s.gregory

Pretty sure it's a custom kit, I remember seeing the build thread on CL a while ago. I don't mind it, I prefer the spindle grill with that bar for the number plate to break it up a little. Love the LFA replicas though

This was one of the first questions I asked when I acquired my IS.. from what i gathered it's not a simple software/hardware upgrade, more needs to be done than just swapping for a 2011+ nav unit. For me it just didn't seem worth it for something that realistically i would hardly even notice. It would be much more interesting to be able to have the USB functionality that comes with the newer models.

I'll try and be there, keen to finally get to my first meet,

I'm looking at getting my hands on a set of F sport rims too. These are expensive, but an option nevertheless.. http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/18-inch-Genuine-Lexus-F-Sports-2012-Model-Wheels-Near-New-Bridgestone-Tyres-/230786438813?pt=AU_Car_Parts_Accessories&hash=item35bbf1969d

second that!

Sorry about that confusion. I'm more inclined to go with 225's on the front but am worried they'd be too much of a stretch on 8.5's. So 225/35 on the front and 255/35 at the back and i'm all good?

I know there are already heaps of tyre threads, but i've combed through them and haven't really been able to find what i'm after. so.. I'm looking at a set of 19's, front: 8.5 +38 and rear: 9.5 +45. Thinking of running 225/35 or 235/35 at the front and 255/35 or 265/35 at the rear. Will there be any fitment issues, rubbing specifically? I've got a IS250 SL on stock suspension, don't really want to roll the guards or anything. thanks

Those VVSCV1 in the half black look phenomenal, especially on the IS250C in the other gallery.. so much so that im not a little interested now. I'm sure 19 x 8.5 up front would be fine (correct me if wrong), but would a 19 x 10 rim at the rear cause any issues with stock suspension? (legal issues?)

RX rims are also thinner (7.5") than the standard 17" IS rims (8")

Did you get slotted rotors? How much did you pay for the front pads + rotors? What about replacing the fitting and shim kits? Cant find a quote on correct dba rotors. Also Does anyone know a cheaper method to getting OEM low dust pads, $580 postage from Sewells seems a bit much..

Does anyone know a cheaper method to getting OEM low dust pads, $580 postage from Sewells seems a bit much..

Thought so, I was just looking at those last night. How were the shipping costs? I'm still undecided between those or moving to Bendix pads with dba rotors (or similar), id prefer to stay with genuine parts though.

I am aware of that TSIB, but i asked a local dealer about them and he claimed he had no idea, thought it was just an american thing. How did you get yours?

Just to follow up, spoke to a guy from a dealer who explained that commonly the rotors on an IS250 will develop a sharp edge towards the outside of the rotor, which then causes the squeal when gripped by the pads. I washed my car the next day and on close inspection saw that the rotors did indeed have a sharp edge. I rang up but was told that machining wasn't possible so i now have to replace my rotors, plus pads are near replacement so might replace the whole set in one go.. was quoted $600 for front pads and discs.

im looking to replace my pads and rotors soon so some more info on the dustless OEM pads will be much appreciated

same story with 18's off an IS250C?

yeah they're both plug and play, they're pretty much identical to be honest as far as i can tell. still haven't gotten around to buying one yet :(

im in for a meet, any time suits really. doubt i can make an Australia day bbq though

Just checking, looking good though

Is it just me or is the search function now missing?

I haven't changed my HID's, only replaced the parkers, so I don't really know. I imagine it would be a bit more complex with the ballast and the size but many have done it so i'm sure you will be fine. Try http://au.lexusownersclub.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=9885 to see if that can help. Good luck.

Just search for "SMD (surface mounted device) LED 168" - where 168 is the size. But make sure you get one that is skinny enough that it will fit through the hole where the parking lights stick out. They look something like this.. http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/2x-T10-W5W-168-194-501-White-Car-20-SMD-LED-Side-Light-Bulb-DC-12V-New-/270819221094?pt=AU_Car_Parts_Accessories&hash=item3f0e155e66, although i would probably go for a better one than that, with 9 larger LEDs

Sports luxury has that F sport doesnt: Wood trim Moonroof as standard (option on F sport) radar cruise control parking sensors (option) - but you still get reverse camera anyway F sport has that sports luxury doesnt: Sports (metal) pedals Different rims Different steering wheel Sports suspension Rear deck spoiler Front lip side skirts (i think) different seats I'm sure there's probably some little differences that i've missed out on that someone else will fill in but to be honest there's not that much of a difference. You'd be more suited to an F-sport. And yeah both have USB and 3.5mm AUX plugs in the centre console

All IS models have the keyless entry with the key fob. The sports luxury grade also comes with a key card. There's no flip key, but a mechanical key is included in case the battery dies. A photo is here: http://cdn.cbsi.com.au/story_media/339296939/lexus-is250_13.jpg Sound system in the IS350 F sport is the mark levinson 14 speaker system - so very good. Exhaust note is also really good, but if you're after more bass you can get an aftermarket F sport kit, or other kits. (F sport is to Lexus what AMG is to Mercedes) (you can make your own mind up when you go and have a look).

"i wonder if he will let me get stuck into it???" Most probably. " also whats the padle shifting like and jerking or anything," There's no jerking, at all, ever. And that's in my 250. I know the 350 will have a LOT more acceleration but like all Lexus' it comes very smoothly, and then you realise you're going quite fast... Although on the paddle shift, it isn't really a true semi automatic (or manumatic, if you want to get all technical). It only restrics the maximum gear the maximum gear the car will use. So for example if you put it in 4, it will use 1-4 depending on how fast you're going. So it's not the same as what you get in BMW's but to be honest will work just as well. Overtaking is effortless, downshifting down takes an instant and then you're off. It's also very very handy for engine braking down hills when the car in front rides the brakes the whole way down. haha dont talk to me about engine braking, my dealer for my subaru is bitching to me saying that i do to much engine braking, tool , i have had 2 engines replaced in two years, yes two whole complete engines, first engine did a big end bearing due to loss of 5l of oil in less then 2k kms, the second engine had the same issue, they tryed blaming me saying i do to much engine braking??? hence im looking at selling the car asap, bring on a LeXuS :) That's rubbish.. engine braking in (good) modern cars won't cause any adverse effects (unless the driver is a clot and redlines it or something). But I can engine brake down a pretty steep hill at only like 2500-3000 rpm and it will prevent any acceleration. PLUS, the Lexus won't let you downshift any further if you are going too fast for that gear. It won't even increase fuel consumption as most new cars will shut off the fuel supply to the engine if it detects engine braking (as i have checked in my IS250 with the instant fuel ecconomy display, drops right to 0 :))