check engine light LEXUS LS430 2005 Owners Manual

KEYS AND DOORS
17
11L358
Do not bend the key grip or flat key.
 Do not cover the key grip or flat key with any material
that cuts off electromagnetic waves.
 Do not knock the key or flat key hard against other
objects.
 Do not leave the key or flat key exposed to high
temperatures for a long period, such as on the
dashboard or hood under direct sunlight.
 Do not put the key or flat key in water or wash it in an
ultrasonic washer.
 Do not use the key or flat key with electromagnetic
materials.
ENGINE IMMOBILIZER SYSTEM
Deactivation using the smart key system
11L222a
The engine immobilizer system is a theft prevention
system. When you enter the vehicle carrying a smart key
and push the ignition switch, the electronic code in the
key is automatically checked to determine whether it
corresponds to the registered ID code for the vehicle. If
the key indicator light comes on after the ID code
verification, you can start the engine.
This system is automatically set when the ignition switch is
turned to the “LOCK” position. At this time, the security
indicator light flashes. When you push the ignition switch, the
security indicator light goes out and the system is cancelled
automatically, which enables the engine to start.
The engine immobilizer system cannot be cancelled if the
cancel switch of the smart key system is turned on. For details,
see “Deactivating the smart key system” on page 34.

GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
84
(a) Brake System Warning Light
This light comes on in the following cases when the ignition
switch is in the “ON” position.
When the parking brake is applied ...
This light comes on for a few seconds when the ignition switch
is turned to the “ON” position even after the parking brake is
released.
 When the brake fluid level is low ...
CAUTION
It is dangerous to continue driving normally when the
brake fluid level is low.
Have your vehicle checked at your Lexus dealer in the
following case:
The light does not come on even if the parking brake is
applied when the ignition switch is in the “ON” position.
 The light does not come on even if the ignition switch is
turned on with the parking brake released.
A warning light turning on briefly during operation does not
indicate a problem.
CAUTION
If either of the following conditions occurs, immediately
stop your vehicle at a safe place and contact your Lexus
dealer.
 The light does not turn off even after the parking
brake is released while the engine is running.
In this case, the brakes may not work properly and
your stopping distance will become longer. Depress
the brake pedal firmly and bring the vehicle to an
immediate stop.
 The brake system warning light remains on together
with the “ABS” warning light.
In this case, not only the antilock brake system will
fail but also the vehicle will become extremely
unstable during braking.

GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
86
(e) Discharge Warning Light
This light warns that the battery is being discharged.
If it comes on while you are driving, stop the vehicle, turn off the
engine, and check for the cause. Look first at the engine drive
belt.
 If it is loose or broken, the generator will not charge the
battery properly.
 If the belt is O.K., there is a problem somewhere in the
charging system.
The engine ignition will continue to operate, however, until the
battery is discharged. Turn off the air conditioning, blower,
radio, etc., and drive directly to the nearest Lexus dealer or
repair shop.
NOTICE
Do not continue driving if the engine drive belt is broken
or loose.
(f) Malfunction Indicator Lamp
This lamp comes on when the ignition switch is turned to
the “ON” position and goes off after the engine starts.
This means that the warning light system is operating
properly.
If the lamp remains on, or the lamp comes on while
driving, first check the following:
 Empty fuel tank
If the fuel tank is empty, refuel immediately.
 Loose fuel tank cap
If the fuel tank cap is loose, securely tighten it.
These cases are temporary malfunctions. The malfunction
indicator lamp will go off after taking several driving trips.
If the lamp does not go off even after several trips, contact your
Lexus dealer as soon as possible.
If the fuel tank is not empty or the fuel tank cap is not
loose...
 There is a problem somewhere in the engine, emission
control system, electronic throttle control system, automatic
transmission electrical system or warning light system itself.
Contact your Lexus dealer as soon as possible to service the
vehicle.
If this lamp comes on and engine speed does not increase
when the accelerator pedal is depressed, there may be a
problem somewhere in the electronic throttle control system.

GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
87
At this time, vibration may occur. However, if you depress the
accelerator pedal more firmly and slowly, you can drive your
vehicle at low speeds. Have your Lexus checked by your
Lexus dealer as soon as possible.
Even if the abnormality of the electronic throttle control system
is corrected during low speed driving, the system may not be
recovered
until the engine is stopped and the ignition switch is
turned to “ACC” or “LOCK” position.
Emissions inspection and maintenance (I/M) programs
Your vehicle may not pass a state emission inspection if the
malfunction indicator lamp remains on. Contact your Lexus
dealer to check your vehicle’s emission control system and
OBD (On −Board Diagnostics) system before taking your
vehicle for the inspection.
For details, see “Emissions inspection and maintenance (I/M)
programs” on page 431.
(g) Master Warning Light
If any system malfunctions, this warning light comes on or
flashes together with a warning tone, and a warning message
appears in the multi−information display. When the cause of
the problem is eliminated, the warning tone and message on
the display will turn off.
(h) “ABS” Warning Light
The light comes on when the ignition switch is turned to the
“ON” position. If the anti−lock brake system and the brake
assist system work properly, the light turns off after a few
seconds. Thereafter, if either of the systems malfunctions, the
light comes on again.
When the “ABS” 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/does not operate, but the brake
system still operates conventionally.
When the “ABS” warning light is on (and the brake system
warning light is off), the anti− lock brake system does not
operate so that the wheels could lock up during a sudden
braking or braking on slippery road surfaces.

GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
94
(c) Warning messages
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W40W253
When the engine oil pressure becomes too low, the
master warning light comes on, a warning tone sounds
and the above message appears.
If this message appears while you are driving, pull off the road
to a safe place and stop the engine immediately. Call a Lexus
dealer or qualified repair shop for assistance.
The message may appear when the oil level is extremely low.
It is not designed to indicate low oil level, and the oil level must
be checked using the oil level dipstick.
NOTICE
Do not drive the vehicle while this warning message is
displayed even for one block. It may ruin the engine.
W41W254
When your brake pads have worn down enough to require
replacement, the master warning light flashes and a
warning tone sounds and the above message appears.
If this message appears while you are driving, have the brake
pads checked and replaced by your Lexus dealer as soon as
possible.
W50W255
When the engine oil level is too low, the master warning
light flashes, a warning tone sounds, and the above
message appears.
Add oil as soon as possible. (For instructions, see “Checking
the engine oil level” on page 452.)
While driving on steep inclines or rough roads which causes
the vehicle to substantially sway or on curves, this message
may appear due to the movement of engine oil in the engine.

GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
96
w283
If the driving range exceeds 4,500 miles after the engine
oil maintenance data is reset, the master warning light
comes on, a warning tone sounds and the above message
appears for about 15 seconds when you turn the ignition
switch to “ON”. (U.S.A. only)
This message indicates that the engine oil should be replaced
soon. If the message appears, it is recommended to inspect
the engine oil with the ignition off. For details about inspection,
see “Checking the engine oil level” on page 452.
If the engine oil level is low, engine oil should be replaced.
Have it replaced at your Lexus dealer.
After the engine oil replacement, reset the engine oil
maintenance data and make sure the “Mileage Reset” appears
in the display.
NOTICE
The warning message in the display is based on the
driving range after the engine oil maintenance data
reset. This is not based on the monitoring of dirty
condition of the engine oil.
w284
If the driving range exceeds 5,000 miles after the engine
oil maintenance data is reset, the master warning light
comes on, a warning tone sounds and the above message
appears. (U.S.A. only)
This message indicates that the engine oil should be replaced
as soon as possible. If the message appears, it is
recommended to inspect the engine oil with the ignition off. For
details about inspection, see “Checking the engine oil level” on
page 452.
If the engine oil level is low, engine oil should be replaced.
Have it replaced at your Lexus dealer.
After the engine oil replacement, reset the engine oil
maintenance data and make sure the “Mileage Reset” appears
in the display.
NOTICE
The warning message in the display is based on the
driving range after the engine oil maintenance data
reset. This is not based on the monitoring of dirty
condition of the engine oil.

STARTING AND DRIVING
299
31L346a
When you enter the vehicle carrying a sm art key and push
the ignition switch, the electronic code in the key is
automatically checked as to whether it corresponds to the
registered ID code for the vehicle. The key indicator light
comes on, the steering column lock is released, and the
engine immobilizer system is cancelled.
At this time, the security indicator light goes off and you can
start the engine when you turn the ignition switch and the key
indicator light does not come on. When you turn the ignition
switch, turn it slowly and surely. If you turn it quickly, it may
become stuck. To free it, see the following “If the ignition switch
seems to be stuck”.
If you push the ignition switch when the smart key is not within
the effective range of the smart key system, a warning tone
sounds and “Key is not Detected” appears on the display. If the ignition switch seems to be stuck:
To free the ignition switch, perform the following:
31L638
1. Push the ignition switch.
31L639
2. Be sure to push the ignition switch while turning the
steering wheel slightly in either direction, and then turn
the switch.

