I have a first generation LS400. I replace the coolant tank at the Lexus dealer a while ago (March 2001) And they put the green coolent stuff in it. I only been driving about 11000 mile since the coolant tank was replace (up until now)

Today I open my hood (when the engine is dead cold) and notice that the coolent level is below the low line (note: low line lable level and the upper line lable cold). The level of the coolent is around the middle between the low line and the bottom of the tank.

But when the car is warm up the coolant level is on the upper line (lable cold)

Is it normal when the car is cold the coolant level is below the lower line??But when the car is warm up the level seem normal. Do I lose any coolant? I don't notice any coolant smell from the exhuast. The smoke is normal (like any other V8 should be), lots of smoke when the weather is cold.

One more question, when I start the car up in the morning there are a lot of smoke (not white and not blue), is it normal?? Does others LS400 smoke a lot too. I'm locate in Oregen.

Thanks in advance

 

Good questions -

I think it is important to note exactly where the coolant level is and check it periodically when the car is stone cold - like first thing in the morning after being off overnight. If you notice it dropping over days or weeks you will know something needs to be checked further.

You could also perform or have someone perform a pressure check with an instrumnet which attaches to the coolant fill port. The instrument pressurizes the system and you watch a gague to see if it holds pressure over time. If there is an external leak (hose, radiator, etc.) it forces coolant out so you can see it.

I too am trying to figure out how much "steam" is normal after cold start. I just bought a 93 LS-400. Seemed like quite a bit on a cold morning - would really appreciate comments from others on this.

 

LS has a dual exhaust system so lots of exhaust surface area for water to condense --> more condensate --> more water vapor in the morning.