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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.
Recommended viscosity (SAE):
Temperature range anticipated before next oil change
10W-30
5W-30 Preferred
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.
Oil identification marks
API Service SymbolILSAC Certification Mark
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”.
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200The ILSAC (International Lubricant Standardization and
Approval Committee) Certification Mark is displayed on the
front of the container.
CHECKING THE ENGINE COOLANT
LEVEL
Reservoir cap
Upper line
Lower line
Park the vehicle at a level spot and look at the see-through
coolant reservoir when the engine is cool. The coolant
level is satisfactory if it is between the upper and lower
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 lower line,
add coolant to bring the level up to the upper line.Use only ethylene-glycol type coolant. It will prevent freezing
and corrosion. Neither supplemental inhibitors nor additives
are needed nor recommended. (For information on ethylene-
glycol coolant, see also “Engine coolant selection” on this
page.)
If the coolant level drops within a short time after replenishing,
there may be a leak in the system. Visually check the radiator,
hoses, reservoir cap, drain cock and water pump.
If no leak can be found, have the cap pressure tested at your
Lexus dealer.
CAUTION:
To prevent burning yourself, do not remove the reservoir
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 193. 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.
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CHECKING AND REPLACING THE
AIR CLEANER FILTER
Air cleaner coverCool air ductBattery cover
1. Remove the battery cover, cool air duct and air cleaner
cover.
2. To inspect the filter, loosen the clamp, pull off the
connector and remove the retainer bolt. Then release the
clips and take out the filter.
Pull the tab to release each wire clip.
Inspect the outer 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 upper surface. Do not wash
or oil the filter.
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3. To install a filter, put it properly in place and reinstall the
cover with the cutout over the tab provided.
Before installing, remove any dust from where the filter sits.
4. Install the air cleaner cover, cool air duct and battery
cover.
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.
