service lexus LS400 1998 Audio System / LEXUS 1998 LS400 OWNER'S MANUAL (OM50498U)

FOREWORD
i
Welcome to the growing group of valueconscious
people who drive Lexus vehicles. We are proud
of the advanced engineering and quality construction of each vehicle we \
build.
This Owner’s Manual explains the features of your new Lexus. Please read it and fo\
llow the
instructions carefully so that you can enjoy many years of safe motoring.
When it comes to service, remember that your Lexus dealer knows your vehicle bes\
t and is interested
in your complete satisfaction. Your Lexus dealer will provide quality maintenance and any other
assistance you may require.
If there is not a Lexus dealer near you, or you need emergency assistance for any reason, please call
the following number:
U.S. OWNERS
 When traveling in the U.S. mainland or Canada:
Lexus Roadside Assistance 180025LEXUS (TollFree)
(18002553987)
 HAWAII:
Lexus Customer Service Assistance 180025LEXUS (TollFree)
(18002553987)
CANADIAN OWNERS
 Please refer to the separate ”Owner’s Guide” or ”Owner’s Manual Supplement”.
Please leave this Owner’s Manual in this vehicle at the time of resale. The next owner will need
this information also.
All information and specifications in this manual are current at the time of printing. However,
because of the Lexus policy of continual product improvement, we reserve the right to make
changes at any time without notice.
Please note that this manual applies to all models and explains all equipment, \
including options.
Therefore, you may find some explanations for equipment not installed on your vehi\
cle.

INTRODUCTION
ii
New vehicle warranty
Your new vehicle is covered by the following Lexus limited
warranties:
 New vehicle warranty
 Emission control systems warranty
 Others
For further information, please refer to the separate ”Owner’s
Guide”, ”Owner’s Manual Supplement” or ”Warranty Booklet”.
Your responsibility for maintenance
It is the owner’s responsibility to make sure the specified
maintenance is performed. Section 5 of this Owner’s Manual gives
details of these maintenance requirements. Included in Section 6 is
general maintenance. For sche duled maintenance information,
please refer to the separate ”Owner’s Manual
Supplement/Maintenance Schedule”.
Accessories, spare parts and modification of your
Lexus
A wide variety of nongenuine spare parts and accessories for Lexus
vehicles are currently available in the market. You should know that
Toyota does not warrant these products and is not responsible either
for their performance, repair or replacement, or for any damage they
may cause to, or adverse effect they may have on, your Lexus
vehicle.
This vehicle should not be m odified with nongenuine Lexus
products. Modification with nongenuine Lexus products could
affect its performance, safety or durability, and may even violate governmental regulations. In addition, damage or performance
problems
resulting from the modification may not be covered under
warranty.
Spark ignition system of your Lexus
The spark ignition system in your Lexus meets all requirements of
the Canadian InterferenceCausing Equipment Standard.
Installation of a mobile twoway radio system
As the installation of a mobile twoway radio system in your vehicle
could affect electronic systems such as the multiport fuel injection
system/sequential multiport fuel injection system, cruise control
system, antilock brake system and Supplemental Restraint System
(SRS), be sure to check with your Lexus dealer for precautionary
measures or special instructions regarding installation.
Scrapping of your Lexus
The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in your Lexus consists of
driver and front passenger airbag s, side airbags and seat belt
pretensioners. The SRS device contains explosive chemicals. If the
vehicle is scrapped with the airbags and seat belt pretensioners left
as they are, it may cause an accident such as a fire. Be sure to have
the SRS removed and disposed of by a qualified service shop or by
your Lexus dealer before you scrap your vehicle.

