Stop, Drop & Roll: What to Know About Lowering a Lexus (Fridays are for F Presented by Continental ExtremeContact DWS06 Plus)
Of the many inventive ways to transform a Lexus F; opting for a low-riding, ultra-clean cruiser is a knockout. We run down the pros and cons of going low.
There is something so irresistible about a lowered car. It may be a small change–all things considered–but when it hits, it hits. A good slammed Lexus is a thing of (slightly intimidating) beauty. Now it has sharpened its claws, apparent in the determined stance and effortlessly badass confidence. Lexus F Performance and F Sport rides adapt especially well to these mods; even a moderate drop can bring out a new level of capability and style.
Lexus has done a very good job in balancing their suspension. It is stiff enough to give the sportiness drivers want, but soft enough to keep the ride as smooth as butter. The automaker needed to thread the needle carefully on this, there was no room for error.
Most consumers today require versatility. Vehicles have to be multi-taskers, even the F badge. F Performance cars were designed with V8 power and honed handling; but it has to be able to work as a daily driver, and a sporty and decadent GT, or as a fun track toy or weekend roadtripper.
Those drivers looking for more Lexus action with a capital F may consider modifications. Lowering and/or upgrading the suspension set up is definitely going to get tangible performance-oriented results. Many aerodynamic features are offered from a front clip, to flared wheel arches, carbon fiber details such as rear diffuser, quad exhaust pipes to give the LC its unique look
Our focus for this week’s Fridays Are For F is on how to get sweet and lowdown with a Lexus.
Much has changed since Lexus first hit the scene in 1989. Car suspension and technology has vastly improved for Lexus, and across the auto and aftermarket industry. A number of options are available as OEM or aftermarket components. In particular, the Lexus F Performance and F Sport offer lowering springs, ride height adjustment, and similar options as F Sport/F Performance trim or packages. It makes the process easier and cheaper, in theory.
Availability has also expanded to refine and personalize a number of Lexus models and years. Drivers can change color, add aerodynamic styling cues, get thicc with a widebody, lift or drop, and change whatever rings your bell. The great fun in modifying is how a car can spark the imagination; resulting in unique and thrilling rides that reflect many aspects of the Lexus community … and its endless supply of inspiration.
To that point, we can only say that there was no shortage of lowered or custom Lexus F Sports. Some older models got a nice boost of modern tech; and we love the juxtaposition of the 1990s and today.
One objective in dropping the Lexus is the performance. First and foremost, the suspension will be impacted. To lower a Lexus, options are to use lowering springs, coilover, or air suspension.
Lowering springs come from Lexus and have a preset ride height. It is the easiest option, and one of the most popular. While Lexus says it should not need to be professionally adjusted or tuned, we definitely recommend that you check alignment with a pro. On the downside, the presets might not appeal to everyone, and drivers may want a more customized height.
Coilover springs surround the vehicle’s damper and they work in tandem to absorb movement, bumps and the like caused by the wheels. It also improves handling, and can e tuned to meet preference or purpose. Some adjustments include height, compression, camber, and more. As the most well-rounded option it also lessens body roll, another bonus if you want to drift, go to track day, or just enjoy the ride. Transitions smoothly from track to backroads. Coilover spings are our choice for the best all-around for drive quality, steering, and durability.
Air suspension is dreamy, and the ride shines in bringing out the Lexus’ tough and tender side. With the flick of a button the air bags connect to an air compressor and an air reservoir that can adjust car height. Being able to adjust accordingly is fantastic. But it is pricier and not last as long as coilovers.
Taking the powerful Lexus and riding it low, wider, and with a lot of rubber on the gravel, steering, handling, and cornering will be greatly improved.
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Benefits of Lowering
- More Aerodynamic Performance. With the car sitting lower, there is less air and it is blows almost underneath. This reduces the amount of drag. Also, it decreased the lift in the front clip and puts the rear diffuser to work, sending wind to the rear. Additionally, the wind noise is improved in the cabin, body stability is excellent, and the ride is more comfortable overall.
- Center of Gravity Lowered: A lowered suspension increases a Lexus’ stability and improves the center of gravity.
- Better Handling, Steering, Performance: Lowered vehicle handle better, and sits flatter through turns. Great if you are lowering for performance or for visuals. Durable, excellent versatility, and all-around reputation for reliability.
- The Look: Lowering adds a huge boost in the Lexus’ visual impact. Tougher, slicker, and impossible to ignore.
- Mine, Mine, Mine!: Okay, we realize that not everyone is going to love the same things, and is what makes builds so interesting. If a driver was to lower their Lexus F, it affords them an opportunity to really style the Lexus that they want. Crazy? Sometimes. But when someone nails the perfect combo of grace and ferocity.
Downside To Lowering
- Loss Of Versatility: While a lowered car looks incredibly cool all the time, having a lower car will limit what you can do with it. Be wary of trying to take on a heavy load. Any routine maintenance where you need to get under the car will be more difficult.
- Change in Ride Quality: Once lowered and the springs and shock absorbers are adjusted, there will either be a period of relearning how to handle the car. And the more responsive feel might feel a little bumpy compared to the OEM.
- Cost: It isn’t a cheap undertaking doing any modifications, but a quality kit will cost. Also, we strongly recommend that you check in with a mechanic if you do the work yourself. You want to make sure the alignment is right, or you could cause damage to the car, and tires/wheels will wear out quickly and unevenly.
- Rubbing Tires: It is important that there is enough room, and enough sidewall. If there isn’t adequate space the tires will rub on the guards or inner wheel wells. Damage could effect the tires and the car.
Ultimately, it depends on what you want, and what you intend to do with your Lexus. But if you have lowered your Lexus F–or if you plan to–we’d love to know more! Head over to the forums and tell us your plan.
Photos: Lexus/Lexus UK/Toyota; Club Lexus forums, Kel_3is; Fitment Industries; JenTo; Gordon Ting/Beyond Marketing; Wald USA; Continental Tires
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