IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY
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IF YOUR VEHICLE OVERHEATS
If your engine coolant temperature gauge indicates
overheating, if you experience a loss of power, or if you
hear a loud knocking or pinging noise, the engine has
probably overheated. You should follow this procedure ...
1. Pull safely off the road, stop the vehicle and turn on your
emergency flashers. Put the transmission in “P” and apply the
parking brake. Turn off the air conditioning if it is being used.
2. If coolant or steam is boiling out of the radiator or reservoir,
stop the engine. Wait until the steam subsides before opening
the hood. If there is no coolant boiling over or steam, leave the
engine running and make sure the engine cooling fan is
operating. If it is not, turn the ignition off.
CAUTION:
To help avoid personal injury, keep the hood closed until
there is no steam. Escaping steam or coolant is a sign of
very high pressure.
3. Look for obvious coolant leaks from the radiator, hoses, and
under the vehicle. However, note that water draining from the
air conditioning is normal if it has been in use.
CAUTION:
When the engine is running, keep hands and clothing
away from the moving fan and engine drive belts.
4. If the coolant is leaking, stop the engine immediately. Call
a Lexus dealer, Roadside Assistance or Customer Service
Assistance. (See “Foreword”.)5. If there are no obvious leaks, check the coolant reservoir. If
it is dry, add water to the reservoir while the engine is running.
Fill it about half full.
CAUTION:
Do not attempt to remove the radiator cap when the engine
and radiator are hot. Serious injury could result from
scalding hot fluid and steam blown out under pressure.
6. After the engine coolant temperature has cooled to normal,
again check the coolant level in the reservoir. If necessary,
bring it up to half full again. Serious coolant loss indicates a
leak in the system. You should have it checked as soon as
possible by your Lexus dealer.
IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY
139 10. After changing the wheel, check the air pressure of the
replaced tire. Stow all the tools, jack and flat tire securely.
If the pressure of the replaced tire is low, drive slowly to the
nearest service station and fill to the correct pressure.
Do not forget to reinstall the tire valve cap as dirt and moisture
could get into the valve core and possible cause aire leakage.
If the cap is missing, put a new one on as soon as possible.
This is the same procedure for changing or rotating your tires.
CAUTION:
Before driving, make sure all the tools, jack and flat tire are
securely in place in their storage location to reduce the
possibility of personal injury during a collision or sudden
braking.
IF YOUR VEHICLE NEEDS TO BE
TOWED
If towing is necessary, we recommend you have it done by
your Lexus dealer or a commercial tow truck service.
Proper equipment will help ensure that your vehicle is not
damaged while being towed. Commercial operators are
generally aware of the state / provincial and local laws
pertaining to towing.
Your vehicle can be damaged if it is towed incorrectly. Although
most operators know the correct procedure, it is possible to
make a mistake. To avoid damage to your vehicle, make sure
the following few precautions are observed. If necessary, show
this page to the tow truck driver.TOWING PRECAUTIONS:
Use a safety chain system for all towing, and abide by the
state / provincial and local laws. The wheels and axle on the
ground must be in good condition. If they are damaged, use a
towing dolly.
1. Using flat bed truck
Lexus recommends this as the best method for your vehicle.