Lexus GS300 owner's manual: Section 6 – 1: Service procedures and specifications

SECTION 6 – 1

SERVICE PROCEDURES AND SPECIFICATIONS

Introduction

• Vehicle identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........ 242
• Engine compartment overview (GS430) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........ 243
• Engine compartment overview (GS300) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........

INTRODUCTION

VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is the legal identifier for your vehicle. This number is on the left top of the instrument panel and can be seen through the windshield from outside.

This is the primary identification number for your Lexus. It is used in registering the ownership of your vehicle.

The vehicle identification number (VIN) is also on the Certification Label.

►GS430 ►GS300

The engine number is stamped on the engine block as shown.

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INTRODUCTION

ENGINE COMPARTMENT OVERVIEW (GS430)

1 Engine oil filler cap 2 Engine oil level dipstick 3 Brake fluid reservoir 4 Fuse box 5 Washer fluid tank 6 Electric cooling fans 7 Condenser 8 Radiator 9 Engine coolant reservoir 10 Power steering fluid reservoir 11 Fuse box 12 Battery

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INTRODUCTION

ENGINE COMPARTMENT OVERVIEW (GS300)

1 Engine oil filler cap 2 Engine oil level dipstick 3 Brake fluid reservoir 4 Fuse box 5 Washer fluid tank 6 Power steering fluid reservoir 7 Electric cooling fans 8 Condenser 9 Radiator 10 Engine coolant reservoir 11 Fuse box 12 Battery

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INTRODUCTION

DO-IT-YOURSELF SERVICE PRECAUTIONS

If you perform maintenance yourself, be sure to follow the correct procedure given in this Section.

You should be aware that improper or incomplete servicing may result in operating problems.

Performing do-it-yourself maintenance during the warranty period may affect your warranty coverage. Read the separate Lexus Warranty statement for details and suggestions.

This Section gives instructions only for those items that are relatively easy for an owner to perform. As explained in Section 5, there are still a number of items that must be performed by a qualified technician with special tools.

For information on tools and parts for do-it-yourself maintenance, see "Parts and tools" on page 247.

Utmost care should be taken when working on your vehicle to prevent accidental injury. Here are a few precautions that you should be especially careful to observe:

! CAUTION

• When the engine is running, keep hands, clothing, and tools away from the moving fan and engine drive belt. (Removing rings, watches, and ties is advisable.)
• Right after driving, the engine compartment – the engine, radiator, exhaust manifold and power steering fluid reservoir, etc. – will be hot. So be careful not to touch them. Oil and other fluids may also be hot.
• Do not smoke, cause sparks or allow open flames around fuel or the battery. Their fumes are flammable.
• Do not get under your vehicle with just the body jack supporting it. Always use automotive jack stands or other solid supports.
• Be sure the ignition is off if you work near the electric cooling fan or radiator grille. With the ignition on, the electric cooling fan may automatically start to run if the air conditioning is on and/or if the coolant temperature is high.
• Use eye protection whenever you work on or under your vehicle where you may be exposed to flying or falling material, fluid spray, etc.
• Be extremely cautious when working on the battery. It contains poisonous and corrosive sulfuric acid.

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INTRODUCTION

● Warning: Battery posts, terminals and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.

NOTICE ● Remember that battery and ignition cables carry high currents or voltages. Be careful of accidentally causing a short circuit. ● Before closing the engine hood, check to see that you have not forgotten any tools, rags, etc. ● Do not drive with the air cleaner removed, or excessive engine wear could result. Also backfiring could cause a fire in the engine compartment. ● Do not overfill automatic transmission fluid, or the transmission could be damaged. ● Be careful not to scratch the glass surface with the wiper frame.

POSITIONING THE JACK

►Front

►Rear

When jacking up your vehicle with the jack, position the jack correctly as shown in the illustrations.

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INTRODUCTION

PARTS AND TOOLS

Here is a list of parts and tools you will need to perform do-it-yourself maintenance. Remember all Lexus parts are designed in metric sizes, so your tools must be metric.

Checking the engine oil level

Parts (if level is low):

• "Toyota Genuine Motor Oil" or equivalent Oil grade: API grade SL "Energy-Conserving" or ILSAC multigrade engine oil. For recommended oil viscosity, see page 263.

