fnthawar

It isn't clear in the manual, but does the ECT Snow button basically turn on traction control to help accelerate in snow?

Farhan

kiwi

went through this last year, the thread should be still kicking around. but through much deliberation, it was determined that it tells the transmission to start out in second gear instead of first, thus reducing wheel spin from a stop. and i think that is all it does.

i have used it alot this year, and it does work quite nicely.

ripster

Had it on a Mercedes worked nicely with rear wheel drive, have not had to use it yet on the Lexus, but it just starts out in 2nd gear as stated.

CometVR4

It also softens the throttle response, so between regular mode and snow, snow mode, the pedal travels a lot more before the car will respond.

noz34me

Not to be a smartass, but accelerating in the snow should be your last concern. Steering and stopping are what keeps you out of trouble.

redrocks

While you are correct that stopping and steering are what keeps you out of trouble, if ones doesn't get moving (ECT), then they won't have to worry about stopping or steering.

noz34me

That's logical; guess I've never had any issues with starting even with front wheel drive, much less AWD. The ECT seems like a little bit of overkill, but I guess if you've got a heavy foot it may help.

autobuff

I used the ECT for the first time due to freezing rain. My RX 330 driven with care, was very surefooted.

CometVR4

I think it's more for people who can't grasp the idea of the egg under the gas pedal rule, snow mode takes abrupt starts out of the equation for the handicapped. However, I can see how would come in handy on a RWD IS350 or GS350/4X0 with all that torque. I sure as hell wouldn't run in the snow in PWR mode.

ripster

Most carefully driven cars would not need it, but there are a bunch of drivers that just pour on the gas where this might help.

howdybob22

Yep, it helps in the IS350 especially with the summer tires. I got caught in one of the rare snow storm here. As soon as I let out the brake pedal with out touching the accelerator, the car slid side way. Put it in snow mode, I manage to get my car out of harms way and park it in a safe place (my work place).

autobuff

Thanks to all for the responce to my question concerning the "Snow Button".
I enjoy driving the RX and many of my friends are suprised as to the ride comfort and how serene the ride is. I am enjoying my association with Club Lexus and I'm pleased to be a member.

My best to all,
Autobuff

RuninRoach

i just get out and do a push start in the snow.....but considering that it hasn't snowed in hong kong, i haven't tried it yet.

willyb0b

ect snow is essentially a 4LO setting on the transfer case, hence the manual stating you should not go over 20 or 30 (can't remember which) mph with it

lexus114

HUH?? That`s a new one on me.