brakes Lexus IS300h 2013 User Guide

2634-5. Using the driving support systems
4
Driving
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
CAUTION
When the sensor may not be correctly detecting the vehicle ahead
Apply the brakes as necessary when any of the following types of vehicles are
in front of you.
As the sensor may not be able to correctly detect these types of vehicles, the
approach warning (P. 254) will not be activated, and a fatal or serious acci-
dent may result.
Vehicles that cut in suddenly
Vehicles traveling at low speeds
Vehicles that are not moving
Vehicles with small rear ends (trailers with no load on board etc.)
Motorcycles traveling in the same lane
Conditions under which the vehicle-to-vehicle distance control may not func-
tion correctly
Apply the brakes as necessary in the following conditions as the radar sensor
may not be able to correctly detect vehicles ahead, and a fatal or serious acci-
dent may result:
When water or snow thrown up by a the surrounding vehicles hinders the
functioning of the sensor
When your vehicle is pointing upwards (caused by a heavy load in the trunk
etc.)
When the road curves or when the lanes are narrow
When steering wheel operation or your position in the lane is unstable
When the vehicle ahead of you decelerates suddenly
Handling the radar sensor
Observe the following to ensure the cruise control system can function effec-
tively.
Otherwise, the system may not function correctly and could result in an acci-
dent.
Keep the sensor and grille cover clean at all times.
Clean the sensor and grille cover with a soft cloth so you do not mark or dam-
age them.
Do not subject the sensor or surrounding area to a strong impact.
If the sensor moves even slightly off position, the system may malfunction. If
the sensor or surrounding area is subject to a strong impact, always have the
area inspected and adjusted by any authorized Lexus dealer or repairer, or
another duly qualified and equipped professional.
Do not disassemble the sensor.
Do not attach accessories or stickers to the sensor, grille cover or surrounding
area.
Do not modify or paint the sensor and grille cover.
Do not replace them with non-genuine parts.

2764-5. Using the driving support systems
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
Sensor detection information
The sensor’s detection areas are limited to the areas around the vehicle’s front
corner and rear 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.
The shape of the obstacle may prevent the sensor from detecting it. Pay particu-
lar attention to the following obstacles:
• Wires, fences, ropes, etc.
• Cotton, snow and other materials that absorb sound waves
• Sharply-angled objects
• Low obstacles
• Tall obstacles with upper sections projecting outwards in the direction of
your vehicle
The following situations may occur during use.
• Depending on the shape of the obstacle and other factors, the detection dis-
tance may shorten, or detection may be impossible.
• Obstacles may not be detected if they are too close to the sensor.
• There will be a short delay between obstacle detection and display. Even at
slow speeds, there is a possibility that the obstacle will come within the sen-
sor’s detection areas before the display is shown and the warning beep
sounds.
• Thin posts or objects lower than the sensor may not be detected when
approached, even if they have been detected once.
• It might be difficult to hear beeps due to the volume of the audio system or
air flow noise of the air conditioning system.

2934-5. Using the driving support systems
4
Driving
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)
Helps to prevent wheel lock when the brakes are applied suddenly, or if
the brakes are applied while driving on a slippery road surface
Brake assist
Generates an increased level of braking force after the brake pedal is
depressed when the system detects a panic stop situation
VSC (Vehicle Stability Control)
Helps the driver to control skidding when swerving suddenly or turn-
ing on slippery road surfaces
VSC+ (Vehicle Stability Control+)
Provides cooperative control of the ABS, TRC, VSC and EPS.
Helps to maintain directional stability when swerving on slippery road
surfaces by controlling steering performance.
TRC (Traction Control)
Helps to maintain drive power and prevent the drive wheels from spin-
ning when starting the vehicle or accelerating on slippery roads
Hill-start assist control
Prevents the vehicle from rolling backward when starting on an incline
or slippery slope
EPS (Electric Power Steering)
Employs an electric motor to reduce the amount of effort needed to
turn the steering wheel
Driving assist systems
To help enhance driving safety and performance, the following systems
operate automatically in response to various driving situations. Be aware,
however, that these systems are supplementary and should not be relied
upon too heavily when operating the vehicle.

