2001 Lexus IS300 maintenance

ENGINE
239
The amount of engine oil consumed depends on the
viscosity of the oil, the quality of the oil and the way the
vehicle is driven.
More oil is consumed under driving conditions such as high
speeds and frequent acceleration and deceleration.
A new engine consumes more oil, since its pistons, piston rings
and cylinder walls have not become conditioned.
When judging the amount of oil consumption, keep in
mind that the oil may have become diluted, making it
difficult to judge the true level accurately.
For example, if a vehicle is used for repeated short trips and
consumes a normal amount of oil, the dipstick may not show
any drop in the oil level at all, even after 1000 km (600 miles)
or more. This is because the oil is gradually becoming diluted
with
fuel or moisture, making it appear that the oil level has not
changed.
The diluting ingredients evaporate out when the vehicle is then
driven at high speeds, as on an expressway, making it appear
that oil is excessively consumed after driving at high speeds.
Importance of engine oil level check
One of the most important points in proper vehicle
maintenance is to keep the engine oil at the optimum level so
that oil function will not be impaired. Therefore, it is essential
that the oil level be checked regularly. Lexus recommends that
the oil level be checked every time you refuel the vehicle.
NOTICE
Failure to check the oil level regularly could lead to serious engine trouble due to insufficient oil.
For detailed information on oil level check, see ºChecking the
engine oil levelº on page 240.

CHASSIS
246
SPECIFICATIONS
± AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONFluid capacity Drain and refill
Fluid type
2.4 L (2.5 qt., 2.1 lmp.qt.)
Automatic transmission fluid Type T ± IV*
± DIFFERENTIAL
Oil capacity
Oil type
Oil viscosity
1.15 L (1.22 qt., 1.01 lmp.qt.)
Hypoid gear oil API GL±5
Above ±18 C (0F): SAE 90
Below ±18 C (0F): SAE 80W or SAE 80W±90
*Change automatic transmission fluid only as necessary.
Generally, it is necessary to change automatic transmission
fluid only if your vehicle is driven under one of the Special
Operating Conditions listed in your ºOwner's Manual
Supplement / Maintenance Scheduleº. When changing the
automatic transmission fluid, use only Toyota Genuine ATF
Type T±IV ( ATF JWS3309 or NWS6500) to aid in assuring
optimum transmission performance.NOTICE
Using automatic transmission fluid other than Toyota Genuine ATF T ype T±IV may cause deterioration in shift
quality, locking up of your transmission accompanied by vibration, and ultimately damage the automatictransmission of your vehicle.

CHASSIS
253
High tire pressure produces a harsh ride, handling problems,
excessive wear at the center of the tire tread, and a greater
possibility of tire damage from road hazards.
The following instructions for checking tire pressure should be
observed:

The pressure should be checked only when the tires are
cold. If your vehicle has been parked for at least 3 hours
and has not been driven for more than 1.5 km or 1 mile
since, you will get an accurate cold tire pressure reading.
 Always use a tire pressure gauge. The appearance of the
tire can be misleading. Besides, tire pressures that are
even just a few pounds off can degrade ride and handling.
 Do not bleed or reduce tire pressure after driving. It is
normal for the tire pressure to be higher after driving.
 Never exceed the vehicle capacity weight. The
passengers and luggage weight should be located so that
the vehicle is balanced.
 Be sure to reinstall the tire valve caps. Without the valve
caps, dirt or moisture could get into the valve core and
cause air leakage. If the caps have been lost, have new
ones put on as soon as possible.
ROTATING TIRES
SS63001
To equalize tire wear and help extend tire life, Lexus
recommends that you rotate your tires according to the
maintenance schedule. (For scheduled maintenance
information, please refer to the ºOwner's Manual
Supplement/Maintenance Scheduleº.) However, the most
appropriate timing for tire rotation may vary according to
your driving habits and road surface conditions.
The wheel assemblies must be rotated as illustrated above.
Pattern A: For tire without turning direction indicators.
Pattern B: For tire with turning direction indicators.
When rotating tires, check for uneven wear and damage.
Abnormal wear is usually caused by incorrect tire pressure,
improper wheel alignment, out±of balance wheels, or severe
braking.

ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS
267
Checking battery exterior
SV64002

1Terminals 2Hold±down clamp
Check the battery for corroded or loose connections,
cracks, or loose hold±down clamps.
1. If the battery is corroded, wash it off with a solution of warm
water and baking soda. Coat the terminals with grease to
prevent further corrosion.
2. If the connections are loose, tighten the clamp bolts ± but do
not overtighten.
3. Tighten the hold±down clamp only enough to keep the
battery firmly in place. Overtightening may damage the battery
case.
NOTICE
Make sure the engine and all accessories are turned off before performing maintenance.
When checking the battery, remove the ground cable
first and reinstall it last.
Be careful not to cause a short circuit with tools.
Take care no solution gets into the battery when washing it.