2003 Lexus ES 300 Owners Manual - Page 259

STARTING AND DRIVING When the "ABS" warning light is on (and the brake system warning light is off), the anti−lock brake system, the brake assist system, the traction control system and the vehicle skid control system do not operate, but the brake system still operates conventionally. When the "ABS" warning light is on (and the brake system warning light is off), the anti−lock brake system does not operate so that the wheels could lock up during a sudden braking or braking on slippery road surfaces. If either of the following conditions occurs, this indicates a malfunction somewhere in the parts monitored by the warning light. Contact your Lexus dealer as soon as possible to service the vehicle. D The light does not come on when the ignition key is turned to the "ON" position, or remains on. D The light comes on while you are driving. A warning light turning on briefly during operation does not indicate a problem. Drum−in−disc type parking brake system Your vehicle has a drum−in−disc type parking brake system. This type of brake system needs bedding−down of the brake shoes periodically or whenever the parking brake shoes and/or drums are replaced. Have your Lexus dealer perform the bedding−down. Brake assist system (vehicles with vehicle skid control system) When you slam the brakes on, the brake assist system judges as an emergency stop and provides more powerful braking for a driver who cannot hold down the brake pedal firmly. When you slam the brakes on, more powerful braking will be applied. At this time, you may hear a sound in the engine compartment and feel the vibrations of the brake pedal. This does not indicate a malfunction. The brake assist system becomes operative after the vehicle has accelerated to a speed in excess of approximately 10 km/h (6 mph). It stops operating when the vehicle decelerates to a speed below approximately 5 km/h (3 mph). For an explanation of this system's warning light, see "ABS warning light" on page 55. CAUTION If the "ABS" warning light remains on together with the brake system warning light, immediately stop your vehicle at a safe place and contact your Lexus dealer. In this case, not only the anti−lock brake system will fail but also the vehicle will become extremely unstable during braking. 245