1997 Lexus ES300 engine coolant

27
SECTION 1 ± 3
INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS
Gauges, meters and service reminder
indicators
Fuel gauge 28
Engine coolant temperature gauge 28
Tachometer 29
Odometer and trip meter 30
Service reminder indicators and warning buzzers 30
Instrument panel light control 35

GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
28
FUEL GAUGE
Low fuel level warning light
The gauge is displayed when the ignition switch is on
and indicates the approximate quantity of fuel
remaining in the tank.
It is a good idea to keep the tank over 1/4 full.
This fuel gauge is a non±return type needle which remains
at the last indicated position when the ignition switch is
turned off.
If the fuel level approached ªEº or the low fuel level warning
light comes on. Fill the fuel tank as soon as possible.
If the fuel tank is completely empty, the malfunction indicator
lamp comes on. Fill the fuel tank immediately.
The indicator lamps goes off after driving several times. If
the indicator lamp does not go off, contact your Lexus dealer
as soon as possible.See the inner back cover for fuel capacity and recommended
fuel selection.
ENGINE COOLANT
TEMPERATURE GAUGE
Normal guage
The gauge indicates the engine coolant temperature
when the ignition switch is on. The engine operating
temperature will vary with the changes in weather and
engine load.
If the needle points to the red zone or higher, stop your
vehicle and allow the engine to cool.
Your vehicle may overheat during severe operating
conditions. such as:
Driving up a long hill on a hot day.
Reducing speed or stopping after high speed driving.

GAUGES, METERS, AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
29
Idling for a long period with the air conditioning on in
stop±and±go traffic.
Towing a trailer.
NOTICE
Do not remove the thermostat in the engine
cooling system as this may cause the engine to
overheat. The thermostat is designed to control
the flow of coolant to keep the temperature of the
engine within the specified operating range.
Do not continue driving with an overheated
engine. See ªIf your vehicle overheatsº on page
165.
TACHOMETER
The tachometer indicates engine speed in thousands of
rpm (revolutions per minute). Use it while driving to
prevent engine overrevving.
Driving with the engine turning too fast causes excessive
engine wear and poor fuel econmy. Remember, in most
cases the slower the engine speed, the greater the fuel
economy.
NOTICE
Do not let the indicator needle get into the red zone.
This may cause severe engine damage.