1996 Lexus LS400 catalytic converter

125
SECTION 3 ± 1
STARTING AND DRIVING
Starting and driving
Three±way catalytic converter 126
Engine exhaust caution 127
Before starting the engine 128
Ignition switch with steering lock 128
Parking brake 129
How to start the engine 130
Automatic transmission 131
Cruise control 136
Electronically modulated air suspension 139
Traction control system 141
Brake system 142
Types of tires 145

STARTING AND DRIVING
126
THREE±WAY CATALYTIC
CONVERTER
Three±way catalytic converters are emission control
devices installed in the exhaust system.
The three±way catalytic converter located at the confluence
of exhaust pipes looks somewhat like a muffler, but its
purpose is to reduce pollutants in the exhaust gas.
CAUTION!

Keep people and combustible materials away from
the exhaust pipe while the engine is running. The
exhaust gas is very hot.
Do not drive, idle or park your vehicle over anything
that might burn easily such as grass, leaves, paper
or rags.
NOTICE
A large amount of unburned gases flowing into the
three±way catalytic converter may cause it to
overheat and create a fire hazard. To prevent this and
other damage, observe the following precautions:
Use only unleaded gasoline.
Do not drive with an extremely low fuel level;
running out of fuel could cause the engine to
misfire, creating an excessive load on the
three±way catalytic converter.
Do not allow the engine to run at idle speed for more
than 20 minutes.
Avoid racing the engine.
Do not push±start or pull±start your vehicle.
Do not turn off the ignition while the vehicle is
moving.
Keep your engine in good running order.
Malfunctions in the engine electrical system,
electronic ignition system/distributor ignition
system or fuel system could cause an extremely
high three±way catalytic converter temperature.
If the engine becomes difficult to start or stalls
frequently, take your vehicle in for a check±up as
soon as possible. Remember, your Lexus dealer
knows your vehicle and its three±way catalytic
converter system best.

STARTING AND DRIVING
127
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. For scheduled maintenance
information, refer to the separate ªOwner's Manual
Supplement/Maintenance Schedule.º
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.