Lexus LS400 User manual

1998 Lexus Owner’s Manual
LS400 (U)

FOREWORD
i
Welcome to the growing group of value−conscious people who drive Lexus vehicles. We are proud
of the advanced engineering and quality construction of each vehicle we build.
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
DWhen traveling in the U.S. mainland or Canada:
Lexus Roadside Assistance 1−800−25−LEXUS (Toll−Free)
(1−800−255−3987)
DHAWAII:
Lexus Customer Service Assistance 1−800−25−LEXUS (Toll−Free)
(1−800−255−3987)
CANADIAN OWNERS
DPlease refer to the separate ”Owner’s Guide” or ”Owner’s Manual Supplement”.
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.

INTRODUCTION
ii
New vehicle warranty
Your new vehicle is covered by the following Lexus limited
warranties:
DNew vehicle warranty
DEmission control systems warranty
DOthers
For further information, please refer to the separate ”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 separate ”Owner’s Manual
Supplement/Maintenance Schedule”.
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 either
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 and Supplemental Restraint System
(SRS), be sure to check with your Lexus dealer for precautionary
measures or special instructions regarding installation.
Scrapping of your Lexus
The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in your Lexus consists of
driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags and seat belt
pretensioners. The SRS device contains explosive chemicals. If the
vehicle is scrapped with the airbags and seat belt pretensioners left
as they are, it may cause an accident such as a fire. Be sure to have
the SRS removed and disposed of by a qualified service shop or by
your Lexus dealer before you scrap your vehicle.

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
iii
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.
1. Keys and doors
2. Switches
3. Gauges, meters and service reminder indicators
4. Interior equipment
5. Exterior equipment
6. Comfort adjustment
7. 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.

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
iv
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.
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 something which may cause injury
to people if the warning is ignored. You are informed what you
must or must not do in order to avoid or reduce the risk to
yourself and other people.
NOTICE
This is a warning against something which may cause damage
to the vehicle or its equipment if the warning is ignored. You are
informed 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.

BASIC
OPERATION
SECTION 1
SECTION 2
SECTION 3
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
SECTION 6
SECTION 7
INDEX
TABLE OF CONTENTS
v
BASIC OPERATION − QUICK REFERENCE 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 1 INSTRUMENTS AND Keys and doors 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CONTROLS Switches 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gauges, meters and service
reminder indicators 33. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interior equipment 47. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exterior equipment 61. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Comfort adjustment 69. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Theft deterrent 116. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 2 AIR CONDITIONING AND AUDIO 120. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 3 STARTING AND Starting and driving 154. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DRIVING Driving tips 180. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 4 IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY 192. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 5 MAINTENANCE 212. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 6 SERVICE PROCEDURES Introduction 218. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
AND SPECIFICATIONS Engine 224. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chassis 236. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electrical components 248. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Body 268. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 7 REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS FOR U.S. OWNERS 276. . . . . . .
INDEX 277. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GAS STATION INFORMATION Inside back cover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
QUICK INDEX Back cover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PICTORIAL INDEX
vi
INSTRUMENT PANEL
00L001-4

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section.
PICTORIAL INDEX
vii
Page
1 Door lock switch and power window
switches 19, 28. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Driving position memory switch 113. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3 Shoulder anchor control switch 83. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Power rear view mirror control switch 78. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 Parking brake release lever 158. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6 Fuel filler door opener 65. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7 Trunk lid opener 64. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8 Parking brake 158. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9 Headlight, turn signal and fog
light switch 22, 24, 25. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10 Windshield wiper and washer switch 25. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11 Multi information control switch 41. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12 Cruise control switch 168. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Page
13 Outside temperature display 51. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14 Clock 51. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15 Emergency flasher switch 31. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16 Automatic air conditioning controls 121. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17 Car audio 132. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18 Vehicle skid control system off switch 173. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19 Headlight cleaner switch 27. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20 Seat heater switches 32. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21 Ashtray 52. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22 Height control switch 171. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23 Driving pattern selector switch 160. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24 Automatic transmission selector lever 160. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25 CD automatic changer 143. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26 Glovebox 54. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PICTORIAL INDEX
viii
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Vehicles sold in U. S. A.)
00L046−1

