What Does the "PWR" Button on a Lexus Do?

A 2011 Lexus uses a six- to eight-speed sequential-shift automatic electronically controlled transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) to adjust hydraulic pressure smoothly to transmit power to the axles. The Lexus "PWR" button alters the shift pattern within the transmission.

"PWR" button

• In a front-wheel-drive vehicle, the transmission sits directly above the drive wheels, which improves traction. Lexus luxury front- and all-wheel-drive vehicles feature a "PWR" button, which activates a terminal on the electronic transmission control unit by sending 12 volts of power to it.

Shift Pattern

• The Lexus "PWR" button switches the transmission into a "power" shift pattern within the electronically controlled transmission. In the power mode, the gears shift at higher speeds than in the normal mode.

Locks Clutch

• The electronic control unit of the ECT-i locks the clutch for normal or power (PWR) driving modes. The electronic control unit changes the shift pattern in the control unit's memory into normal or power (PWR) by turning the third solenoid switch on or off. If the gears shift while you lock the clutch, the electronic control unit releases the clutch.