2020 Lexus ES300H Warning Lights and Indicators Guidelines
The 2020 Lexus ES300H has a lot of different warning lights and indicators that are meant to keep drivers aware of different parts of their car’s performance. As a way to communicate, these visual cues let the driver know about possible problems or give them updates on the state of important systems. The Check Engine Light shows that there might be a problem with the engine or pollution controls. The Brake System Warning Light shows that there might be a problem with the brakes, and the Battery Warning Light tells drivers that there might be a problem with the charging system. It has two lights. The Oil Pressure Warning Light lets drivers know when the engine oil pressure is low, and the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light checks the tire pressure. There are also lights for the ABS, airbags, and traction control system (TCS) on the car, which addresses safety issues. Adding signs for features like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) makes the driver even more aware.
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Warning lights and indicators
The warning lights and indicators on the instrument cluster, center panel, and outside rear-view mirrors inform the driver of the status of the vehicle’s various systems.
Warning lights and indicators displayed on the instrument cluster
The image may differ from the actual condition.
Warning lights
Warning lights inform the driver of malfunctions in the indicated vehicle’s systems.
The brake system warning light (U.S.A.)
Indicates that:
- The brake fluid level is low; or
- The brake system is malfunctioning
Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and contact your Lexus dealer. Continuing to drive the vehicle may be dangerous.
Brake system warning light (red) (Canada)
Indicates that:
- The brake fluid level is low; or
- The brake system is malfunctioning
Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and contact your Lexus dealer. Continuing to drive the vehicle may be dangerous.
Brake system warning light (yellow)
Indicates a malfunction in:
- The regenerative braking system;
- The electronically controlled brake system; or
- The parking brake system
Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer immediately.
High coolant temperature warning light
Indicates that the engine coolant temperature is too high
- Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place.
Charging system warning light
Indicates a malfunction in the vehicle’s charging system
- Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and contact your Lexus dealer.
Low engine oil pressure warning light
Indicates that the engine oil pressure is too low
- Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and contact your Lexus dealer.
Malfunction indicator lamp (U.S.A.)
Indicates a malfunction in:
- The hybrid system;
- The electronic engine control system; or
- The electronic throttle control system
Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and contact your Lexus dealer.
Malfunction indicator lamp (Canada)
Indicates a malfunction in:
- The hybrid system;
- The electronic engine control system; or
- The electronic throttle control system
Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place and contact your Lexus dealer.
SRS warning light
Indicates a malfunction in:
- The SRS airbag system;
- The front passenger occupant classification system; or
- The seat belt pretensioner system
Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer immediately.
ABS warning light (U.S.A.)
Indicates a malfunction in:
- The ABS; or
- The brake assist system
Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer immediately.
ABS warning light (Canada)
Indicates a malfunction in:
- The ABS; or
- The brake assist system
Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer immediately.
Brake Override System warn-ing light/Drive-Start Control warning light
When a buzzer sounds:
- The Brake Override System is malfunctioning;
- Drive-Start Control is operating; or
- Drive-Start Control is malfunctioning
- Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-information display.
- When a buzzer does not sound:
- The Brake Override System is operating
- Release the accelerator pedal and depress the brake pedal.
Electric power steering system warning light (red)
Indicates a malfunction in the EPS (Electric Power Steering) system
- Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer immediately.
Electric power steering system warning light (yellow)Indicates a malfunction in the EPS (Electric Power Steering) system
- Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer immediately.
Low fuel level warning light
Indicates that the remaining fuel is approximately 1.8 gal. (7 L, 1.5 Imp.gal.) or less
- Refuel the vehicle.
Driver’s and front passenger’s seat belt reminder light
Warns the driver and/or front passenger to fasten their seat belts
- Fasten the seat belt.
If the front passenger’s seat is occupied, the front passenger’s seat belt also needs to be fastened to make the warning light (warning buzzer) turn off.
Rear passengers’ seat belt reminder lights
Warns the rear passengers to fasten their seat belts
- Fasten the seat belt.
Tire pressure warning light
When the light comes on after blinking for approximately 1 minute: Malfunction in the tire pressure warning system
- Have the system checked by your Lexus dealer. When the light comes on:
Low tire inflation pressure such as
- Natural causes
- Flat tire
- Immediately stop the vehicle in a safe place.
