If the engine does not start. If the shift lever cannot be moved out of "P". If the parking brake cannot be released.

In an emergency, the Lexus GS L10 supports the driver with practical assistance. This chapter explains the procedure if the engine does not start, the shift lever is locked, or the parking brake cannot be released. Detailed instructions help return the vehicle to operating condition. Important safety notes on avoiding accidents or consequential damage are also included. This keeps the Lexus GS manageable and safe even in exceptional situations.

If the engine does not start

If the engine does not start despite proper starting attempts, check the following points:

The engine does not start even though the starter operates normally.

The following causes are possible:

• There may not be enough fuel in the fuel tank.

  Refuel the vehicle.

• The engine may be flooded.

  Try to start the engine again following the correct starting procedure.

• There may be a malfunction of the immobilizer system.

The starter turns slowly, the interior lights and headlights are dim, or the horn does not sound or sounds weak.

The following causes are possible:

• The battery may be discharged.
• The battery terminal connections may be loose or corroded.

The starter does not turn

A malfunction of the starter system may be caused by an electrical problem, such as a discharged electronic key battery or a blown fuse. However, there is a temporary way to start the engine.

The starter does not turn, the interior lights and headlights do not come on, or the horn does not sound

The following causes are possible:

• One or both battery terminals have come loose.
• The battery may be discharged.
• A malfunction has occurred in the steering lock system.

If you need assistance in resolving the problem, contact a Lexus dealer or authorized repairer, or another qualified and properly equipped repair facility.

Emergency Start Function

If the engine does not start, the following steps can be used as a temporary way to start the engine, provided the engine switch is functioning normally:

1. 1
   Press the parking brake switch to make sure the parking brake is applied. The parking brake indicator light will then illuminate.
2. 2
   Shift the shift lever to "P".
3. 3
   Set the engine switch to ACCESSORY mode.
4. 4
   Press and hold the engine switch for approximately 15 seconds while firmly depressing the brake pedal.

Even if the engine can be started by following the above procedure, a system malfunction may still exist. Have the vehicle inspected by a Lexus dealer or authorized repairer, or another qualified and properly equipped repair facility.

When the shift lever cannot be moved out of "P"

If the shift lever cannot be moved while the brake pedal is depressed, the shift lock system (a system that prevents unintended shift lever operation) may be malfunctioning. Have the vehicle inspected immediately by a Lexus dealer or authorized repairer, or another qualified and properly equipped repair facility.

In an emergency, perform the following steps to ensure the shift lever can be moved:

1. 1
   Press the parking brake switch to make sure the parking brake is applied. The parking brake indicator light will then illuminate.
2. 2
   Set the engine switch to ACCESSORY mode.
3. 3
   Depress the brake pedal.
4. 4
   Type A: Pry off the cover using a flat-blade screwdriver or similar tool.

   To prevent damage to the cover, wrap the tip of the screwdriver with a cloth.

   

5. 5
   Press the shift lock release button.

   The shift lever can now be moved as long as the button is held down.

Type A

Type B

If the parking brake cannot be released

If the battery is discharged or the parking brake cannot be released using the switch, use the following procedure to release the parking brake manually. This procedure should only be used when absolutely necessary, e.g., in an emergency.

If the switch cannot be operated despite normal battery power, a malfunction of the parking brake system may exist. Have the vehicle inspected immediately by a Lexus dealer or authorized repairer, or another qualified and properly equipped repair facility.

Before manually releasing the parking brake

• Shift the shift lever to "P".
• Turn the engine switch off.
• Make sure the parking brake indicator light is not illuminated.
• Chock the wheels with wheel wedges.

Manually Releasing the Parking Brake

1. 1
   Remove the parking brake release tool and the screwdriver from the luggage compartment.

   Insert the parking brake release tool into the screwdriver handle.

2. 2
   Vehicles with spare tire: Remove the spare tire.

   Vehicles without spare tire: Remove the center storage box.

3. 3
   Remove the cap.

Type A

4. Insert the tool, press it firmly down, and turn it counterclockwise until it stops.

Type B

■ Manual Operation of the Parking Brake

The parking brake cannot be operated manually.

WARNING

■ When manually releasing the parking brake

• Shift the shift lever to "P", turn the engine switch off, and chock the wheels. Otherwise, the vehicle may roll away and cause an accident.
• Turn the engine switch off and make sure the parking brake indicator light is not illuminated. Otherwise, the system may activate and the inserted parking brake release tool may rotate, which may result in injury.

The Lexus GS GRL1 (2016–2020) provides practical emergency solutions for situations such as starting problems or a locked parking brake. Whether jump starting, releasing the shift lock, or manually releasing the brake, all steps are clearly described to give the driver maximum support.

The combination of innovative technology and user-friendly operation makes the Lexus GS 4th generation a reliable companion even in unusual situations.

What to do if the engine does not start despite correct operation?

Check the fuel level, battery, and immobilizer. If necessary, use the emergency start function or contact a qualified repair facility.

How is the parking brake released manually?

In an emergency, the parking brake can be released manually using the tool stored in the luggage compartment. Refer to the Owner's Manual for instructions.