2002 Lexus ES300 coolant level

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section\
.
PICTORIAL INDEX
viiiPage
1
Tachometer 47
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Traction control system off indicator light 234 . . . .
3 Vehicle skid control system/traction control
system warning light 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Headlight indicator light 26
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 Headlight high beam indicator light 31
. . . . . . . . . . .
6 Turn signal indicator light 31
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7 Fog light indicator light 32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8 Cruise control indicator light 230
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9 Slip indicator light 234, 236
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10 Automatic headlight leveling system
warning light 55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11 Low fuel level warning light 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12 Automatic transmission indicator lights 223 . . . . . .
13 Engine coolant temperature gauge 46
. . . . . . . . . . . . Page
14 Odometer and trip meter
48
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15 Trip meter reset knob 48
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16 Fuel gauge 46
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17 Low washer fluid warning light 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18 Low engine oil level warning light 52
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
19 Multiinformation display 57
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20 Rear light failure warning light 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21 Low engine oil pressure warning light 52
. . . . . . . . .
22 Brake system warning light 50
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23 Antilock brake system warning light 53
. . . . . . . . . .
24 Driver’s seat belt reminder light 50
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25 Discharge warning light 51
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26 SRS warning light 51
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
27 Open door warning light 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
28 Malfunction indicator lamp 52
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section\
.
PICTORIAL INDEX
xPage
1
Tachometer 47
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Traction control system off indicator light 234 . . . .
3 Vehicle skid control system/traction control
system warning light 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Tail light indicator light 28
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 Headlight high beam indicator light 31
. . . . . . . . . . .
6 Turn signal indicator light 31
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7 Fog light indicator light 32
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8 Cruise control indicator light 230
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9 Slip indicator light 234, 236
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10 Automatic headlight leveling system
warning light 55 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11 Low fuel level warning light 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12 Automatic transmission indicator lights 223 . . . . . .
13 Engine coolant temperature gauge 46
. . . . . . . . . . . . Page
14 Odometer and trip meter
48
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15 Trip meter reset knob 48
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16 Fuel gauge 46
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17 Low washer fluid warning light 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18 Low engine oil level warning light 52
. . . . . . . . . . . . .
19 Multiinformation display 57
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20 Rear light failure warning light 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21 Low engine oil pressure warning light 52
. . . . . . . . .
22 Brake system warning light 50
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23 Antilock brake system warning light 53
. . . . . . . . . .
24 Driver’s seat belt reminder light 50
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25 Discharge warning light 51
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26 SRS warning light 51
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
27 Open door warning light 55
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
28 Malfunction indicator lamp 52
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
46
FUEL GAUGE
Low fuel level warning light
The gauge is displayed when the ignition switch is on and
indicates the approximate quantity of fuel remaining in the
tank.
It is a good idea to keep the tank over 1/4 full.
If the fuel level approaches “E” or the low fuel level warning light\
comes on, fill the fuel tank as soon as possible.
On inclines or curves, due to the movement of fuel in the tank,
the fuel gauge needle may fluctuate or the low fuel level
warning light may come on earlier than usual.
If the fuel tank is completely empty, the malfunction indicator
lamp comes on. Fill the fuel tank immediately.
The indicator lamp goes off after driving several times. If the
indicator lamp does not go off, contact your Lexus dealer as
soon as possible. See the inner back cover for fuel capacity and recommended
fuel selection.
ENGINE COOLANT
TEMPERATURE GAUGE
Normal range
The gauge indicates the engine coolant temperature when
the ignition switch is on. The engine operating
temperature will vary with changes in weather and engine
load.
If the needle points to the red zone or higher, stop your vehicle
and allow the engine to cool.

DRIVING TIPS
246
WINTER DRIVING TIPS
Make sure you have a proper freeze protection of engine
coolant.
Your coolant must contain ethyleneglycol type coolant for a
proper corrosion protection of aluminum components. Use
“Toyota Long Life Coolant” or equivalent. See “Checking the
engine coolant level” on page 306 for instructions.
NOTICE
Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or plain water alone.
When it is extremely cold, we recommend to use 60% solution
for your Lexus, to provide protection down to about 50C
(58 F). Do not use more than 70% solution for better coolant
performance.
Check the condition of the battery and cables.
Cold temperatures reduce the capacity of any battery, so it
must be in top shape to pr ovide enough power for winter
starting. Page 329 tells you how to visually inspect the battery.
Your Lexus dealer and most service stations will be pleased to
check the battery charge level.
Make sure the engine oil viscosity is suitable for the cold
weather.
See page 305 for recommended viscosity. Leaving a heavy
summer oil in your vehicle during winter months may cause
harder starting. If you are not sure about which oil to use, call
your Lexus dealer they will be pleased to help. Check the electronic ignition system for loose
connections or obvious damage.
Keep the door locks from freezing.
Squirt
lock deicer or glycerine into the locks to keep them from
freezing.
Use a washer fluid containing an antifreeze solution.
This product is available at your Lexus dealer and most auto
parts stores. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for how
much to mix with water.
NOTICE
Do not use engine antifreeze or any other substitute
because it may damage your vehicle’s paint.
Do not use your parking brake when there is a possibility
it could freeze.
When parking, put the transmission into “P” and block the rear
wheels. Do not use the parking brake, or snow or water
accumulated in and around the parking brake mechanism may
freeze the parking brake, making it hard to release.
Keep ice and snow from accumulating under the fenders.
Ice and snow built up under your fenders can make steering
difficult. During bad winter driving, stop and check under the
fenders occasionally.

