These instructions apply to the Lexus GS Mk4 (L10) 2012-2020. For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
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Disconnecting the 12 V battery on your Lexus GS (2012–2020) — for a new battery, winter storage, or work near the airbags — is straightforward once you know where the battery is. On the GS 300h / 450h hybrid it’s in the boot; on the petrol GS it’s in the engine bay.
Find the 12 V Battery First
- GS 300h / 450h (hybrid): the 12 V battery is in the luggage compartment (boot), usually right side under a trim panel. The under-bonnet terminals are for jump-starting only. Never touch the orange high-voltage cabling.
- GS 250 / 350 (petrol): the battery is in the engine bay, conventional location.
Disconnecting Safely
- Switch off and make sure all electrical consumers are off.
- Disconnect the negative (−) terminal first, then the positive.
- Working near airbags or seat-belt pretensioners? Wait 90 seconds after disconnecting before such work.
Reconnecting and Re-initialising
Reconnect positive first, then negative. The GS then relearns a few items:
- Steering angle / stability and parking-assist systems relearn as you drive straight and turn fully each way.
- Power windows — if one-touch is lost, pull-up-and-hold at the top to relearn.
- Re-enter the clock, audio presets and settings.
If Something Isn’t Right Afterwards
- Warning lights (e.g. VSC/stability) usually clear once the relearns complete after a short drive.
- A persistent light stores a code — look it up on autodtcs.com.
- Fit a like-for-like battery (the hybrid uses a specific small AGM-type aux battery).
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the battery on a Lexus GS 450h / 300h?
In the boot (luggage compartment), usually right side under the trim — the under-bonnet terminals are only for jump-starting.
And on the petrol GS?
In the engine bay, conventional location.
Which terminal first?
Negative (−) off first, reconnect it last.
What needs resetting afterwards?
Steering-angle/stability and parking-assist relearn by driving, windows may need a one-touch relearn, plus the clock and presets.
If a warning light stays on after reconnecting, look up the code on autodtcs.com.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general guidance only. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions when working on your vehicle. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or any damage resulting from the use of this information.
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