MAINTENANCE
226
DOES YOUR VEHICLE NEEDREPAIRING?
Be on the alert for changes in performance and sounds, and
visual tip±offs 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.)
Flat±looking 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
If you notice any of these clues, take your vehicle to your Lexus
dealer as soon as possible. It probably needs adjustment or
repair.
CAUTION
Do not continue driving with the vehicle unchecked. It
could result in serious vehicle damage and possibly
personal injury.
BODY
285
NOTICE
If a stain should fail to come out with a neutraldetergent, apply a cleaner that does not contain anorganic solvent.
Never use organic substances such as benzine,alcohol or gasoline, or alkaline or acid solutions forcleaning the leather as these could causediscoloring.
Use of a nylon brush or synthetic fiber cloth, etc. mayscratch the fine grained surface of the leather.
Mildew may dev elop on soiled leather upholstery. Be
especially careful to avoid oil spots. Try to keep your
upholstery always clean.
Long exposure to direct sunlight may cause the leather surface to harden and shrink. Keep yourvehicle in a shaded area, especially in the summer.
The interior of your vehicle is apt to heat up on hotsummer days, so avoid placing on the upholstery
items made of vinyl or plastic or containing wax asthese tend to stick to leather when warm.
Improper cleaning of the leather upholstery couldresult in discoloration or staining.
If you have any questions about the cleaning of your
Lexus, your local Lexus dealer will be pleased to answer
them.
Carpets, Windows and Seat Belts
Begin by vacuuming thoroughly to remove as much dirt as
possible. Several types of foam cleaners are available; some
are in aerosol cans and others are powders or liquids which
you mix with water to produce a foam. To shampoo the
carpets, use a sponge or brush to apply the foam. Rub in
overlapping circles. Do not apply water ± the best results are
obtained by keeping the carpet as dry as possible. Read the
shampoo instructions and follow them closely.
The seat belts may be cleaned with mild soap and water
or with lukewarm water.
Use a cloth or sponge. As you are cleaning, check the belts
for excessive wear, fraying or cuts.
NOTICE
Use a good foam±type shampoo to clean the carpets.
Do not use dye or bleach on the belts ± it may weakenthem.
Do not use the belts until they become dry.
The windows may be cleaned with any household
window cleaner.
When cleaning the inside of the rear window, becareful not to scratch or damage the heater wires orconnectors.
