Page 1 of 12
SECTION 6 – 2
169
SERVICE PROCEDURES AND
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine
Specifications170 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fuel173 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Facts about engine oil consumption174 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Used engine oil175 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking the engine oil level176 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking the engine coolant level178 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking and replacing the air cleaner filter179 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Page 7 of 12

ENGINE
175 The amount of engine oil consumed depends on the
viscosity of the oil, the quality of the oil and the way the
vehicle is driven.
More oil is consumed under driving conditions such as high
speeds and frequent acceleration and deceleration.
A new engine consumes more oil, since its pistons, piston rings
and cylinder walls have not become conditioned.
When judging the amount of oil consumption, note that
the oil may become diluted, making it difficult to judge the
true level accurately.
For example, if a vehicle is used for repeated short trips and
consumes a normal amount of oil, the dipstick may not show
any drop in the oil level at all, even after 1000 km (600 miles)
or more. This is because the oil is gradually becoming diluted
with fuel or moisture, making it appear that the oil level has not
changed.
The diluting ingredients evaporate out when the vehicle is then
driven at high speeds, as on an expressway, making it appear
that oil is excessively consumed after driving at high speeds.
Importance of engine oil level check
One of the most important points in proper vehicle
maintenance is to keep the engine oil at the optimum level so
that oil function will not be impaired. Therefore, it is essential
that the oil level be checked regularly. Lexus recommends that
the oil level be checked every time you refuel the vehicle.
NOTICE:
Failure to check the oil level regularly could lead to
serious engine troubles due to insufficient oil.
For detailed information on oil level check, see “Checking the
engine oil level” on page 176.
USED ENGINE OIL
CAUTION:
Used engine oil contains potentially harmful
contaminants which may cause skin disorders such as
inflammation or skin cancer, so care should be taken to
avoid prolonged and repeated contact with it. To
remove used engine oil from your skin, wash
thoroughly with soap and water.
Do not leave used oil within the reach of children.
Dispose of used oil and used oil filters only in a safe and
acceptable manner. Do not dispose of used oil and
used oil filters in household trash, in sewers or onto the
ground. Call your Lexus dealer or a service station for
information concerning recycling or disposal.
Page 11 of 12
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 −35C (−31F).
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.
Page 12 of 12
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.