2924-5. Using the driving support systems
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
Sport mode
• SPORT S mode
Assists acceleration response by controlling the hybrid system. Suit-
able for when powerful acceleration is desirable.
When not in SPORT S mode and the driving mode select switch is turned
to the right, the “SPORT S” indicator comes on, and the hybrid system
indicator changes to the tachometer. (P. 1 1 0 )
• SPORT S+ mode
Helps to ensure steering performance and driving stability by simul-
taneously controlling the steering and suspension in addition to the
hybrid system. Suitable for sporty driving.
When in SPORT S mode and the driving mode select switch is turned to the
right, the “SPORT S+” indicator comes on.
Operation of the air conditioning system in Eco drive mode
Eco drive mode controls the heating/cooling operations and fan speed of the air
conditioning system to enhance fuel efficiency (P. 398). To improve air condi-
tioning performance, adjust the fan speed or turn off Eco drive mode.
Sport mode automatic deactivation
Sport mode is automatically deactivated if the power switch is turned off after
driving in sport mode.
3
2944-5. Using the driving support systems
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
Adaptive Variable Suspension System (if equipped)
By independently controlling the damping force of the shock absorbers
for each of the 4 wheels according to the road and driving conditions,
this system helps riding comfort with superior steering stability, and
helps good vehicle posture (P. 291)
VDIM (Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management)
Provides integrated control of the ABS, brake assist, TRC, VSC, hill-
start assist control, and EPS systems
Helps to maintain vehicle stability when swerving on slippery road sur-
faces by controlling the brakes and hybrid system output
PCS (Pre-Crash Safety system) (if equipped)
P. 2 9 9
Emergency brake signal
When the brakes are applied suddenly, the stop lights automatically
flash to alert the vehicle behind
BSM (Blind Spot Monitor) (if equipped)
P. 3 0 9
The slip indicator light will flash
while the TRC/VSC/ABS systems
are operating.
When the TRC/VSC/ABS systems are operating
2984-5. Using the driving support systems
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
CAUTION
The ABS does not operate effectively when
The limits of tire gripping performance have been exceeded (such as exces-
sively worn tires on a snow covered road).
The vehicle hydroplanes while driving at high speed on wet or slick roads.
Stopping distance when the ABS is operating may exceed that of normal condi-
tions
The ABS is not designed to shorten the vehicle’s stopping distance. Always
maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, especially in the fol-
lowing situations:
When driving on dirt, gravel or snow-covered roads
When driving with tire chains
When driving over bumps in the road
When driving over roads with potholes or uneven surfaces
TRC may not operate effectively when
Directional control and power may not be achievable while driving on slippery
road surfaces, even if the TRC system is operating.
Drive the vehicle carefully in conditions where stability and power may be lost.
Hill- start assist control does not operate effectively when
Do not overly rely on hill-start assist control. Hill-start assist control may not
operate effectively on steep inclines and roads covered with ice.
Unlike the parking brake, hill-start assist control is not intended to hold the
vehicle stationary for an extended period of time. Do not attempt to use hill-
start assist control to hold the vehicle on an incline, as doing so may lead to an
accident.
When the VSC is activated
The slip indicator light flashes. Always drive carefully. Reckless driving may
cause an accident. Exercise particular care when the indicator light flashes.
When the TRC/VSC systems are turned off
Be especially careful and drive at a speed appropriate to the road conditions. As
these are the systems to ensure vehicle stability and driving force, do not turn
the TRC/VSC systems off unless necessary.
Replacing tires
Make sure that all tires are of the specified size, brand, tread pattern and total
load capacity. In addition, make sure that the tires are inflated to the recom-
mended tire inflation pressure level.
The ABS, TRC and VSC systems will not function correctly if different tires
are installed on the vehicle.
Contact any authorized Lexus dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified and
equipped professional for further information when replacing tires or wheels.
Handling of tires and the suspension
Using tires with any kind of problem or modifying the suspension will affect
the driving assist systems, and may cause a system to malfunction.
2994-5. Using the driving support systems
4
Driving
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
Pre-crash warning
When a high possibility of a fron-
tal collision is detected, the pre-
crash safety system warning light
flashes, a buzzer sounds and a
message is shown on the multi-
information display to urge the
driver to take evasive action.
Pre-crash brake assist
When there is a high possibility of a frontal collision, the system
applies greater braking force in relation to how strongly the brake
pedal is depressed. The system may not warn the driver using a warn-
ing light, warning display and buzzer when the system detects and
judges braking operations.
Pre-crash braking
When there is a high possibility of a frontal collision, the system warns
the driver using a warning light, warning display and buzzer. If the sys-
tem determines that a collision is unavoidable, the brakes are automati-
cally applied to reduce the collision speed.
Suspension control (vehicles with Adaptive Variable Suspension Sys-
tem)
PCS (Pre-Crash Safety system)
: If equipped
When the radar sensor detects the possibility of a frontal collision, brakes
are automatically engaged to lessen impact as well as vehicle damage.