LTA indicator (orange)
Indicates a malfunction in the LTA (Lane Tracing Assist)
- Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-information display
Intuitive parking assist OFF indicator (flashes)
When a buzzer sounds:
Indicates a malfunction in the intuitive parking assist function
- Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer immediately.
When a buzzer does not sound:
This indicates that the system is temporarily unavailable, possibly due to a sensor being dirty or covered with ice, etc.
- Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-information display.
RCTA OFF indicator*1(if equipped) (flashes)
When a buzzer sounds:
Indicates a malfunction in the RCTA (Rear Cross Traffic Alert) function
- Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer immediately.
When a buzzer does not sound:
Indicates that the rear bumper around the radar sensor is covered with dirt, etc.
- Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-information display.
RCD OFF indicator (if equipped) (flashes)
When a buzzer sounds:
Indicates a malfunction in the RCD (Rear Cross Traffic Alert) function
- Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer immediately.
When a buzzer does not sound:
Indicates that the rear bumper around the radar sensor is covered with dirt, etc.
- Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-information display.
PKSB OFF indicator*1 (if equipped) (flashes)
When a buzzer sounds:
Indicates a malfunction in the PKSB (Parking Support Brake) system
- Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer immediately.
When a buzzer does not sound:
This indicates that the system is temporarily unavailable, possibly due to a sensor being dirty or covered with ice, etc.
- Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-information display.
PCS warning light (flashes or illuminates)
When a buzzer sounds simultaneously:
Indicates a malfunction has occurred in the PCS (Pre-Collision System)
- Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer immediately.
When a buzzer does not sound:
The PCS (Pre-Collision System) has become temporarily unavailable, corrective action may be necessary.
- Follow the instructions displayed on the multi-information display.
If the PCS (Pre-Collision System) or VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) system is disabled, the PCS warning light will illuminate.
Slip indicator
Indicates a malfunction in:
- The VSC system;
- The TRAC system; or
- The hill-start assist control system
Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer immediately.
Parking brake indicator (flashes) (U.S.A.)
Indicates a malfunction in the parking brake system
- Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer immediately.
Parking brake indicator (flashes) (Canada)
Indicates a malfunction in the parking brake system
- Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer immediately.
Brake hold operated indicator (flashes)
Indicates a malfunction in the brake hold system
- Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer immediately.
Hybrid system overheat warning light
Indicates that the hybrid system has overheated
- Stop the vehicle in a safe place. Handling method
Master warning light
A buzzer sounds and the warning light comes on and flashes to indicate that the master warning system has detected a malfunction.
- These lights come on when the power switch is turned to ON mode to indicate that a system check is being performed. They will go off after the hybrid system is on, or after a few seconds. There may be a malfunction in a system if the lights do not come on, or go off. Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer.
- This light illuminates the multi-infor-mation display.
WARNING
If a safety system warning light does not come on
Should a safety system light such as the ABS and SRS warning light not come on when you start the hybrid system, this could mean that these systems are not available to help protect you in an accident, which could result in death or serious injury. Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer immediately if this occurs.
Indicators
The indicators inform the driver of the operating state of the vehicle’s various systems.
Turn signal indicator
- Right turn
- Lane change to the right (move the lever partway and release it) The right-hand signals will flash 3 times.
- Lane change to the left (move the lever partway and release it) The left-hand signals will flash 3 times.
- Left turn
Headlight indicator (U.S.A.)
The headlights can be operated manually or automatically.
- U.S.A.
- Canada
- The side marker, parking, tail, license plate, instrument panel lights, and daytime running lights turn on.
- The headlights and all the lights listed above (except daytime running lights) turn on.
- The headlights, daytime running lights, and all the lights listed above turn on and off automatically.
Tail light indicator (Canada)
- The daytime running lights illuminate using the same lights as the parking lights and illuminate brighter than the parking lights.
- To make your vehicle more visible to other drivers during daytime driving, the daytime running lights turn on automatically when all of the following conditions are met. (The daytime running lights are not designed for use at night.)
- The hybrid system is operating
- The parking brake is released
- The headlight switch is in the
Headlight high beam indicator
- With the headlights on, push the lever away from you to turn on the high beams.