STARTING AND DRIVING
310“4” (fourth range):
The most suitable gear is automatically
selected between first and fourth gears according to vehicle
speed and driving conditions. In the “4” (fourth range)
position, the automatic transmission system will select the
most suitable gear to handle current running conditions
such as hill climbing, hard towing, etc.
“3” (third range): The most suitable gear is automatically
selected between first and third gears according to vehicle
speed and driving conditions. This range is best used when
stronger engine braking is necessary.
“2” (second range): First or second gear will automatically
be selected according to vehicle speed and driving
conditions. This range is to be used when engine braking
stronger than that of the “3” (third range) position is
necessary.
“1” (first range): This gear is fixed in first regardless of
vehicle speed or driving conditions. This range is to be used
when maximum engine braking is necessary.
If you attempt to downshift the transmission when it is not
possible to downshift due to high vehicle speed, a warning tone
sounds twice. 
Maximum allowable speeds
To get on a highway or to pass slower traffic, maximum
acceleration may be necessary. Make sure you observe the
following maximum allowable speeds in each range:
range km/h (mph)1 59 (36)
2 100 (62)
3 146 (90)
NOTICE
Do not downshift if you are going faster than the
maximum allowable speed for the next lower range.
 “S” mode indicator light
“S” mode allows you to use the shift range positions.
The “S” mode indicator light comes on when the selector
lever is shifted into the “S” position. When the “S” mode
indicator light does not come on even with the selector lever
moved to the “S” position, there may be a problem
somewhere in the system. Have your vehicle
checked/repaired by your Lexus dealer as soon as
possible. In this case, you can drive in the same condition
as in the “D” position.

STARTING AND DRIVING
326
31L357
Check surroundings for safety.
If a bright light (for example, sunlight reflected off the vehicle
body) is picked up by the camera, the smear effect* peculiar
to the camera may occur.
*: Smear effect — A phenomenon that occurs when a bright
light (for example, sunlight reflected off the vehicle body) is
picked up by the camera; when transmitted by the camera, the
light source appears to have a vertical streak above and below
it.
CRUISE CONTROL
The cruise control allows you to cruise the vehicle at a
desired speed over about 40 km/h (25 mph) with your foot
off the accelerator pedal.
Your cruising speed can be maintained although a slight speed
change may occur when driving up or down a gradient, within
the limits of engine performance. On steeper hills, a great
speed change will occur so it is better to drive without the cruise
control.
When the cruise control is on, the driving pattern of the
automatic transmission is fixed in the normal position,
regardless of the position of the selector switch.
CAUTION
 To help maintain maximum control of your vehicle,
do not use the cruise control when driving in heavy
or varying traffic, or on slippery (rainy, icy or
snowcovered) or winding roads.
 Avoid vehicle speed increases when driving
downhill. If the vehicle speed is too fast in relation to
the cruise control set speed, cancel the cruise
control then downshift the transmission to use
engine braking to slow down.

STARTING AND DRIVING
328
2Cancelling the preset speed
You can cancel the preset speed by either of the following:
a. Pulling the control lever in the “CANCEL” direction.
b. Depressing the brake pedal.
c. Pushing the “ON −OFF” button.
If the vehicle speed falls below about 40 km/h (25 mph), the
preset speed will be automatically cancelled.
If the vehicle speed drops 16 km/h (10 mph) below the preset
speed, the preset speed will also automatically be cancelled.
If the slip indicator light blinks and a warning tone sounds, the
preset speed will be automatically cancelled.
If the preset speed automatically cancels out for other than the
above reasons, do not operate the cruise control. Although it
is no problem to continue driving, have your vehicle checked
by your Lexus dealer at the earliest opportunity.
3 Resetting to a faster speed
Press the control lever upward in the “+ RES” direction and
hold it. Release the lever when the desired speed is attained.
While the lever is held upward, the vehicle will gradually gain
speed.
When the difference between the actual vehicle speed and the
set speed is less than 5 km/h (3 mph), the set speed can be
increased 1. 6 km/h (1 mph) each time by pressing the control
lever upward in the “+ RES” direction quickly within 0.6
seconds. However, a quicker way to reset is to accelerate the vehicle
and then press the control lever downward in the “– SET”
direction.
4
Resetting to a slower speed
Press the co ntrol lever downward in the “– SET” direction and
hold it. Release the lever when the desired speed is attained.
While the lever is held downward, the vehicle speed will
gradually decrease.
When the difference between the actual vehicle speed and the
set speed is less than 5 km/h (3 mph), the set speed can be
lowered 1.6 km/h (1 mph) each time by pressing the control
lever downward in the “– SET” direction quickly within 0.6
seconds.
However, a quicker way to reset is to depress the brake pedal
and then press the control lever downward in the “– SET”
direction.
With the cruise control on, even if you downshift the
transmission from the “D” position or “6” (sixth range) to the “5”\
(fifth range), or from the “D” position or “5” (fifth ran\
ge) to the
“4” (fourth range), engine braking will not be enabled because
the cruise control is not cancelled. To decrease the vehicle
speed, reset to a slower speed with the cruise control lever or
depress the brake pedal. If you use the brake pedal, cruise
control is cancelled.