FOREWORD
Congratulations on your selection of this Lexus. In Lexus vehicles we have invested all our engineering and design resources; all the know-how we have gained in over 60 years of making automobiles; the highest motivation of our most talented employees; and our tradition of incessant striving toward ever greater quality.
This Owner’s Manual explains the features of your new Lexus. Please read it and follow the instructions carefully so that you can enjoy many years of safe motoring.
When it comes to service, remember that your Lexus dealer knows your vehicle best and is interested in your complete satisfaction. Your Lexus dealer will provide quality maintenance and any other assistance you may require.
If there is not a Lexus dealer near you, or you need emergency assistance for any reason, please call the following number:
U.S. OWNERS
- When traveling in the U.S. mainland or Canada: Lexus Roadside Assistance 1–800–25–LEXUS (Toll-Free) (1–800–255–3987)
- HAWAII: Lexus Customer Service Assistance 1–800–25–LEXUS (Toll-Free) (1–800–255–3987)
CANADIAN OWNERS
- When traveling in Canada or the U.S. mainland: Lexus Roadside Assistance/Customer Service 1–800–26–LEXUS (Toll-Free) (1–800–265–3987)
Please leave this Owner’s Manual in this vehicle at the time of resale. The next owner will need this information also.
All information and specifications in this manual are current at the time of printing. However, because of the Lexus policy of continual product improvement, we reserve the right to make changes at any time without notice.
Please note that this manual applies to all models and explains all equipment, including options. Therefore, you may find some explanations for equipment not installed on your vehicle.
TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION
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2003 SC430 from May ’03 Prod. (OM24449U)
INTRODUCTION
New vehicle warranty Your new vehicle is covered by the following Lexus limited warranties:
- New vehicle warranty
- Emission control systems warranty
- Others
For further information, please refer to the “Owner’s Guide”, “Owner’s Manual Supplement” or “Warranty Booklet”.
Your responsibility for maintenance It is the owner’s responsibility to make sure the specified maintenance is performed. Section 5 of this Owner’s Manual gives details of these maintenance requirements. Included in Section 6 is general maintenance. For scheduled maintenance information, please refer to the “Owner’s Manual Supplement / Scheduled Maintenance”.
Accessories, spare parts and modification of your Lexus A wide variety of non-genuine spare parts and accessories for Lexus vehicles are currently available in the market. You should know that Toyota does not warrant these products and is not responsible for their performance, repair, or replacement, or for any damage they may cause to, or adverse effect they may have on, your Lexus vehicle.
This vehicle should not be modified with non-genuine Lexus products. Modification with non-genuine Lexus products could affect its performance, safety or durability, and may even violate governmental regulations. In addition, damage or performance problems resulting from the modification may not be covered under warranty.
Spark ignition system of your Lexus The spark ignition system in your Lexus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Standard.
Installation of a mobile two-way radio system As the installation of a mobile two-way radio system in your vehicle could affect electronic systems such as the multiport fuel injection system/sequential multiport fuel injection system, cruise control system, anti-lock brake system, SRS airbag system and seat belt pretensioner system, be sure to check with your Lexus dealer for precautionary measures or special instructions regarding installation.
Scrapping of your Lexus The SRS airbag and seat belt pretensioner devices in your Lexus contain explosive chemicals. If the vehicle is scrapped with the airbags and seat belt pretensioners left as they are, this may cause an accident such as fire. Be sure to have the systems of the SRS airbag and seat belt pretensioner removed and disposed of by a qualified service shop or by your Lexus dealer before you scrap your vehicle.
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HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
The contents of this manual are explained briefly on this page to help you make the best use of the manual. Please read this page and the rest of the Owner’s Manual carefully to make sure you fully understand the operation of your vehicle.
This will help you enjoy safe and comfortable driving.
TABLE OF CONTENTS The table of contents and the pictorial index provide easy reference to the appropriate pages.
BASIC OPERATION – QUICK REFERENCE Operation of basic equipment is briefly explained in an easily understandable way for quick reference.
SECTION 1 – INSTRUMENTS AND CONTROLS The vehicle’s equipment is divided into the 7 groups listed below. Use of the equipment is explained, including any points you should pay particular attention to.
- Keys and doors
- Switches
- Gauges, meters and service reminder indicators
- Interior equipment
- Exterior equipment
- Comfort adjustment
- Theft deterrent
SECTION 2 – AIR CONDITIONING AND AUDIO The features of the vehicle’s air conditioning and audio are explained in detail. Be sure to read this section so that you can make full use of them.
SECTION 3 – STARTING AND DRIVING Starting the engine, driving, stopping, operation of features affecting vehicle handling, hints on vehicle safety and safe driving techniques are all explained. Please read everything in this section, and remember – drive safely!
SECTION 4 – IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY This section explains what to do in the event of an urgent situation such as the engine not starting or getting a flat tire, etc. If such a problem occurs, check the contents of this Owner’s Manual and follow the instructions given.
SECTION 5 – MAINTENANCE This section explains the importance of regular maintenance. Regular and periodic inspection and maintenance of your Lexus will help to keep your vehicle in its best condition.
SECTION 6 – SERVICE PROCEDURES AND SPECIFICATIONS Simple maintenance procedure and service data are provided here for your reference should you wish to perform inspection and maintenance yourself.
INDEX The page number is listed for each item in the Owner’s Manual so that you can rapidly find the item and page you are searching for.
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2003 SC430 from May ’03 Prod. (OM24449U)
HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
GAS STATION INFORMATION
The information you need to know for appropriate servicing at the gas station is provided here.
QUICK INDEX
This is designed so that you can quickly find the needed information when an urgent situation arises.
Safety symbol
In this manual, you will also see a circle with a slash through it. This means "Do not", "Do not do this", or "Do not let this happen".
Safety and vehicle damage warnings
In this manual you will see CAUTION and NOTICE warnings. These are used in the following ways:
CAUTION This is a warning against anything which may cause injury to people if the warning is ignored. You are informed about what you must or must not do in order to reduce the risk of injury to yourself and others.
NOTICE This is a warning against anything which may cause damage to the vehicle or its equipment if the warning is ignored. You are informed about what you must or must not do in order to avoid or reduce the risk of damage to your Lexus and its equipment.
Your Lexus Owner's Manual provides you with a considerable amount of information. To use this information most effectively, please take the time to familiarize yourself with the contents and use of the manual.
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PICTORIAL INDEX
INSTRUMENT PANEL

