2000 Lexus LS400 Fluid

CHASSIS
427
CHECKING BRAKE FLUID
63L001a
To check the fluid level, simply look at the
see±through reservoir. The level should be between
the ºMAXº and ºMINº lines on the tank.
It is normal for the brake fluid level to go down slightly as
the brake pads wear. So be sure to keep the reservoir
filled.
If the reservoir needs frequent refilling, it may indicate a
serious mechanical problem.
If the level is low, add FMVSS No.116 DOT 3 or SAE
J1703 brake fluid to the brake reservoir.
Remove and replace the reservoir cap by hand. Add
brake fluid up to the ºMAXº line.
Use only newly opened brake fluid. Once opened, brake
fluid absorbs moisture from the air, and excess moisture
can cause a dangerous loss of braking efficiency.

CHASSIS
428
CAUTION
Take care when filling the reservoir because brake fluid
can harm your hands or eyes and damage painted
surfaces. If fluid gets in your hands or eyes, flush them
with clean water.
NOTICE
If you spill some of the fluid, be sure to wipe it offto prevent it from damaging the parts orpaintwork.
CHECKING POWER STEERING FLUID

CHASSIS
429
63L002±1
Check the fluid level on the dipstick. If necessary,
add automatic transmission fluid DEXRONII or III.
If the vehicle has been driven around 80 km/h (50 mph)
for 20 minutes (a little more in frigid temperatures), the
fluid is hot (60C ± 80C or 140 F ± 175F). You may
also check the level when the fluid is cold (about room
temperature, 10 C ± 30C or 50F ± 85F) if the engine
has not been run for about five hours.

CHASSIS
430
63L003c

1If cold O.K. 2If hot O.K. 3Add fluid
1. Clean all dirt off the reservoir.
2. Remove the filler cap by turning it counterclockwise
and wipe the dipstick clean.
3. Reinstall the reservoir cap.
4. Remove the reservoir cap again and look at the fluid
level. If the fluid is cold, the level should be in the ºCOLDº
range on the dipstick. Similarly, if it is hot, the fluid level
should be in the ºHOTº range. If the level is at the low
side of either range, add automatic transmission fluid
DEXRON
II or III to bring the level within the range.
5. After replacing the filler cap, visually check the
steering box case, vane pump and hose connections for
leaks or damage.

CHASSIS
431
CAUTION
The reservoir may be hot so be careful not to burn
yourself.
NOTICE
Avoid overfilling, or the power steering couldbe damaged.
When adding the power steering fluid, avoidspilling it. The generator under the powersteering reservoir could be damaged if fluid isspilled on it.
CHECKING TIRE PRESSURE
63L004-1

SECTION 6 ± 4
444
SERVICE PROCEDURES AND
SPECIFICATIONS
Electrical components
Specifications444
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking battery condition 453
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Battery recharging precautions 457
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking and replacing the blade type fuses 458 . . . . .
Checking the cartridge type fuses 463
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adding washer fluid 464
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Checking the headlight aim 465
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Replacing light bulbs 468
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SPECIFICATIONS
± FUSE LOCATIONS

ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS
457
Checking battery fluid
Checking by hydrometer
64L010
Check the battery condition by the hydrometer
color.
1BLUE ± Good condition.
2WHITE ± Charging necessary. Have the battery
checked by your Lexus dealer.
3RED ± Have the battery checked by your Lexus
dealer.
NOTICE
Do not refill the battery with water.
BATTERY RECHARGING
PRECAUTIONS
During recharging, the battery is producing
hydrogen gas.
Therefore, before recharging:
1. If recharging with the battery installed on the vehicle,
be sure to disconnect the ground cable.
2. Make sure the power switch on the recharger is off
when connecting the charger cables to the battery and
when disconnecting them.

ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS
464
CAUTION
Always use a genuine Lexus fuse or equivalent for
replacement. Never install an ordinary wire±even for a
temporary fix. This may cause extensive damage and
possibly a fire.
NOTICE
Before replacing the fuses, have the cause ofelectrical overload determined and repaired byyour Lexus dealer.
ADDING WASHER FLUID
64L017