
driving.
 The light flashes.
(o)ªVSCº Warning Light (With vehicle stability
control system)
This light warns that there is a problem somewhere in the
vehicle stability control system or traction control system.
The light will come on when the ignition key is turned to the
ªONº position and will go off after a few seconds.
If the light comes on while driving, the vehicle stability control
system and traction control system do not work. However, as
conventional braking operates when applied, there is no
problem to continue your driving.
In the following cases, contact your Lexus dealer:
The light does not come on after the ignition key is turned
to the ªONº position.
 The light remains on after the ignition key is turned to the
ªONº position.
 The light comes on while driving.
The ªTRAC OFFº indicator / warning light will come on when
the ªVSCº warning light comes on even if the ªTRAC OFFº
switch is not pushed.
(p) Automatic Headlight Leveling System Warning Light
This light warns that when there is a problem somewhere in the
automatic headlight leveling system.
The light will come on when the ignition key is turned to the
ªONº position, and will go off after a few seconds.
If it comes on while driving, have your vehicle checked by your
Lexus dealer.
(q) Key Reminder Buzzer
This buzzer acts as a reminder to remove the key when you
open the driver's door with the ignition key in the ªACCº or
ªLOCKº position.
04 06.30

SECTION 3 ± 1
231
STARTING AND DRIVING
Starting and driving
Three±way catalytic converter232
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine exhaust caution 233
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Before starting the engine 234
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ignition switch with steering lock 235
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Parking brake 236
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How to start the engine 237
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic transmission 238
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual transmission 247
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electronic controlled transmission 248
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cruise control 249
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Traction control system 252
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle stability control system 258
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electronic throttle control system 260
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake system 261
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake pad wear indicators 265
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Limited ±slip differential
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 265
04 06.30

STARTING AND DRIVING
252
TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM
(With vehicle stability control system)
The traction control system automatically helps prevent
the spinning of rear wheels when the vehicle is started or
accelerated on slippery road surfaces.
When the ignition key is turned to ªONº, the system
automatically turns on.
CAUTION
Under certain slippery road conditions, full traction of
the vehicle and power against rear wheels cannot be
maintained, even though the traction control system is
in operation. Do not drive the vehicle under any speed
or maneuvering conditions which may cause the
vehicle to lose traction control. In situations where the
road surface is covered with ice or snow, your vehicle
should be fitted with snow tires or tire chains. Always
drive at an appropriate and cautious speed for the
present road conditions.
Normal driving mode
SV31037

Slip indicator light
Leave the system on during the ordinary driving so that it
can operate when needed.
You may hear a sound in the engine compartment for a few
seconds just after the vehicle begins to move. This means that
the traction control system is in the self±check mode, but does
not indicate a malfunction.
When the traction control system is operating, the following
conditions occur:
 The system controls the spinning of the rear wheels. At this
time, the slip indicator light blinks.
 You may feel vibration or noise in your vehicle, caused by
operation of the brakes. This indicates the system is functioning properly.
04 06.30

STARTING AND DRIVING
253
The slip indicator light comes on for a few seconds when the
ignition key is turned to ªONº. If the indicator light does not
come on when the ignition is turned on, contact your Lexus
dealer.
Traction control off mode
SV31033
If your wheels get stuck in a ditch when you are driving on
a severe off road and sand, turn off the traction control
system. This system that controls engine performance
interferes with the process of freeing your wheels.
To turn off: Push ªTRAC OFFº switch.
The ªTRAC OFFº indicator/warning light will come on.
The vehicle stability control system is always activated, even
if the traction control system is turned off.
To turn on: Push ªTRAC OFFº switch once again.
The ªTRAC OFFº indicator/warning light will go off.
ªTRAC OFFº indicator/warning light comes on for a few
seconds when the ign
ition key is turned to ªONº. It will come on
again when you push the ªTRAC OFFº switch to turn off the
system.
04 06.30

STARTING AND DRIVING
254In the following cases, contact your Lexus dealer:

The light does not come on when the ignition key is turned
to ªONº.
 The light remains on after the ignition is turned on.
 The light comes on with the normal driving mode while
driving.
ªVSCº warning light
SV31042
This light warns that there is a problem somewhere in the
vehicle stability control system or traction control system.
The light will come on when the ignition key is turned to ªONº
and will go off after a few seconds.
If the light comes on while driving, the vehicle stability control
system and traction control system do not work. However, as
conventional braking operates when the brake is applied, there
is no problem to continue your driving.
In the following cases, contact your Lexus dealer:
 The light does not come on after the ignition key is turned
to ªONº.
 The light remains on after the ignition key is turned to ªONº.
 The light comes on while driving.
04 06.30

STARTING AND DRIVING
255
The ªTRAC OFFº indicator/warning light will come on when the
ªVSCº warning light comes on even if the ªTRAC OFFº switch
is not pushed.
TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM
(Without vehicle stability control system)
The traction control system automatically helps prevent
the spinning of rear wheels when the vehicle is started or
accelerated on slippery road surfaces.
When the ignition key is turned to ªONº, the system
automatically turns on.
CAUTION
Under certain slippery road conditions, full traction of
the vehicle and power against rear wheels cannot be
maintained, even though the traction control system is
in operation. Do not drive the vehicle under any speed
or maneuvering conditions which may cause the
vehicle to lose traction control. In situations where the
road surface is covered with ice or snow, your vehicle
should be fitted with snow tires or tire chains. Always
drive at an appropriate and cautious speed for the
present road conditions.
04 06.30