When to use "ECT Snow" and "AWD Lock" feature?

[itrcb4]

Just looked through the manual and want to get some real-world insight from you folks..

So just when do you use "ECT Snow" ? A friend of mine told me it's no more than starting in 2nd gear... is that true even for a 2010 RX?

How about "AWD Lock" ?

Thanks

[iKenn]

Use ECT Snow when its snowing. I also like to use it in traffic. It delays the throttle response.

I have no clue about the AWD lock though.

[Christian8]

your friend is correct. ECT Snow starts you on second gear instead of first, thus delaying a faster acceleration. I had no idea that there was an AWD lock button though. When did that happen? I have a 99 rx awd and don't have that button .lol

[tfischer]

I have no AWD lock button on my '04, and was under the impression that the '10 was the first RX with that button, because the '10 is the first RX that is normally in Front Wheel Drive unless the system detects slipping. The previous RXs drive in a 50/50 front/back mode, and redirect power as needed upon the detection of slippage. The '10 should give slightly better mpg.
As for the "snow" button, I have found it useless; I'm not sure it is even attached to anything.

[meowmix52]

The ECT snow button like others said simply skips first gear and you start on second when pressing the gas pedal. This helps you gain more stability and control, not to mention it is MUCH harder to accelerate and the car feels heavier and more "bogged down."

[itrcb4]

The manual did suggest that "All Wheel lock" allows equal distribution of power to all wheels, instead of having the onboard chip decide to switch from FWD to AWD pending conditions, etc.

I guess I'll have to do some experiment myself at an empty parking lot when it snows next

[RXSF]

the snow button as people have said starts the car in second gear but i dont think you will ever need to use it.

the awd lock is new for the 2010 RX because it isnt full time awd and only activates the rear wheels when there is slippage. this lock buton turns on the rear wheels until like 10 mph

[The G Man]

The 2010 RX AWD is a mostly a FWD drive car, the computer sends power to the rear wheel when it detects slippage or during accelartion from a stop. The 4WD lock button will lock in power to all 4 wheels, it also turns itself off at a certain speed, I believe its somewhere between 20 to 30 MPH, someone need to check the owner's manual. The 4WD lock button is very usefull when you get stuck in your driveway or for driving in heavy snow. Do not turn on your 4WD lock button when driving on dry pavement.

[rxets]

Although most of ppl have known this answer, let me put words here to benefit anyone checking this thread.

As per the brochure says, AWD Lock:

On loose or slick surfaces, Lock mode can be used to distribute power evently between the front and rear wheels to help improve traction. Once the vehicle reaches 40 mph, the mode is automatically disengaged.

[The G Man]

40 MPH huh, seems like Lexus made improvment to the system. The last gen on the RAV4 only allow lock uo to 28 MPH or something like that.

[gtlegendz]

i got the 2010 rx350 this week..i wanna put HID's 6000k for the fog lights..n the headlights r 4300k which is super white..the 6000k is slightly blue...think its will look nice?

[The G Man]

You should change the headlights to 6000K as well.

[RXSF]

just checked the 2010 350 manual and it says that lock cancels when vehicle speed exceeds 25 mph or 40 kmh

[rxets]

Originally Posted by RXSF

just checked the 2010 350 manual and it says that lock cancels when vehicle speed exceeds 25 mph or 40 kmh

1 mile is around 1.6 KM. This number looks right. If so, Lexus got to correct RX brochure page 31. Dunno.

Can someone try it? Thanks.

Originally Posted by rets94

Although most of ppl have known this answer, let me put words here to benefit anyone checking this thread.

As per the brochure says, AWD Lock:

On loose or slick surfaces, Lock mode can be used to distribute power evently between the front and rear wheels to help improve traction. Once the vehicle reaches 40 mph, the mode is automatically disengaged.

[The G Man]

Originally Posted by RXSF

just checked the 2010 350 manual and it says that lock cancels when vehicle speed exceeds 25 mph or 40 kmh

Ahhhh, so its the same system as the RAV4 then.