2944-5. Using the driving support systems
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
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 driving conditions,
this system helps riding comfort with superior steering stability, and
helps good vehicle posture (P. 291)
VDIM (Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management)
Provides integrated control of the ABS, brake assist, TRC, VSC, hill-
start assist control, and EPS systems
Helps to maintain vehicle stability when swerving on slippery road sur-
faces by controlling the brakes and hybrid system output
PCS (Pre-Crash Safety system) (if equipped)
P. 2 9 9
Emergency brake signal
When the brakes are applied suddenly, the stop lights automatically
flash to alert the vehicle behind
BSM (Blind Spot Monitor) (if equipped)
P. 3 0 9
The slip indicator light will flash
while the TRC/VSC/ABS systems
are operating.
When the TRC/VSC/ABS systems are operating

2994-5. Using the driving support systems
4
Driving
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
Pre-crash warning
When a high possibility of a fron-
tal collision is detected, the pre-
crash safety system warning light
flashes, a buzzer sounds and a
message is shown on the multi-
information display to urge the
driver to take evasive action.
Pre-crash brake assist
When there is a high possibility of a frontal collision, the system
applies greater braking force in relation to how strongly the brake
pedal is depressed. The system may not warn the driver using a warn-
ing light, warning display and buzzer when the system detects and
judges braking operations.
Pre-crash braking
When there is a high possibility of a frontal collision, the system warns
the driver using a warning light, warning display and buzzer. If the sys-
tem determines that a collision is unavoidable, the brakes are automati-
cally applied to reduce the collision speed.
Suspension control (vehicles with Adaptive Variable Suspension Sys-
tem)
PCS (Pre-Crash Safety system)

: If equipped
When the radar sensor detects the possibility of a frontal collision, brakes
are automatically engaged to lessen impact as well as vehicle damage.
The pre-crash safety system can be turned on and off as necessary by
operating the switch. (P. 301)

3024-5. Using the driving support systems
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
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 vehicle
running ahead of you is greater than about 15 km/h (10 mph).
Pre-crash brake assist:
• The VSC OFF switch is not pressed.
• Vehicle speed is greater than about 30 km/h (19 mph).
• The speed at which your vehicle is approaching the obstacle or the vehicle
running ahead of you is greater than about 30 km/h (19 mph).
• The brake pedal is depressed.
Pre-crash braking:
• The VSC OFF switch is not pressed.
• Vehicle speed is greater than about 15 km/h (10 mph).
• The speed at which your vehicle is approaching the obstacle or the vehicle
running ahead of you is greater than about 15 km/h (10 mph).
Suspension control (vehicles with Adaptive Variable Suspension System):
• Vehicle speed is greater than about 5 km/h (4 mph).
• The speed at which your vehicle is approaching the obstacle or the vehicle
running ahead of you is greater than about 30 km/h (19 mph).
Conditions that may trigger the system even if there is no danger of a collision
When there is an object by the roadside at the entrance to a curve
When passing an oncoming vehicle on a curve
When driving over a narrow iron bridge
When there is a metal object on the road surface
When driving on an uneven road surface
When passing an oncoming vehicle on a left-turn (left-hand drive vehicles) or
right-turn (right-hand drive vehicles)
When your vehicle rapidly closes on the vehicle in front
When a grade separation/interchange, sign, billboard, or other structure appears
to be directly in the vehicle’s line of travel
When there is a metal plate in the road in front of the vehicle on a downhill
slope
When climbing a steep hill causes an overhead billboard or other metallic struc-
ture to appear directly in the vehicle’s line of travel
When driving under an overpass
When an extreme change in vehicle height occurs
When passing through certain toll gates
When passing through a tunnel
When the radar sensor moves off position due to its surrounding area being sub-
jected to a strong impact
When the system is activated in the situations described above, there is also a
possibility that the brakes will be applied with a force greater than normal.