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PICTORIAL INDEX
| # | Item | Page | # | Item | Page |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Driving position memory switch | 146 | 16 | Glove box | 68 |
| 2 | Power window switches | 29 | 17 | Audio door control switch | 170 |
| 3 | Door lock switch | 20 | 18 | Ashtray/Cigarette lighter | 65 |
| 4 | Window lock switch | 30 | 19 | Cup holder | 74 |
| 5 | Power rear view mirror control switch | 101 | 20 | Coin box | 75 |
| 6 | Headlight cleaner switch | 27 | 21 | Vehicle stability control system OFF switch | 210 |
| 7 | Side vents | 165 | 22 | Coin box door opener | 75 |
| 8 | Security indicator light | 150 | 23 | Driving pattern selector switch | 201 |
| 9 | Headlight, turn signal and fog light switches | 22, 24, 25 | 24 | Automatic transmission selector lever | 199 |
| 10 | Instrument panel light control | 59 | 25 | Ignition switch | 196 |
| 11 | Wiper and washer switches | 26 | 26 | Cruise control switch | 206 |
| 12 | Center vents | 165 | 27 | Steering pad switches | 187 |
| 13 | Front passenger’s seat belt reminder light | 42 | 28 | Hood opener | 84 |
| 14 | Automatic air conditioning controls | 154 | 29 | Parking brake | 197, 204 |
| 15 | Car audio | 168 | 30 | Trunk lid opener | 85 |
| 31 | Fuel filler door opener | 88 | |||
| 32 | Parking brake release lever | 197 |
For detailed information, refer to the description given in each Section.
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PICTORIAL INDEX
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Vehicles with compass sold in U.S.A.)

