MAINTENANCE
182
DOES YOUR VEHICLE NEED
REPAIRING?
Be on the alert for changes in performance and sounds, and
visual tip−offs that indicate service is needed. Some important
clues are:
Engine missing, stumbling, or pinging
Appreciable loss of power
Strange engine noises
A fluid leak under the vehicle (However, water dripping from
the air conditioning after use is normal.)
Change in exhaust sound (This may indicate a dangerous
carbon monoxide leak. Drive with the windows open and
have the exhaust system checked immediately.)
Flat−looking tires, excessive tire squeal when cornering,
uneven tire wear
Vehicle pulls to one side when driving straight on a level
road
Strange noises related to suspension movement
Loss of brake effectiveness, spongy feeling brake pedal,
pedal almost touches floors, vehicle pulls to one side when
braking
Engine coolant temperature continually higher than normal
If you notice any of these clues, take your vehicle to your Lexus
dealer as soon as possible. It probably needs adjustment or
repair.
CAUTION
Do not continue driving with the vehicle unchecked. It
could result in serious vehicle damage and possibly
personal injury.
SCHEDULED MAINTENANCE
Driving conditions under which you mainly operate your
vehicle determine which maintenance schedule you
follow.
In order to ensure smooth, trouble−free, safe and economical
driving, Lexus provides two maintenance schedules to be
selected according to your driving conditions: schedules A and
B. The instructions on which schedule to follow are given on
the next page.
The service interval for scheduled maintenance is
determined by the odometer reading or the time interval,
whichever comes first, shown in the schedule.
The maintenance service beyond the last period should
be performed at the same intervals.
The service interval of each item can be obtained from the
maintenance schedule.
MAINTENANCE
189 CHASSIS AND BODY
Brake linings and drums
Check for scoring, burning, leaking fluid, broken parts, and
excessive wear. A qualified technician should perform this
operation.
Brake pads and discs
Check the pads for excessive wear and discs for runout and
wear, and leaking fluid. A qualified technician should perform
this operation.
Brake fluid
Check for correct levels of the brake fluid. If the level is low, add
FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3 or SAE J1703 brake fluid to the brake
reservoir. Change the brake fluid as scheduled. A qualified
technician should perform these operations.
Brake line pipes and hoses
Visually check for proper installation. Check for chafing,
cracks, deterioration, and any evidence of leaking. Replace
any deteriorated or damaged parts immediately. A qualified
technician should perform these operations.
Steering linkage
With the vehicle stopped, check for excessive freeplay in the
steering wheel. Check the linkage for bend or damage.
Replace any damaged parts.
SRS airbags
They should be periodically inspected by a qualified
technician. For details, see the maintenance schedule.Steering gear box
Inspect the steering gear box for signs of leakage. If you
discover any leakage, have it repaired by a qualified technician
immediately.
Ball joints and dust covers
Check the suspension and steering linkage ball joints for
looseness or damage. Check all dust covers for deterioration
or damage. A qualified technician should perform these
operations.
Automatic transmission and differential
Inspect each component for signs of leakage. If you discover
any leakage, have it repaired by a qualified technician
immediately. Under severe driving conditions, change the fluid
and oil when scheduled.
Bolts and nuts on chassis and body
Where necessary, retighten to specified torque.
Body inspection (paint, corrosion)
Visually check for corrosion, scratches and other damage.
Check body outer panels, underneath the vehicle, inner panels
of the hood and doors, etc. Apply touch−up paint to any chips
or scratches, or have them repaired by a qualified technician.
Air conditioning filter
Check the air flow quantity. Clean or replace the filter according
to the maintenance schedule.