Tools:

• Rag or paper towel
• Funnel (only for adding oil)

Checking the engine coolant level

Parts (if level is low):

• "Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant" or equivalent See "Checking the engine coolant level" on page 264 for instructions.
• Demineralized or distilled water

Tools:

• Funnel (only for adding coolant)

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INTRODUCTION

Checking brake fluid Parts (if level is low): • FMVSS No. 116 DOT 3 or SAE J1703 brake fluid Tools: • Funnel (only for adding fluid)

Checking power steering fluid Parts (if level is low): • Automatic transmission fluid DEXRON®II or III Tools: • Rag or paper towel • Funnel (only for adding fluid)

Checking battery condition Tools: • Warm water • Baking soda • Grease • Conventional wrench (for terminal clamp bolts)

Checking and replacing the blade type fuses Parts (if replacement is necessary): • Fuse with same amperage rating as original

Checking the cartridge type fuses Parts (if replacement is necessary): • Genuine Lexus fuse or equivalent with same amperage rating as original

Adding washer fluid Parts: • Water • Washer fluid containing antifreeze (for winter use) Tools: • Funnel

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SECTION 6 – 2

SERVICE PROCEDURES AND SPECIFICATIONS

Engine

• Specifications (GS430) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........ 250
• Specifications (GS300) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........ 253
• Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........

ENGINE

SPECIFICATIONS (GS430)

– GENERAL

– FUEL

250

ENGINE

– LUBRICATION SYSTEM

NOTE:
“Toyota Genuine Motor Oil” is filled in your Lexus vehicle. Use Lexus approved “Toyota Genuine Motor Oil” or equivalent to satisfy the above grade and viscosity. Please contact your Lexus dealer for further details.

ENGINE

– COOLING SYSTEM

NOTE:
“Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant” is filled in your Lexus vehicle. In order to avoid technical problems, we strongly recommend using “Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant” or equivalent. Please contact your Lexus dealer for further details.

– IGNITION SYSTEM

– ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

252

SPECIFICATIONS (GS300)

– GENERAL

– FUEL

ENGINE

– LUBRICATION SYSTEM

NOTE:
“Toyota Genuine Motor Oil” is filled in your Lexus vehicle. Use Lexus approved “Toyota Genuine Motor Oil” or equivalent to satisfy the above grade and viscosity. Please contact your Lexus dealer for further details.

ENGINE

– COOLING SYSTEM

NOTE:
“Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant” is filled in your Lexus vehicle. In order to avoid technical problems, we strongly recommend using “Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant” or equivalent. Please contact your Lexus dealer for further details.

– IGNITION SYSTEM

– ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

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ENGINE

FUEL

Fuel type

Your vehicle must use only unleaded gasoline.

To help prevent gas station mixups, your Lexus has a smaller fuel tank opening. The special nozzle on pumps with unleaded fuel will fit it, but the larger standard nozzle on pumps with leaded gas will not.

At a minimum, the gasoline you use should meet the specifications of ASTM D4814 in the U.S.A. and CGSB 3.5–M93 in Canada.

NOTICE Do not use leaded gasoline. Use of leaded gasoline will cause the three-way catalytic converter to lose its effectiveness and the emission control system to function improperly. Also, this can increase maintenance costs.

Octane rating

Select premium unleaded gasoline with an Octane Rating of 91 (Research Octane Number 96) or higher for optimum engine performance. However, if such premium type cannot be obtained, you may temporarily use unleaded gasoline with an Octane Rating as low as 87 (Research Octane Number 91).

Use of unleaded fuel with an octane number or rating lower than stated above will cause persistent heavy knocking. If severe, this will lead to engine damage.

If your engine knocks ...

If you detect heavy knocking even when using the recommended fuel, or if you hear steady knocking while holding a steady speed on level roads, consult your Lexus dealer.

However, occasionally, you may notice light knocking for a short time while accelerating or driving up hills. This is normal and there is no need for concern.

Gasoline containing detergent additives

Lexus recommends the use of gasoline that contains detergent additives to avoid build-up of engine deposits.

However, all gasoline sold in the U.S. contains detergent additives to keep clean and/or clean intake systems.

