2004 Lexus GS 300 Owners Manual - Page 228

DRIVING TIPS WINTER DRIVING TIPS Make sure your coolant is properly protected against freezing. Only use "Toyota Super Long Life Coolant" or similar high quality ethylene glycol based non- silicate, non- amine, non- nitrite, and non- borate coolant with long- life hybrid organic acid technology. See "Checking the engine coolant level" on page 272 for details of coolant type selection. "Toyota Super Long Life Coolant" is pre- mixed with 50% coolant and 50% deionized water. This coolant provides protection down to about -35_C (-31_F). Make sure the engine oil viscosity is suitable for the cold weather. See page 271 for recommended viscosity. Leaving a heavy summer oil in your vehicle during winter months may cause harder starting. If you are not sure about which oil to use, call your Lexus dealer - they will be pleased to help. Check the electronic ignition system for loose connections or obvious damage. Keep the door locks from freezing. Squirt lock de-icer or glycerine into the locks to keep them from freezing. Use a washer fluid containing an antifreeze solution. This product is available at your Lexus dealer and most auto parts stores. Follow the manufacturer's directions for how much to mix with water. NOTICE Do not use plain water alone. Check the condition of the battery and cables. Cold temperatures reduce the capacity of any battery, so it must be in top shape to provide enough power for winter starting. Page 316 tells you how to visually inspect the battery. Your Lexus dealer and most service stations will be pleased to check the battery charge level. NOTICE Do not use engine antifreeze or any other substitute because it may damage your vehicle's paint. Do not use your parking brake when there is a possibility it could freeze. When parking, put the transmission into "P" and block the front wheels. Do not use the parking brake, or snow or water accumulated in and around the parking brake mechanism may freeze the parking brake, making it hard to release. 208