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PICTORIAL INDEX
| # | Item | Page |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tachometer | 37 |
| 2 | Slip indicator light | 209 |
| 3 | Snow mode indicator light | 205 |
| 4 | Power mode indicator light | 201, 205 |
| 5 | Automatic headlight leveling system warning light | 46 |
| 6 | Low washer fluid warning light | 46 |
| 7 | Vehicle stability control system warning light | 47 |
| 8 | Headlight high beam indicator light | 24 |
| 9 | Headlight indicator light | 22 |
| 10 | Compass | 54 |
| 11 | Low engine oil level warning light | 44 |
| 12 | Rear light failure warning light | 46 |
| 13 | Anti-lock brake system warning light | 45 |
| 14 | Discharge warning light | 43 |
| 15 | Low engine oil pressure warning light | 43 |
| 16 | SRS warning light | 42 |
| 17 | Engine coolant temperature gauge | 36 |
| 18 | Automatic transmission indicator lights | 199 |
| 19 | Cruise control indicator light | 206 |
| 20 | Low fuel level warning light | 51 |
| 21 | Fuel filler door indicator | 88 |
| 22 | Fuel gauge | 36 |
| 23 | Turn signal indicator lights | 25 |
| 24 | Odometer and trip meter | 38 |
| 25 | Vehicle stability control system OFF indicator light | 211 |
| 26 | Open door warning light | 46 |
| 27 | Malfunction indicator lamp | 44 |
| 28 | Low tire pressure warning light | 47 |
| 29 | Driver’s seat belt reminder light | 42 |
| 30 | Brake system warning light | 40 |
| 31 | ODO/TRIP, RESET button | 38 |
For detailed information, refer to the description given in each Section.

PICTORIAL INDEX
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Vehicles without compass sold in U.S.A.)

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PICTORIAL INDEX
| # | Item | Page |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tachometer | 37 |
| 2 | Slip indicator light | 209 |
| 3 | Snow mode indicator light | 205 |
| 4 | Power mode indicator light | 201, 205 |
| 5 | Automatic headlight leveling system warning light | 46 |
| 6 | Low washer fluid warning light | 46 |
| 7 | Vehicle stability control system warning light | 47 |
| 8 | Headlight high beam indicator light | 24 |
| 9 | Headlight indicator light | 22 |
| 10 | Low engine oil level warning light | 44 |
| 11 | Rear light failure warning light | 46 |
| 12 | Anti-lock brake system warning light | 45 |
| 13 | Discharge warning light | 43 |
| 14 | Low engine oil pressure warning light | 43 |
| 15 | SRS warning light | 42 |
| 16 | Engine coolant temperature gauge | 36 |
| 17 | Automatic transmission indicator lights | 199 |
| 18 | Cruise control indicator light | 206 |
| 19 | Low fuel level warning light | 51 |
| 20 | Fuel filler door indicator | 88 |
| 21 | Fuel gauge | 36 |
| 22 | Turn signal indicator lights | 25 |
| 23 | Odometer and trip meter | 38 |
| 24 | Vehicle stability control system OFF indicator light | 211 |
| 25 | Open door warning light | 46 |
| 26 | Malfunction indicator lamp | 44 |
| 27 | Low tire pressure warning light | 47 |
| 28 | Driver’s seat belt reminder light | 42 |
| 29 | Brake system warning light | 40 |
| 30 | ODO/TRIP, RESET button | 38 |
For detailed information, refer to the description given in each Section.

PICTORIAL INDEX
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Vehicles with compass sold in Canada)

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PICTORIAL INDEX
| # | Item | Page |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tachometer | 37 |
| 2 | Slip indicator light | 209 |
| 3 | Snow mode indicator light | 205 |
| 4 | Power mode indicator light | 201, 205 |
| 5 | Automatic headlight leveling system warning light | 46 |
| 6 | Low washer fluid warning light | 46 |
| 7 | Vehicle stability control system warning light | 47 |
| 8 | Headlight high beam indicator light | 24 |
| 9 | Tail light indicator light | 22 |
| 10 | Compass | 54 |
| 11 | Low engine oil level warning light | 44 |
| 12 | Rear light failure warning light | 46 |
| 13 | Anti-lock brake system warning light | 45 |
| 14 | Discharge warning light | 43 |
| 15 | Low engine oil pressure warning light | 43 |
| 16 | SRS warning light | 42 |
| # | Item | Page |
|---|---|---|
| 17 | Engine coolant temperature gauge | 36 |
| 18 | Automatic transmission indicator lights | 199 |
| 19 | Cruise control indicator light | 206 |
| 20 | Low fuel level warning light | 51 |
| 21 | Fuel filler door indicator | 88 |
| 22 | Fuel gauge | 36 |
| 23 | Turn signal indicator lights | 25 |
| 24 | Odometer and trip meter | 38 |
| 25 | Vehicle stability control system OFF indicator light | 211 |
| 26 | Open door warning light | 46 |
| 27 | Malfunction indicator lamp | 44 |
| 28 | Low tire pressure warning light | 47 |
| 29 | Driver’s seat belt reminder light | 42 |
| 30 | Brake system warning light | 40 |
| 31 | ODO/TRIP, RESET button | 38 |
For detailed information, refer to the description given in each Section.

