ESP LEXUS RX450h 2018 Service Manual

354 4-5. Using the driving support systems
RX450h_RX450hL _U_OM48F85UWARNING ■
Limitations of the Intelligent Clearance Sonar system
Do not overly rely on the system, as doing so may lead to an accident.●
The driver is solely responsi ble for safe driving. Always drive carefully, taking care to
observe your surroundings. The Intelligent Clearance Sonar system is designed to
provide support to lessen the severity of collisions. However, it may not operate in
some situations. ●
The Intelligent Clearance Sonar system is not designed to stop the vehicle com-
pletely. Additionally, even if the system has stopped the vehicle, it is necessary to
depress the brake pedal immediately as brak e control will be canc eled after approxi-
mately 2 seconds. ■
To ensure the Intelligent Clearance Sonar system can operate properly
Observe the following precauti ons regarding the sensors ( → P. 345). Failure to do so
may cause a sensor to not operate pr operly, and may cause an accident.●
Do not modify, disassemble or paint the sensors. ●
Do not replace a sensor with a part other than a genuine part. ●
Do not subject a sensor or its surro unding area to a strong impact.●
Do not damage the sensors, and always keep them clean.
Observe the following precaution s regarding the radar sensors ( → P. 322). Failure to
do so may cause a radar sensor to not op erate properly, and may cause an accident.●
Do not modify, disassemble or paint the sensors. ●
Do not replace a radar sensor with a part other than a genuine part.●
Do not subject a radar sensor or its surrounding area to a strong impact.●
Do not damage the radar sensors, and alwa ys keep the radar sensors and their sur-
rounding area on the bumper clean. ■
Handling the suspension
Do not modify the suspension, as changes to the height or inclinat ion of the vehicle may
prevent the sensors from detecting objects co rrectly or cause the system to not oper-
ate or operate unnecessarily.

3614-5. Using the driving support systems
4
Driving
RX450h_RX450hL _U_OM48F85U■
Situations in which the Rear Cross Traffic Auto Brake function may not operate prop-
erly
In some situations such as the following , this function may not operate properly.●
Objects and vehicles which the radar sensors are not designed to detect
• Stationary objects
• Vehicles which are moving away from your vehicle
• Pedestrians, motorcycles, bicycles, etc.*
• Objects which are extremely close to a radar sensor
• Vehicles which are approaching from the right or left at the rear of the vehicle at a
traveling speed of less than approximately 5 mph (8 km/h)
• Vehicles which are approaching from the right or left at the rear of the vehicle at a
traveling speed of more than approximately 15 mph (24 km/h)
* : Depending on conditions, detection of a vehicle and/or object may occur.●
Situations in which the radar sensors may not be able to detect an object
• When a sensor or the area around a sensor is extremely hot or cold
• If the rear bumper is covere d with ice, snow, dirt, etc.
• If heavy rain or water strikes the vehicle
• When the detection area of a radar sensor is obstructed by an adjacent vehicle
• If the vehicle is significantly tilted
• If towing eyelets are installed
• If the suspension has been modified or tires of a size othe r than specified are
installed
• If the front of the vehicle is raised or lowered due to the carried load
• If a sticker or an electronic component, su ch as a backlit license plate (especially flu-
orescent type), fog lights, a fender pole or wireless antenna is installed near a radar
sensor
• If the orientation of a rada r sensor has been changed due to a collision or other
impact or removal and installation
• When multiple vehicles are approaching wi th only a small gap between each vehicle
• When a vehicle is approaching at high speed ●
Situations in which the radar sensor may not detect a vehicle
• When a vehicle approaches from the right
or left at the rear of the vehicle while you
are turning while backing up
• When turning while backing up
• When backing out of a shallow angle park-
ing spot

3794-5. Using the driving support systems
4
Driving
RX450h_RX450hL _U_OM48F85U 
Vehicles without Adaptive Variable Suspension System
Normal mode
Provides an optimal balance of fuel ec onomy, quietness, and dynamic perfor-
mance. Suitable for city driving. Press the switch to change the driving mode to normal mode when Eco drive mode or
sport mode is selected.
Eco drive mode
Helps the driver accelerate in an eco-fr iendly manner and improve fuel econ-
omy through moderate throttle charact eristics and by controlling the opera-
tion of the air conditioning system (heating/cooling). When not in Eco drive mode, if the driving mode select switch is tu rned to the left, the
Eco drive mode indicator will come on.
Sport mode
Controls the hybrid system to prov ide quick, powerful acceleration. This
mode also changes the steering feel, maki ng it suitable for when agile driving
response is desired, such as when driving on roads with many curves. When not in sport mode, if the driving mode select switch is turned to the right, the
“SPORT” indicator will comes on.Driving mode select switch The driving modes can be selected to suit driving conditions.
1
2
3

