CHASSIS
206
CHECKING BRAKE FLUID
To check the fluid level, simply look at the see-through
reservoir. The level should be between the “MAX” and
“MIN” lines on the tank.
It is normal for the brake fluid level to go down slightly as the
brake pads wear. So be sure to keep the reservoir filled.
If the reservoir needs frequent refilling, it may indicate a
serious mechanical problem.
If the level is low, add FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3 or SAE J1703
brake fluid to the brake reservoir.
Remove and replace the reservoir cover by hand. Add brake
fluid up to the dotted line. This brings the fluid to the correct
level when you put the cover back on.
Use only newly opened brake fluid. Once opened, brake fluid
absorbs moisture from the air, and excess moisture can cause
a dangerous loss of braking efficiency.CAUTION:
Use caution in filling the reservoir because brake fluid can
harm your eyes and damage painted surfaces.
NOTICE (For vehicles with traction control system only):
Idle the engine while pouring brake fluid into the
reservoir.
CHECKING BRAKE PEDAL
FREEPLAY
1 − 6 mm
(0.04 − 0.24 in.)
With the engine stopped, first reduce the vacuum in the
booster by depressing the brake pedal several times.
Then lightly and slowly press down on the pedal with your
fingers and measure the distance it moves before slight
resistance is felt.
If the freeplay is more or less than specification, have your
Lexus dealer adjust the brakes.
CHASSIS
209 CAUTION:
The reservoir may be hot so be careful not to burn
yourself.
NOTICE:
Avoid overfilling, or the power steering could be
damaged.
When adding the power steering fluid, avoid spilling
it. The generator under the power steering reservoir
could be damaged if fluid is spilled on it.
CHECKING STEERING WHEEL
FREEPLAY
30 mm (1.2 in.)
Max.
With the vehicle stopped and the front wheels pointed
straight ahead, rock the steering wheel gently back and
forth. If the freeplay is more than specified, have it
inspected by your Lexus dealer.
Use only a very light finger pressure to rock the wheel slowly.
CHECKING AUTOMATIC
TRANSMISSION FLUID
1. Check the fluid level only when the transmission is at
normal operating temperature. With the vehicle level, first
set the parking brake and then start the engine. While the
engine is idling, depress the brake pedal and shift the
selector level into each position from “P” to “L” and return
to “P”.
If the vehicle has been driven over 16 km or 10 miles (24 km
or 15 miles in frigid temperatures) and the fluid temperature is
70C − 80C (160F − 175F), the transmission is at normal
operating temperature.
You may check the level when the transmission is cold. If the
vehicle has not been driven for over five hours and the fluid is
about room temperature 20C − 30C (70F − 85F), the
transmission is cold.
However, checking a cold transmission is to be used for your
reference only and the transmission must be checked again for
correct level at normal operating temperature.
If the vehicle has just been driven for a long time at high speed,
in city traffic in hot weather, or the vehicle has been pulling a
trailer, an accurate fluid level cannot be obtained. Check the
level after the fluid has cooled down (about 30 minutes).
