Precautions for Owner Maintenance. Hood. Setting a Floor Jack

Owner maintenance on the Lexus GS (fourth generation, L10, 2016–2020) requires special care. This chapter describes important precautions when working in the engine compartment, from battery care and coolant checks to using the floor jack. Safety notes help prevent injury and damage to the vehicle. It also explains in detail how to open and close the hood and how to position the jack correctly. This keeps your Lexus GS safe and protected during all maintenance work.

Precautions for Owner Maintenance

When performing maintenance yourself, be sure to follow the steps described in these sections.

WARNING

The engine compartment contains many mechanisms and fluids that can move suddenly, become hot, or become electrically charged. Observe the following precautions to avoid fatal or serious injury.

■ Working in the engine compartment

• Keep hands, clothing, and tools away from a moving fan and drive belt.
• Do not touch the engine, radiator, exhaust manifold, etc. directly after driving, as they may be hot. Oil and other fluids may also be hot.
• Do not leave easily combustible materials such as paper or rags in the engine compartment.
• Use extreme caution when working on the battery. It contains toxic and corrosive sulfuric acid.
• Be careful, as brake fluid can injure your hands and eyes and damage painted surfaces. If brake fluid contacts your hands or eyes, immediately flush the affected area with clean water. If discomfort continues, see a doctor.

■ Working near the electric cooling fans or grille

Make sure the engine switch is turned off.

If the engine switch is in IGNITION ON mode, the electric cooling fans may start automatically when the air conditioning is on and/or the engine coolant temperature is high.

■ Safety goggles

Wear safety goggles to prevent flying or falling materials or fluids from getting into your eyes.

■ Air filter removed

Driving with the air filter removed can cause excessive engine wear due to dirty air.

■ Fluid level too high or too low

It is normal for the brake fluid level to drop slightly as the brake pads wear or when the fluid level in the accumulator is high.

If the reservoir needs to be topped up frequently, this may indicate a serious problem.

Hood

To open the hood, release the hood latch from inside the vehicle.

1. 1
   Pull the hood release lever.

   The hood pops up slightly.

2. 2
   Pull the auxiliary hood latch lever upward and lift the hood.

   

WARNING

■ Checks before driving

Make sure the hood is fully closed and latched.

If the hood is not properly latched, it may open while driving, which can result in an accident causing death or serious injury.

Positioning a Floor Jack

When using a floor jack, follow the instructions in the manual supplied with the jack and observe all safety precautions.

The floor jack must be positioned at the correct point to lift the vehicle. Incorrect positioning may cause damage to the vehicle or personal injury.

Front

1. 1
   Two-Wheel Drive Models
2. 2
   All-Wheel Drive Models

Rear

GS350/GS200t

GS F

■ When using a jack at the rear of the vehicle (vehicles with TVD [Torque Vectoring Differential])

Do not position the jack at any of the locations shown in the illustration.

The maintenance and safety instructions for the Lexus GS GRL1 (2016–2020) show how important care is when working on the vehicle. Whether opening the hood or positioning a jack, every action requires precise procedures to prevent damage and injury. This premium vehicle provides clear instructions for safe owner maintenance.

The warnings on handling engine oil, coolant and electrical components in particular highlight the high safety standard of the Lexus GS 4th generation. Drivers benefit from practical tips and clear illustrations.

With a well-thought-out design and robust components, the Lexus GS GRL1 makes owner maintenance easier and helps sustainably preserve the value of this sports sedan.