Pull the lever toward you to the center position to turn the high beams off. - Pull the lever toward you and release it to flash the high beams once.
You can flash the high beams with the headlights on or off.
Automatic High Beam indicator
The Automatic High Beam uses an in-vehicle camera sensor to assess the brightness of streetlights, the lights of vehicles ahead, etc., and automatically turn the high beam on or off as necessary.
PCS warning light
The pre-collision system uses a radar sensor and front camera to detect objects (P.178) in front of the vehicle. When the system determines that the possibility of a frontal collision with an object is high, a warning operates to urge the driver to take evasive action and the potential brake pressure is increased to help the driver avoid the collision. If the system determines that the possibility of a frontal collision with an object is extremely high, the brakes are automatically applied to help avoid the collision or help reduce the impact of the collision.
Cruise control indicator
In vehicle-to-vehicle distance control mode, the vehicle automatically accelerates, decelerates, and stops to match the speed changes of the preceding vehicle even if the accelerator pedal is not depressed. In constant speed control mode, the vehicle runs at a fixed speed.
Use the dynamic radar cruise control with full-speed range on free-ways and highways.
Dynamic radar cruise control indicator
In vehicle-to-vehicle distance control mode, the vehicle automatically accelerates, decelerates, and stops to match the speed changes of the preceding vehicle even if the accelerator pedal is not depressed. In constant speed control mode, the vehicle runs at a fixed speed.
Use the dynamic radar cruise control with full-speed range on free-ways and highways.
Cruise control “SET” indicator
Operation switches
- Vehicle-to-vehicle distance switch
- +RES switch
- Cruise control main switch
- Cancel switch
- -SET switch
LTA indicator (white)
Press the LTA switch to turn the LTA system on.
The LTA indicator illuminates and a message is displayed on the multi-information display.
Press the LTA switch again to turn the LTA system off.
When the LTA system is turned on or off, the operation of the LTA system continues in the same condition the next time the hybrid system is started.
LTA indicator (green)Press the LTA switch to turn the LTA system on.
The LTA indicator illuminates and a message is displayed on the multi-information display.
Press the LTA switch again to turn the LTA system off.
When the LTA system is turned on or off, the operation of the LTA system continues in the same condition the next time the hybrid system is started.
LTA indicator (orange) (flashes)Press the LTA switch to turn the LTA system on.
The LTA indicator illuminates and a message is displayed on the multi-information display.
Press the LTA switch again to turn the LTA system off.
When the LTA system is turned on or off, the operation of the LTA system continues in the same condition the next time the hybrid system is started.
BSM outside rear view mirror indicators
The Blind Spot Monitor is a system that uses rear-side radar sensors installed on the inner side of the rear bumper on the left and right side to assist the driver in confirming safety when changing lanes.
BSM indicator (if equipped)
Meter control switches Turn the Blind Spot Monitor on/off.- Outside rearview mirror indicators When a vehicle is detected in a blind spot of the outside rearview mirrors or approaching rapidly from behind into a blind spot, the outside rearview mirror indicator on the detected side will illuminate. If the turn signal lever is operated toward the detected side, the outside rear-view mirror indicator will flash.
- BSM indicator
When the Blind Spot Monitor is turned on, the indicator comes on.
Intuitive parking assist OFF indicator
The distance from your vehicle to objects, such as a wall, when parallel parking or maneuvering into a garage is measured by the sensors and communicated via the multi-information display, head-up display (if equipped), Center Display, and a buzzer. Always check the surrounding area when using this system.
RCTA OFF indicator
The RCTA function uses the BSM rear-side radar sensors installed on the inner side of the rear bumper. This function is intended to assist the driver in checking areas that are not easily visible when backing up.
RCD OFF indicator*2 (if equipped)
When the vehicle is backing up, the rear camera detection function can detect pedestrians in the detection area behind the vehicle. If a pedestrian is detected, a buzzer will sound and an icon will be displayed on the Center Display to inform the driver of the pedestrian.