MAINTENANCE
283
Accelerator pedal
Check
the pedal for smooth operation and uneven pedal ef fort
or catching.
Brake pedal
Check the pedal for smooth operation and the proper
clearance and freeplay. Check the brake booster function.
Brakes
At a safe place, check that the brakes do not pull to one side
when applied.
Parking brake
Check that the pedal has the proper travel and that, on a safe
incline, your vehicle is held securely with only the parking
brake applied.
Automatic transmission “Park” mechanism
Check the lock release button of the selector lever for proper
and smooth operation. On a safe incline, check that your
vehicle is held securely with the selector lever in “P” position
and all brakes released.
Engine compartment
Items listed below should be checked from time to time,
e.g. each time when refueling.
Washer fluid
Make sure there is sufficient fluid in the tank. See page 336 for
additional information.
Engine coolant level
Make sure the coolant level is between the “F” and “L” lines on
the seethrough reservoir when the engine is cold. See page
306 for additional information.
Radiator, condenser and hoses
Check that the front of the radiator and condenser are clean
and not blocked with leaves, dirt, or insects. See page 308 for
additional information.
Battery
Check the battery condition by the indicator color. See page
329 for additional information.
Brake fluid level
Make sure the brake fluid level is correct. See page 313 for
additional information.
Engine oil level
Check the level on the dipstick with the engine turned off and
the vehicle parked on a level spot. See page 304 for additional
information.

MAINTENANCE
284Power steering fluid level
Check the level through the reservoir. The level should be in
the “HOT” or “COLD” range depending on the fluid
temperature. See page 314 for additional information.
Exhaust system
If you notice any change in the sound of the exhaust or smell
exhaust fumes, have the cause located and corrected
immediately. (See “Engine exhaust caution” on page 219.)
DOES YOUR VEHICLE NEED
REPAIRING?
Be on the alert for changes in performance and sounds, and
visual tipoffs that indicate service is needed. Some important
clues are:
 Engine missing, stumbling, or pinging
 Appreciable loss of power
 Strange engine noises
 A fluid leak under the vehicle (However, water dripping from
the air conditioning after use is normal.)
 Change in exhaust sound (This may indicate a dangerous
carbon monoxide leak. Drive with the windows open and
have the exhaust system checked immediately.)
 Flatlooking tires, excessive tire squeal when cornering,
uneven tire wear
 Vehicle pulls to one side when driving straight on a level
road
 Strange noises related to suspension movement
 Loss of brake effectiveness, spongy feeling brake pedal,
pedal almost touches floors, vehicle pulls to one side when
braking
 Engine coolant temperature continually higher than normal

INTRODUCTION
289
ENGINE COMPARTMENT OVERVIEW
1 Power steering fluid
reservoir
2 Engine oil filler cap
3 Brake fluid reservoir
4 Fuse box
5 Battery
6 Fuse box
7 Radiator
8 Condenser
9 Electric cooling fans
10 Engine oil level
dipstick
11 Washer fluid tank
12 Engine coolant
reservoir

INTRODUCTION
291
Be extremely cautious when working on the battery.
It contains poisonous and corrosive sulfuric acid.
 Warning: Battery posts, terminals and related
accessories contain lead and lead compounds,
chemicals known to the State of California to cause
cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after
handling.
NOTICE
Remember that battery and ignition cables carry high
currents or voltages. Be careful of accidentally
causing a short circuit.
 Before closing the engine hood, check to see that you
have not forgotten any tools, rags, etc.
 Do not drive with the air cleaner removed, or
excessive engine wear could result. Also backfiring
could cause a fire in the engine compartment.
 Do not overfill automatic transmission fluid, or the
transmission could be damaged.
 Be careful not to scratch the glass surface with the
wiper frame.
PARTS AND TOOLS
Here is a list of parts and tools you will need to perform
doityourself maintenance. Remember all Lexus parts are
designed in metric sizes, so your tools must be metric.
Checking the engine oil level
Parts (if level is low):
Use API grade SJ “EnergyConserving”, SL
“EnergyConserving” or ILSAC multigrade engine oil. For
recommended oil viscosity, see page 305.
Tools:
 Rag or paper towel
 Funnel (only for adding oil)
Checking the engine coolant level
Parts (if level is low):
“Toyota Long Life Coolant” or equivalent
See “Checking the engine coolant level” on page 306 for
instructions.
 Demineralized or distilled water
Tools:
 Funnel (only for adding coolant)