Quality gasoline

Automotive manufacturers in the U.S., Europe and Japan have developed a specification for quality fuel named World-Wide Fuel Charter (WWFC) that is expected to be applied world wide. The WWFC consists of three categories that depend on required emission levels. In the U.S., category 3 has been adopted. The WWFC improves air quality by providing for better emissions in vehicle fleets, and customer satisfaction through better vehicle performance.

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ENGINE

Cleaner burning gasoline

Cleaner burning gasoline, including reformulated gasoline that contains oxygenates such as ethanol or MTBE is available in many areas.

Lexus recommends the use of cleaner burning gasoline and appropriately blended reformulated gasoline. These types of gasoline provide excellent vehicle performance, reduce vehicle emissions, and improve air quality.

Oxygenates in gasoline

Lexus allows the use of oxygenate blended gasoline where the oxygenate content is up to 10% ethanol or 15% MTBE. If you use gasohol in your Lexus, be sure that it has an octane rating no lower than 87.

Lexus does not recommend the use of gasoline containing methanol.

Gasoline containing MMT

Some gasoline contain an octane enhancing additive called MMT (Methylcyclopentadienyl Manganese Tricarbonyl).

Lexus does not recommend the use of gasoline that contains MMT. If fuel containing MMT is used, your emission control system may be adversely affected. The Malfunction Indicator Lamp on the instrument cluster may come on. If this happens, contact your Lexus dealer for service.

Gasoline quality

In a very few cases, you may experience driveability problems caused by the particular gasoline that you are using. If you continue to have unacceptable driveability, try changing gasoline brands. If this does not rectify your problem, then consult your Lexus dealer.

NOTICE

• Do not use gasohol other than stated above. It will cause fuel system damage or vehicle performance problems.
• If drivability problems are encountered (poor hot starting, vaporizing, engine knock, etc.), discontinue its use.
• Take care not to spill gasohol during refueling. Gasohol may cause paint damage.

Fuel tank capacity

75 L (19.8 gal., 16.5 Imp.gal.)

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ENGINE

FUEL PUMP SHUT OFF SYSTEM The fuel pump shut off system stops supplying fuel to the engine to minimize the risk of fuel leakage when the engine stalls or an airbag inflates upon collision. To restart the engine after the fuel pump shut off system activates, turn the ignition switch to “ACC” or “LOCK” once and start it.

⚠ CAUTION Inspect the ground under the vehicle before restarting the engine. If you find that liquid has leaked onto the ground, it is the fuel system that has been damaged and it is in need of repair. In this case, do not restart the engine.

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FACTS ABOUT ENGINE OIL CONSUMPTION

Functions of engine oil Engine oil has the primary function of lubricating and cooling the inside of the engine, and plays a major role in maintaining the engine in proper working order.

Engine oil consumption It is normal that an engine should consume some engine oil during normal engine operation. The causes of oil consumption in a normal engine are as follows.

• Oil is used to lubricate pistons, piston rings and cylinders. A thin film of oil is left on the cylinder wall when a piston moves downwards in the cylinder. High negative pressure generated when the vehicle is decelerating sucks some of this oil into the combustion chamber. This oil as well as some part of the oil film left on the cylinder wall is burned by the high temperature combustion gases during the combustion process.

• Oil is also used to lubricate the stems of the intake valves. Some of this oil is sucked into the combustion chamber together with the intake air and is burned along with the fuel. High temperature exhaust gases also burn the oil used to lubricate the exhaust valve stems.

ENGINE

The amount of engine oil consumed depends on the viscosity of the oil, the quality of the oil and the way the vehicle is driven.

More oil is consumed under driving conditions such as high speeds and frequent acceleration and deceleration.

A new engine consumes more oil, since its pistons, piston rings and cylinder walls have not become conditioned.

Oil consumption: Max. 1.0 L per 1000 km (1.1 qt./600 miles, 0.9 Imp-qt./600 miles).

When judging the amount of oil consumption, keep in mind that the oil may have become diluted, making it difficult to judge the true level accurately.

For example, if a vehicle is used for repeated short trips and consumes a normal amount of oil, the dipstick may not show any drop in the oil level at all, even after 1000 km (600 miles) or more. This is because the oil is gradually becoming diluted with fuel or moisture, making it appear that the oil level has not changed.