309
4
Driving
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)4-6. Driving tips
Using Eco drive mode
When using Eco drive mode, the torque corresponding to the accelera-
tor pedal depression amount can be generated more smoothly than it is
in normal conditions. In addition, the operation of the air conditioning
system (heating/cooling) will be minimized, improving the fuel econ-
omy. (P. 290)
Use of Hybrid System Indicator
Eco-friendly driving is possible by keeping the indicator needle
(except F SPORT models) or bar display (F SPORT models) of Hybrid
System Indicator within the Eco area. (P. 1 1 4 )
When braking
Make sure to operate the brakes gently and in good time. A greater
amount of electrical energy can be regenerated when slowing down.
Delays
Repeated acceleration and deceleration, as well as long waits at traffic
lights, will lead to bad fuel economy. Check traffic reports before leav-
ing and avoid delays as much as possible. When driving in a traffic
jam, gently release the brake pedal to allow the vehicle to move for-
ward slightly while avoiding overuse of the accelerator pedal. Doing so
can help control excessive gasoline consumption.
Highway driving
Control your speed and keep at a constant speed. Before stopping at a
toll booth or similar, allow plenty of time to release the accelerator and
gently apply the brakes. A greater amount of electrical energy can be
regenerated when slowing down.
Hybrid vehicle driving tips
For economical and ecological driving, pay attention to the following
points:

3114-6. Driving tips
4
Driving
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
Use fluids that are appropriate to the prevailing outside temperatures.
•Engine oil
• Engine/power control unit coolant
•Washer fluid
Have a service technician inspect the condition of the 12-volt battery.
Have the vehicle fitted with four snow tires or purchase a set of tire
chains for the rear tires.
*
Ensure that all tires are the specified size and brand, and that chains match
the size of the tires.
*: Tire chains cannot be mounted on the 18-inch tires.
Perform the following according to the driving conditions:
Do not try to forcibly open a window or move a wiper that is frozen.
Pour warm water over the frozen area to melt the ice. Wipe away the
water immediately to prevent it from freezing.
To ensure proper operation of the climate control system fan, remove
any snow that has accumulated on the air inlet vents in front of the
windshield.
Check for and remove any excess ice or snow that may have accumu-
lated on the exterior lights, vehicle’s roof, chassis, around the tires or
on the brakes.
Remove any snow or mud from the bottom of your shoes before get-
ting in the vehicle.
Accelerate the vehicle slowly, keep a safe distance between you and the
vehicle ahead, and drive at a reduced speed suitable to road conditions.
Winter driving tips
Carry out the necessary preparations and inspections before driving the
vehicle in winter. Always drive the vehicle in a manner appropriate to the
prevailing weather conditions.
Preparation for winter
Before driving the vehicle
When driving the vehicle

4998-1. Essential information
8
When trouble arises
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
Steadily step on the brake pedal with both feet and firmly depress it.
Do not pump the brake pedal repeatedly as this will increase the effort
required to slow the vehicle.
Shift the shift lever to N.
If the shift lever is shifted to N
After slowing down, stop the vehicle in a safe place by the road.
Stop the hybrid system.
If the shift lever cannot be shifted to N
Keep depressing the brake pedal with both feet to reduce vehicle speed
as much as possible.
To stop the hybrid system, press
and hold the power switch for 2
consecutive seconds or more, or
press it briefly 3 times or more in
succession.
Stop the vehicle in a safe place by the road.
If your vehicle has to be stopped in an emergency
Only in an emergency, such as if it becomes impossible to stop the vehi-
cle in the normal way, stop the vehicle using the following procedure:
1
2
3
4
3
Press and hold for 2 seconds or
more or press briefly 3 times or
4
CAUTION
If the hybrid system has to be turned off while driving
Power assist for the brakes and steering wheel will be lost, making the brake
pedal harder to depress and the steering wheel heavier to turn. Decelerate as
much as possible before turning off the hybrid system.
5

500
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)8-2. Steps to take in an emergency
The following may indicate a problem with your transmission. Contact
any authorized Lexus dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified and
equipped professional before towing.
The hybrid system is operating but the vehicle will not move.
The vehicle makes an abnormal sound.
If a tow truck is not available in an
emergency, your vehicle may be
temporarily towed using a cable or
chain secured to the emergency tow-
ing eyelet. This should only be
attempted on hard surfaced roads for
short distances at under 30 km/h (18
mph).
A driver must be in the vehicle to
steer and operate the brakes. The
vehicle’s wheels, drive train, axles,
steering and brakes must be in good
condition.
If your vehicle needs to be towed
If towing is necessary, we recommend having your vehicle towed by any
authorized Lexus dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified and
equipped professional or a commercial towing service, using a lift-type
truck or flat bed truck.
Use a safety chain system for all towing, and abide by all state/provincial
and local laws.
Before towing
Emergency towing