Lexus NX: Power (ignition) switch

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

1. Check that the parking brake is set.

2. Check that the shift lever is in P.

3. 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.

4. Press the power switch shortly and firmly.

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.

5. Check that the "READY" indicator is illuminated.

The vehicle will not move when the "READY" indicator is off.

■If the hybrid system does not start

• The immobilizer system may not have been deactivated.

  Contact your Lexus dealer.

• Check that the shift lever is securely set in P. The hybrid system may not start if the shift lever is displaced out of P. "To Start Vehicle, Put Shift Lever into P" will be displayed on the multi-information display.
• The smart access system with push-button start may not be operating properly.

■When the ambient temperature is low, such as during winter driving conditions When starting the hybrid system, the flashing time of the "READY" indicator may be long. Leave the vehicle as it is until the "READY" indicator is steady on, as steady means the vehicle is able to move.

■Steering lock function

• After turning the power switch off and opening and closing the doors, the steering wheel will be locked due to the steering lock function. Operating the power switch again automatically cancels the steering lock.
• When the steering lock cannot be released, "Steering Wheel Lock Press Power Switch while Turning Wheel" will be displayed on the multi-information display.
  Check that the shift lever is in P. Press the power switch while turning the steering wheel left and right.

• To prevent the steering lock motor from overheating, operation of the motor may be suspended if the hybrid system is turned on and off repeatedly in a short period of time. In this case, refrain from operating the hybrid system. After about 10 seconds, the steering lock motor will resume functioning.

■If "Smart Access System Malfunction See Owner's Manual" is displayed on the multi-information display The system may be malfunctioning. Have the vehicle inspected by your Lexus dealer immediately.

■If the "READY" indicator does not come on In the event that the "READY" indicator does not come on even after performing the proper procedures for starting the vehicle, contact your Lexus dealer immediately.

■Operation of the power switch

• If the switch is not pressed shortly and firmly, the power switch mode may not change or the hybrid system may not start.
• If attempting to restart the hybrid system immediately after turning the power switch off, the hybrid system may not start in some cases. After turning the power switch off, please wait a few seconds before restarting the hybrid system.

WARNING

■When starting the hybrid system Always start the hybrid system while sitting in the driver's seat. Do not depress the accelerator pedal while starting the hybrid system under any circumstances.

■Caution while driving If hybrid system failure occurs while the vehicle is moving, do not lock or open the doors until the vehicle reaches a safe and complete stop. The steering lock function will activate and this may lead to an accident, resulting in death or serious injury.

NOTICE

■When starting the hybrid system If the hybrid system becomes difficult to start, have your vehicle checked by your Lexus dealer immediately.

NOTICE

■Symptoms indicating a malfunction with the power switch If the power switch seems to be operating somewhat differently than usual, such as the switch sticking slightly, there may be a malfunction. Contact your Lexus dealer immediately.

Stopping the hybrid system

1. Stop the vehicle completely.

2. Set the parking brake, and shift the shift lever to P.

3. Press the power switch.

4. Release the brake pedal and check that the display on the instrument cluster is off.

WARNING

■Stopping the hybrid system in an emergency If you want to stop the hybrid system in an emergency while driving the vehicle, press and hold the power switch for more than 2 seconds, or press it briefly 3 times or more in succession. However, do not touch the power switch while driving except in an emergency.

Turning the hybrid system off while driving will not cause loss of steering or braking control, however, power assist to the steering will be lost. This will make it more difficult to steer smoothly, so you should pull over and stop the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so.

Changing power switch modes

Modes can be changed by pressing the power switch with brake pedal released. (The mode changes each time the switch is pressed.)

1. Off*
   The emergency flashers can be used.
2. ACCESSORY mode
   Some electrical components such as the audio system can be used.

   "ACCESSORY" will be displayed on the multi-information display.

3. ON mode
   All electrical components can be used.

   "IGNITION ON" will be displayed on the multi-information display.

*: If the shift lever is in a position other than P when turning off the hybrid system, the power switch will be turned to ACCESSORY mode, not to off.

■Auto power off function If the vehicle is left in ACCESSORY mode for more than 20 minutes or ON mode (the hybrid system is not operating) for more than an hour with the shift lever in P, the power switch will automatically turn off.

However, this function cannot entirely prevent 12-volt battery discharge. Do not leave the vehicle with the power switch in ACCESSORY or ON mode for long periods of time when the hybrid system is not operating.

■When stopping the hybrid system with the shift lever in a position other than P If the hybrid system is stopped with the shift lever in a position other than P, the power switch will not be turned off but instead be turned to ACCESSORY mode. Perform the following procedure to turn the switch off:

1. Check that the parking brake is set.

2. Shift the shift lever to P.

3. Check that "Turn Off Vehicle" is displayed on the multi-information display and then press the power switch once.

4. Check that "Turn Off Vehicle" on the multi-information display is off.

NOTICE

■To prevent 12-volt battery discharge

• Do not leave the power switch in ACCESSORY or ON mode for long periods of time without the hybrid system on.
• If "ACCESSORY" or "IGNITION ON" is displayed on the multi-information display while the hybrid system is not operating, the power switch is not off. Exit the vehicle after turning the power switch off.
• Do not stop the hybrid system when the shift lever is in a position other than P. If the hybrid system is stopped in another shift lever position, the power switch will not be turned off but instead be turned to ACCESSORY mode. If the vehicle is left in ACCESSORY mode, 12-volt battery discharge may occur.

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