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)
3084-5. Using the driving support systems
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
Limitations of the pre-crash safety system
Do not overly rely on the pre-crash safety system. Always drive safely, taking
care to observe your surroundings and checking for any obstacles or other road
hazards.
Failure to do so may cause an accident resulting in death or serious injury.
Handling the radar sensor
Observe the following to ensure the pre-crash safety system can function effec-
tively. Otherwise, the system may not function correctly and could result in an
accident.
Keep the sensor and grille cover clean at all times.
Clean the sensor and grille cover with a soft cloth so you do not mark or dam-
age them.
Do not subject the sensor or surrounding area to a strong impact.
If the sensor moves even slightly off position, the system may malfunction. If
the sensor or surrounding area is subject to a strong impact, always have the
area inspected and adjusted by any authorized Lexus dealer or repairer, or
another duly qualified and equipped professional.
Do not disassemble the sensor.
Do not attach accessories or stickers to the sensor, grille cover or surrounding
area.
Do not modify or paint the sensor and grille cover.
Do not replace them with non-genuine parts.
Cautions regarding the assist contents of the system
By means of alarms and brake control, the pre-crash safety system is intended
to assist the driver in avoiding collisions through the process of LOOK-
JUDGE-ACT. There are limits to the degree of assistance the system can pro-
vide, so please keep in mind the following important points.
Assisting the driver in watching the road
The pre-crash safety system is only able to detect obstacles directly in front of
the vehicle, and only within a limited range. It is not a mechanism that allows
careless or inattentive driving, and it is not a system that can assist the driver
in low-visibility conditions. It is still necessary for the driver to pay close
attention to the vehicle’s surroundings.
Assisting the driver in making correct judgment
When attempting to estimate the possibility of a collision, the only data avail-
able to the pre-crash safety system is that from obstacles it has detected
directly in front of the vehicle. Therefore, it is absolutely necessary for the
driver to remain vigilant and to determine whether or not there is a possibility
of collision in any given situation.
Assisting the driver in taking action
The pre-crash safety system’s braking assist feature is designed to help reduce
the severity of a collision, and so only acts when the system has judged that a
collision is unavoidable. This system by itself is not capable of automatically
avoiding a collision or bringing the vehicle to a stop safely. For this reason,
when encountering a dangerous situation the driver must take direct and
immediate action in order to ensure the safety of all involved.
309
4
Driving
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)4-6. Driving tips
Using Eco drive mode
When using Eco drive mode, the torque corresponding to the accelera-
tor pedal depression amount can be generated more smoothly than it is
in normal conditions. In addition, the operation of the air conditioning
system (heating/cooling) will be minimized, improving the fuel econ-
omy. (P. 290)
Use of Hybrid System Indicator
Eco-friendly driving is possible by keeping the indicator needle
(except F SPORT models) or bar display (F SPORT models) of Hybrid
System Indicator within the Eco area. (P. 1 1 4 )
When braking
Make sure to operate the brakes gently and in good time. A greater
amount of electrical energy can be regenerated when slowing down.
Delays
Repeated acceleration and deceleration, as well as long waits at traffic
lights, will lead to bad fuel economy. Check traffic reports before leav-
ing and avoid delays as much as possible. When driving in a traffic
jam, gently release the brake pedal to allow the vehicle to move for-
ward slightly while avoiding overuse of the accelerator pedal. Doing so
can help control excessive gasoline consumption.
Highway driving
Control your speed and keep at a constant speed. Before stopping at a
toll booth or similar, allow plenty of time to release the accelerator and
gently apply the brakes. A greater amount of electrical energy can be
regenerated when slowing down.
Hybrid vehicle driving tips
For economical and ecological driving, pay attention to the following
points:
3114-6. Driving tips
4
Driving
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
Use fluids that are appropriate to the prevailing outside temperatures.
•Engine oil
• Engine/power control unit coolant
•Washer fluid
Have a service technician inspect the condition of the 12-volt battery.
