GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
| IF THIS INDICATOR OR BUZZER COMES ON ... | DO THIS. |
|---|---|
| (e) | Stop and check. |
| (f) | Stop and check. |
| (g) | Add engine oil. |
| (h) | Take vehicle to Lexus dealer. |
| (i) | Take vehicle to Lexus dealer. If brake system warning light is also on, stop immediately and contact Lexus dealer. |
| IF THIS INDICATOR OR BUZZER COMES ON ... | DO THIS. |
|---|---|
| (j) | Close all doors. |
| (k) | Replace bulb. |
| (l) | Add washer fluid. |
| (m) | Take vehicle to Lexus dealer. |
| (n) | Take vehicle to Lexus dealer. |
GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
| IF THIS INDICATOR OR BUZZER COMES ON ... | DO THIS. |
|---|---|
| (o) | Adjust tire pressure. |
| (p) | Low fuel level warning lightFill up tank. |
| (q) | Key reminder buzzerRemove key. |
| (r) | Open retractable hardtop warning buzzerStop immediately and open or close the retractable hardtop fully. |
(a) Brake System Warning Light and Buzzer
This light comes on in the following cases when the ignition switch is in the “ON” position.
- When the parking brake is applied ...
This light comes on for a few seconds when the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position even after the parking brake is released.
If you drive your vehicle without releasing the parking brake, the buzzer sounds.
- When the brake fluid level is low ...
CAUTION
It is dangerous to continue driving normally when the brake fluid level is low.
- When the hydraulic brake booster fails ...
If the hydraulic booster causes a problem resulting in poor braking performance, the warning light comes on and buzzer sounds continuously.
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GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
Have your vehicle checked at your Lexus dealer in the following cases:
- The light does not come on even if the parking brake is applied when the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position.
- The light does not come on even if the ignition switch is turned on with the parking brake released.
A warning light turned on briefly during operation does not indicate a problem.
CAUTION
If either of the following conditions occurs, immediately stop your vehicle at a safe place and contact your Lexus dealer.
- The light does not turn off even after the parking brake is released while the engine is running.
- The warning buzzer comes on together with the warning light.
In either case, this can indicate that the brakes may not work properly and your stopping distance will become longer. Depress the brake pedal firmly and bring the vehicle to an immediate stop.
- The brake system warning light remains on together with the “ABS” warning light.
In this case, not only the anti-lock brake system will fail but also the vehicle will become extremely unstable during braking.
Any of the following conditions may occur, but do not indicate the malfunction:
- The light may stay on for about 60 seconds after the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position. It is normal if it turns off after a while.
- Depressing the brake pedal repeatedly may turn on the warning light and buzzer. It is normal if the light turns off and the buzzer stops sounding after a few seconds.
- You may hear a small sound in the engine compartment after the engine is started or the brake pedal is depressed repeatedly. This is a pump pulsating sound of the brake system, and it is not a malfunction.
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GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
(b) Driver’s Seat Belt Reminder Light and Buzzer This light and buzzer remind you to buckle up the driver’s seat belt.
Once the ignition switch is turned to "ON" or "START", the reminder light flashes and buzzer comes on if the driver’s seat belt is not fastened. Unless the driver fastens the belt, the light stays flashing and the buzzer stops after about 4 to 8 seconds.
(c) Front Passenger’s Seat Belt Reminder Light This light reminds you to buckle up the front passenger’s seat belt.
Once the ignition switch is turned to "ON" or "START", the reminder light flashes if a passenger sits in the front passenger seat and does not fasten the seat belt. Unless the front passenger fastens the belt, the light stays flashing. However, if a front passenger uses an additional seat cushion, the light may not flash even when the seat belt is not buckled up.
If luggage or other load is placed on the front passenger seat, depending on its weight and how it is placed on the seat, built-in sensors in the seat cushion may detect the pressure, causing the reminder light to come on.
(d) SRS Warning Light This indicator comes on when the ignition switch is turned to the "ON" position. It goes off after about 6 seconds. This means the SRS airbags and seat belt pretensioners are operating properly.
The SRS warning light system monitors the airbag sensor assembly, front airbag sensors, side airbag sensors, occupant detection sensor, seat belt buckle switch, front seat belt pretensioner assemblies, inflators, warning light, interconnecting wiring and power sources.
