1997 Lexus ES 300 1997 ES300 - Starting and Driving - Page 2

STARTING AND DRIVING THREE-WAY CATALYTIC CONVERTER The three-way catalytic converter is an emission control device installed in the exhaust system. It looks like a muffler, but its purpose is to reduce pollutants in the exhaust gas. ! CAUTION S Keep people and combustible materials away from the exhaust pipe while the engine is running. The exhaust gas if very hot. S Do not drive, idle or park your vehicle over anything that might burn easily such as grass, leaves, paper or rags. NOTICE A large amount of unburned gases flowing into the three-way catalytic converter may cause it to overheat and create a fire hazard. To prevent this and other damage, observe the following precautions: S Use only unleaded gasoline. S Do not drive with an extremely low fuel level; running out of fuel could cause the engine to misfire, creating an excessive load on the three-way catalytic converter. S Do not allow the engine to run at idle speed for more than 20 minutes. S Avoid racing the engine. S Do not push-start or pull-start your vehicle. S Do not turn off the ignition while the vehicle is moving. S Keep your engine in good running order. Malfunction in the engine electrical system, electronic ignition system/distributor ignition system or fuel system could cause an extremely high three-way catalytic converter temperature. S If the engine becomes difficult to start or stalls frequently, take your vehicle in for a check-up as soon as possible. Remember, your Lexus dealer knows your vehicle and its three-way catalytic converter system best. 128