Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Have some questions about the maintenance of your Lexus? Tap into our knowledge center right here.

Lexus
What does Lexus recommend for the engine break-in period?

The engine of your new Lexus vehicle is made with industry-leading precision and quality. As a result, the break-in procedures listed in the Owner's Manual for a brand-new Lexus are optional. While following these procedures may help to optimize engine performance and engine longevity over the life of the engine, these potential benefits are marginal compared to the benefits that result from ensuring that recommended maintenance is performed as scheduled.

What size battery is used in Lexus remote keys?

The current model Lexus vehicles use CR1632 and CR1616 Panasonic batteries, which can be obtained through a Lexus dealer.

What should be used to clean fingerprints on the navigation screen?

Use an eyeglass-cleaning cloth for cleaning fingerprints from the screen. Do not use any cleaner containing ammonia.

How do I reset the "Maint Reqd" light located on the instrument panel?

This procedure should be used to reset the light when maintenance has been performed:
1) Turn ignition switch to the ON position.
2) Set the Odometer/Trip Display to the ODO mode
3) Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
4) Depress and HOLD the Trip Meter RESET button while turning the ignition switch to the ON position.
5) The Service Maintenance Reminder Light will: a. Illuminate solidly for 3 seconds. b. Blink for 2 seconds. c. Illuminate solidly for 1 second. d. Turn off.
6) Release the Trip Meter RESET button.
7) Turn the ignition to the OFF position.
8) Turn the ignition to the ON position, and confirm that the Service Maintenance Reminder Light goes out.
NOTE: If the light continues blinking in step 5a, turn the ignition off, and repeat the procedure from step 1.

What are some common reasons why the "BRAKE" indicator light is illuminated?

1) The "Brake" indicator light will illuminate if the parking brake is not fully released. The driver may check if the parking brake is fully released. Sometimes the parking brake seems to be released, but it may need be held for a little while before it really releases. The customer can also repeat applying and releasing the parking brake, while parked, as they may have not released the parking brake completely.
2) The light will also be on if the brake fluid is slightly lower than allowed. That is usually an indication that the brake pads are worn and need service soon.
3) The worst-case scenario is that the brake system is leaking fluid, which could lead to hydraulic failure resulting in no braking power. The driver would feel the brake pedal become spongy, and braking power required would steadily decrease or become more difficult. The driver should not drive the vehicle in this situation. The vehicle should be towed and repaired. Additional diagnostics that may be performed by the dealer include: parking brake adjustment, parking brake warning switch, parking brake warning switch wiring harness and connected components, brake fluid-level warning switch, brake fluid-level warning switch wiring harness and connected components.

What is the factory recommendation to have the timing belt replaced?

Our timing belts have been very reliable. However, the timing belt is subjected to severe stress if the vehicle is operated under extensive idling or low speed driving for long distances, such as in heavy commercial use such as delivery, taxi or patrol car. If the timing belt breaks, the engine will stop running and will not restart until it is repaired. While it is possible that the original timing belt may last the life of the above engines, for peace-of-mind, the timing belt may be replaced every 90,000 miles. Also, if major engine work is performed, such as a valve job or engine rebuild, the timing belt should be replaced.

What should be done to a Lexus vehicle to prepare it for long-term storage?

Before storing car: Change engine oil; change engine coolant if due during time of expected length of storage; fill up fuel tank; wash vehicle using high-pressure water or steam to clean underneath. Rub the leather seat surfaces with an approved leather cleaner and allow to dry in a ventilated, shaded area. Check underneath the floor mats to ensure the carpet is dry. If there are any paint chips, have them repaired. (Customer should be aware that Lexus recommends operating the A/C compressor once a month to ensure proper lubrication. If the vehicle is stored for a long time, it could be detrimental to the compressor.) When storing car: Operate engine at normal operating temperature for 15 minutes prior to shutting off the engine. Disconnect negative battery cable. (If applicable, radio may lock up.) Leave parking brake off. Put vehicle up on blocks. If stored in a temperate, ventilated garage, windows can be left cracked slightly open. Cover vehicle. When bringing vehicle out of storage: Charge battery and reconnect negative battery cable. Check and add underhood fluid levels as needed. Check and inflate tires to correct pressures before taking vehicle off blocks. After starting engine, observe warning lights. If any remain illuminated, have issue addressed by Lexus dealer as appropriate. Check brake pedal for normal feel (height and firmness) before shifting transmission. Take vehicle to a Lexus dealer for general inspection.

Does the Owner's Manual state the minimum required maintenance for my Lexus?

Maintaining your Lexus vehicle according to the recommendations in the Warranty and Services Guide Scheduled Maintenance Log is required to ensure that your warranty coverage remains intact. Your Lexus dealer may recommend more frequent maintenance intervals or more maintenance services than those listed in the Warranty and Services Guide. These additional services are not required to maintain your warranty coverage. Please ask your dealer for an explanation of any recommended maintenance not included in the Scheduled Maintenance Log.

How do I clean the interior and exterior of my Lexus?

You don't need to take your vehicle to a car wash to keep it looking beautiful. By using the right products, you can clean the exterior, the wheels and even the leather interior.

What's the best way to take care of my Lexus?

Regular maintenance can help keep your vehicle at its peak performance while averting more serious repairs down the line. When you purchase a Lexus, your dealer will give you several booklets that contain detailed maintenance instructions. For more maintenance information, read the attached PDF. You can also visit your specific model's "Service & Maintenance" page on lexus.com, where you can find your full maintenance guide.

How important is a tire's treadwear rating?

When choosing a new set of tires, the treadwear rating offers no guarantee of the mileage a customer will get. Weather, driving habits, road conditions, alignment and tire maintenance all affect tread life. The treadwear rating merely lets a customer compare the potential life of different tires. Also, these ratings may be interpreted differently by different tire manufacturers. Refer to the appropriate Warranty and Services Guide for specific tire manufacturer limited warranty.

What should be used to clean the carpet?

Lexus recommends the use of Scotchguard™-type products on polyester material to help repel fluids, which could help keep liquids from soaking in and drying between the polyester fibers. Scotchguard™-type treatments are applied to the surface and will wear off at some point. For more information on carpet care for your vehicle, please contact your nearest Lexus dealer.

Courtesy of Lexus.com

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