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section.
PICTORIAL INDEX
ix
Page
1 Engine coolant temperature gauge 34. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Tachometer 35. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3 Turn signal indicator light 24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Headlight indicator light 22. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 Headlight high beam indicator light 24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6 Automatic transmission indicator lights 160. . . . . . . . . . . .
7 Fuel gauge 34. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8 Low fuel level warning light 40. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9 Cruise control indicator light 168. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10 Height control indicator light 172. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11 Power mode indicator light 167. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12 Snow mode indicator light 167. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13 Anti−lock brake system warning light 39. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Page
14 Vehicle skid control system off
indicator light 173. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15 Malfunction indicator lamp 39. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16 Slip indicator light 173. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17 Multi information display 41. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18 Odometer and trip meter 36. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19 Brake system warning light 37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20 SRS warning light 38. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21 Open door warning light 39. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22 Driver’s seat belt reminder light 38. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23 Discharge warning light 39. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24 Instrument panel light control 46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25 ODO/TRIP RESET button 36. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PICTORIAL INDEX
x
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Vehicles sold in Canada)
00L047−1

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section.
PICTORIAL INDEX
xi
Page
1 Engine coolant temperature gauge 34. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Tachometer 35. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3 Turn signal indicator light 24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Tail light indicator light 22. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 Headlight high beam indicator light 24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6 Automatic transmission indicator lights 160. . . . . . . . . . . .
7 Fuel gauge 34. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8 Low fuel level warning light 40. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9 Cruise control indicator light 168. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10 Power mode indicator light 167. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11 Snow mode indicator light 167. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12 Anti−lock brake system warning light 39. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Page
13 Vehicle skid control system
off indicator light 173. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14 Malfunction indicator lamp 39. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15 Slip indicator light 173. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16 Multi information display 41. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17 Odometer and trip meter 36. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18 Brake system warning light 37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19 SRS warning light 38. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20 Open door warning light 39. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21 Driver’s seat belt reminder light 38. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22 Discharge warning light 39. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23 Instrument panel light control 46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24 ODO/TRIP RESET button 46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

00L054−1
PICTORIAL INDEX
xii
SEAT AND STEERING WHEEL Page
1 Tilt and telescopic steering adjustment
switch 76. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Seat position, seat cushion
angle and height control
switch 71, 72. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3 Seatback angle and head
restraint control switch 72, 73. . . . . . . . . .
4 Lumbar support control switch 73. . . . . . .
For detailed information, refer to the
description given in each section.

00L006-2
00L020−3
PICTORIAL INDEX
xiii
EXTERIOR VIEW Page
1 Rear window defogger 27. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Trunk lid 63. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3 Fuel filler door 65. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Hood 62. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 Headlight 22, 264. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6 Moon roof 66. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7 Windshield wiper and
washer 25, 261. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8 Outside rear view mirror 77. . . . . . . . . . . .
9 Door 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10 Tire and wheel 241. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
For detailed information, refer to the
description given in each section.

PICTORIAL INDEX
xiv

BASIC OPERATION
1
QUICK REFERENCE
Driver’s seat 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Steering wheel 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic transmission 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Headlight and turn signal switch 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wiper switch 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

00L05700L056
Seat adjustment
Seat
position
Seat
cushion
angle
Seat cushion
height
Head restraint
height
Seatback
angle
Lumbar
support
Head restraint
angle
Seat adjustment
Seat
position
Seat
cushion
angle
Seat cushion
height
Head restraint
height
Seatback
angle
Lumbar
support
Head restraint
angle
BASIC OPERATION − QUICK REFERENCE
2
1. DRIVER’S SEAT
Power head restraint type Manual head restraint type

BASIC OPERATION − QUICK REFERENCE
3
2. STEERING WHEEL
DTILT STEERING WHEEL
00L009−1
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.
DTELESCOPIC STEERING WHEEL
00L010−1
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.

00L011-2
00L012-5
KShift while pressing the brake pedal. (Ignition
switch must be in the ”ON” position.)
BASIC OPERATION − QUICK REFERENCE
4
3. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
OPERATION OF SELECTOR LEVER
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 applied because the
cruise control is not cancelled. For the operation to decrease the vehicle speed, see page 170.

00L013
00L014
High beam
Headlight flasher
Parking, tail, license plate,
side marker and instrument
panel lights turn on.
Headlights also turn on.
Automatic light control
00L013
00L013
Parking, tail, license plate,
side marker and instrument
panel lights turn on.
Headlights also turn on
at full intensity.
Automatic light control
Parking, tail, license plate,
side marker and instrument
panel lights turn on.
Headlights also turn on.
Automatic light control
BASIC OPERATION − QUICK REFERENCE
5
4. HEADLIGHT AND TURN SIGNAL
SW
ITCH
DHEADLIGHT SWITCH (FOR U.S.A.)
DHEADLIGHT SWITCH (FOR CANADA)
With the ignition OFF
With the engine started and parking brake
released