The diluting ingredients evaporate out when the vehicle is then driven at high speeds, as on an expressway, making it appear that oil is excessively consumed after driving at high speeds.

Importance of engine oil level check

One of the most important points in proper vehicle maintenance is to keep the engine oil at the optimum level so that oil function will not be impaired. Therefore, it is essential that the oil level be checked regularly. Lexus recommends that the oil level be checked every time you refuel the vehicle.

NOTICE Failure to check the oil level regularly could lead to serious engine trouble due to insufficient oil.

For detailed information on oil level check, see "Checking the engine oil level" on page 260.

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ENGINE

USED ENGINE OIL

CAUTION

• Used engine oil contains potentially harmful contaminants which may cause skin disorders such as inflammation or skin cancer, so care should be taken to avoid prolonged and repeated contact with it. To remove used engine oil from your skin, wash thoroughly with soap and water.
• Do not leave used oil within the reach of children.
• Dispose of used oil and used oil filters only in a safe and acceptable manner. Do not dispose of used oil and used oil filters in household trash, in sewers or onto the ground. Call your Lexus dealer or a service station for information concerning recycling or disposal.

CHECKING THE ENGINE OIL LEVEL

►GS430 ►GS300

With the engine at operating temperature and turned off, check the oil level on the dipstick.

1. To get a true reading, the vehicle should be on a level ground. After turning off the engine, wait a few minutes for the oil to drain back into the bottom of the engine.
2. Pull the dipstick out, hold a rag under the end and wipe it clean.
3. Reinsert the dipstick and push it in as far as it will go, or the reading will not be correct.

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ENGINE

►GS430 1 Add oil 2 O.K. 3 Too full

NOTICE Be careful not to drop the engine oil on the vehicle components.

►GS300 1 Add oil 2 O.K. 3 Too full

4. Pull the dipstick out and look at the oil level while holding a rag under the end. If it is between the full line ( 5 ) and the low line ( 4 ), it is O.K.

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ENGINE

►GS430 ►GS300

If the oil level is below or only slightly above the low level mark, add engine oil of the same type as already in the engine.

Remove the oil filler cap and add engine oil a little at a time, checking the dipstick. We recommend that you use a funnel when adding oil. The approximate quantity of oil needed to fill between the low level mark and the full level mark on the dipstick is indicated below for reference.

When the level reaches within the correct range, return the filler cap and turn the cap clockwise until you hear a click.

Oil quantity. L (qt., Imp. qt.) 1.8 (1.9, 1.6)

NOTICE

• Be careful not to spill the engine oil on the vehicle components.
• Avoid overfilling, or the engine could be damaged.
• Check the oil level on the dipstick once again after adding the oil.

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ENGINE

Engine oil selection

“Toyota Genuine Motor Oil” is filled in your Lexus vehicle. Use Lexus approved “Toyota Genuine Motor Oil” or equivalent to satisfy the following grade and viscosity.

Oil grade: API grade SL “Energy–Conserving” or ILSAC multigrade engine oil.

Recommended viscosity: 5W–30

Temperature range anticipated before next oil change

SAE 5W–30 is the best choice for good fuel economy, and good starting in cold weather.

If SAE is not available, SAE10W–30 may be used. However, it should be replaced with 5W–30 at the next oil change.

Oil identification marks

►API Service Symbol ►ILSAC Certification Mark

Either or both API registered marks are added to some oil containers to help you select the oil you should use.

• The API Service Symbol is located anywhere on the outside of the container.

The top portion of the label shows the oil quality by API (American Petroleum Institute) designation such as SL. The center portion of the label shows the SAE viscosity grade such as SAE 5W–30. "Energy–Conserving", shown in the lower portion, indicates that the oil has fuel-saving capabilities.

• The ILSAC (International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee) Certification Mark is displayed on the front of the container.

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ENGINE

To ensure excellent performance for your engine, “Toyota Genuine Motor Oil” is available, which has been specifically tested and approved for all Lexus engines.

Please contact your Lexus dealer for further details about “Toyota Genuine Motor Oil”.

CHECKING THE ENGINE COOLANT LEVEL

►GS430 1 Reservoir cap 2 Upper line 3 Lower line

►GS300 1 Reservoir cap 2 Upper line 3 Lower line

264

ENGINE

Look at the see-through coolant reservoir when the engine is cold. The coolant level is satisfactory if it is between the "FULL" and "LOW" lines on the reservoir. If the level is low, add ethylene-glycol type coolant for a proper corrosion protection of aluminum components.