Have the vehicle fitted with four snow tires or purchase a set of tire
chains for the rear tires.
*
Ensure that all tires are the specified size and brand, and that chains match
the size of the tires.
*: Tire chains cannot be mounted on the 18-inch tires.
Perform the following according to the driving conditions:
Do not try to forcibly open a window or move a wiper that is frozen.
Pour warm water over the frozen area to melt the ice. Wipe away the
water immediately to prevent it from freezing.
To ensure proper operation of the climate control system fan, remove
any snow that has accumulated on the air inlet vents in front of the
windshield.
Check for and remove any excess ice or snow that may have accumu-
lated on the exterior lights, vehicle’s roof, chassis, around the tires or
on the brakes.
Remove any snow or mud from the bottom of your shoes before get-
ting in the vehicle.
Accelerate the vehicle slowly, keep a safe distance between you and the
vehicle ahead, and drive at a reduced speed suitable to road conditions.
Winter driving tips
Carry out the necessary preparations and inspections before driving the
vehicle in winter. Always drive the vehicle in a manner appropriate to the
prevailing weather conditions.
Preparation for winter
Before driving the vehicle
When driving the vehicle
4367-3. Do-it-yourself maintenance
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
CAUTION
The engine compartment contains many mechanisms and fluids that may move
suddenly, become hot, or become electrically energized. To avoid death or seri-
ous injury, observe the following precautions.
When working on the engine compartment
Make sure that the “ACCESSORY” or “IGNITION ON” on the multi-infor-
mation display and the “READY” indicator are both off.
Keep hands, clothing and tools away from the moving fan and engine drive
belt.
Be careful not to touch the engine, power control unit, radiator, exhaust mani-
fold, etc. right after driving as they may be hot. Oil and other fluids may also
be hot.
Do not leave anything that may burn easily, such as paper and rags, in the
engine compartment.
Do not smoke, cause sparks or expose an open flame to fuel. Fuel fumes are
flammable.
Take care because brake fluid can harm your hands or eyes and damage
painted surfaces. If fluid gets on your hands or in your eyes, flush the affected
area with clean water immediately.
If you still experience discomfort, consult a doctor.
When working near the electric cooling fans or radiator grille
Be sure the power switch is off.
With the power switch in ON mode, the electric cooling fans may automati-
cally start to run if the air conditioning is on and/or the coolant temperature is
high. (P. 446)
Safety glasses
Wear safety glasses to prevent flying or falling material, fluid spray, etc. from
getting in your eyes.
NOTICE
If you remove the air cleaner filter
Driving with the air cleaner filter removed may cause excessive engine wear
due to dirt in the air.
If the fluid level is low or high
It is normal for the brake fluid level to go down slightly as the brake pads wear
or when the fluid level in the accumulator is high.
If the reservoir needs frequent refilling, it may indicate a serious problem.
5078-2. Steps to take in an emergency
8
When trouble arises
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
If a warning light turns on or a warning buzzer sounds
Calmly perform the following actions if any of the warning lights comes
on or flashes. If a light comes on or flashes, but then goes off, this does
not necessarily indicate a malfunction in the system. However, if this
continues to occur, have the vehicle inspected by any authorized Lexus
dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped professional.
Warning light and warning buzzer list
Warning lightWarning light/Details/Actions
Brake system warning light (warning buzzer)*1
Indicates that:
• The brake fluid level is low; or
• The brake system is malfunctioning
Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and contact any
authorized Lexus dealer or repairer, or another duly quali-
fied and equipped professional. Continuing to drive the
vehicle may be dangerous.
Brake system warning light
Indicates a malfunction in:
• The regenerative braking system; or
• The electronically controlled brake system
Have the vehicle inspected by any authorized Lexus dealer
or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped profes-
sional immediately.
Charging system warning light
Indicates a malfunction in the vehicle’s charging system
Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and contact any
authorized Lexus dealer or repairer, or another duly quali-
fied and equipped professional.
