1998 Lexus ES 300 Owners Manual - Page 147

STARTING AND DRIVING TRACTION CONTROL SYSTEM The traction control system automatically helps control the spinning of the front wheels which may occur when accelerating on slippery road surfaces, thus assisting driver to control the driving power of the front wheels. Pushing the "TRAC OFF" switch a second time turns the system back on and extinguishes the "TRAC OFF" indicator/warning light. When the traction control system is operating, you may feel vibration or noise of your vehicle, caused by operation of the brakes. This indicates the system is functioning properly. When getting the vehicle out of mud or new snow, etc. the traction control system will help operate to prevent the wheels from spinning. Traction control failure warning 31E013 If the "TRAC OFF" indicator/warning light flashes, contact your Lexus dealer as soon as possible. There may be trouble in the traction control system. 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. When you turn the ignition switch on, this system always turns on. Leave the system on during ordinary driving so that it can operate when needed. When traction control is applied, the slip indicator light blinks. 31E014-1 You can turn off the traction control system by pushing the "TRAC OFF" switch. The "TRAC OFF" indicator/warning light will then come on. 147