engine lexus LS400 1994 Gauges, Meters and Service Reminder Indicators / 1994 LS400: MAINTENANCE

MAINTENANCE
169 You can be confident that your Lexus dealer’s service
department performs the best job to meet the maintenance
requirements of your vehicle.
Your copy of the repair order is proof that all required
maintenance has been performed for warranty coverage. And
if any problems should arise with your vehicle while under
warranty, your Lexus dealer will promptly take care of it. Again,
be sure to keep a copy of the repair order for any service
performed on your Lexus.
What about do-it-yourself maintenance?
Many of the maintenance items are easy to do yourself, if you
have a little mechanical ability and a few basic automotive
tools. Simple instructions for how to perform them are
presented in Section 6.
If you are a skilled do-it-yourself mechanic, the Lexus service
manuals are recommended. Please be aware that
do-it-yourself maintenance can affect your warranty coverage.
See your Owner’s Guide or Warranty Booklet for the details.
GENERAL MAINTENANCE
Listed below are the general maintenance items that should be
performed at the intervals specified. It is recommended that
any problem you notice be brought to the attention of your
Lexus dealer.
CAUTION:
Make these checks only where adequate ventilation can
be obtained if you run the engine.
Vehicle exterior
Items listed below should be performed from time to time,
unless otherwise specified.
Tires
Check the pressure with a gauge every two weeks, or at least
once a month and adjust as shown on the tire pressure label.
Check carefully for cuts, damage or excessive wear. See page
212 for additional information.
Wheel nuts
When checking the tires, make sure to check the nuts for
looseness. Tighten them if necessary.

MAINTENANCE
170Tire rotation
Rotate the tires every 12000 km (7500 miles). See page 212
for additional information.
Windshield wiper blades
Check for wear or cracks whenever they do not wipe clean.
Fluid leaks
Check underneath for leaking fuel, oil, water or other fluid after
the vehicle has been parked for a while. If you smell fuel fumes
or notice any leak, have the cause found and corrected
immediately.
Doors and engine hood
Check that all doors, including trunk lid, operate smoothly and
all latches lock securely. Make sure the engine hood
secondary latch secures the hood from opening when the
primary latch is released.
Vehicle interior
Items listed below should be checked reqularly, e.g. while
performing periodic services, cleaning the vehicle, etc.
Lights
Make sure the headlights, stop lights, tail lights, turn signal
lights, and other lights are all working. Check headlight aim.Service reminder indicators and warning buzzers
Check that all service reminder indicators and warning
buzzers function properly.
Horn
Make sure it works.
Windshield glass
Check that it is free from scratches, pits or abrasions.
Windshield wipers and washer
Check operation of the wipers and washer. Make sure the
wipers do not streak.
Windshield defroster
Check that the air comes out from the defroster outlet when
operating the air conditioning.
Air conditioning outlets
Check that they deliver sufficient air.
Rear view mirror
Make sure it is mounted securely.
Sun visors
Make sure they move freely and are mounted securely.
Steering wheel
Check that it has the specified freeplay. See page 209 for
additional information. Be alert for changes in steering
condition, such as hard steering, excessive freeplay or strange
noise.

MAINTENANCE
171 Seats
Check that all front seat controls such as seat adjusters,
seatback recliner, etc. operate smoothly and that all latches
lock securely in any position. Check that the head restraints
move up and down smoothly and that the locks hold securely
in any latched position.
Seat belts
Check that the seat belt system such as buckles, retractors
and anchors operate properly and smoothly. Make sure the
belt webbing is not cut, frayed, worn or damaged.
Accelerator pedal
Check the pedal for smooth operation and uneven pedal effort
or catching.
Brake pedal
Check the pedal for smooth operation and check that the pedal
has the proper clearance and freeplay. Check the brake
booster function. See page 206 for additional information.
Brakes
At a safe place, check that the brakes do not pull to one side
when applied.
Parking brake
On a safe incline, step on the parking brake pedal and check
that the vehicle is stopped using only the parking brake. See
page 207 for additional information.Automatic transmission “Park” mechanism
Check the lock release button of the selector lever for proper
and smooth operation. On a safe incline, check that your
vehicle is held securely with the selector lever in “P” position
and all brakes released.
Engine compartment
Items listed below should be checked from time to time,
e.g. each time when refueling.
Washer fluid
Make sure there is sufficient fluid in the tank. See page 230 for
additional information.
Engine coolant level
Make sure the coolant level is between the Upper and Lower
lines on the see-through reservoir when the engine is cool. See
page 200 for additional information.
Radiator and hoses
Make sure the front of the radiator is clean and not blocked with
leaves, dirt or bugs. Check the hoses for cracks, kinks, rot and
loose connections.
Battery electrolyte level
Check the electrolyte level. Add only distilled water when
replenishing. See page 222 for additional information.