PKSB OFF indicator*1, 2 (if equipped)
The Parking Support Brake system consists of the following functions that operate when driving at a low speed or backing up, such as when parking. When the system determines that the possibility of a collision with a detected object or pedestrian is high, a warning operates to urge the driver to take evasive action. If the system determines that the possibility of a collision with a detected object or pedestrian is extremely high, the brakes are automatically applied to help avoid the collision or help reduce the impact of the collision.
Slip indicator*1 (flashes)
To keep driving safety and performance, the following systems operate automatically in response to various driving situations. Be aware, however, that these systems are supplementary and should not be relied upon too heavily when operating the vehicle.
VSC OFF indicator
If the vehicle gets stuck in mud, dirt, or snow, the TRAC system may reduce power from the hybrid system to the wheels. Pressing
the switch to turn the system off may
make it easier for you to rock the vehicle to free it.
To turn the TRAC system off, quickly press
and release the switch.
“Traction Control Turned Off” will be shown on the multi-information display.
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Smart access system with pushbutton start indicator
Performing the following operations when carrying the electronic key on your person starts the hybrid system or changes power switch modes.
Starting the hybrid system
- Press the parking brake switch to check that the parking brake is set.
The parking brake indicator will come on. - Check that the shift lever is in P.
- Firmly depress the brake pedal. and a message will be displayed on the multi-information display.
If it is not displayed, the hybrid system cannot be started. - Press the power switch shortly and
When operating the power switch, one short, firm press is enough. It is not necessary to press and hold the switch.
If the “READY” indicator turns on, the hybrid system will operate normally.
Continue depressing the brake pedal until the “READY” indicator is illuminated.
The hybrid system can be started from any power switch mode. - Check that the “READY” indicator is illuminated.
“READY” indicator
Press the parking brake switch to check that the parking brake is set.
The parking brake indicator will come on.- Check that the shift lever is in P.
- Firmly depress the brake pedal. and a message will be displayed on the multi-information display.
If it is not displayed, the hybrid system cannot be started. - Press the power switch shortly and
When operating the power switch, one short, firm press is enough. It is not necessary to press and hold the switch.
If the “READY” indicator turns on, the hybrid system will operate normally.
Continue depressing the brake pedal until the “READY” indicator is illuminated.
The hybrid system can be started from any power switch mode. - Check that the “READY” indicator is illuminated.
The vehicle will not move when the “READY” indicator is off.
AGC indicator
While driving in Eco drive mode with the D position, selected, releasing the accelerator pedal will activate Auto Glide Control under certain conditions. (Auto Glide Control may activate before the accelerator pedal is fully released.)
When Auto Glide Control operates, the electric motor (traction motor) will be controlled, reducing the deceleration force and allowing the vehicle to coast, enhancing fuel economy.
When Auto Glide Control operates, the AGC indicator light will illuminate.
- Auto Glide Control may not operate in the following situations:
- When not in Eco drive mode
- When the brake pedal is depressed
- When a shift position other than D is selected
- When the vehicle speed is approximately 10 mph (15 km/h) or lower
- When the vehicle is accelerating on a downward slope
- When the PCS (Pre-Collision System) is operating
- When the dynamic radar cruise control with full-speed range is operating
- When the PKSB (Parking Support Brake) system is operating
- When the TRAC or VSC system is operating
- When the TRAC or VSC system is disabled by pressing the switch
EV drive mode indicator
In EV drive mode, electric power is supplied by the hybrid battery
(traction battery), and only the electric motor (traction motor) is used to drive the vehicle.
This mode allows you to drive in residential areas early in the morning and late at night, or in indoor parking lots, etc. without concern for noise and gas emissions. However, when the vehicle proximity notification system is active, the vehicle may produce sound.
Parking brake indicator (U.S.A.)
The parking brake can be set or released automatically or manually.
In automatic mode, the parking brake can be set or released automatically according to shift lever operation. Also, even in automatic mode, the parking brake can be set or released manually.
Parking brake indicator (Canada)
The parking brake can be set or released automatically or manually.
In automatic mode, the parking brake can be set or released automatically according to shift lever operation. Also, even in automatic mode, the parking brake can be set or released manually.
Brake hold standby indicator
The brake hold system keeps the brake applied when the shift lever is in D, S, or N with the system on and the brake pedal has been depressed to stop the vehicle. The system releases the brake when the accelerator pedal is depressed with the shift lever in D or S to allow a smooth start-off.
