STARTING AND DRIVING
129
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 Scheduleº.
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.
STARTING AND DRIVING
137 Shift into the ªLº position. The transmission will
downshift to the first gear when the vehicle speed is
lower than 55 km/h (34 mph) and maximum engine
braking will be applied.
CAUTION!
Be careful when downshifting on a slippery surface.
The abrupt change in engine speed could cause the
vehicle to spin and skid.
(c) Using the ª2º and ªLº positions
The ª2º and ªLº positions are used for strong engine braking
as described previously.
With the selector lever in ª2º or ªLº, you can start the vehicle
in motion as with the lever in ªDº.
With the selector lever in ª2º, the vehicle will start in the first
gear and automatically shift to the second gear.
With the selector lever in ªLº, the transmission is engaged in
the first gear.
NOTICE
Be careful not to overrev the engine. Watch the
tachometer to keep engine rpm from going into
the red zone. The approximate maximum
allowable speed for each position is given below
for your reference:
Transmission Transfer
ª2º 128 km/h (80 mph)
ªLº 70 km/h (43 mph)
Do not continue hill climbing or hard towing for
a long time in the ª2º or ªLº position. This may
cause severe automatic transmission damage
from overheating. To prevent such damage, ªDº
position should be used in hill climbing or hard
towing.
