1998 Lexus ES 300 Owners Manual - Page 152

DRIVING TIPS BREAK-IN PERIOD Drive gently and avoid high speeds. You need not follow a break-in schedule with your new Lexus. But following a few simple tips for the first 1600 km (1000 miles) can add to the future economy and long life of your vehicle: D Do not drive over 88 km/h (55 mph). D Avoid overrevving. Maintain engine speed between 2000 and 4000 rpm. D Avoid full-throttle starts. D Try to avoid hard stops during the first 300 km (200 miles). D Do not drive for a long time at any single speed, either fast or slow. D Do not tow a trailer during the first 800 km (500 miles). TIPS FOR DRIVING IN VARIOUS CONDITIONS D Always slow down in gusty crosswinds. This will allow you much better control. D Drive slowly onto curbs and, if possible, at a right angle. Avoid driving onto high, sharp-edged objects and other road hazards. Failure to do so can lead to severe tire damage resulting in tire bursts. D When parking on a hill, turn the front wheels until they touch the curb so that the vehicle will not roll. Apply the parking brake, and place the transmission in "P". If necessary, block the wheels. D Washing your vehicle or driving through deep water may get the brakes wet. To see whether they are wet, check that there is no traffic near you and then press the pedal lightly. If you do not feel a normal braking force, the brakes are probably wet. To dry them, drive the vehicle cautiously while lightly pressing the brake pedal with the parking brake applied. If they still do not work safely, pull to the side of the road and call a Lexus dealer for assistance. OPERATION IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES If you plan to drive your Lexus in another country ...First, comply with the vehicle registration laws. Second, confirm the availability of the correct fuel (unleaded and minimum octane rating). 152