If either of the following conditions occurs, this indicates a malfunction somewhere in the parts monitored by the warning light system. Contact your Lexus dealer as soon as possible to service the vehicle.
- When the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position, the light does not come on, remains on or flashes.
- The light comes on or starts flashing while driving.
If the light stays on, it indicates that the front airbags have a problem. If the light flashes, the side airbags and/or seat belt pretensioners have a problem.
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GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
(e) Discharge Warning Light This light warns that the battery is being discharged. If it comes on while you are driving, stop the vehicle, turn off the engine, and check for the cause. Look first at the engine drive belt.
- If it is loose or broken, the generator will not charge the battery properly.
- If the belt is O.K., there is a problem somewhere in the charging system.
The engine ignition will continue to operate, however, until the battery is discharged. Turn off the air conditioning, blower, radio, etc., and drive directly to the nearest Lexus dealer or repair shop.
NOTICE Do not continue driving if the engine drive belt is broken or loose.
(f) Low Engine Oil Pressure Warning Light This light warns that the engine oil pressure is too low. If it flickers or stays on while you are driving, pull off the road to a safe place and stop the engine immediately. Call a Lexus dealer or qualified repair shop for assistance.
The light may occasionally flicker when the engine is idling or it may come on briefly after a hard stop. There is no cause for concern if it then goes out when the engine is accelerated slightly.
The light may come on when the oil level is extremely low. It is not designed to indicate low oil level, and the oil level must be checked using the oil level dipstick.
NOTICE Do not drive the vehicle with the warning light on – even for one block. It may ruin the engine.
2003 SC430 from May '03 Prod. (OM24449U) 43
GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
(g) Low Engine Oil Level Warning Light This light warns that the engine oil level is too low. Add oil as soon as possible. (For instructions, see "Checking the engine oil level" on page 308.)
While driving on steep inclines or rough roads which causes the vehicle to substantially sway or on curves, this light may come on due to the movement of engine oil in the engine.
In normal conditions, due to engine oil consumption, this light may come on earlier than the specified service interval of the scheduled maintenance. This is because the engine oil is consumed to the low level within the scheduled maintenance interval and does not indicate a problem. (For detailed information, see "Facts about engine oil consumption" on page 306.)
NOTICE Continued engine operation with low engine oil will damage the engine.
(h) Malfunction Indicator Lamp This lamp comes on when the ignition switch is turned to the "ON" position and goes off after the engine starts. This means that the warning light system is operating properly.
If the lamp remains on, or the lamp comes on while driving, first check the following:
• Empty fuel tank If the fuel tank is empty, refuel immediately.
• Loose fuel tank cap If the fuel tank cap is loose, securely tighten it.
These cases are temporary malfunctions. The malfunction indicator lamp will go off after taking several driving trips.
If the lamp will not go off even after several trips, contact your Lexus dealer as soon as possible.
If the fuel tank is not empty or the fuel tank cap is not loose...
• There is a problem somewhere in the engine, emission control system, electronic throttle control system, automatic transmission electrical system or warning light system itself.
Contact your Lexus dealer as soon as possible to service the vehicle.
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GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
If this lamp comes on and the engine speed does not increase with the accelerator pedal depressed, there may be a problem somewhere in your electronic throttle control system.
At this time, vibrations may occur. However, if you depress the accelerator pedal more firmly and slowly, you can drive your vehicle at low speeds. Have your Lexus checked by your Lexus dealer as soon as possible.
Even if the abnormality of the electronic throttle control system is corrected during low speed driving, the system may not be recovered until the engine is stopped and the ignition switch is turned to “ACC” or “LOCK” position.
Emissions inspection and maintenance (I/M) programs
Your vehicle may not pass a state emission inspection if the malfunction indicator lamp remains on. Contact your Lexus dealer to check your vehicle’s emission control system and OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) system before taking your vehicle for the inspection.
For details, see “Emissions inspection and maintenance (I/M) programs” on page 289.
(i) "ABS" Warning Light
The light comes on when the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position. If the anti-lock brake system and the brake assist system work properly, the light turns off after a few seconds. Thereafter, if either of the systems malfunctions, the light comes on again.