MAINTENANCE
172Brake fluid level
Make sure the brake fluid level is correct. See page 206 for
additional information.
Engine drive belt
Check belt for fraying, cracks, wear or oiliness.
Engine oil level
Check the level on the dipstick with the engine turned off and
the vehicle parked on a level spot. See page 198 for additional
information.
Power steering fluid level
Check the level on the dipstick. The level should be in the
“HOT” or “COLD” range depending on the fluid temperature.
See page 208 for additional information.
Automatic transmission fluid level
Check the level on the dipstick with the engine idling and the
selector lever in “P”. The level should be in the “HOT” or
“COOL” range according to the fluid temperature. See page
209 for additional information.
Exhaust system
Look for cracks, holes and loose supports. If you notice any
change in the sound of the exhaust or smell exhaust fumes,
have the cause located and corrected immediately. (See
engine exhaust cautions in Section 3-1.)
DOES YOUR VEHICLE NEED
REPAIRING?
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 conditioning 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 driving straight on a level
road

Strange noises related to suspension movement

Loss of brake effectiveness, spongy feeling brake pedal,
pedal almost touches floor, vehicle pulls to one side when
braking

Engine coolant temperature continually higher than normal

MAINTENANCE
175 SCHEDULE A
Maintenance operations:
A = Check and adjust as necessary; I = Inspect and correct or replace as necessary; R = Replace, change or lubricate.
Service interval(Use odometer reading or
months, whichever comes first.)Maintenance services beyond 96,000 km (60,000 miles) should continue to be performed at the same intervals shown for each maintenance schedule.
Miles x 1,00013.757.511.251518.7522.526.253033.7537.541.254548.7552.556.2560MonthsMaintenance items km x 1,0001.66121824303642485460667278849096
ENGINE COMPONENTS AND EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS
Timing beltSee note (1)
Valve clearanceAA: Every 72 months
Drive belt See note (2)II: See note (2)
Engine oil and oil filterRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR: Every 6 months
Engine coolant See note (3)RR: See note (3)
Exhaust pipes and mountingsIIIII: Every 24 months
Air cleaner filterSee note (4)IIIIIIIRIIIIIIIRI: Every 6 months
R: Every 36 months
Fuel lines and connections See note (5)III: Every 36 months
Fuel tank cap gasketRR: Every 72 months
Spark plugsRR: Every 72 months
Charcoal canisterII: Every 72 months
Maintenance services indicated by a star () are required under the terms of the Emission Control Systems Warranty. See Owner’s Guide or Warranty Booklet for complete
warranty information.
 For vehicles sold in California and New York only
NOTE:
(1) If you operate your vehicle under conditions of extensive idling and / or low speed driving for a long distance such as police, taxi or door to door delivery use, replace
every 96,000 km (60,000 miles).
(2) After 96,000 km (60,000 miles) or 72 months, inspect every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months.
(3) After 72,000 km (45,000 miles) or 36 months, replace every 48,000 km (30,000 miles) or 24 months.
(4) Applicable when operating mainly on dusty roads. If not applicable, follow schedule B.
(5) Includes inspection of vapor vent system.

