Lexus LX 470 1998 User manual

1998 Lexus Owner’s Manual
LX470 (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.
If you install any Genuine Accessories such as a bull−bar, winch,
etc., consult your Lexus dealer.
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.

INTRODUCTION
iii
Scrapping of your Lexus
The Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) in your Lexus consists of
driver and front passenger 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.
On−pavementand off−road driving tips
This vehicle will handle and maneuver differently from an ordinary
passenger car because it is also designed for off−road use. As with
other vehicles of this type, failure to operate this vehicle correctly
may result in loss of control or an accident. Be sure to read ”Off−road
vehicle precautions” on page 204 and ”Off−road driving
precautions” on page 207.

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
iv
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
v
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.

HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
vi

BASIC
OPERATION
SECTION 1
SECTION 2
SECTION 3
SECTION 4
SECTION 5
SECTION 6
SECTION 7
INDEX
TABLE OF CONTENTS
vii
BASIC OPERATION − QUICK REFERENCE 1. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 1 INSTRUMENTS AND Keys and doors 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
CONTROLS Switches 21. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gauges, meters and service
reminder indicators 34. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Interior equipment 46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exterior equipment 63. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Comfort adjustment 71. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Theft deterrent 129. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 2 AIR CONDITIONING AND AUDIO 133. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 3 STARTING AND Starting and driving 167. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
DRIVING Driving tips 203. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 4 IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY 219. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 5 MAINTENANCE 241. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 6 SERVICE PROCEDURES Introduction 247. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
AND SPECIFICATIONS Engine 255. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chassis 267. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Electrical components 281. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Body 299. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
SECTION 7 REPORTING SAFETY DEFECTS FOR U.S. OWNERS 307. . . . . . .
INDEX 308. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
GAS STATION INFORMATION Inside back cover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
QUICK INDEX Back cover. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PICTORIAL INDEX
viii
INSTRUMENT PANEL
00X001d

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section.
PICTORIAL INDEX
ix
Page
1 Door lock switch and power window
switches 17, 29. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Driving position memory switch 127. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3 Power quarter window switches 31. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Power rear view mirror control switch 88. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 Rear differential lock switch 182. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6 Fuel filler door opener 65. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7 Hood lock release lever 64. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8 Headlight and turn signal switch 22. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9 Wiper and washer switch 25. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10 Cruise control switch 184. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11 Car audio 146. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12 Power antenna switch 150. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13 Outside temperature display 51. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14 Clock 50. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15 Front passenger’s seat belt reminder light 40. . . . . . . . . . .
16 Emergency flasher switch 32. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Page
17 Center differential lock switch 181. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18 Automatic air conditioning controls 134. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19 Rear window defogger switch 27. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20 Rear air conditioning on−off switch 143. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21 Outside rear view mirror defogger switch 28. . . . . . . . . . . .
22 Ashtray 51. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23 Power outlet 53. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24 Damping mode select switch 195. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25 Active height control switch 187. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26 Driving pattern selector switch 175. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
27 Second start mode selector switch 180. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
28 Automatic transmission selector lever 173. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
29 Four−wheel drive control lever 181. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
30 Seat heater switches 33. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
31 Glovebox 54. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PICTORIAL INDEX
x
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Vehicles sold in U.S.A.)
00X002f

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section.
PICTORIAL INDEX
xi
Page
1 Voltmeter 37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Fuel gauge 35. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3 Odometer and trip meter 38. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Odo/Trip knob 38. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 Turn signal indicator light 23. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6 Headlight high beam indicator light 23. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7 Automatic transmission indicator lights 173. . . . . . . . . . . .
8 Automatic transmission second start
indicator light 180. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9 Overdrive−off indicator light 175. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10 ”PWR” mode indicator light 175. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11 Tachometer 37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12 Active height control indicator lights 192. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13 Oil pressure gauge 36. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14 Engine coolant temperature gauge 35. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15 Discharge warning light 43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Page
16 Low fuel level warning light 43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17 Anti−lock brake system warning light 41. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18 Driver’s seat belt reminder light 40. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19 Malfunction indicator lamp 41. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20 Automatic transmission fluid temperature
warning light 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21 Unengaged ”Park” warning light 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22 Cruise control indicator light 184. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23 Headlight indicator light 22. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24 Center differential lock indicator light 181. . . . . . . . . . . . .
25 Rear differential lock indicator light 183. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26 Low washer fluid warning light 43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
27 SRS warning light 41. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
28 Open door warning light 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
29 Brake system warning light 39. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
30 Instrument panel light control dial 44. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PICTORIAL INDEX
xii
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Vehicles sold in Canada)
00X014c

