2003 Lexus IS300 Basic Functions / LEXUS 2003 IS300 OWNER'S MANUAL (OM53439U)

ENGINE
316
SV62002

1Add oil 2O.K. 3Too full
4. Pull the dipstick out and look at the oil level while holding a
rag under the end. If it is between the low level mark ( 4 ) and
the full level mark ( 5 ), it is O.K.
NOTICE
Be careful not to drop the engine oil on the vehicle
components.
SV62008
If the oil level is below or only slightly above the low level
mark, add engine oil of the same type as already in the
engine.
Remove the oil filler cap and add engine oil a little at a time,
checking the dipstick. We recommend that you use a funnel
when adding oil.
The approximate quantity of oil needed to fill between the low
level mark and the full level mark on the dipstick is indicated
below for reference.
When the level reaches within the correct range, return the
filler cap and turn the cap clockwise until you hear a click.
Oil quantity. L (qt., lmp. qt.) 1.8 (1.9, 1.6)
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ENGINE
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NOTICE
Be careful not to spill the engine oil on the vehiclecomponents.
Avoid overfilling, or the engine could be damaged.Check the oil level on the dipstick once again afteradding the oil.
Engine oil selection
ºToyota Genuine Motor Oilº is filled in your Lexus vehicle. Use
Lexus approved ºToyota Genuine Motor Oilº or equivalent to
satisfy the following grade and viscosity.
Oil grade:
API grade SL ºEnergy±Conservingº or ILSAC multigrade
engine oil.
Recommended viscosity (SAE):
SOIL14
Outside temperature
SAE 5W±30 is the best choice for good fuel economy, and
good starting in cold weather.
If SAE 5W±30 oil is not available, SAE 10W±30 oil may be
used. However, it should be replaced with SAE 5W±30 at
the next oil change.
2003 IS300 from Aug. '02 Prod. (OM53439U)

ENGINE
318
Oil identification marks
SOIL11

API Service Symbol
ILSAC Certification Mark
Either or both API registered marks are added to some oil
containers to help you select the oil you should use.
The API Service Symbol is located anywhere on the outside
of the container.
The top portion of the label shows the oil quality by API
(American Petroleum Institute) designation such as SL.
The center portion of the label shows the SAE viscosity
grade such as SAE 5W±30. ºEnergy±Conservingº, shown
in the lower portion, indicates that the oil has fuel±saving
capabilities.
 The ILSAC (International Lubricant Standardization and
Approval Committee) Certification Mark is displayed on the
front of the container. To ensure excellent lubrication performance for your engine,
the ºToyota Genuine Motor Oilº range is available, which has
been specifically tested and approved for all Lexus engines.
Please contact your Lexus dealer for further details of the
ºToyota Genuine Motor Oilº range.
2003 IS300 from Aug. '02 Prod. (OM53439U)

ENGINE
319
CHECKING THE ENGINE COOLANTLEVEL
SV62006

1Reservoir cap 2Upper line 3Lower line
Look at the see±through coolant reservoir when the
engine is cold. The coolant level is satisfactory if it is
between theºFULLº and ºLº lines on the reservoir. If the
level is low, add ethylene±glycol type coolant for a proper
corrosion protection of aluminum components.
The coolant level in the reservoir will vary with engine
temperature. However, if the level is on or below the ºLº line,
add coolant. Bring the level up to the ºFULLº line.
Always use ethylene±glycol type coolant for a proper corrosion
protection of aluminum components. See information in the
next column. If the coolant level drops within a short time after replenishing,
there
may be a leak in the system. V isually check the radiator,
hoses, engine coolant filler cap, radiator cap and drain cock
and water pump.
If you can find no leak, have your Lexus dealer test the cap
pressure and check for leaks in the cooling system.
CAUTION
To prevent burning yourself, do not remove the radiator
cap when the engine is hot.
Coolant type selection
Use of improper coolants may damage your engine cooling
system. Your coolant must contain ethylene±glycol type
coolant for a proper corrosion protection of your engine that
contains aluminum components. We have used ºToyota
Genuine Long Life Coolantº in your Lexus vehicle. In order to
avoid technical problems, we strongly recommend using
ºToyota Genuine Long Life Coolantº or equivalent.
In addition to preventing freezing and subsequent damage to
the engine, this type of coolant will also prevent corrosion.
Further supplemental inhibitors or additives are neither
needed nor recommended.
Read the coolant container for information on freeze
protection. Follow the manufacturer's directions for how much
to mix with plain water (preferably demineralized water or
distilled water). The total capacity of the cooling system is
given on page 310.
2003 IS300 from Aug. '02 Prod. (OM53439U)

ENGINE
320We recommend to use 50% solution for your Lexus, to provide
protection
down to about ±35 C (±31F). When it is extremely
cold, to provide protection down to about ±50C (±58F), 60%
solution is recommended. Do not use more than 70% solution
for better coolant performance.
NOTICE
Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or plain water alone.
The engine cooling system is integral to maximizing
performance of your Lexus vehicle. In line with this, it is
strongly recommended that you use ºToyota Genuine Long
Life Coolantº for protecting the system, as it is an
ethylene±glycol based premium antifreeze coolant with
excellent corrosion protection properties that has been
specifically formulated for use in Lexus vehicles.
Please contact your Lexus dealer for further details of the
ºToyota Genuine Long Life Coolantº range.
CHECKING THE RADIATOR AND CONDENSER
If either of the above parts are extremely dirty or you are not
sure of their condition, take you vehicle to Lexus dealer.
CAUTION
To prevent yourself from burning, be careful not to
touch the radiator or co ndenser when the engine is hot.
NOTICE
To prevent damage to the radiator and condenser, do
not perform the work by yourself.
2003 IS300 from Aug. '02 Prod. (OM53439U)

ENGINE
321
SPARK PLUGS
SV62007
Your engine is fitted with designated iridium±tipped spark
plugs.
NOTICE
Use only designated iridium±tipped spark plugs and donot adjust gaps for your engine performance andsmooth drivability.
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ENGINE
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2003 IS300 from Aug. '02 Prod. (OM53439U)

SECTION 6 ± 3
323
SERVICE PROCEDURES AND
SPECIFICATIONS
Chassis
Specifications324
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Checking brake fluid 329
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Checking power steering fluid 330
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Checking tire pressure 331
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Rotating tires 333
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Checking and replacing tires 335
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Installing snow tires and chains 338
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Replacing wheels 340
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Aluminum wheel precautions 341
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Suspension and chassis 342
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2003 IS300 from Aug. '02 Prod. (OM53439U)