1997 Lexus ES 300 1997 ES300 - Starting and Driving - Page 19

STARTING AND DRIVING Traction control failure warning If hte "TRAC OFF" indicator/warning light flashes, contact your Lexus dealer as soon as possible. There may be trouble in the traction control system. BRAKE SYSTEM The tandem master cylinder brake system is hydraulic system with two separate sub-systems. If either sub-system should fail, the other will still work. However, the pedal will be harder to press, and your stopping distance will be longer. Also, the brake system warning light may come on. ! CAUTION Under certain slippery road conditions, full traction of the vehicle and power to the front wheels cannot be maintained, even though the traction control system is in operation. Do not drive the vehicle under any speed or maneuvering conditions which will cause the vehicle to lose traction. In situations where the road surface is covered with ice or snow, your vehicle should be fitted with snow tires or tire chains. Always drive at an appropriate and cautious pace. ! CAUTION Do not drive your vehicle with only a single brake system. Have your brakes fixed immediately. Brake booster The brake booster uses engine vacuum to power-assist the brakes. If the engine should quit while you are driving, you can bring the vehicle to a stop with normal pedal pressure. There is enough reserve vacuum for one or two stops but no more! ! CAUTION S Do not pump the brake pedal if the engine stalls. Each push on the pedal uses up your braking distance will be longer. S Even if the power assist is completely lost, the brakes will still work. But you will have to push the pedal hard - much harder than normal. And your braking distance will be longer. 145