JRandy

I have a 2013 ES350 that I bought as a CPO on June 12th. I just noticed it has developed small cracks above each license plate screw hole. I would assume I overtightened them even though I tightened them the same way I have on Camrys for the last 30 years. I use a thin chrome frame from Advance with metric allen screws and washers fastening it. Also the same as on the Camrys. My tool for that is a jack-knife type wrench set. Has anyone ever had that problem and/or what are possible solutions? As a very skinny old dude, I would never think I could over tighten them to that extent. Thanks.

Arty101

Sounds like the paint cracked. Is there a chance the rear was repainted? Bring it back and have the dealer check it out for your peace of mind.

bc6152

As long as the screws/bolts are tightening, I think that Art is probably right in that it is only the surrounding paint that is cracking. However, I do know from experience that these screws cannot be cranked - only snugged. I also think that the dealer will say that you over tightened the screws and damaged the paint. Sounds like it could have been repainted too.

JRandy

Thanks guys. I sure hope it wasn't repainted, but you may be right. Its silver and everything matches just fine. The water even beads equally over the whole car. One negative though, there is no rear bumper applique and it has the other parts of that package. I figured it had been damaged and they removed it. Its a car the dealership bought for their own use. There were two just alike and I chose the one with Michelines i nstead of Bridgestones. I think they were loaners as I saw one with the banner on it a few weeks earlier at the P.O. and fell for it. Thanks again.

JRandy

As Arty suggested, I stopped by the dealership today and talked to my regular Service Adviser. He said it looked like thick residue from the tape they put over the tag mount and suggested I clean it with mineral spirits and follow with wax. I did that and it looks OK now. So all is well with my beautiful Lexus. I'm also now sure it hasn't been repainted because there are a couple of very small, faint scratches in the area from people handling the trunk.

Thanks very much for your help. This is a great forum.