Winter Driving Tips - Lexus GS300 1998 Owner's Manual

D Do not rest your foot on the brake pedal while
driving. It can cause dangerous overheating,
needless wear, and poor fuel economy.
D To drive down a long or steep hill, reduce your speed
and downshift. Remember, if you ride the brakes
excessively, they may overheat and not work
properly. See page 269.
D Be
careful when accelerating,
downshifting or braking on a slippery surface. The
abrupt change in engine speed, such as sudden
acceleration or engine braking, could cause the
vehicle to spin or skid.
D Even if the legal speed limit permits it, do not drive
over 140 km/h (85 mph) unless your vehicle has
high–speed capability tires. Driving over 140 km/h
(85 mph) may result in tire failure, loss of control and
possible injury. Be sure to consult a tire dealer to
determine whether the tires on your vehicle are
high–speed capability tires or not before driving at
such speeds.
D Do not continue normal driving when the brakes are
wet. If they are wet, your vehicle will require a
longer stopping distance, and it may pull to one side
when the brakes are applied. Also, the parking
brake will not hold the vehicle securely.

WINTER DRIVING TIPS

Make sure you have ethylene–glycol antifreeze in the
radiator.
Do not use alcohol type antifreeze.
upshifting,
Check the condition of the battery and cables.
Cold temperatures reduce the capacity of any battery, so it
must be in top shape to provide enough power for winter
starting. Page 413 tells you how to visually inspect the
battery. Your Lexus dealer and most service stations will be
pleased to check the battery charge level.
Make sure the engine oil viscosity is suitable for the cold
weather.
See page 374 for recommended viscosity. Leaving a heavy
summer oil in your vehicle during winter months may cause
harder starting. If you are not sure about which oil to use, call
your Lexus dealer – they will be pleased to help.
Check the electronic ignition system for loose connections
or obvious damage.
Keep the door locks from freezing.
Squirt lock de–icer or glycerine into the locks to keep them
from freezing.
DRIVING TIPS
NOTICE
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