I took my 400h to a buddy's shop to have the calipers to be painted into black color with the G2 paint kit over the weekend... it ended up with the ABS and BRAKE lights on and the brake peddle was soft with almost no brake.

My buddy told me that they searched the database but so far the dealer is not releasing any info about the "Special Bleeding Procedures" that is required opening up some internal valves and data lines to the vehicle computer when bleeding this hybrid vehicle.

Then I called the dealer about the brake bleed service which would cost me about $250, but the free flat-bed towing will not be avaiable within next 2 weeks because of their busy schedule (b/s!!) So my buddy used his company's flat-bed tow truck and sent it to the dealer for me at no extra charge! Cool buddy service

On the next day I got the vehicle back and everything worked just as new, but now I am very interested to buy the dealer's service manual for about $500... I don't need chip-ins but I think it is good to have it since I am a weekend DIY guy!

Oh, hopefully the special bleeding procedure is listed inside the service manual becaus I am waiting for the TTE spring that I have placed order 2 months ago.

For your info only, and happy moding!

 

You need a Lexus/Toyota test and analysis tool. Close to a custom laptop computer. It plugs into the diagnostic port. It runs the ABS accumulator pump and it's internal solenoids so air may be eliminated..

Don't think it was advisable to remove the calipers.

 

Thanks for your tips Tammy!

Yeah, I have figured some specialty tools are required. I frequently play with my buddy's diag tool from Snap-On, a hand-held laptop like tool with touch-screen and only a few buttons on the side. My bud said usually there won't be any technical info released by the manufacturer during the new vehicle's first 2 to 3 years.

Sigh ... What about alignment, oil change, and all that general maintenance sort of things always need to be performed at dealer only?

Thanks for your feedback!

 

Normal maintenance and schedules are documented in the "Owner's Manual Supplement'.
Review the log book check points and the schedules.

The engine and cabin A/C air filters need checked, along with dusting the engine compartment.
I use Areospace 303 rubber protectant on all the rubber suspension bushings, along with the CV boots, steering rack boots, black plastic body panels.

Insure the lug nuts are torqued correctly (76 Ft Lbs.), as too tight tends to warp rotors on this chassis.

I drop by a local Mercedes Benz dealer for "Connolly Hide Care" leather condictioner for the seats. I take pride to park my Lexus right up front.

Most of the problems you may have should be warranty work for the first few years. I have had only a couple of warranty needs.

 

Tammy...Looks like you using all the right products. I have been a user of 303 for almost 20 years now.

Just wanted to let all of you know that I am a rep for Ease Diagnostics. I sell the high tech wireless lap top scan tool that will go right in to Lexus so you can do the same thing the dealer can,including re flash the computer.