3814-5. Using the driving support systems
4
Driving
RX450h_RX450hL _U_OM48F85UEco drive mode
Helps the driver accelerate in an eco-fr iendly manner and improve fuel econ-
omy through moderate throttle charact eristics and by controlling the opera-
tion of the air conditioning system (heating/cooling). When not in Eco drive mode, if the driving mode select switch is tu rned to the left, the
Eco drive mode indicator will come on.
Sport mode
•SPORT S mode
Controls the hybrid system to prov ide quick, powerful acceleration. This
mode is suitable for when agile drivin g response is desired, such as when
driving on roads with many curves. When not in SPORT S mode, if the driving mode select switch is turned to the
right, the “SPORT S” indicator will come on.
•SPORT S+ mode
Helps to ensure steering performanc e and driving stability by simultane-
ously controlling the steering and suspension in addition to the hybrid sys-
tem. Suitable for sportier driving. When in SPORT S mode, if the driving mode select switch is turned to the right,
the “SPORT S+” indicator will come on.■
Operation of the air conditioning system in Eco drive mode
Eco drive mode controls the heating/cooling operations and fan speed of the air condi-
tioning system to enhance fuel efficiency. To improve air conditioning performance,
adjust the fan speed or turn off Eco drive mode. ■
Automatic deactivation of sport mode and customized mode
If the power switch is turned off after driv ing in sport mode or customized mode, the
drive mode will be changed to normal mode. ■
Driving mode pop-up display (12.3-inch display only)
When the driving mode is changed, the sele cted driving mode will be temporarily dis-
played on the side display. ( → P. 504)Function Setting
Powertrain Normal
Power
Eco
Chassis Normal
Sport
Air conditioning system Normal
Eco2
3

382 4-5. Using the driving support systems
RX450h_RX450hL _U_OM48F85U◆ ECB (Electronically Controlled Brake System)
The electronically controlled system generates braking force corresponding
to the brake operation
◆ ABS (Anti-lock Brake System)
Helps to prevent wheel lock when the br akes are applied suddenly, or if the
brakes are applied while drivin g on a slippery road surface
◆ Brake assist
Generates an increased level of br aking force after the brake pedal is
depressed when the system detects a panic stop situation
◆ VSC (Vehicle Stability Control)
Helps the driver to contro l skidding when swerving suddenly or turning on
slippery road surfaces.
◆ Enhanced VSC (Enhanced Vehicle Stability Control)
Provides cooperative control of the ABS, TRAC, VSC and EPS.
Helps to maintain directional stability when swerving on slippery road sur-
faces by controlling steering performance.
◆ Trailer Sway Control (if equipped)
Helps the driver to control trailer sway by selectively applying brake pressure
for individual wheels and reducing dr iving torque when trailer sway is
detected.
◆ TRAC (Traction Control)
Helps to maintain drive power and pr event the drive wheels from spinning
when starting the vehicle or accelerating on slippery roads
◆ Hill-start assist control
Helps to reduce the backward movement of the vehicle when starting on an
uphillDriving assist systems To keep driving safety and performance, the following systems operate auto-
matically in response to various drivin g situations. Be aware, however, that
these systems are supplementary and shou ld not be relied upon too heavily
when operating the vehicle.

