ENGINE
203
Engine oil selection
Use API SH, Energy±Conserving II multigrade engine oil or
ILSAC multigrade engine oil.
Recommended viscosity (SAE):
SAE 5W±30 is the best choice for your vehicle, for good
fuel economy, and good starting in cold weather.
If you use SAE 10W±30 engine oil in extremely low
temperatures, the engine may become difficult to start,
so SAE 5W±30 engine oil is recommended.
Oil identification marks
API Service SymbolILSAC Certification Mark
Either or both API registered marks are added to some oil
containers to help you select the oil you should use.
The API Service Symbol is located anywhere on the
outside of the container.
The top portion of the label shows the oil quality by API
(American Petroleum Institute) designation such as SH.
The center portion of the label shows the SAE viscosity
grade such as SAE 5W±30. ªEnergy±Conserving II,º
shown in the lower portion, indicates that the oil has fuel±
saving capabilities. Oils marked ªEnergy±Conserving IIº
will have higher fuel±saving capabilities than oils marked
ªEnergy±Conserving.º
The ILSAC (International Lubricant Standardization and
Approval Committee) Certification Mark is displayed on the
front of the container.
ENGINE
204
CHECKING THE ENGINE COOLANT
LEVEL
Resevior cap Upper lineLower line
Park the vehicle at a level spot and look at the
see±through coolant reservoir when the engine is cool.
The coolant level is satisfactory if it is above the upper
and lower lines on the tank. If the level is low, add
ethylene±glycol type coolant.
The coolant level in the reservoir will vary with the engine
coolant temperature. However, if the level is on or below the
lower line, add coolant to bring the level to the upper line.
Use only ethylene±glycol type coolant. For information on
ethylene±glycol coolant, see also ªEngine coolant selectionº
described below.
If the coolant level drops within a short time after
replenishing, there may be a leak in the system. Visually
check the radiator, hoses, radiator cap, drain cock and water
pump.If you can find no leak, have your Lexus dealer test the cap
pressure and check for leaks in the cooling system.
CAUTION!
To prevent burning yourself, do not remove the
radiator cap when the engine is hot.
Engine coolant selection
Your coolant must contain ethylene±glycol antifreeze. In
addition to preventing freezing and subsequent damage to
the engine, this will also prevent corrosion. Further
supplemental inhibitors or additives are neither needed nor
recommended.
Read the antifreeze container for information on freeze
protection. Follow the manufacturer's directions for how
much to mix with water. The total capacity of the cooling
system is given on page 197. We recommend 50% solution
be used for your Lexus, or a sufficient quantity to provide
protection to about ±355C (±315F).
NOTICE
Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or plain water alone.
