LEXUS SC300 1999 Owners Manual

ENGINE
343
4. Pull the dipstick out and look at the oil level on the end.
If it is between the full line (full level mark) and the low line
(low level mark), it is O.K.

ENGINE
344

ENGINE
345
If the oil level is below or only slightly above the low line
(low
level mark), add engine oil of the same type as alr eady
in the engine.
Remove the oil filler cap and add engine oil a little at a time,
checking the dipstick. The approximate quantity of oil
needed to fill between the low line (low level mark) and the
full line (full level mark) on the dipstick is indicated below for
reference. When the level reaches within the correct range, return the
filler cap and turn the cap clockwise until you hear a click.
Oil quantity. L (qt., lmp. qt.) SC400, SC300 ± 1.5 (1.6,
1.3)
NOTICE
Avoid
overfilling, or the engine could be damaged. Check
the oil level on the dipstick once again after adding the oil.

ENGINE
346
Engine oil selection
Use API SJ, ºEnergy±Conservingº multigrade engine oil or
ILSAC multigrade engine oil.
Recommended viscosity (SAE):
SAE 5W±30 is the best choice for your vehicle, for good
fuel economy, and good starting in cold weather.
If you use SAE 10W±30 engine oil in extremely low
temperatures, the engine may become difficult to start, so
SAE 5W±30 engine oil is recommended.

ENGINE
347
Oil identification marks
Either or both API registered marks are added to some oil
containers to help you select the oil you should use.

The API Service Symbol is located anywhere on the
outside of the container.
The top portion of the label shows the oil quality by API
(American Petroleum Institute) designation such as SJ.
The center portion of the label shows the SAE viscosity
grade such as SAE 5W±30. ºEner gy±Conservingº, shown
in the lower portion, indicates that the oil has fuel±saving
capabilities.

The ILSAC (International Lubricant Standardization and
Approval Committee) Certification Mark is displayed on
the front of the container.CHECKING THE ENGINE
COOLANT LEVEL

ENGINE
348
Look at the see±through coolant reservoir when the
engine is cold. The coolant level is satisfactory if it is
between theºFULLº and ºLOWº lines on the reservoir.
If the level is low, add ethylene±glycol type coolant for a
proper corrosion protection of aluminum components.
The coolant level in the reservoir will vary with engine
temperature. However, if the level is on or below the ºLOWº
line, add coolant. Bring the level up to the ºFULLº line.
Always use ethylene±glycol type coolant for a proper
corrosion protection of aluminum components. See
information in the next column.If the coolant level drops within a short time after
replenishing, there may be a leak in the system. Visually
check the radiator, hoses, engine coolant filler cap, radiator
cap and drain cock and water pump.
If you can find no leak, have your Lexus dealer test the cap
pressure and check for leaks in the cooling system.
CAUTION
To prevent burning yourself, do not remove the radiator cap
when the engine is hot.

ENGINE
349
Coolant type selection
Use of improper coolants may damage your engine cooling
system. Your coolant must contain ethylene±glycol type
coolant for a proper corrosion protection of your engine that
contains aluminum components. Use ºToyota Long Life
Coolantº or equivalent.
In addition to preventing freezing and subsequent damage to
the engine, this type of coolant will also prevent corrosion.
Further supplemental inhibitors or additives are neither
needed nor recommended.
Read the coolant container for information on freeze
protection. Follow the manufacturer's directions for how
much to mix with plain water (preferably demineralized
water or distilled water). The total capacity of the cooling
system is given on page 331.
We recommend to use 50% solution for your Lexus, to
provide protection down to about ±35C (±31F). When it is
extremely cold, to provide protection down to about ±50 C
(±58 F), 60% solution is recommended. Do not use more
than 70% solution for better coolant performance.
NOTICE
Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or plain water alone.
CHECKING THE ENGINE FAN FLUID (SC400 ONLY)
Park the vehicle at a level spot and look at the see±thr ough
reservoir. If necessary, add automatic transmission fluid
DEXRON
 II or III.

ENGINE
350
If the fluid is hot (70C ± 90C or 158F ±194F), the level
should be in the ºHOTº range. Similarly, if it is cold (10 C
± 30 C or 50F ± 86F), the level should be in the ºCOLDº
range. If the level is at the low side of either range, add
automatic transmission fluid DEXRON
 II or III to bring the
level within the range.
CAUTION
The reservoir may be hot so be careful not to burn yourself.
NOTICE
When adding the engine fan fluid, avoid overfilling.
SPARK PLUGS
SC400

ENGINE
351
Your engine is fitted with iridium±tipped spark plugs.
NOTICE
Use only iridium±tipped spark plugs for your engine
performance and smooth drivability.
SC300

ENGINE
352Your engine is fitted with twin ground electrode
platinum±tipped spark plugs.
NOTICE
Use only twin ground electrode platinum±tipped spark
plugs for your engine performance.