Lexus RX300 2003 User manual

2003 RX300 from Aug. 02’ Prod. (OM48442U)
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.

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.

2003 RX300 from Aug. 02’ Prod. (OM48442U)
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
system 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.
On–pavement and off–road driving tips
This vehicle belongs to the utility vehicle class. Utility vehicles
have a significantly higher rollover rate than other types of
vehicles. This vehicle will handle and maneuver differently
from an ordinary passenger car because it is designed for
off–road use also. In addition, this vehicle has a higher ground
clearance and center of gravity than that of an ordinary
passenger car. This vehicle design feature causes this type of
vehicle to be more likely to rollover. Failure to operate this
vehicle correctly may result in loss of control, accidents or
vehicle rollover causing death or serious injury. Be sure to read
“Off–road vehicle precautions” on page 220 and “Off–road
driving precautions” on page 223.

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.

2003 RX300 from Aug. 02’ Prod. (OM48442U)
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 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.

2003 RX300 from Aug. 02’ Prod. (OM48442U)
INSTRUMENT PANEL
PR097

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section.
Page
1
Door lock switch and power window
switches 21, 33. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2
Side vent 163. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
Instrument panel light control 53. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
Headlight, turn signal and fog
light switch 26, 28, 29. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Wiper and washer switch 30, 31. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6
Ignition switch 193. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7
Emergency flasher switch 36. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8
Automatic air conditioning controls 154. . . . . . . . . .
9
Multi–display
Cruise information display 51. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Outside temperature display 61. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Clock 59. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Audio system 166. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic air conditioning controls 154. . . . . . . . .
Page
10
Car audio 166. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11
Front passenger’s seat belt reminder light 45. . . . . .
12
Glove box/CD automatic changer 64/178. . . . . . . . . .
13
Seat heater switches 37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14
Cigarette lighter 61. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
15
Driving pattern selector switch 202. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16
Traction control system off switch 207. . . . . . . . . . .
17
Automatic transmission selector lever 196. . . . . . . .
18
Cruise control switch 203. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19
Driving position memory switch 146. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20
Parking brake 194. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21
Security indicator light 12,150. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22
Hood lock release lever 78. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23
Auxiliary box 71. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24
Power rear view mirror control switches 98. . . . . . . .

2003 RX300 from Aug. 02’ Prod. (OM48442U)
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Two–wheel drive models sold in U. S. A.)
PR067

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section.
Page
1
Vehicle skid control system warning light 49. . . . . . .
2
Traction control system OFF
indicator light 207. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
Slip indicator light 207, 211. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
Engine coolant temperature gauge 41. . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Turn signal indicator light 29. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6
Headlight indicator light 26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7
Automatic transmission indicator lights 196. . . . . .
8
ODO/TRIP knob 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9
Odometer and trip meter 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10
Headlight high beam indicator light 28. . . . . . . . . . . .
11
Tachometer 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12
Cruise control indicator light 203. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13
Rear light failure warning light 48. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14
Anti–lock brake system warning light 48. . . . . . . . . . .
Page
15
Malfunction indicator lamp 47. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16
Low washer fluid warning light 49. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17
Automatic transmission fluid temperature
warning light 49. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18
Discharge warning light 46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19
Low engine oil pressure warning light 47. . . . . . . . . .
20
SRS warning light 46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21
Brake system warning light 45. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22
Driver’s seat belt reminder light 45. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23
Open door warning light 48. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24
Snow mode indicator light 202. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25
Automatic headlight leveling system
warning light 50. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26
Overdrive off indicator light 197. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
27
Low fuel level warning light 50. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
28
Fuel gauge 40. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2003 RX300 from Aug. 02’ Prod. (OM48442U)
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Four–wheel drive models sold in U. S. A.)
PR068

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section.
Page
1
Vehicle skid control system warning light 49. . . . . . .
2
Slip indicator light 209, 211. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
Engine coolant temperature gauge 41. . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
Turn signal indicator light 29. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Headlight indicator light 26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6
Automatic transmission indicator lights 196. . . . . .
7
ODO/TRIP knob 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8
Odometer and trip meter 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9
Headlight high beam indicator light 28. . . . . . . . . . . .
10
Tachometer 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11
Cruise control indicator light 203. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12
Rear light failure warning light 48. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13
Anti–lock brake system warning light 48. . . . . . . . . . .
14
Malfunction indicator lamp 47. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Page
15
Low washer fluid warning light 49. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16
Automatic transmission fluid temperature
warning light 49. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17
Discharge warning light 46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18
Low engine oil pressure warning light 47. . . . . . . . . .
19
SRS warning light 46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20
Brake system warning light 45. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21
Driver’s seat belt reminder light 45. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22
Open door warning light 48. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23
Snow mode indicator light 202. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24
Automatic headlight leveling system
warning light 50. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25
Overdrive off indicator light 197. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26
Low fuel level warning light 50. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
27
Fuel gauge 40. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2003 RX300 from Aug. 02’ Prod. (OM48442U)
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Two–wheel drive models sold in Canada)
PR069

