Lexus ES300 Owner's Manual page 252

STARTING AND DRIVING
Normal driving mode
"Slip indicator light
Leave the system on during the ordinary driving so that it
can operate when needed.
You may hear a sound in the engine compartment for a few
seconds when the engine is started or just after the vehicle is
started. This means that the traction control system is in the
self check mode, but does not indicate a malfunction.
When the traction control system is operating, the following
conditions occur:
D The system controls the spinning of the front wheels. At this
time, the slip indicator light blinks.
D You may feel vibration or noise in your vehicle, caused by
operation of the brakes. This indicates the system is
functioning properly.
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The slip indicator light comes on for a few seconds when the
ignition key is turned to "ON". If the indicator light does not
come on when the ignition is turned on, contact your Lexus
dealer.
Traction control off mode
If your wheels get stuck in a ditch when you are driving on
a severe off road and sand, turn off the traction control
system. This system that controls engine performance
interferes with the process of freeing your wheels.
To turn off: Push "TRAC OFF" switch.
The "TRAC OFF" indicator light will come on.
The vehicle skid control system is always activated, even if the
traction control system is turned off.
To turn on: Push "TRAC OFF" switch once again.
The "TRAC OFF" indicator light will go off.