Page 401 of 670
AUDIO
382
CorrectWrong
Handle compact discs carefully, especially when you are
inserting them. Hold them on the edge and do not bend
them. Avoid getting fingerprints on them, particularly on the
shiny side.
Dirt, scratches, warping, pin holes, or other disc damage
could cause the player to skip or to repeat a section of a
track. (To see a pin hole, hold the disc up to the light.)
Remove discs from the compact disc player when you are
not listening to them. Store them in their plastic cases away
from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
To clean a compact disc: Wipe it with a soft, lint-free cloth
that has been dampened with water. Wipe in a straight line
from the center to the edge of the disc (not in circles). Dry it with
another soft, lint-free cloth. Do not use a conventional record
cleaner or anti-static device.
Page 402 of 670

SECTION 3 ± 1
383
STARTING AND DRIVING
Starting and driving
Three-way catalytic converters384
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Engine exhaust caution 387
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Before starting the engine 389
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Ignition switch with steering lock 389
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Parking brake 391
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How to start the engine 392
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Automatic transmission 393
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Four-wheel drive system 401
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Rear view monitor system 405
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Cruise control 409
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Rear height control air suspension 412
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Electronic modulated suspension 419
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Active traction control system 420
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Vehicle stability control system 422
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Downhill assist control system 425
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Hill-start assist control system 428
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Brake system 430
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Tire pressure warning system 434
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Brake pad wear limit indicators 444
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Limited-slip differential 445
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Page 403 of 670
STARTING AND DRIVING
384
THREE-W AY CATALYTICCONVERTERSThree-way catalytic converters are emission control
devices installed in the exhaust system.
The purpose is to reduce pollutants in the exhaust gas.
CAUTION
Keep people and combustible materials away from
the exhaust pipe while the engine is running. The
exhaust gas is very hot.
Do not drive, idle or park your vehicle over anything
that might burn easily such as grass, leaves, paper or
rags.
Page 404 of 670
STARTING AND DRIVING
385
NOTICE
A large amount of unburned gases flowing into thethree-way catalytic converter may cause it to overheatand create a fire hazard. To prevent this and otherdamage, observe the following precautions:
Use only unleaded gasoline.
Do not drive with an extremely low fuel level; runningout of fuel could cause the engine to misfire, creatingan excessive load on the three-way catalyticconverter.
Do not allow the engine to run at idle speed for morethan 20 minutes.
Avoid racing the engine.
Do not push-start or pull-start your vehicle.
Do not turn off the ignition while the vehicle ismoving.
Keep your engine in good running order.Malfunctions in the engine electrical system, electricignition system or fuel system could cause anextremely high three-way catalytic convertertemperature.
Page 405 of 670
STARTING AND DRIVING
386
If the engine becomes difficult to start or stalls
frequently, take your vehicle in for a check-up assoon as possible. Remember, your Lexus dealerknows your vehicle and its three-way catalyticconverter system best.
To ensure that the three-way catalytic converter andthe entire emission control system operate properly,your vehicle must receive the periodic inspectionsrequired by the Lexus Maintenance Schedule. For
scheduled maintenance information, refer to theOwner's Manual Supplement/ScheduledMaintenanceº.
Page 406 of 670
STARTING AND DRIVING
387
ENGINE EXHAUST CAUTIONCAUTION
Avoid inhaling the engine exhaust. It contains
carbon monoxide, which is a colorless and odorless
gas. It can cause unconsciousness or even death.
Make sure the exhaust system has no holes or loose
connections. The system should be checked from
time to time. If you hit something, or notice a change
in the sound of the exhaust, have the system checked
immediately.
Do not run the engine in a garage or enclosed area
except for the time needed to drive the vehicle in or
out. The exhaust gases cannot escape, making this
a particularly dangerous situation.
Do not remain for a long time in a parked vehicle with
the engine running. If it is unavoidable, however, do
so only in an unconfined area and adjust the heating
or cooling system to force outside air into the vehicle.
Keep the back door closed while driving. An open or
unsealed back door may cause exhaust gases to be
drawn into the vehicle.
Page 407 of 670
STARTING AND DRIVING
388
To allow proper operation of your vehicle's
ventilation system, keep the inlet grilles in front of the
windshield clear of snow, leaves, or other
obstructions.
If you smell exhaust fumes in the vehicle, drive with
the windows open and the back door closed. Have
the cause immediately located and corrected.
Page 408 of 670

STARTING AND DRIVING
389
BEFORE STARTING THE ENGINE
1. Check the area around the vehicle before entering it.
2. Adjust seat position, seatback angle, head restraint height
and steering wheel angle.
3. Adjust the inside and outside rear view mirrors.
4. Lock all doors.
5. Fasten seat belts.
Remember to check that the service reminder indicators
function when turning the key to ONº, and check the fuel
gauge to see that you have sufficient fuel.
IGNITION SWITCH WITH STEERINGLOCK
STARTº Ð Starter motor on. The key will return to the
ONº position when released.
For starting tips, see page 392.
It is not a malfunction even if the needle of the tachometer, fuel
gauge or engine coolant temperature gauge returns to the
bottom position when the ignition switch is turned to the
STARTº position.
ONº Ð Engine on and all accessories on.
This is the normal driving position.
It is not malfunction even if the needle on the speedometer may
move when the ignition switch is turned to the ONº position.