1994 Lexus ES300 Engine

ENGINE
5W-30 Preferred
10W-30
Temperature range anticipated before next oil change
177 Remove the oil filler cap and add engine oil a little at a time,
checking the dipstick. The appropriate quantity of oil needed
to fill between the low line and the full line 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., Imp. qt.) 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 oil selection
Use API SG or SH, Energy-Conserving II multigrade engine oil
or ILSAC multigrade engine oil. Recommended viscosity is as
follows with SAE 5W- 30 being the preferred engine oil for your
vehicle.
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
API Service SymbolILSAC Certification Mark
”FULL” line
”LOW” line
178
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 SH.
The center portion of the label shows the SAE viscosity
grade such as SAE 5W-30. “Energy-Conserving II”, shown
in the lower portion, indicates that the oil has fuel-saving
capabilities. Oils marked “Energy-Conserving II” will have
higher fuel-saving capabilities than oils marked
“Energy-Conserving”.
The ILSAC (International Lubricant Standardization and
Approval Committee) Certification Mark is displayed on the
front of the container.
CHECKING THE ENGINE COOLANT
LEVEL
Look at the see-through coolant reservoir. The coolant
level is satisfactory if it is between the “FULL” and “LOW”
lines on the tank. If the level is low, add ethylene-glycol
type coolant.
The coolant level in the reservoir will vary with engine coolant
temperature. However, if the level is on or below the “LOW”
line, add coolant to bring the level up to the “FULL” line.
Use only ethylene-glycol type coolant. For information on
ethylene-glycol coolant, see also “Engine coolant selection” on
page 179.
If the coolant level drops within a short time after replenishing,
there may be a leak in the system. Visually check the radiator,
hoses, radiator cap, drain cocks, and water pump.

ENGINE
Cover
Clips
Filter
179 If no leak can be found, have the cap pressure tested at your
Lexus dealer.
CAUTION:
To prevent burning yourself, do not remove the radiator
cap when the engine is hot.
Engine coolant selection
Your coolant must contain ethylene glycol antifreeze. In
addition to preventing freezing and subsequent damage to the
engine, this will also prevent corrosion. Further supplemental
inhibitors or additives are neither needed nor recommended.
Read the antifreeze container for information on freeze
protection. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for how much
to mix with water. The total capacity of the cooling system is
given on page 171. We recommend 50% solution be used for
your Lexus, or a sufficient quantity to provide protection to
about −35
C (−31
F).
NOTICE:
Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or plain water alone.
CHECKING AND REPLACING THE
AIR CLEANER FILTER
To inspect the filter, follow the procedure below.
1. Release 4 clips.

ENGINE
1802. Raise the cover and take out the filter.
Inspect the lower surface of the filter. If it is dirty, it should be
replaced. If it is just moderately dusty, it may be cleaned by
blowing compressed air from the direction of the upper
surface. Do not wash or oil the filter.
When installing a filter, be sure to remove any dust from where
the filter sits and put the filter properly in place.
NOTICE:
Do not drive with the air cleaner removed, or excessive
engine wear could result. Also backfiring could cause a
fire in the engine compartment.