When the “ABS” warning light is on (and the brake system warning light is off), the anti-lock brake system, the brake assist system, the traction control system and/or the vehicle stability control system do/does not operate, but the brake system still operates conventionally.
When the “ABS” warning light is on (and the brake system warning light is off), the anti-lock brake system does not operate so that the wheels could lock up during a sudden braking or braking on slippery road surfaces.
If either of the following conditions occurs, this indicates a malfunction somewhere in the parts monitored by the warning light system. Contact your Lexus dealer as soon as possible to service the vehicle.
• The light does not come on when the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position, or remains on.
• The light comes on while you are driving.
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GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
A warning light turning on briefly during operation does not indicate a problem.
Either of the following conditions may occur, but do not indicate the malfunction:
- The light may stay on for about 60 seconds after the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position. It is normal if it turns off after a while.
- Depressing the brake pedal repeatedly may turn on the light. It is normal if it turns off after a few seconds.
CAUTION
If the “ABS” warning light remains on together with the brake system warning light, immediately stop your vehicle at a safe place and contact your Lexus dealer.
In this case, not only the anti-lock brake system will fail but also the vehicle will become extremely unstable during braking.
(j) Open Door Warning Light and Buzzer
This light remains on until both side doors and trunk lid are completely closed. The buzzer sounds if you drive your vehicle with the doors or trunk lid not closed completely.
(k) Rear Light Failure Warning Light
If this light comes on when the headlight switch is turned on (at the first or second clickstop), it indicates that one or more of the tail lights are burned out.
If it comes on when the brake pedal is depressed, one or more stop lights are burned out.
Have defective bulbs replaced as soon as possible.
(l) Low Washer Fluid Warning Light
This light comes on when the fluid level in the tank becomes very low. Fill the tank as soon as possible.
(m) Automatic Headlight Leveling System Warning Light
This light warns that there is a problem somewhere in the automatic headlight leveling system.
If it comes on, have your vehicle checked by your Lexus dealer.
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GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
(n) Vehicle Stability Control System Warning Lights
These lights warn that there is a problem somewhere in the vehicle stability control system or traction control system.
If the "VSC" warning light and "VSC OFF" indicator light come on, have your vehicle checked by Lexus dealer as soon as possible.
The lights will come on when the ignition switch is turned to "ON", and will go off after about a few seconds.
The lights may stay on for 60 seconds after the ignition switch is turned to the "ON" position. It is normal if they go out after a while.
Depressing the brake pedal repeatedly may turn on the lights. It is normal if they go out after a few seconds.
If the "VSC" warning light and "VSC OFF" indicator light come on, the vehicle stability control system does not activate, however, it is no problem to continue your driving.
(o) Low Tire Pressure Warning Light and Chimes
This light and chimes warn you that the tire pressure is low. This light comes on when the ignition switch is turned to the "ON" position and goes off after a few seconds. This means the low tire pressure warning light is operating properly.
If the warning light does not go off, or comes on or blinks during driving, or the chimes sound, this indicates that air pressure is low. Make sure there is no flat tire. If the warning light comes on again even after air is put in the tires, a tire may still be flat.
If this warning light comes on, the action you must take is completely different depending on the type of tires used. You must understand how to distinguish tires between standard tires and run-flat tires in order to operate your vehicle safely and should refer to page 217.
If you drive over about 180 km/h (112 mph) with the tires not inflated at the designated pressure for high speed driving, the warning light may turn on. If the tires are at the designated pressure for ordinary speed driving, decreasing the speed will turn off the warning light. (For the designated pressure for high speed driving, see "Specifications" on page 318.)
This warning light may turn on due to natural causes such as natural air leaks or tire pressure changes caused by temperature. In this case, adjusting the tire pressure will turn off the warning light. For details about adjusting the tire pressure, see "Checking tire pressure" on page 321.
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GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
Vehicles with run-flat tires:
If the warning light is on, the tire pressure is lower than specified.
Stop your vehicle at a safe place as soon as possible and check that the tire pressure is as specified on the tire pressure label. The air pressure gauge is located in the tool bag. If the warning light comes on or blinks even after tire pressure adjustment, it is probable that you have a flat tire. If you cannot verify the tire pressure soon, go to the nearest Lexus dealer or authorized tire dealer at the moderate speed and do not ever exceed 90 km/h (55 mph) and have all your vehicle's tires checked and adjusted. And whether there is a flat tire or not should be also checked at this time. If any tire must be replaced, see "If you have a flat tire" on page 239.