PICTORIAL INDEX
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Vehicles without compass sold in Canada)

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PICTORIAL INDEX
| # | Item | Page |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tachometer | 37 |
| 2 | Slip indicator light | 209 |
| 3 | Snow mode indicator light | 205 |
| 4 | Power mode indicator light | 201, 205 |
| 5 | Automatic headlight leveling system warning light | 46 |
| 6 | Low washer fluid warning light | 46 |
| 7 | Vehicle stability control system warning light | 47 |
| 8 | Headlight high beam indicator light | 24 |
| 9 | Tail light indicator light | 22 |
| 10 | Low engine oil level warning light | 44 |
| 11 | Rear light failure warning light | 46 |
| 12 | Anti-lock brake system warning light | 45 |
| 13 | Discharge warning light | 43 |
| 14 | Low engine oil pressure warning light | 43 |
| 15 | SRS warning light | 42 |
| 16 | Engine coolant temperature gauge | 36 |
| 17 | Automatic transmission indicator lights | 199 |
| 18 | Cruise control indicator light | 206 |
| 19 | Low fuel level warning light | 51 |
| 20 | Fuel filler door indicator | 88 |
| 21 | Fuel gauge | 36 |
| 22 | Turn signal indicator lights | 25 |
| 23 | Odometer and trip meter | 38 |
| 24 | Vehicle stability control system OFF indicator light | 211 |
| 25 | Open door warning light | 46 |
| 26 | Malfunction indicator lamp | 44 |
| 27 | Low tire pressure warning light | 47 |
| 28 | Driver’s seat belt reminder light | 42 |
| 29 | Brake system warning light | 40 |
| 30 | ODO/TRIP, RESET button | 38 |
For detailed information, refer to the description given in each Section.

PICTORIAL INDEX
SEAT AND STEERING WHEEL
Page
- [1] Tilt and telescopic steering adjustment switch ........ 98
- [2] Seat position, seat cushion angle and height control switch ........ 95, 96 [3] Seatback angle control switch ... 95 [4] Lumbar support control switch .. 96
- [5] Seatback lock release lever ........ 97
For detailed information, refer to the description given in each Section.
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EXTERIOR VIEW

PICTORIAL INDEX
| # | Component | Page |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fuel filler door | 88 |
| 2 | Rear window defogger | 28 |
| 3 | Trunk lid | 85 |
| 4 | Retractable hardtop | 80 |
| 5 | Wiper and washer | 26, 343 |
| 6 | Outside rear view mirror | 100 |
| 7 | Door | 19 |
| 8 | Tire and wheel | 321 |
| 9 | Headlights | 22, 346 |
| 10 | Hood | 84 |
For detailed information, refer to the description given in each Section.
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xviii
BASIC OPERATION
QUICK REFERENCE
- Driver's seat ........ 2
- Steering wheel ........ 2
- Automatic transmission ........ 3
- Headlight and turn signal switch ........ 4
- Wiper switch ........ 5
1
QUICK REFERENCE
1. DRIVER’S SEAT

Seat adjustment
| Seat position | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Seat cushion angle | |||
| Seat cushion height | |||
| Seatback angle | |||
| Lumbar support | |||
| Head restraint height | |||
| Head restraint angle |
2. STEERING WHEEL
• TILT STEERING WHEEL

To tilt the steering wheel up or down to the desired angle, push the control switch in the required direction and release the button when the steering wheel reaches the desired angle.
• TELESCOPIC STEERING WHEEL

To move the steering wheel to the desired position, push the control switch away from you or pull it toward you until the steering wheel reaches the desired position.
3. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION

SELECTOR LEVER POSITION
- P: Parking, engine starting and key removal position
- R: Reverse position
- N: Neutral position
- D: Normal driving position (Shifting into overdrive possible)
- 4: Position for engine braking (Shifting into overdrive not possible)*
- 3, 2: Position for more powerful engine braking
- L: Position for maximum engine braking
*When the cruise control is being used, even if you downshift from "D" to "4", engine braking will not be enabled because the cruise control is not cancelled. For the operation to decrease the vehicle speed, see page 208.

OPERATION OF SELECTOR LEVER
★ Shift while pressing the brake pedal. (Ignition switch must be in the "ON" position.)