386 4-5. Using the driving support systems
RX450h_RX450hL _U_OM48F85U■
ECB operating sound
ECB operating sound may be heard in the followi ng cases, but it does not indicate that a
malfunction has occurred. ●
Operating sound heard from the engine compartment when the brake pedal is oper-
ated. ●
Motor sound of the brake system heard from the front part of the vehicle when the
driver’s door is opened. ●
Operating sound heard from the engine compartment when one or two minutes
passed after the stop of the hybrid system. ■
EPS operation sound
When the steering wheel is operated, a motor sound (whirring sound) may be heard.
This does not indicate a malfunction. ■
Automatic reactivation of TRAC, Tr ailer Sway Control and VSC systems
After turning the TRAC, Trailer Sway Contro l and VSC systems off, the systems will be
automatically re-enabled in the following situations: ●
When the power switch is turned off ●
If only the TRAC system is turned off, the TRAC will turn on when vehicle speed
increases
If both the TRAC and VSC systems are turned off, au tomatic re-enabling will not
occur when vehicle speed increases. ■
Reduced effectiveness of the EPS system
The effectiveness of the EPS system is reduced to prevent the system from overheating
when there is frequent steering input over an extended period of time. The steering
wheel may feel heavy as a result . Should this occur, refrain from excessive steering input
or stop the vehicle and turn the hybrid system off. The EPS system should return to nor-
mal within 10 minutes.
WARNING ■
The ABS does not operate effectively when ●
The limits of tire gripping performance have been exceeded (such as excessively
worn tires on a snow covered road). ●
The vehicle hydroplanes while driving at high speed on wet or slick roads.■
Stopping distance when the ABS is operating may exceed that of normal conditions
The ABS is not designed to shorten the vehi cle’s stopping distance . Always maintain a
safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, especially in the following situations: ●
When driving on dirt, grav el or snow-covered roads●
When driving with tire chains ●
When driving over bumps on the road ●
When driving over roads with potholes or uneven surfaces■
TRAC/VSC may not operate effectively when
Directional control an d power may not be achievable wh ile driving on slippery road
surfaces, even if the TRAC/VSC system is op erating. Drive the vehi cle carefully in con-
ditions where stability and power may be lost.

3874-5. Using the driving support systems
4
Driving
RX450h_RX450hL _U_OM48F85UWARNING ■
Hill-start assist control does not operate effectively when ●
Do not overly rely on hill-start assist control. Hill-start assist control may not operate
effectively on steep inclines and roads covered with ice. ●
Unlike the parking brake, hill-start assist co ntrol is not intended to hold the vehicle
stationary for an exte nded period of time. Do not atte mpt to use hill-start assist con-
trol to hold the vehicle on an incline, as doing so may lead to an accident. ■
When the TRAC/VSC/Trailer Sw ay Control is activated
The slip indicator light flashes. Always drive carefully. Reckle ss driving may cause an
accident. Exercise particular care when the indicator light flashes.■
When the TRAC/VSC/Trailer Sway Control systems are turned off
Be especially careful and drive at a speed appropriate to the road conditions. As these
are the systems to help ensure vehicle stab ility and driving force, do not turn the
TRAC/VSC/Trailer Sway Contro l systems off unless necessary.
Trailer Sway Control is part of the VSC syst em and will not operate if VSC is turned off
or experiences a malfunction. ■
Replacing tires
Make sure that all tires are of the specified size, brand, tread pattern and total load
capacity. In addition, make sure that the tire s are inflated to the recommended tire infla-
tion pressure level.
The ABS, TRAC, Trailer Sway Control and VS C systems will not function correctly if
different tires are installed on the vehicle.
Contact your Lexus dealer for further in formation when replacing tires or wheels.■
Handling of tires and the suspension
Using tires with any kind of problem or modi fying the suspension w ill affect the driving
assist systems, and may cause a system to malfunction. ■
Trailer Sway Control precaution
The Trailer Sway Control system is not able to reduce trailer sway in all situations.
Depending on many factors such as the condit ions of the vehicle, trailer, road surface,
and driving environment, the Trailer Sway Control system may not be effective. Refer to
your trailer owner’s manual for information on how to tow your trailer properly. ■
If trailer sway occurs
Observe the following precautions.
Failing to do so may cause death or serious injury. ●
Firmly grip the steering wh eel. Steer straight ahead.
Do not try to control trailer sway by turning the steering wheel.●
Begin releasing the accelerator pedal immediately but very gradually to reduce
speed.
Do not increase speed. Do not apply vehicle brakes.
If you make no extreme correction with the steering or brakes, your vehicle and trailer
should stabilize. ( → P. 234)