The pre-crash safety system can be turned on and off as necessary by
operating the switch. (P. 301)
3004-5. Using the driving support systems
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
When the system determines that there is a high possibility of a frontal
collision, the operation of Adaptive Variable Suspension System (P.
294) optimally controls the damping force of the shock absorber.
3024-5. Using the driving support systems
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
The pre-crash safety system is operational when
The PCS OFF switch is not pressed and the following conditions are met:
Pre-crash warning:
• Vehicle speed is greater than about 15 km/h (10 mph).
• The speed at which your vehicle is approaching the obstacle or the vehicle
running ahead of you is greater than about 15 km/h (10 mph).
Pre-crash brake assist:
• The VSC OFF switch is not pressed.
• Vehicle speed is greater than about 30 km/h (19 mph).
• The speed at which your vehicle is approaching the obstacle or the vehicle
running ahead of you is greater than about 30 km/h (19 mph).
• The brake pedal is depressed.
Pre-crash braking:
• The VSC OFF switch is not pressed.
• Vehicle speed is greater than about 15 km/h (10 mph).
• The speed at which your vehicle is approaching the obstacle or the vehicle
running ahead of you is greater than about 15 km/h (10 mph).
Suspension control (vehicles with Adaptive Variable Suspension System):
• Vehicle speed is greater than about 5 km/h (4 mph).
• The speed at which your vehicle is approaching the obstacle or the vehicle
running ahead of you is greater than about 30 km/h (19 mph).
Conditions that may trigger the system even if there is no danger of a collision
When there is an object by the roadside at the entrance to a curve
When passing an oncoming vehicle on a curve
When driving over a narrow iron bridge
When there is a metal object on the road surface
When driving on an uneven road surface
When passing an oncoming vehicle on a left-turn (left-hand drive vehicles) or
right-turn (right-hand drive vehicles)
When your vehicle rapidly closes on the vehicle in front
When a grade separation/interchange, sign, billboard, or other structure appears
to be directly in the vehicle’s line of travel
When there is a metal plate in the road in front of the vehicle on a downhill
slope
When climbing a steep hill causes an overhead billboard or other metallic struc-
ture to appear directly in the vehicle’s line of travel
When driving under an overpass
When an extreme change in vehicle height occurs
When passing through certain toll gates
When passing through a tunnel
When the radar sensor moves off position due to its surrounding area being sub-
jected to a strong impact
When the system is activated in the situations described above, there is also a
possibility that the brakes will be applied with a force greater than normal.
4347-2. Maintenance
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
Where to go for maintenance service?
In order to maintain your vehicle in the best possible condition, Lexus recom-
mends that maintenance service operations as well as other inspections and
repairs be carried out by authorized Lexus dealers or repairers or other duly qual-
ified and equipped professionals. For repairs and services covered by your war-
ranty, please visit an authorized Lexus dealer or repairer, who will use genuine
Lexus parts in repairing any difficulties you may encounter. There can also be
advantages in utilizing authorized Lexus dealers or repairers for non-warranty
repairs and services, as members of the Lexus network will be able to expertly
assist you with any difficulties you may encounter.
Your Lexus dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped profes-
sional will perform all of the scheduled maintenance on your vehicle reliably and
economically due to their experience with Lexus vehicles.
Does your vehicle need repairs?
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 condition-
ing system 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 imme-
diately.)
Flat-looking tires, excessive tire squeal when cornering, uneven tire wear
Vehicle pulls to one side when driven straight on a level road
Strange noises related to suspension movement
Loss of brake effectiveness, spongy feeling brake pedal, pedal almost touches
the floor, vehicle pulls to one side when braking
Engine coolant temperature continually higher than normal (P. 110)
If you notice any of these clues, take your vehicle to any authorized Lexus dealer
or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped professional as soon as possi-
ble. Your vehicle may need adjustment or repair.
CAUTION
If your vehicle is not properly maintained
Improper maintenance could result in serious damage to the vehicle and possi-
ble death or serious injury.
Handling of the 12-volt battery
12-volt battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead
compounds which are known to cause brain damage. Wash your hands after
handling.
(P. 447)
5068-2. Steps to take in an emergency
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
Fluid leaks under the vehicle.
(Water dripping from the air conditioning after use is normal.)
Flat-looking tires or uneven tire wear
Engine coolant temperature gauge needle continually points higher
than normal.
Changes in exhaust sound
Excessive tire squeal when cornering
Strange noises related to the suspension system
Pinging or other noises related to the hybrid system
Engine missing, stumbling or running roughly
Appreciable loss of power
Vehicle pulls heavily to one side when braking
Vehicle pulls heavily to one side when driving on a level road
Loss of brake effectiveness, spongy feeling, pedal almost touches the
floor
If you think something is wrong
If you notice any of the following symptoms, your vehicle probably
needs adjustment or repair. Contact any authorized Lexus dealer or
repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped professional as soon as
possible.
Visible symptoms
Audible symptoms
Operational symptoms