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
iii
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
The contents of this manual are explained briefly on this page to
help you make the best use of the manual. Please read this page
and the rest of the Owner’s Manual carefully to make sure you
fully understand the operation of your vehicle.
This will help you enjoy safe and comfortable driving.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The table of contents and the pictorial index provide easy reference
to the appropriate pages.
BASIC OPERATION QUICK REFERENCE
Operation of basic equipment is briefly explained in an easily
understandable way for quick reference.
SECTION 1 INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS
The vehicle’s equipment is divided into the 7 groups listed below.
Use of the equipment is explained, including any points you should
pay particular attention to.
1. Keys and doors
2. Switches
3. Gauges, meters and service reminder indicators
4. Interior equipment
5. Exterior equipment
6. Comfort adjustment
7. Theft deterrent
SECTION 2 AIR CONDITIONING AND AUDIO
The features of the vehicle’s air conditioning and audio are explained
in detail. Be sure to read this section so that you can make full use
of them.
SECTION 3 STARTING AND DRIVING
Starting the engine, driving, stopping, operation of features af fecting
vehicle handling, hints on vehicle safety and safe driving techniques
are all explained. Please read ev erything in this section, and
remember drive safely!
SECTION 4 IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY
This section explains what to do in the event of an urgent situation
such as the engine not starting or getting a flat tire, etc. If such a
problem occurs, check the contents of this Owner’s Manual and
follow the instructions given.
SECTION 5 MAINTENANCE
This section explains the impor tance of regular maintenance.
Regular and periodic inspection and maintenance of your Lexus will
help to keep your vehicle in its best condition.
SECTION 6 SERVICE PROCEDURES AND
SPECIFICATIONS
Simple maintenance procedure and service data are provided here
for your reference should you wi sh to perform inspection and
maintenance yourself.

BASIC
OPERATION
SECTION 1
SECTION 2
SECTION 3
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
SECTION 6
SECTION 7
INDEX
TABLE OF CONTENTS
v
BASIC OPERATION QUICK REFERENCE1
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 1 INSTRUMENTS AND Keys and doors7
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CONTROLS Switches21
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gauges, meters and service
reminder indicators
33
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
\bInterior equipment47
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exterior equipment61
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Comfort adjustment69
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Theft deterrent116
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 2 AIR CONDITIONING AND AUDIO120
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 3 STARTING AND Starting and driving154
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DRIVING Driving tips180
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 4 IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY192
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 5 MAINTENANCE212
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . .
SECTION 6 SERVICE PROCEDURES Introduction218
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
AND SPECIFICATIONS Engine224
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chassis236
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
\bElectrical components248
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Body268
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 7 REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS FOR U.S. OWNERS276
. . . . . . .
INDEX277
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GAS STATION INFORMATION Inside back cover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
QUICK INDEX Back cover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .\
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SECTION 1 3
33
INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS
Gauges, meters and service reminder
indicators
Fuel gauge 34. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine coolant temperature gauge 34. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tachometer 35. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Odometer and trip meter 36. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Service reminder indicators and warning buzzers 36. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Multi information display 41. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instrument panel light control 46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
34
FUEL GAUGE
13L0011
Low fuel level warning light
The gauge is displayed when the ignition switch is on and
indicates the approximate quantity of fuel remaining in the tank.
It is a good idea to keep the tank over 1/4 full.
If the fuel level approaches ”E” or the low fuel level warning light
comes on, fill the fuel tank as soon as possible.
On inclines or curves, due to the movement of fuel in the tank, the
fuel gauge needle may fluctuate or the low fuel level warning light
may come on earlier than usual.
If the fuel tank is completely empty, the malfunction indicator lamp
comes on. Fill the fuel tank immediately.
The indicator lamp goes off after driving several times. If the
indicator lamp does not go off, contact your Lexus dealer as soon as
possible.
See the inner back cover for fuel capacity and recommended fuelselection.
ENGINE COOLANT
TEMPERATURE GAUGE
13L0022
Normal range
The gauge indicates the engine coolant temperature when the
ignition switch is on. The engine operating temperature will
vary with changes in weather and engine load.
If the needle points to the red zone or higher, stop your vehicle and
allow the engine to cool.
Your vehicle may overheat during severe operating conditions, such
as:
Driving up a long hill on a hot day.
Reducing speed or stopping after high speed driving.

GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
35 Idling for a long period with the air conditioning on in
stopandgo traffic.
Towing a trailer.
NOTICE
Do not remove the thermostat in the engine cooling system as
this may cause the engine to overheat. The thermostat is
designed to control the flow of coolant to keep the
temperature of the engine within the specified operating
range.
Do not continue driving with an overheated engine. See ”If
your vehicle overheats” on page 196.
TACHOMETER
13L0031
The tachometer indicates engine speed in thousands of rpm
(revolutions per minute). Use it while driving to prevent engine
overrevving.
Driving with the engine running too fast causes excessive engine
wear and poor fuel economy. Remember, in most cases the slower
the engine speed, the greater the fuel economy.
NOTICE
Do not let the indicator needle get into the red zone. This may
cause severe engine damage.

GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
36
ODOMETER AND TRIP METER
13L0041
This meter displays the odometer and two trip meters. To
change the mode indication, push the ”ODO/TRIP” button.
The odometer records the total distance the vehicle has been
driven. The twin trip meter records two different distances
independently.
For example, you can use one meter to calculate the fuel economy
and the other to measure the distance on each trip.
To change the trip meter indication from one trip to the other,
push the ”ODO/TRIP” button. To set the A trip meter to zero,
display the A meter reading, then push the ”RESET” button.
The same applies for the B trip meter.
The data of trip meters will be cancelled if the electrical power
source is disconnected.
SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
AND WARNING BUZZERS
IF THIS INDICATOR
OR BUZZER COMES
ON ...DO THIS.
(a) If parking brake is off,
stop and check.
(b) Fasten driver’s seat belt.

(Indicator and buzzer)
(c) Fasten front passenger’s
seat belt.
(Under the center vent)
(d) Take vehicle to Lexus
dealer immediately.
(e) Stop and check.

or

GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
37 (f) Take vehicle to Lexus
dealer.
(g) Take vehicle to Lexus
dealer.
(h) Close all doors.
(i) Low fuel level Fill up tank.
warning light
(j) Key reminder buzzer Remove key.
(a) Brake System Warning Light
This light has the following two functions:
Parking brake reminder
If this light is on, make sure the parking brake is fully released. The
light should go off.
Low brake fluid level warning
If this light comes on and stays on while you are driving, slow down
and pull off the road. Then stop the vehicle carefully. Remember
that stopping distance and pedal effort may be increased. There may
be a problem somewhere in the brake system. Check the fluid level
of the seethrough reservoir.
To make sure the parking brake has not caused the warning light to
come on, check to see that the parking brake is fully released.
If the brake fluid level is low ...
At a safe place, test your brakes by starting and stopping.
If you judge that the brakes still work adequately, drive cautiously
to your nearest dealer or shop for repairs.
If the brakes are not working, have the vehicle towed in for
repairs. (For towing information, see page 205.)
CAUTION
It is dangerous to continue driving normally when the brake
fluid level is low.
or

GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
38If the brake fluid level is correct ...
Have the warning system checked by your Lexus dealer.
(b) Driver’s Seat Belt Reminder Light and Buzzer
Once the ignition key is turned to ”ON” or ”START”, the reminder
light flashes and buzzer sounds if the driver’s seat belt is not
fastened. Unless the driver fastens the belt, the light stays flashing
and the buzzer stops after about 4 to 8 seconds.
(c) Front Passenger’s Seat Belt Reminder Light
Once the ignition key is turned to ”ON” or ”START”, the reminder
light flashes if a passenger sits in the front passenger seat and does
not fasten the seat belt. Unless the front passenger fastens the belt,
the light stays flashing.
If luggage load is placed on the front passenger seat, depending on
its weight and how it is placed on the seat, builtin sensors in the seat
cushion may detect the pressure, causing the reminder light to come
on.
(d) SRS Warning Light
The indicators come on when the ignition key is turned to the
”ACC” or ”ON” position. It goes off after about 6 seconds. This
means the SRS is operating properly.
The SRS warning light system monitors the airbag sensor
assemblies, inflators, seat belt pretensioners, warning light,
interconnecting wiring and power sources.
If either of the following conditions occurs, this indicates a
malfunction somewhere in the parts monitored by the warning light
system. Contact your Lexus dealer as soon as possible to service the
vehicle.
The light does not come on as described above.
The light stays on or flashes.
The light comes on or starts flashing while driving.
If the light stays on, it indicates that the driver and front passenger
airbags fail. If the light flashes, the side airbags and/or seat belt
pretensioners fail.