CHASSIS
187
CHECKING POWER STEERING
FLUID
Check the fluid level through the reservoir. If necessary,
add automatic transmission fluid DEXRON®-II.
If the vehicle has been driven around 80 km / h (50 mph) for 20
minutes (a little more in frigid temperatures), the fluid is hot
(60C − 80C or 140F − 175F). You may also check the level
when the fluid is cold (about room temperature. 10C − 30C
or 50F − 85F) if the engine has not been run for about five
hours.
If hot O.K.
If hot add
If cold O.K.
If cold add
Clean all dirt off the reservoir and look at the fluid level. If the fluid
is cold, the level should be in the “COLD” range. Similarly, if it is
hot, the fluid level should be in the “HOT” range. If the level is at
the low side of the appropriate range, add automatic transmission
fluid DFXRON
®-II to bring the level within the range.
To remove the filler cap, turn it counterclockwise and lift up. To
reinstall it, turn it clockwise. After replacing the filler cap,
visually check the steering box case, vane pump and hose
connections for leaks or damage.
CAUTION:
The reservoir may be hot so be careful not to burn
yourself.
NOTICE:
Avoid overfilling, or the power steering could be
damaged.
CHASSIS
194
INSTALLING SNOW TIRES AND
CHAINS
When to use snow tires or chains
Snow tires or chains are recommended when driving on
snow or ice.
On wet or dry roads, conventional or radial tires provide better
traction than snow or studded tires.
Snow tire selection
If you need snow tires, select the same size, construction
and load capacity as the original tires on your Lexus.
Do not use tires other than stated above. Since your vehicle
has radial tires as original equipment, make sure your snow
tires also have radial construction. Do not install studded tires
without first checking local regulations for possible restrictions.
Snow tire installation
Snow tires should be installed on all wheels.
Installing snow tires on the front wheels only can lead to an
excessive difference in road grip capability between the front
and rear tires, which could cause loss of vehicle control.CAUTION:
Snow tires should be inflated to the same pressure as
the original tires.
Never drive over 120 km / h (75 mph) with any type of
snow tires.
Tire chain selection
Regulations regarding the use of tire chains vary
according to region and type of road. Always check the
local regulations before installing chains.
Use SAE Class “S” type radial tire chains, with the exception
of radial cable chains or V-bar type chains.
Chain installation
When installing chains on your tires, carefully follow the
instructions of the chain manufacturer.
Install the chains on the front tires as tightly as possible. Do not
use tire chains on the rear tires. Retighten chains after driving
0.5 − 1.0 km (1 / 4 − 1 / 2 mile).
CAUTION:
Do not exceed 50 km / h (30 mph) or the chain
manufacturer’s recommended speed limit, whichever
is lower.
Drive carefully avoiding bumps, holes, and sharp turns,
which may cause the vehicle to bounce.
Avoid sharp turns or locked-wheel braking, as use of
chains may adversely affect vehicle handling.