If the warning light does not go off more than 15 minutes after the tire pressure is adjusted, the system might be malfunctioning. Consult your Lexus dealer.
CAUTION
If the warning light comes on, take your vehicle to the nearest Lexus dealer, tire dealer or gas station as soon as possible, observing the following instructions:
- Decelerate as soon as possible to the most appropriate speed that conditions permit. Do not drive over 90 km/h (55 mph).
- Avoid abrupt steering wheel maneuvering and braking. If the vehicle tires deteriorate, you could lose control of the steering wheel or the brakes, causing death or serious injury.
If the warning light blinks and chimes sound every few minutes, the tire pressure is very low.
Decrease your speed as soon as possible and call a Lexus dealer, Roadside Assistance or Customer Service Assistance (see "Foreword"). And take your vehicle to the nearest Lexus dealer or authorized tire dealer at a speed below 90 km/h (55 mph).
When you drive your vehicle after the low tire pressure warning light blinks and chimes sound, the tire must be replaced. Do not use the repaired tire.
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GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
CAUTION If the warning light blinks and chimes sound, take your vehicle to the nearest Lexus dealer or authorized tire dealer as soon as possible, observing the following instructions:
- Decelerate as soon as possible to the most appropriate speed that conditions permit. Do not drive for longer than 160 km (100 miles) or over 90 km/h (55 mph).
- Avoid abrupt steering wheel maneuvering and braking. If the vehicle tires deteriorate, you could lose control of the steering wheel or the brakes, causing death or serious injury.
- The warning system may not activate immediately if bursts or sudden air leakage should occur.
NOTICE
- Take due care not to go over a curb stone and be careful of holes in the road because deflated tire pressure affects tire cushion performance. The wheels, tires, body, suspension and other components could be damaged.
- When the tires must be replaced, have them replaced by the nearest Lexus dealer or authorized tire dealer. The tire pressure sensors will be affected by the installation or removal of tires.
- Your ground clearance is reduced if the run-flat tire goes flat so avoid driving over obstacles and drive slowly on rough, unpaved roads and speed bumps. Also, do not attempt to go through an automatic car wash as the vehicle may get caught, resulting in damage.
- When the tires must be replaced, replace the grommets for air pressure sensors as well.
- Do not use liquid sealants for flat tire as air pressure sensors will be damaged.
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GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
Vehicles with standard tires:
If the warning light is on, the tire pressure is lower than specified.
Stop your vehicle at a safe place as soon as possible and check that the tire pressure is as specified on the tire pressure label. The air pressure gauge is located in the tool bag. If the warning light comes on or blinks even after tire pressure adjustment, it is probable that you have a flat tire. If the tire goes flat, change to the spare tire. (See page 241).
The spare tire is not equipped with the tire pressure sensor. So, the warning light remains on even if the spare tire is mounted.
If the warning light does not go off more than 15 minutes after air is put in the deflated tire, the system might be malfunctioning. Consult your Lexus dealer.
CAUTION
If the warning light comes on, observe the following instructions:
- Decrease the speed as soon as possible.
- Avoid abrupt steering wheel maneuvering and braking. If the vehicle tires deteriorate, you could lose control of the steering wheel or the brakes, causing death or serious injury.
If the warning light blinks and chimes sound every few minutes, the tire pressure is very low.
Stop your vehicle at a safe place as soon as possible and check that the tire pressure is as specified on the tire pressure label. The air pressure gauge is located in the tool bag. Locate the deflated tire and change to the spare tire. For the procedure for changing the tire, see "If you have a flat tire (Vehicles with standard tires)" on page 241.
The spare tire is not equipped with the tire pressure sensor. So, the warning light remains on even if the spare tire is mounted.
CAUTION
If the warning light blinks and chimes sound, observe the following instructions:
- Decrease the speed as soon as possible.
- Avoid abrupt steering wheel maneuvering and braking. If the vehicle tires deteriorate, you could lose control of the steering wheel or the brakes, causing death or serious injury.