Malfunction indicator lamp
Indicates a malfunction in:
• The hybrid system;
• The emission control system (if equipped);
• The electronic engine control system; or
• The electronic throttle control system
Have the vehicle inspected by any authorized Lexus dealer
or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped profes-
sional immediately.
5088-2. Steps to take in an emergency
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)
SRS warning light
Indicates a malfunction in:
• The SRS airbag system; or
• The seat belt pretensioner system
Have the vehicle inspected by any authorized Lexus dealer
or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped profes-
sional immediately.
ABS warning light
Indicates a malfunction in:
•The ABS; or
• The brake assist system
Have the vehicle inspected by any authorized Lexus dealer
or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped profes-
sional immediately.
Electric power steering system warning light
Indicates a malfunction in the EPS (Electric Power Steering)
system
Have the vehicle inspected by any authorized Lexus dealer
or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped profes-
sional immediately.
(Flashes)
(If equipped)
Pre-crash safety system warning light
Indicates a malfunction in the PCS (Pre-Crash Safety sys-
tem)
The warning light will operate as follows, even when the sys-
tem is not malfunctioning:
• The light will flash quickly when the system is operating.
(P. 299)
• The light will turn on when the pre-crash safety system is
disabled. (P. 301)
• The light will turn on when the VSC (Vehicle Stability
Control) system is disabled. (P. 295)
• The light will flash when the system cannot temporarily be
used. (P. 523)
Have the vehicle inspected by any authorized Lexus dealer
or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped profes-
sional immediately.
Slip indicator
Indicates a malfunction in:
• The VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) system;
• The TRC (Traction Control) system; or
• The hill-start assist control system
The light will flash when the VSC, the TRC or the ABS sys-
tem is operating.
Have the vehicle inspected by any authorized Lexus dealer
or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped profes-
sional immediately.
Warning lightWarning light/Details/Actions
5118-2. Steps to take in an emergency
8
When trouble arises
IS300h_EE(OM53B95E)*
1: Parking brake engaged warning buzzer:
P. 518
*2: Open door warning buzzer:
P. 516
*3: Seat belt warning buzzer:
The seat belt warning buzzer sounds to alert the driver, front passenger and
rear passengers that his or her seat belt is not fastened. The buzzer sounds for
30 seconds after the vehicle reaches a speed of 20 km/h (12 mph). Then, if the
seat belt is still unfastened, the buzzer will sound in a different tone for 90
more seconds.
Passenger detection sensor, seat belt reminder and warning buzzer
If luggage is placed on a passenger seat, the passenger detection sensor may
cause the warning light to flash and the warning buzzer to sound even if a pas-
senger is not sitting in the seat.
If a cushion is placed on the seat, the sensor may not detect a passenger, and the
warning light may not operate properly.
If the malfunction indicator lamp comes on while driving
The malfunction indicator lamp will come on if the fuel tank becomes com-
pletely empty. If the fuel tank is empty, refuel the vehicle immediately. The mal-
function indicator lamp will go off after several trips.
If the malfunction indicator lamp does not go off, contact any authorized Lexus
dealer or repairer, or another duly qualified and equipped professional as soon as
possible.
Electric power steering system warning light (warning buzzer)
When the 12-volt battery charge becomes insufficient of the voltage temporarily
drops, the electric power steering system warning light may come on and the
warning buzzer may sound.
When the tire pressure warning light comes on
Carry out the following procedure after the tire temperature has lowered suffi-
ciently.
Check the tire inflation pressure and adjust to the appropriate level.
If the warning light does not go out even after several minutes, check that the
tire inflation pressure is at the specified level and carry out initialization.
The warning light may come on again if the above operations are conducted
without first allowing the tire temperature to lower sufficiently.
The tire pressure warning light may come on due to natural causes
The tire pressure warning light may come on due to natural causes such as natu-
ral air leaks and tire inflation pressure changes caused by temperature. In this
case, adjusting the tire inflation pressure will turn off the warning light (after a
few minutes).
Conditions that the tire pressure warning system may not function properly
P. 454