2003 Lexus GS 300 Owners Manual - Page 206

STARTING AND DRIVING (b) Driving in M mode (GS300 only) 2 warning tones sound in the following case: D You attempt to downshift the transmission when it is not possible to downshift due to the high vehicle speed. If the "M" indicator flashes, there is a problem somewhere in the system. In this case, it should be noted that you cannot downshift or upshift the transmission using the switches on the steering wheel. Consult with your Lexus dealer as soon as possible. The transmission works exactly in the same way as when you put the selector lever in the "D" position. 31G097 CAUTION 2 Downshifting on the front, " 1 "M" position Upshifting on the rear When the selector lever is put in the "M" position, the "M" indicator is shown on the instrument cluster. Pushing either of the switches on the front or rear of the steering wheel downshifts the transmission from "D" to "2" position or upshifts from "2" to "D" position. The current gear position is displayed on the instrument cluster. Each time you push the switch located on the front of the steering wheel, the transmission downshifts (from "D") to "4", "3" and then "2". When you push the switch located on the back of the steering wheel, the transmission upshifts to "3", "4" and then "D". For the precautions on each position, see the description on the previous page. 185 Be careful when downshifting on a slippery surface. The abrupt change in engine speed could cause the vehicle to spin or skid.