- The warning system may not activate immediately if bursts or sudden air leakage should occur.
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GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
NOTICE
- When the tires must be repaired or replaced, have them repaired or replaced by the nearest Lexus dealer or authorized tire dealer. The tire pressure sensors will be affected by the installation or removal of tires.
- When the tires must be replaced, replace the grommets for air pressure sensors as well.
- Do not use liquid sealants for a flat tire as air pressure sensors will be damaged.
(p) Low Fuel Level Warning Light
This light comes on when the fuel level in the tank becomes very low. Fill the tank as soon as possible.
On inclines or curves, due to the movement of fuel in the tank, the low fuel level warning light may come on earlier than usual.
(q) Key Reminder Buzzer
This buzzer reminds you to remove the key when you open the driver's door with the ignition switch in the "ACC" or "LOCK" position.
(r) Open Retractable Hardtop Warning Buzzer
The buzzer continues sounding if you drive your vehicle with the retractable hardtop partially closed or opened. Immediately stop your vehicle and open or close the retractable hardtop fully.
How to check all the service reminder indicators
(except the low fuel level warning light):
- Apply the parking brake.
- Open the door.
The following service reminder indicator should come on. It goes off when you close the door completely.
- Turn the ignition switch to "ON".
The following service reminder indicators should come on.
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GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
The following service reminder indicators go off after a few seconds.
The following service reminder indicator goes off after 6 seconds.
The lights other than the slip indicator light may stay on for about 60 seconds after the ignition switch is turned to the “ON” position. It is normal if they go out after a while.
If any service reminder indicator or warning buzzer does not function as described above, have it checked by your Lexus dealer as soon as possible.
TRIP INFORMATION DISPLAY
The following information is shown on the automatic air conditioning control panel with the ignition switch turned on. Each time you push the “TRIP INFO” button, the displayed information is changed.
- Available driving distance
- Average fuel consumption
- Average vehicle speed
- Blank
The displayed trip information values indicate the general driving condition and may not always reflect precise and actual conditions.
GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
• Available driving distance (Figures with “Mi” or “km”)
►When the fuel gauge is not close to "E"
►When the fuel gauge is close to "E"
The available driving distance is calculated and displayed depending on the amount of remaining fuel.
• Average fuel consumption (Figures with “MPG” or “L/100km”)
The average fuel consumption is calculated and displayed based on the total driving distance and the total fuel consumption with the engine running.
The value is updated every 10 seconds.
To begin recalculating, push the "TRIP INFO" button for more than 1 second.
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GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
- Average vehicle speed
(Figures with “MPH” or “km/h”)
The average vehicle speed is calculated and displayed based on the total driving distance and the total driving time with the engine running.
The displayed value is updated every 10 seconds.
To begin recalculating, push the "TRIP INFO" button for more than 1 second.
COMPASS
(Vehicles without Navigation System)
When the ignition switch is on, the compass indicates the direction in which the vehicle is heading. The illustration shown above indicates the vehicle is heading north.
| Displays | Directions |
|---|---|
| N | North |
| NE | Northeast |
| E | East |
| SE | Southeast |
| S | South |
| SW | Southwest |
| W | West |
| NW | Northwest |
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GAUGES, METERS AND SERVICE REMINDER INDICATORS
The compass may not show the correct direction in the following conditions:
- The vehicle is stopped immediately after turning. The compass does not adjust while the vehicle is stopped.
- The ignition switch is turned off immediately after turning. The compass does not adjust while the vehicle is stopped.
- The vehicle is on an inclined surface.
- The vehicle is in a place where the earth's magnetic field is subject to interference by artificial magnetic fields (underground parking, under a steel tower, between buildings, roof parking, near a crossing, near a large vehicle, etc.).
- The vehicle is magnetized. (There is a magnet or a metal object near center of the instrument panel.)
- The battery has been disconnected.
- Any door is open.
The compass works to calibrate the direction automatically while the vehicle is in motion, if deviation is small.
For obtaining additional precision or for complete calibrating, see "CALIBRATING THE COMPASS" below.
COMPASS SENSOR
►Compass sensor
The compass sensor is located behind the center of the instrument panel.
NOTICE Do not put magnets or a metal object near the center of the instrument panel. Doing this may cause malfunction of the compass sensor.
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