2012 Lexus LFA lexus LFA 2012 Technical Information / LEXUS 2012 LFA: INSIDE THE LFA

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Engine protection mechanisms
The LFA’s 1LR-GUE engine generates a maximum output of 412 kW (553 HP) at
8,700 rpm and delivers 90% or more of its peak torque of 354 ft•lbf (480 N•m,
48.9 kgf•m) between 3,700 and 9,000 rpm. The engine features a number of
protection mechanisms to ensure longevity and maintain peak performance.
A number of driving restrictions will be in place until the total mileage shown on the
odometer exceeds 310 miles (500 km). This break-in period serves not only to
protect the engine, but also to preserve the transmission, suspension and the vehicle
as a whole. It is recommended that during this time the owner become familiar with
the LFA and avoid high-load driving maneuvers.
One engine protection mechanism in place beyond the break-in period is the limiting
of maximum engine speed when the engine is cold. When the vehicle is cold started,
various components within the engine begin to warm up and expand at different rates.
Forcing the engine to operate at high speeds in this condition can cause accelerated
engine wear. For this reason, the maximum engine speed is limited when manually
shifted driving modes (SPORT, NORMAL, WET) are selected and restricted to a set
range when AUTO mode is selected.
This engine speed limitation does not indicate a malfunction with the vehicle. Warming
the engine up by driving, rather than extended idling, is recommended.

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Engine protection mechanisms
■
■Limited maximum engine speed during break-in
period
The maximum engine speed is limited to 7,400 rpm if the total mileage shown on the
odometer is less than 310 miles (500 km).
■
■Engine starting restrictions in extremely low
temperatures
In extremely low temperatures, such as when the coolant or oil temperature gauge
shows a reading of -13°F (-25°C) or below, the engine will not be allowed to start.
This mechanism is designed to protect the engine.
■
■Restricted maximum engine speed in extremely
low temperatures
When the engine is started with the coolant temperature gauge showing a reading
of 5°F (-15°C) or below, the maximum engine speed will be limited to 4,400 rpm for
approximately eight minutes.
■
■Variable maximum engine speed during warm-
up
When the engine is started with the coolant temperature gauge showing a reading
of 176°F (80°C) or below, the maximum engine speed will vary according to the
coolant temperature.
■
■Limited maximum engine speed in neutral gear
The maximum engine speed will be limited to 5,100 rpm when neutral gear is selected
and the accelerator pedal is continuously depressed.

20
Ideal driving position
An ideal driving position allows for smooth operational inputs and also helps to
reduce injuries in the event of a collision. Although the driving position employed by
racing drivers in competition offers maximum car control, it is not always practical for
use on public roads.
While the ideal driving position will vary depending on individual requirements and
driving conditions, please observe the following points in order to ensure a safe and
comfortable driving position:
■
■Seat slide adjustment
When sliding your seat back and forth, aim for a position that allows you to fully
depress the brake pedal with your knees slightly bent. Also, to ensure that you have
enough leverage to depress the brake pedal, make sure that your back rests firmly
against the seatback.
If your leg is fully extended to depress the brake pedal and a collision occurs, your
knee will not be able to help absorb any impact force. Instead, the full force of the
impact will be transferred to your lower back, possibly resulting in spinal injuries.
■
■Seat angle adjustment
When adjusting the seatback, aim for an angle that allows you to rest your back firmly
against the seatback with your hands gripping the top of the steering wheel and your
elbows slightly bent. Resting your back firmly against the seatback offers better body
support.
To maintain an adequate level of support, it is essential to make sure that your arms are
not over-reaching to touch the top of the steering wheel. Sitting too far away will force
you to lean forward when turning, compromising the support offered by the seatback.
Finally, make sure that the seatback is not reclined excessively, as this may result in
your body slipping under the seat belt in the event of a collision.
The seats in the LFA employ a racing bucket seat-inspired design and frames made
from CFRP (Carbon Fiber Reinforced Plastics) to ensure a highly rigid and supportive
construction.
To ensure that the seats are used to their maximum potential, always maintain an
appropriate driving position.

21
Ideal driving position
■
■Seat adjustment range
The following seat adjustments are available:
Seat forward/backward slide
Seat height
Seatback reclining angle
Seat cushion front height
Seatback reclining
angle adjustment
Seat cushion front
height adjustment:
0.95 in. (24 mm)
Seat forward/backward slide adjustment: 7.95 in. (202 mm) Seat height
adjustment:
1.65 in. (42 mm)

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■
■Using the floor mats
The floor mats and installation hardware have been designed specifically for use with
the LFA.
When installing the LFA-specific floor
mats, ensure that the front edge of the
floor mat is securely inserted under the
heel stopper.
After inserting the front edge of the floor
mat securely under the heel stopper,
fix the rear edge of the floor mat to the
carpet using the retaining hooks (clips).
If the floor mats are not securely fixed in
place, they may interfere with operation
of the pedals and increase the risk of an
accident.
The following circumstances may result in the floor mats interfering with operation of the
pedals, increasing the risk of an accident:
• When an all-weather or similar type of floor mat is placed on top of the LFA-specific
floor mat.
• When using floor mats other than the LFA-specific units.
• When using the passenger side floor mat on the driver side.
Heel stopper