1999 Lexus LX 470 Owners Manual - Page 398

NOTICE D If driving through water, such as when crossing shallow streams, first check the depth of the water and the bottom of the river bed for firmness. Drive slowly and avoid deep water. D Take all necessary safety measures to ensure that water damage to the engine or other components does not occur. WINTER DRIVING TIPS Make sure you have a proper freeze protection of engine coolant. Your coolant must contain ethylene-glycol type coolant for a proper corrosion protection of aluminum components. Use "Toyota Long Life Coolant" or equivalent. See "Checking the engine coolant level" on page 472 for instructions. Water entering the engine air intake will cause severe engine damage. Water can wash the grease from wheel bearings, causing rusting and premature failure, and may also enter the differentials, transmission and transfer case, reducing the gear oil's lubricating qualities. D Sand and mud that has accumulated in brake drums and around brake discs may affect braking efficiency and may damage brake system components. D Always perform a maintenance inspection after each day of off-road driving that has taken you through rough terrain, sand, mud, or water. For scheduled maintenance information, refer to the separate "Owner's Manual Supplement/Maintenance Schedule". NOTICE Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or plain water alone. When it is extremely cold, we recommend to use 60% solution for your Lexus, to provide protection down to about -50 _C (-58 _F). Do not use more than 70% solution for better coolant performance. 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 511 tells you how to visually inspect the battery. Your Lexus dealer and most service stations will be pleased to check the battery charge level. Make sure the engine oil viscosity is suitable for the cold weather.