Brake hold operated indicator
The brake hold system keeps the brake applied when the shift lever is in D, S, or N with the system on and the brake pedal has been depressed to stop the vehicle. The system releases the brake when the accelerator pedal is depressed with the shift lever in D or S to allow a smooth start-off.
EV indicator
The EV indicator comes on when the vehicle is driven using only the electric motor (traction motor) or the gasoline engine is stopped.
Low outside temperature indicator
Displays the outside temperature within the range of -40°F (-40°C) to 122°F (50°C) Low outside temperature indicator comes on when the ambient temperature is 37°F (3°C) or lower
“AIR BAG ON/OFF” indicator (U.S.A.)
Your vehicle is equipped with a front-passenger occupant classification system. This system detects the conditions of the front passenger seat and activates or deactivates the front passenger airbag, and front passenger knee airbag.
“AIR BAG ON/OFF” indicator (Canada)
Your vehicle is equipped with a front-passenger occupant classification system. This system detects the conditions of the front passenger seat and activates or deactivates the front passenger airbag, and front passenger knee airbag.
Traction battery status indicator
You can view the status of your hybrid system and fuel consumption information on the multi-infor-mation display and Center Display.
12.3-inch display model: The energy monitor or consumption screen can be displayed on the side display.
Drive mode indicators
Eco-drive mode indicator
Helps the driver accelerate in an eco-friendly manner and improve fuel economy through moderate throttle characteristics and by controlling the operation of the air conditioning system (heating/cooling).
When not in Eco drive mode, if the Driving Mode Select switch is turned toward you, the “Eco” indicator comes on.
Sport mode indicator
Controls the hybrid system to provide quick, powerful acceleration. This mode is suitable for when agile driving response is desired, such as when driving on roads with many curves.
- These lights come on when the power switch is turned to ON mode to indicate that a system check is being performed. They will go off after the hybrid system is on, or after a few seconds. There may be a malfunction in a system if the lights do not come on, or go off. Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer.
- This light comes on when the system is turned off.
- This light illuminates the outside rear-view mirrors.
- This light illuminates the multi-infor-mation display.
- When the outside temperature is approximately 37°F (3°C) or lower, this indicator will flash for approximately 10 seconds, and then stay on.
- This light illuminates the center panel.
FAQs
The red exclamation point typically represents a critical issue, such as low brake fluid, brake system malfunction, or low tire pressure. Check these components immediately.
The ABS light indicates a potential issue with the Anti-Lock Braking System. It’s advisable to have the ABS checked by a professional technician.
The yellow engine warning light suggests a malfunction in the engine or emission control system. Schedule a diagnostic check to identify and address the issue.
The check oil light signals low engine oil levels. Check the oil level and add oil if necessary. If the light persists, there may be an oil pressure issue.
The green “A” light is the Automatic Transmission fluid temperature warning. It illuminates when the transmission fluid is overheating. Allow the vehicle to cool down.
The VSC light indicates a potential issue with the stability control system. It’s recommended to have the system checked by a professional.
The blinking security light suggests that the vehicle’s security system is armed. If it continues to blink when the vehicle is off, it’s normal operation.
The tire pressure warning light indicates low tire pressure. Check and adjust the tire pressure to the recommended levels.
The yellow triangle is the master warning light. It illuminates when there are multiple warning messages. Check the multi-information display for specific details.
The charging system warning light indicates a problem with the vehicle’s electrical charging system. Have the battery and charging system checked.
The green “READY” light signifies that the hybrid system is active and ready for operation.
The flashing lane departure warning light indicates that the system is detecting unintentional lane departure. Check that the system is activated and adjust your driving accordingly.
The airbag warning light indicates a potential issue with the airbag system. Have the system inspected and repaired by a qualified technician.
The blind spot monitor warning light indicates a malfunction in the blind spot monitoring system. Have the system checked to ensure proper functionality.
The “EV” light indicates that the vehicle is operating in Electric Vehicle (EV) mode, meaning it is running solely on electric power.
Useful Link:
View Full PDF: 2020 Lexus ES300H Owner’s Manual | Auto User Guide
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