Driving Information

This section covers winter driving preparation for the Lexus GS (L10). It describes how to select the correct tires, fluids and accessories, such as snow chains (for certain models only). It provides tips on preventing ice formation and on driving safely on snow and ice. Important warnings concern the use of snow chains, winter tires and driver assistance systems, so that the Lexus GS can be driven safely and reliably even in adverse conditions.

Winter Driving Notes

Before driving in winter, carry out the necessary preparations and checks. Always adjust your driving to the weather conditions.

Winter Preparation (GS350/GS200t)

• Use fluids suitable for the outside temperatures.

Engine oil Engine coolant Washer fluid

• Have the battery condition checked by a service technician.
• Have four winter tires fitted, or purchase a set of snow chains for the rear tires.*

Make sure that all tires match the specified size and brand, and that the chains fit the tire size.

*: Snow chains must not be fitted on vehicles with front and rear tires of different sizes.

Winter Preparation (GS F)

• Use fluids suitable for the outside temperatures.

Engine oil Engine coolant Washer fluid

• Have the battery condition checked by a service technician.
• Have four winter tires fitted.

Make sure that all tires match the specified size and brand.

Before Driving

Depending on the driving conditions, proceed as follows:

• Do not try to force a window open or move a frozen wiper. Pour warm water over the frozen area to melt the ice. Wipe away the water immediately to prevent it from refreezing.
• To ensure proper operation of the air conditioning blower, remove any snow that has accumulated on the air intakes in front of the windshield.
• Check whether ice or snow has accumulated on the exterior lights, roof, suspension, around the tires or on the brakes, and remove any buildup.
• Remove any snow or mud from your shoe soles before getting into the vehicle.

While driving

Accelerate slowly, keep a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and drive at a reduced speed suited to the road conditions.

When Parking the Vehicle

Park the vehicle and set the shift lever to "P" without applying the parking brake. The parking brake may freeze and then not release. If necessary, chock the wheels to prevent unintended sliding or rolling away.

Selecting Snow Chains (GS350/GS200t)

• Vehicles with front and rear tires of the same size

Use snow chains of the correct size.

Snow chains are available for each tire size.

1. 1
   Side chain (3 mm diameter)
2. 2
   Tread chain (4 mm diameter)

• Vehicles with front and rear tires of different sizes

Snow chains must not be fitted.

Use winter tires instead.

Selecting Snow Chains (GS F)

Snow chains must not be fitted.

Use winter tires instead.

Regulations for Using Snow Chains

Regulations for using snow chains may vary by country and road type. Therefore, always familiarize yourself with the applicable local regulations before fitting snow chains.

Changing the Windshield Wiper Position

Manually change the wiper service position if heavy snowfall or frost is expected.

Hold the hook area of the wiper arm when changing the wiper position.

■ To the Service Position

Lift the wiper straight up away from the windshield.

You can set the wipers to the service position.

★: More than 10 cm

■ To the Stowed Position

Lower the wipers by pressing on the upper part of the hook area.

WARNING

■ Driving with Winter Tires

Observe the following precautions to minimize the risk of an accident.

Otherwise, you may lose control of the vehicle and cause an accident that could result in death or serious injury.

• Use tires of the specified size.
• Maintain the recommended tire pressure.
• Do not exceed either the general speed limit or the speed rating of the winter tires in use.
• Fit winter tires to all wheels, not just some of them.

■ Driving with Snow Chains (GS350/GS200t with front and rear tires of the same size)

Observe the following precautions to minimize the risk of an accident.

Otherwise, the vehicle may not be able to be driven safely, which may result in death or serious injury.

• Do not exceed the speed limit specified for snow chains or 50 km/h, whichever is lower.
• Avoid rough roads and potholes.
• Avoid sudden acceleration, abrupt steering maneuvers, sudden braking and shifting that causes sudden engine braking.
• Reduce speed accordingly before entering a curve to maintain control of the vehicle.
• Do not use the LKA system (Lane Keeping Assist). (If equipped.)
• Do not use the LDA system (Lane Departure Alert with steering control). (If equipped.)

NOTE

■ Repair or Replacement of Winter Tires

Have winter tires repaired and replaced by a Lexus dealer or a tire specialist.

This is necessary because removing and fitting winter tires affects the function of the tire pressure monitoring system valves and transmitters.

■ Fitting Snow Chains (GS350/GS200t with front and rear tires of the same size)

The tire pressure monitoring system valves and transmitters may not function properly when snow chains are fitted.

■ When Raising the Front Wipers

Lift the wipers straight up away from the windshield.

Otherwise, the wiper blades and/or the hood may be damaged.

The Lexus GS GRL1 (2016–2020) is optimally prepared for winter driving if the recommended measures are followed. Winter tires, correctly maintained fluids and regular checks keep this sports sedan reliable in cold weather. Particular attention should be paid to correct handling of snow chains on suitable models.

These recommendations show that the 4th generation Lexus GS is designed not only to be dynamic, but also practical and safe for every season.

FAQ

Can I use snow chains on the Lexus GS GRL1?

Only on models with identical front and rear tires (e.g. GS350/GS200t), and only on the rear wheels.

Why should the parking brake not always be used in winter?

Because it can freeze, which could leave the vehicle locked in place. Instead, chock the wheels.