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section.
Page
1
Vehicle skid control system warning light 49. . . . . . .
2
Traction control system OFF
indicator light 207. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
Slip indicator light 207, 211. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
Engine coolant temperature gauge 41. . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Turn signal indicator light 29. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6
Tail light indicator light 26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
7
Automatic transmission indicator lights 196. . . . . .
8
ODO/TRIP knob 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9
Odometer and trip meter 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10
Headlight high beam indicator light 28. . . . . . . . . . . .
11
Tachometer 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12
Cruise control indicator light 203. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13
Rear light failure warning light 48. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14
Anti–lock brake system warning light 48. . . . . . . . . . .
Page
15
Malfunction indicator lamp 47. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16
Low washer fluid warning light 49. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17
Automatic transmission fluid temperature
warning light 49. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18
Discharge warning light 46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
19
Low engine oil pressure warning light 47. . . . . . . . . .
20
SRS warning light 46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21
Brake system warning light 45. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22
Driver’s seat belt reminder light 45. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23
Open door warning light 48. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24
Snow mode indicator light 202. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25
Automatic headlight leveling system
warning light 50. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26
Overdrive off indicator light 197. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
27
Low fuel level warning light 50. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
28
Fuel gauge 40. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

2003 RX300 from Aug. 02’ Prod. (OM48442U)
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Four–wheel drive models sold in Canada)
PR070

For detailed information, refer to the description given in each section.
Page
1
Vehicle skid control system warning light 49. . . . . . .
2
Slip indicator light 209, 211. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
Engine coolant temperature gauge 41. . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
Turn signal indicator light 29. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Tail light indicator light 26. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
6
Automatic transmission indicator lights 196. . . . . .
7
ODO/TRIP knob 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8
Odometer and trip meter 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9
Headlight high beam indicator light 28. . . . . . . . . . . .
10
Tachometer 42. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11
Cruise control indicator light 203. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
12
Rear light failure warning light 48. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
13
Anti–lock brake system warning light 48. . . . . . . . . . .
14
Malfunction indicator lamp 47. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Page
15
Low washer fluid warning light 49. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
16
Automatic transmission fluid temperature
warning light 49. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
17
Discharge warning light 46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
18
Low engine oil pressure warning light 47. . . . . . . . . .
19
SRS warning light 46. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
20
Brake system warning light 45. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
21
Driver’s seat belt reminder light 45. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
22
Open door warning light 48. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
23
Snow mode indicator light 202. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
24
Automatic headlight leveling system
warning light 50. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
25
Overdrive off indicator light 197. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
26
Low fuel level warning light 50. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
27
Fuel gauge 40. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

PR098
2003 RX300 from Aug. 02’ Prod. (OM48442U)
SEAT AND STEERING WHEEL Page
1
Tilt steering adjustment
lever 96. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
2
Seat position, seat cushion
angle and height control
switch 87, 89. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
Seatback angle control switch 88. . . .
4
Lumbar support control switch 89. . .
For detailed information, refer to the
description given in each section.

PR048
EXTERIOR VIEW Page
1
Rear window defogger 32. . . . . . . . . . .
2
Back door 22. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3
Fuel filler door 79. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
4
Moon roof 80. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5
Wiper and washer 30, 320. . . . . . . . . .
6
Outside rear view mirror 97. . . . . . . . .
7
Side door 20. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8
Tire and wheel 299. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
9
Headlights 26, 322. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
10
Hood 78. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
For detailed information, refer to the
description given in each section.

2003 RX300 from Aug. 02’ Prod. (OM48442U)

BASIC OPERATION
2003 RX300 from Aug. 02’ Prod. (OM48442U)
QUICK REFERENCE
Quick reference
Driver’s seat 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Tilt steering wheel 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic transmission 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Headlight and turn signal switch 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Wiper switch 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .