2006 Lexus GS300 power steering

SECTION 3 – 1
339
STARTING AND DRIVING
Starting and driving
Three−way catalytic converters340 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Engine exhaust caution341 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Operating the engine switch342 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Parking brake352 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic transmission353 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electronic throttle control system364 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Intuitive parking assist365 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Rear view monitor system388 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Cruise control392 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Dynamic radar cruise control395 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Adaptive variable suspension system417 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Traction control system418 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle stability control system420 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hill−start assist control system422 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Variable gear ratio steering system424 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Vehicle dynamics integrated management426 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake system427 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake pad wear limit indicators431 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electric power steering system432 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tire pressure warning system433 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pre−collision system443 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

STARTING AND DRIVING
426
VEHICLE DYNAMICS
INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT
(GS430 only)
Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) helps
manage control for vehicle stability control system,
anti−lock brake system, brake assist system, traction
control system, engine output control, hill−start assist
control system and also manages variable gear ratio
steering system and electric power steering system.
In order to control sudden steering wheel operation and
the sideslip on slippery road surfaces, this system
provides excellent vehicle stability by automatically
controlling the brake, engine output and front wheel
angle.
The state of the tires will affect the performance of the vehicle
dynamics integrated management system. Be sure to check
the following:
Are tires of specified size installed?
Are tires of identical type installed?
Do the tires have stipulated tire pressure?
Are the tires worn?
A problem with the tires or modified suspension systems will
have an adverse effect on the system and may cause a
malfunction, so be careful.When the slip indicator light comes on, and the message
“CHECK ECB” appears on the multi−information display, the
vehicle dynamics integrated management does not operate.
Have your vehicle checked by your Lexus dealer as soon as
possible.
In addition, when the master warning light comes on, and the
message “CHECK VGRS” or “CHECK P/S” appears on the
multi−information display, the system will not be temporarily
functioning. Although it is no problem in driving as usual, have
your vehicle checked by your Lexus dealer as soon as
possible.
CAUTION
Do not overestimate the vehicle dynamics integrated
management. Even when this management is
functional, there is a limit to vehicle stability, and
irresponsible driving may lead to an accident. When
driving, you should always pay attention to your speed
and keep a safe distance between your vehicle and the
vehicle in front.

STARTING AND DRIVING
432
ELECTRIC POWER STEERING
SYSTEM
The electric power steering system, using an electric
motor, assists the turning of the steering wheel.
In the following cases, you may feel the steering becomes
heavy. However, the electric power steering system
warning light does not come on. (Because it is not a
malfunction.)
When maneuvering or turning frequently over a long time, the
power steering effect will be reduced to prevent the system
from overheating. Avoid turning the steering wheel, or stop the
vehicle and select the engine switch in “ACC” or “OFF” mode.
The system will become cool in about 10 minutes.
NOTICE
Frequent maneuvering and turning over a long time may
cause damage to the system in which the mechanism
prevents overheating of the electric power steering
system.
When the battery is discharged, check the battery’s condition.
If necessary, recharge or replace the battery. For details, see
“Checking battery condition” on page 571.
G31040

Electric power steering system warning light
The light comes on when the engine switch is selected in
“IG−ON” mode. If the electric power steering system works
properly, the light turns off after a few seconds. If the system
has malfunctions, the light comes on again.
If the following conditions occur, this indicates a
malfunction somewhere in the components monitored by
the warning light system. Contact your Lexus dealer as
soon as possible to service the vehicle.
The light does not come on when the engine switch is
selected in “IG−ON” mode or remains on.
The light stays on while you are driving.

STARTING AND DRIVING
433
CAUTION
If the electric power steering system warning light
comes on, take your vehicle to your Lexus dealer as
soon as possible. In this case, more effort is required
for the steering wheel to turn than usual. Drive your
vehicle while firmly gripping the steering wheel.
TIRE PRESSURE WARNING
SYSTEM
G31003

Low tire pressure warning light
The light warns you that the tire inflation pressure is low.
The low tire pressure warning light comes on when the engine
switch is selected in “IG−ON” mode and goes off after a few
seconds. This means the low tire pressure warning light is
operating properly. If the tire inflation pressure becomes low,
the light comes on again. At this time, the master warning light
comes on and the message “LOW TIRE” appears on the
multi−information display.