Lexus ES300 2003, Manual

Page: 236 / 377

STARTING AND DRIVING
222
THREE
−
WAY CATALYTIC
CONVERTER
The three
−
way catalytic converters are emission control
devices installed in the exhaust system.
It looks somewhat like a muffler, but its purpose is to reduce
pollutants in the exhaust gas.
CAUTION
D Keep people and combustible materials away from
the exhaust pipe while the engine is running. The
exhaust gas is very hot.
D 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:
D Use only unleaded gasoline.
D 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.
D Do not allow the engine to run at idle speed for more
than 20 minutes.
D Avoid racing the engine.
D Do not push
−
start or pull
−
start your vehicle.
D Do not turn off the ignition while the vehicle is
moving.
D Keep your engine in good running order.
Malfunctions in the engine electrical system,
electronic ignition system/distributor ignition
system or fuel system could cause an extremely high
three
−
way catalytic converter temperature.
D
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.