MAINTENANCE
177 SCHEDULE B
Maintenance operations:
A = Check and adjust as necessary; I = Inspect and correct or replace as necessary; R = Replace, change or lubricate.
Service interval
(Use odometer reading or months,
whichever comes first.)Maintenance services beyond 96,000 km (60,000 miles) should continue to be performed at the same intervals shown for each maintenance schedule
Miles x 1,00017.51522.53037.54552.560MonthsMaintenance items km x 1,0001.61224364860728496
ENGINE COMPONENTS AND EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEMS
Valve clearanceAA: Every 72 months
Drive belt See note (1)II: See note (1)
Engine oil and oil filterRRRRRRRRR: Every 12 months
Engine coolant See note (2)RR: See note (2)
Exhaust pipes and mountingIII: Every 36 months
Air cleaner filterRRR: Every 36 months
Fuel lines and connections See note (3)III: Every 36 months
Fuel tank cap gasketRR: Every 72 months
Spark plugsRR: Every 72 months
Charcoal canisterII: Every 72 months
Maintenance services indicated by a star () are required under the terms of the Emission Control Systems Warranty. See Owner’s Guide or Warranty Booklet for complete
warranty information.
 For vehicles sold in California and New York only
NOTE:
(1) After 96,000 km (60,000 miles) or 72 months, inspect every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months.
(2) After 72,000 km (45,000 miles) or 36 months, replace every 48,000 km (30,000 miles) or 24 months.
(3) Includes inspection of vapor vent system.

MAINTENANCE
179
Explanation of scheduled maintenance items
ENGINE COMPONENTS AND EMISSION CONTROL
SYSTEMS
Timing belt
(Applicable to Schedule A only.) When scheduled, replace the
belt and inspect the ignition timing. A qualified technician
should perform these operations.
Valve clearance
Adjust the valve clearances to factory specifications. A
qualified technician should perform this operation.
Drive belt
Inspect the drive belt for cracks, excessive wear or oiliness.
Replace the belt if damaged. Check the auto tensioner
operation.
Engine oil and oil filter
Change the engine oil and oil filter when scheduled. Use API
SG or SH, Energy − Conserving II multigrade engine oil or
ILSAC multigrade engine oil. For recommended viscosity, see
page 199. A qualified technician should perform this operation.Engine coolant
Drain and flush the cooling system when scheduled. Refill only
with an ethylene-glycol type coolant. A qualified technician
should perform this operation.
Exhaust pipes and mountings
Visually inspect the exhaust pipes, muffler and hangers for
cracks, deterioration, or damage. Start the engine and listen
carefully for any exhaust gas leakage. Tighten connections or
replace parts as necessary.
Air cleaner filter
Replace the air cleaner filter when scheduled. Do-it-yourself
instructions are given on page 201. If you mainly operate your
vehicle on dusty roads, additionally inspect and clean the air
cleaner filter when scheduled. Visually check for dirt or
damage. It may be cleaned with compressed air.
Fuel lines and connections
Visually inspect the lines, connections for corrosion, damage,
cracks, and loose or leaking connections. Tighten connections
or replace parts as necessary.
Fuel tank cap gasket
Make sure the new gasket is correctly installed.

MAINTENANCE
181 Automatic transmission fluid
Inspect for signs of leakage. Should you discover any leakage,
have the cause found and corrected / repaired by a qualified
technician immediately. Under severe driving conditions,
change the fluid and oil when scheduled.
Differential oil
Inspect the differential gear housing for signs of leakage.
Should you discover any leakage, have the cause found and
corrected / repaired by a qualified technician immediately.
When scheduled, drain and change the oil.
SRS
This should be periodically inspected by a qualified technician.
For details, see the maintenance schedule.
Bolts and nuts on chassis and body
Where necessary, retighten to specified torque.
Body inspection (paint, corrosion)
Visually check for corrosion, scratches and other damage.
Check body outer panels, underneath the vehicle, inner panels
of the hood and doors, etc. Apply touch-up paint to any chips
or scratches, or have them repaired by a qualified technician.
Air conditioning filter
Check the air flow quantity. Have the filter replaced by your
Lexus dealer according to the maintenance schedule.ROAD TEST
While driving the vehicle, check the proper operation of engine,
transmission, brakes and steering, and check for abnormal
noise or vibration from any part of the vehicle.