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I just got a '13 450h from a relative, and have a few things that I would want to do but not sure if it is possible. maybe someone here has some tips or been through the same.
Im coming from a tacoma, I know Rx is unibody and more a car than a truck in comparison, just to get that out of the way.
First, what wheel size will fit the vehicle? i know the patter but what is the diameter that can fit without clearance issues. came factory with 19" possibly looking to go down a size, so wondering is a 17" would fit. ive seen they offered 18" so no problem there just asking if anyone knows if 17 would work or not.
Second, going along with the wheel size, has anyone tried installing something similar to https://risingtuning.com/lift-kits/product-898
I dont plan on "off_roading" but more driving through a dirt trail/road to get to a camping spot idea. If so how has everything else held up so far with the changes? Any notice on parts wearing faster?
Another idea at seeing some others vehicles is the front bumper change. Im not a huge fan of the base model bumper and would want to put something similar to the F-Sport style bumper on it. seen a couple threads but didnt see anything with a parts list. just asking if anyone has done it and has a list of needed parts. pics below are reference to what id want to front to look like (1st stock, 2nd F-sport look)
current stock look f-sport appearance package
Lastly, has anyone replaced the stock exhaust system from the cat back. I guess its part of being a more luxury styled vehicle over a truck but still trips me out not hearing anything when driving. