If the Engine Overheats. If the Vehicle Gets Stuck

This chapter on engine overheating and vehicle immobilization provides practical instructions on how to safely cool down or free a stuck Lexus GS (2016–2020). It covers everything from checking the coolant correctly to using traction aids. Particularly valuable are the warnings on safely handling a hot engine and cooling system, and on avoiding damage when freeing the vehicle, making it a key resource for Lexus GS roadside safety.

If the Engine Overheats

The following may indicate overheating.

• The engine coolant temperature gauge pointer enters the red zone, or a loss of engine power is noticeable. (For example, the speed cannot be increased.)
• The multi-information display shows "Engine coolant temperature high. Stop in a safe place. See owner's manual."
• Steam billows from under the hood.

Corrective Action

1. Stop the vehicle in a safe place, turn off the air conditioning, then turn off the engine.

2. If you see steam: Once the steam has dissipated, carefully raise the hood.

If you do not see steam: Carefully raise the hood.

3. After the engine has cooled sufficiently, check the hoses and the radiator core for leaks.

1Radiator2Radiator fan

If a large amount of coolant is leaking, contact a Lexus dealer or authorized repairer, or another qualified and properly equipped repair facility immediately.

4. The coolant level must be between the "FULL"/"F" and "LOW"/"L" marks on the reservoir.

1Engine coolant reservoir2"FULL"/"F"3"LOW"/"L"4Coolant inlet cap5Intercooler coolant reservoir

GS350

GS F

GS 200t

5. If necessary, add coolant.

In an emergency, water may be used if no coolant is available.

GS350

GS F

GS 200t

6. Start the engine and turn on the air conditioning to check that the radiator fans are operating and to see whether coolant is leaking from the radiator or hoses.

The fans will turn when the air conditioning is switched on immediately after a cold start. To check that the fans are working, confirm that an operating noise can be heard and that airflow can be felt. If this proves difficult, switch the air conditioning on and off repeatedly. (The fans may not operate when frost is present.)

7. If the fans do not run: Turn off the engine immediately and contact a Lexus dealer or authorized repairer, or another qualified and properly equipped repair facility.

If the fans do run: Have the vehicle inspected at the nearest Lexus dealer or authorized repairer, or another qualified and properly equipped repair facility.

■ When Adding Engine Coolant (GS350/GS200t)

To add coolant, proceed as follows.

1. 1
   Remove caps A and B.
2. 2
   Add engine coolant through the inlet of cap A up to the "[AR/GR] B" line, then reinstall cap A.
3. 3
   Add engine coolant through the inlet of cap B until the maximum level is reached, then reinstall cap B.

   GS200t only: When reinstalling cap B, apply coolant to the O-ring on the inner upper edge of cap B.

   

1Cap A2Cap B3"[AR/GR] B" line (target fill level)

WARNING

■ When Checking Under the Hood

Observe the following precautions.

Otherwise, serious injuries, such as burns, may occur.

• If steam billows from under the hood, do not open the hood until the steam has dissipated. The engine compartment may be very hot.
• Keep your hands and clothing (particularly ties, scarves or neckerchiefs) away from the fans and belts. Hands and clothing may become caught, which may result in serious injury.
• GS350: Never remove the coolant inlet cap or the engine coolant reservoir cap while the engine and radiator are still hot. Hot steam or coolant could spray out.
• GS F: Never remove the engine coolant reservoir cap while the engine and radiator are still hot. Hot steam or coolant could spray out.
• GS200t: Never remove the coolant inlet cap, the engine coolant reservoir cap or the intercooler coolant reservoir cap while the engine and radiator are still hot. Hot steam or coolant could spray out.

NOTICE

■ When Adding Engine Coolant

Add coolant slowly after the engine has cooled sufficiently. Adding cold engine coolant quickly to a hot engine may cause engine damage.

■ How to Avoid Damaging the Cooling System

Observe the following precautions:

• Avoid contaminating the coolant with foreign matter (such as sand, dust, etc.).
• Do not use any coolant additives.

If the Vehicle Gets Stuck

Perform the following steps if the wheels spin or the vehicle becomes stuck in mud, dirt or snow:

1. 1
   Turn the engine off. Set the parking brake and move the shift lever to "P".
2. 2
   Remove mud, snow or sand from around the rear wheels.
3. 3
   Place wood, stones or other material under the rear wheels to improve traction.
4. 4
   Start the engine again.
5. 5
   Move the shift lever to "D" or "R" and release the parking brake.

   Then carefully depress the accelerator pedal.

■ If you have difficulty freeing the vehicle

Performthe following steps if the wheels spin or the vehicle becomes stuck in mud, dirt or snow: Press to turn off the Traction Control (TRC).

GS350/GS200t

GS F

WARNING

■ When trying to free a stuck vehicle

When trying to free the vehicle by rocking it back and forth, make sure there are no other vehicles, objects or people nearby. The vehicle may lurch forward or backward if it suddenly comes free. Exercise extreme caution.

■ When operating the shift lever

Never operate the shift lever while the accelerator pedal is depressed.

This may cause the vehicle to accelerate suddenly and unexpectedly, resulting in an accident that could cause death or serious injury.

NOTICE

■ How to avoid damage to the transmission and other components

• Where possible, do not allow the rear wheels to spin, and do not press the accelerator pedal harder than necessary.
• If the vehicle remains stuck after performing these steps, it may need to be towed out.

The technical dimensions of the 4th generation Lexus GS highlight the balanced proportions of this sports sedan. With a length of approximately 4.85 meters and a width of approximately 1.84 meters, the Lexus GS GRL1 offers generous space for occupants and luggage. The harmonious lines also give it a dynamic appearance.

Thanks to these dimensions, the Lexus GS 2016–2020 combines stylish design with functionality and driving comfort, ideal for demanding everyday use and long journeys.