2003 Lexus GS 300 Owners Manual - Page 208

STARTING AND DRIVING (d) Using the "3", "2" and "L" positions The "3", "2" and "L" positions are used for strong engine braking as described previously. With the selector lever in "3", "2" or "L", you can start the vehicle in motion as with the lever in "D". With the selector lever in "3" or "2", the vehicle will start in first gear and automatically shift to third or second gear. With the selector lever in "L", the transmission is engaged in first gear. (e) Backing up 31G033c NOTICE D Be careful not to over-rev the engine. Watch the tachometer to keep engine rpm from going into the red zone. The approximate maximum allowable speed for each position is given below for your reference: GS430 GS300 km/h (mph) km/h (mph) " 1 Brake pedal 2 "R" (Reverse) position 1. Bring the vehicle to a complete stop. 2. With the brake pedal held down with your foot, shift the selector lever to the "R" position. NOTICE Never shift into reverse while the vehicle is moving. "3" "2" "L" 156 (97) 102 (63) 66 (41) 130 (81) 85 (53) 55 (34) D Do not continue hill climbing or hard towing for a long time in the "3", "2" or "L" position. This may cause severe automatic transmission damage from overheating. To prevent such damage, "4" position should be used in hill climbing or hard towing. 187