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section.
PICTORIAL INDEX
xiii
Page
1 Voltmeter 37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Fuel gauge 35. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3 Odometer and trip meter 38. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Odo/Trip knob 38. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 Turn signal indicator light 23. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6 Headlight high beam indicator light 23. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7 Automatic transmission indicator lights 173. . . . . . . . . . . .
8 Automatic transmission second start
indicator light 180. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9 Overdrive−off indicator light 175. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10 ”PWR” mode indicator light 175. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11 Tachometer 37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12 Active height control indicator lights 192. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13 Oil pressure gauge 36. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14 Engine coolant temperature gauge 35. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15 Discharge warning light 43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Page
16 Low fuel level warning light 43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17 Anti−lock brake system warning light 41. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18 Driver’s seat belt reminder light 40. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19 Malfunction indicator lamp 41. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20 Automatic transmission fluid temperature
warning light 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21 Unengaged ”Park” warning light 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22 Cruise control indicator light 184. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23 Tail light indicator light 22. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24 Center differential lock indicator light 181. . . . . . . . . . . . .
25 Rear differential lock indicator light 183. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26 Low washer fluid warning light 43. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
27 SRS warning light 41. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
28 Open door warning light 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
29 Brake system warning light 39. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
30 Instrument panel light control dial 44. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

00X003c
PICTORIAL INDEX
xiv
SEAT AND STEERING WHEEL Page
1 Tilt and telescopic steering adjustment
switch 86. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Seat position, seat cushion
angle and height control
switch 73, 74. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3 Seatback angle control
switch 73. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Lumbar support control switch 74. . . . . . .
For detailed information, refer to the
description given in each section.

00X004b
PICTORIAL INDEX
xv
EXTERIOR VIEW Page
1 Rear window defogger 27. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2 Back door 18. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3 Fuel filler door 65. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4 Hood 64. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5 Headlights 22, 295. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6 Moon roof 67. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7 Windshield wiper and
washer 25, 294. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8 Outside rear view mirror 88. . . . . . . . . . . .
9 Side door 16. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10 Tire and wheel 274. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
For detailed information, refer to the
description given in each section.

PICTORIAL INDEX
xvi

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

BASIC OPERATION − QUICK REFERENCE
2
1. DRIVER’S SEAT
00X005c
Seat adjustment
Seat
position
Seat
cushion
angle
Seat cushion
height
Head restraint
height
Seatback
angle
Lumbar
support
Head restraint
angle
2. STEERING WHEEL
DTILT STEERING WHEEL
00X016a
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
00X015a
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.

00X027c
Overdrive switch
For selecting either a three−speed or four−speed
transmission
Driving pattern selector switch
For selecting a driving pattern suited to existing driving
conditions
”OFF” position
(Shifting into
overdrive not
possible)
”O/D OFF” indicator
light on the instrument
panel
”PWR” (Power)
position for powerful
acceleration
”PWR” mode
indicator light
Lock release button (To prevent misshifting)
Parking, engine starting and key
removal position
Reverse position
Neutral position
Normal driving position
Position for engine braking
Position for stronger engine braking
than that in ”2” position
With the brake pedal depressed, shift while
holding the lock release button in. (The ignition
switch must be in ”ON” position.)
Shift while holding the lock release button
Second start mode selector switch
For selecting either second start mode or normal driving
mode
”2nd STRT” mode indicator light
BASIC OPERATION − QUICK REFERENCE
3
3. AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Note: When the cruise control is being used, even if you downshift the transmission by turning off the overdrive switch, engine
braking will not be applied because the cruise control is not cancelled. For the operation to decrease the vehicle speed, see page 186.