warning lexus LS400 1998 Engine / LEXUS 1998 LS400 OWNER'S MANUAL (OM50498U)

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
iv
INDEX
The page number is listed for each item in the Owner’s Manual so
that you can rapidly find the item and page you are searching for.
GAS STATION INFORMATION
The information you need to know for appropriate servicing at the
gas station is provided here.
QUICK INDEX
This is designed so that you can quickly find the needed information
when an urgent situation arises.
Safety symbol
In this manual, you will also see a circle with a slash through it. This
means ”Do not”, ”Do not do this”, or ”Do not let this happen”\
.
Safety and vehicle damage warnings
In this manual you will see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings.
These are used in the following ways:
CAUTION
This is a warning against something which may cause injury
to people if the warning is ignored . You are informed what you
must or must not do in order to avoid or reduce the risk to
yourself and other people.
NOTICE
This is a warning against something which may cause damage
to the vehicle or its equipment if the warning is ignored. You are
informed what you must or must not do in order to avoid or
reduce the risk of damage to your Lexus and its equipment.
Your Lexus Owner’s Manual provides you with a considerable
amount of information. To use this information most effectively,
please take the time to familiarize yourself with the contents and
use of the manual.

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section.
PICTORIAL INDEX
ix
Page
1
Engine coolant temperature gauge 34
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Tachometer 35
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
3 Turn signal indicator light 24
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Headlight indicator light 22
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 Headlight high beam indicator light 24
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6 Automatic transmission indicator lights 160
. . . . . . . . . . . .
7 Fuel gauge 34
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
8 Low fuel level warning light 40
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9 Cruise control indicator light 168
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10 Height control indicator light 172
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11 Power mode indicator light 167
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12 Snow mode indicator light 167
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13 Antilock brake system warning light 39
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page
14 Vehicle skid control system off
indicator light 173
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15 Malfunction indicator lamp 39
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16 Slip indicator light 173
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17 Multi information display 41
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18 Odometer and trip meter 36
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19 Brake system warning light 37
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20 SRS warning light 38
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21 Open door warning light 39
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22 Driver’s seat belt reminder light 38
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23 Discharge warning light 39
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24 Instrument panel light control 46
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25 ODO/TRIP RESET button 36
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section.
PICTORIAL INDEX
xi
Page
1
Engine coolant temperature gauge 34
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Tachometer 35
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
3 Turn signal indicator light 24
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Tail light indicator light 22
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 Headlight high beam indicator light 24
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6 Automatic transmission indicator lights 160
. . . . . . . . . . . .
7 Fuel gauge 34
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . \
8 Low fuel level warning light 40
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9 Cruise control indicator light 168
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10 Power mode indicator light 167
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11 Snow mode indicator light 167
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12 Antilock brake system warning light 39
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page
13 Vehicle skid control system
off indicator light 173
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14 Malfunction indicator lamp 39
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15 Slip indicator light 173
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16 Multi information display 41
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17 Odometer and trip meter 36
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18 Brake system warning light 37
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19 SRS warning light 38
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20 Open door warning light 39
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21 Driver’s seat belt reminder light 38
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22 Discharge warning light 39
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23 Instrument panel light control 46
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24 ODO/TRIP RESET button 46
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SWITCHES
26The time interval between sweeps is shortened when the vehicle
speed increases. When the vehicle speed reaches more than about
20 km/h (12 mph) with the interval adjuster in ”F” position, the time
interval becomes the shortest 1.5 seconds.
If you stop the vehicle with the wiper switch in the ”LO” position,
the wiper speed automatically changes from low speed to
intermittent operation speed.* This function does not work when the
interval adjuster is in the ”F” position.
NOTE: *This feature can be set inoperative. Ask your Lexus
dealer for details.
For mist wiper operation (a single wipe), pull the lever toward
you and release it.
To make the washer squirt, push the button on the end of the
lever.
If the wiper lever is in the ”OFF” position, the wipers will
automatically operate a couple of times and a few seconds later,
make a single wipe again to sweep the windshield completely.* The
last sweep does not happen if the vehicle speed exceeds about 170
km/h (106 mph).
NOTE: *The last single wipe can be set inoperative. Ask your
Lexus dealer for details.
The warning message ”LOW WASHER FLUID” is displayed in the
multi information display when the fluid level in the tank becomes
nearly empty. For information on adding washer fluid, see ”Adding
washer fluid” on page 261.
In cold weather, warm the windshield with the defroster before using
the washer. This will help prevent icing, which could block your
vision.
NOTICE
Do not operate the wipers if the windshield is dry. It may scratch
the glass.

SWITCHES
27
HEADLIGHT CLEANER SWITCH
(CANADA ONLY)
12L0072
To spray fluid on the headlights, push the switch with the
headlights on.
The ignition key must be in the ”ON” position.
The warning message ”LOW WASHER FLUID” is displayed in the
multi information display when the fluid level in the tank becomes
nearly empty. For information on adding washer fluid, see ”Adding
washer fluid” on page 261.
NOTICE
Do not turn the headlight cleaner on with the tank empty. It may
cause the cleaner motor to overheat.
REAR WINDOW AND OUTSIDE
REAR VIEW MIRROR DEFOGGER
SWITCH
12L008-4
To turn the electric rear window defogger on, push the switch.
The ignition key must be in the ”ON” position.
The thin heater wires on the inside of the rear window and the heater
panels in the outside rear view mirrors will quickly clear the surface.
Keep your hands off the mirror faces when the switch is on. An
indicator light is on when the defogger is operating.
The system will automatically shut off when the defogger has
operated about 15 minutes.

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
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.