The coolant level in the reservoir will vary with engine temperature. However, if the level is on or below the "LOW" line, add coolant. Bring the level up to the "FULL" line.

Always use ethylene-glycol type coolant for a proper corrosion protection of aluminum components. See information in the next column.

If the coolant level drops within a short time after replenishing, there may be a leak in the system. Visually check the radiator, hoses, engine coolant filler cap, radiator cap and drain cock and water pump.

If you can find no leak, have your Lexus dealer test the cap pressure and check for leaks in the cooling system.

CAUTION To prevent burning yourself, do not remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot.

Coolant type selection

Use of improper coolants may damage your engine cooling system. Your coolant must contain ethylene-glycol type coolant for proper corrosion protection of your engine that contains aluminum components. We have used "Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant" in your Lexus vehicle. In order to avoid technical problems, we strongly recommend using "Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant" or equivalent.

In addition to preventing freezing and subsequent damage to the engine, this type of coolant will also prevent corrosion. Further supplemental inhibitors or additives are neither needed nor recommended.

Read the coolant container for information on freeze protection. Follow the manufacturer's directions for how much to mix with plain water (preferably demineralized water or distilled water). The total capacity of the cooling system is given on page 252 or 255.

We recommend a 50% solution for your Lexus, to provide protection down to about –35°C (–31°F). When it is extremely cold, to provide protection down to about –50°C (–58°F), a 60% solution is recommended. Do not use more than 70% solution for better coolant performance.

NOTICE Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or plain water alone.

265

ENGINE

The engine cooling system is integral to maximizing performance of your Lexus vehicle. In line with this, it is strongly recommended that you use “Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant” for protecting the system, as it is an ethylene-glycol based premium antifreeze coolant with excellent corrosion protection properties that has been specifically formulated for use in Lexus vehicles.

Please contact your Lexus dealer for further details about “Toyota Genuine Long Life Coolant”.

CHECKING THE RADIATOR AND CONDENSER

If either of the above parts are extremely dirty or you are not sure of their condition, take your vehicle to your Lexus dealer.

CAUTION To prevent burning yourself , be careful not to touch the radiator or condenser when the engine is hot.

NOTICE To prevent damage to the radiator and condenser, do not perform the work by yourself.

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ENGINE

SPARK PLUGS

►GS430 Your engine is fitted with iridium-tipped spark plugs.

NOTICE Use only iridium-tipped spark plugs and do not adjust gaps for your engine performance and smooth drivability.

►GS300 Your engine is fitted with the designated iridium-tipped spark plugs.

NOTICE Use the designated iridium-tipped spark plugs and do not adjust gaps for your engine performance and smooth drivability.

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268

SECTION 6 – 3

SERVICE PROCEDURES AND SPECIFICATIONS

Chassis

• Specifications (GS430) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........ 270
• Specifications (GS300) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........ 274
• Checking brake fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ........

CHASSIS

SPECIFICATIONS (GS430)

– DIFFERENTIAL

NOTE:
*Vehicles with synthetic oil information label only:
The following label is affixed on the right side of the differential carrier. Use the type and viscosity shown on the label when the differential oil is replaced.

Synthetic oil information label

NOTICE
Vehicles with synthetic oil information label only:
Use of differential oil other than “Toyota Genuine Differential Synthetic gear oil API GL–5 SAE 75W–90” or its equivalent may damage the differential gear of your vehicle and diminish fuel efficiency. For the reasons mentioned above, Lexus recommends use of “Toyota Genuine Differential Synthetic gear oil API GL–5 SAE 75W–90”. Another differential oil of matching quality can also be used, (but note that despite the similarity in nomenclature between “Toyota Genuine Differential Synthetic gear oil API GL–5 SAE 75W–90” and oils that meet SAE 75W–90 specifications, compliance with the SAE specification does not guarantee that an oil has all characteristic required to avoid the problem described above.) If you are unable to locate an equivalent to “Toyota Genuine Differential Synthetic gear oil API GL–5 SAE 75W–90”, contact your Lexus dealer for further details or another duly qualified and equipped professional.

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