388
RX450h_RX450hL _U_OM48F85U4-6. Driving tips
◆ Using Eco drive mode
When using Eco drive mode, the torque corresponding to the accelerator
pedal depression amount can be generate d more smoothly than it is in normal
conditions. In addition, the operation of the air conditioning system (heat-
ing/cooling) will be minimized, improving the fuel economy. ( → P. 379)
◆ Use of Hybrid System Indicator
The Eco-friendly driving is possible by keeping the indicator needle (except F
SPORT models) or bar display (F SPOR T models) of Hybrid System Indicator
within Eco area. ( → P. 99)
◆ Shift lever operation
Shift the shift lever to D when stopped at a traffic light, or driving in heavy traf-
fic, etc. Shift the shift lever to P when parking. When using the N, there is no
positive effect on fuel consumption. In the N, the gasoline engine operates but
electricity cannot be generated. Also, wh en using the air conditioning system,
etc., the hybrid battery (tractio n battery) power is consumed.
◆ Accelerator pedal/brake pedal operation ●
Drive your vehicle smoothly. Avoid ab rupt acceleration and deceleration.
Gradual acceleration and deceleration will make more effective use of the
electric motor (traction motor) without having to use gasoline engine
power. ●
Avoid repeated acceleration. Repeated acceleration consumes hybrid bat-
tery (traction battery) power, resulting in poor fuel consumption. Battery
power can be restored by driving with the accelerator pedal slightly
released.
◆ When braking
Make sure to operate the brakes gently and in a timely manner. 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:

3954-6. Driving tips
4
Driving
RX450h_RX450hL _U_OM48F85UYour vehicle is not designed to be driv en off-road. However, in the event that
off-road driving cannot be avoided, please observe the following precautions to
help avoid the areas prohibited to vehicles. ●
Drive your vehicle only in areas wher e off-road vehicles are permitted to
travel. ●
Respect private property. Get owner’s permission before entering private
property. ●
Do not enter areas that are closed. Honor gates, barriers and signs that
restrict travel. ●
Stay on established road s. When conditions are wet, driving techniques
should be changed or travel dela yed to prevent damage to roads.●
Avoid driving on very steep, slippery ro ads and other surfaces, such as sand,
where the tires are liable to lose tractio n. Your vehicle may not perform as well
as conventional AWD on-road vehicles on these surfaces. ■
Additional information for off-road driving
For owners in U.S. mainland, Hawaii and Puerto Rico:
To obtain additional information pertaining to driving your vehicle off-road, consult the
following organizations. ●
State and Local Parks and Recreation Departments ●
State Motor Vehicle Bureau ●
Recreational Vehicle Clubs ●
U.S. Forest Service and Bu reau of Land ManagementOff-road driving

396 4-6. Driving tips
RX450h_RX450hL _U_OM48F85U [
WARNING ■
Off-road driving precautions
Always observe the following precautions to minimize the risk of death, serious injury
or damage to your vehicle: ●
Drive carefully when off the road. Do not ta ke unnecessary risks by driving in danger-
ous places. ●
Do not grip the steering wheel spokes when driving off-road. A bad bump could jerk
the wheel and injure your hands. Keep both hands and especially your thumbs on the
outside of the rim. ●
Always check your brakes for effectiveness immediately after driving in sand, mud,
water or snow. ●
After driving through tall grass, mud, rock , sand, rivers, etc., check that there is no
grass, bush, paper, rags, stone, sand, etc. adhering or trapped on the underbody.
Clear off any such matter from the underbody. If the vehicle is used with these materi-
als trapped or adhering to the underbody, a breakdown or fire could occur. ●
When driving off-road or in rugged terrain , do not drive at excessive speeds, jump,
make sharp turns, strike obje cts, etc. This may cause loss of control or vehicle rollover
causing death or serious injury. You are also risking expensive damage to your vehi-
cle’s suspension and chassis.
NOTICE ■
To prevent water damage
Take all necessary safety measures to ensure that water damage to the hybrid battery
(traction battery), hybrid system or other components does not occur.●
Water entering the engine compartment may cause severe damage to the hybrid
system. Water entering the interior may cause the hybrid battery (traction battery)
stowed under the rear seats to short circuit.●
Water entering the hybrid transmission and rear electric motor (traction motor) will
cause deterioration in transmission qualit y. The malfunction indicator may come on,
and the vehicle may not be drivable. ●
Water can wash the grease from wheel be arings, causing rusting and premature fail-
ure, and may also enter the hybrid transmissi on case, reducing the gear oil’s lubricat-
ing qualities. ■
When you drive through water
If driving through water, such as when cro ssing shallow streams, first check the depth of
the water and the bottom of the riverbed for firmness. Drive slowly and avoid deep
water. ■
Inspection after off-road driving ●
Sand and mud that has accumulated around brake discs may affect braking efficiency
and may damage brake system components. ●
Always perform a maintenance inspection afte r each day of off-road driving that has
taken you through rough terrain, sand, mud, or water. For scheduled maintenance
information, refer to the “Warranty and Services Guide/Owner’s Manual Supple-
ment/Scheduled Maintenance”.