1997 Lexus ES300 service

195
SECTION 6 ± 2
SERVICE PROCEDURES AND
SPECIFICATIONS
Engine
Specifications 196
Fuel 198
Facts about engine oil consumption 199
Used engine oil 201
Checking the engine oil level 201
Checking the engine coolant level 204

ENGINE
201
USED ENGINE OIL
CAUTION!
Used engine oil contains potentially harmful
contaminants which may cause skin disorders
such as inflammation or skin cancer, so care
should be taken to avoid prolonged and repeated
contact with it. To remove used engine oil from
your skin, wash thoroughly with soap and water.
Do not leave used oil within the reach of children.
Dispose of used oil and used oil filters in a safe
and acceptable manner. Do not dispose of used
oil and used oil filters in household trash, in
sewers or onto the ground. Call your Lexus dealer
or a service station for information concerning
recycling or disposal.
CHECKING THE ENGINE OIL LEVEL
With the engine at operating temperature and turned
off, check the oil level on the dipstick.
1. To get a true reading, the vehicle should be on a level
spot. After turning off the engine, wait a few minutes for the
oil to drain back into the bottom of the engine.
2. Pull out the dipstick, and wipe it clean with a rag.
3. Reinsert the dipstick and push it in as far as it will go, or
the reading will not be correct.

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.