SECTION 3 – 1
101
STARTING AND DRIVING
Starting and driving
Three−way catalytic converter102 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine exhaust caution103 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Before starting the engine103 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Ignition switch with steering lock104 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Parking brake105 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
How to start the engine105 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic transmission107 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cruise control11 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake system11 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake pad wear limit indicators11 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Types of tires11 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
STARTING AND DRIVING
103
To ensure that the three−way catalytic converter and
the entire emission control system operate properly,
your vehicle must receive the periodic inspections
required by the Lexus Maintenance Schedule.
ENGINE EXHAUST CAUTION
CAUTION:
Avoid inhaling the engine exhaust. It contains carbon
monoxide, which is a colorless and odorless gas. It can
cause unconsciousness or even death.
Make sure the exhaust system has no holes or loose
connections. The system should be checked from time
to time. If you hit something, or notice a change in the
sound of the exhaust, have the system checked
immediately.
Do not run the engine in a garage or enclosed area
except for the time needed to drive the vehicle in or out.
The exhaust gases cannot escape, making this a
particularly dangerous situation.
Do not remain for a long time in a parked vehicle with
the engine running. If it is unavoidable, however, do so
only in an unconfined area and adjust the heating or
cooling system to force outside air into the vehicle.Keep the trunk lid closed while driving. An open or
unsealed trunk lid may cause exhaust gases to be
drawn into the vehicle. If you must drive with the trunk
lid open to accommodate a large object, close the
windows, open all the dashboard vents and have the
heating or cooling system deliver fresh air into the
vehicle by turning the fan to high speed with the air
intake control button in the OUTSIDE AIR mode.
To allow proper operation of your vehicle’s ventilation
system, keep the inlet grilles in front of the windshield
clear of snow, leaves, or other obstructions.
If you smell exhaust fumes in the vehicle, drive with the
windows open and the trunk lid closed. Have the cause
immediately located and corrected.
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
1. Check the area around the vehicle before entering it.
2. Adjust seat position, seatback angle, headrest height and
steering wheel angle.
3. Adjust inside and outside rear view mirrors.
4. Lock all doors.
5. Fasten seat belts.
Remember to check that the service reminder indicators
function when turning the key to “ON”, and check the fuel
gauge to see that you have sufficient fuel.
STARTING AND DRIVING
104
IGNITION SWITCH WITH STEERING
LOCK
“START” − Starter motor on. The key will return to the
“ON” position when released.
For starting tips, see page 105.
“ON” − Engine on and all accessories on.
This is the normal driving position.
NOTICE:
Do not leave the key in the “ON” position if the engine is
not running. The battery will discharge and the
electronic ignition system / distributor ignition system
could be damaged.
“ACC” − Accessories such as the radio operate, but the
engine is off.If you leave the key in the “ACC” or “LOCK” position and open
the driver’s door, a buzzer will remind you to remove the key.
“LOCK” − Engine is off and the steering wheel is locked.
The ignition key can be removed only at this position.
You must push in the key to turn it from “ACC” to the “LOCK”
position. The selector lever must be put in the “P” position
before turning the key to the “LOCK” position.
When starting the engine, the key may seem stuck at the
“LOCK” position. To free it, first be sure the key is pushed all
the way in, and then rock the steering wheel slightly while
turning the key gently.
If, in an emergency, you must turn the engine off while the
vehicle is in motion, turn the key only to “ACC”.
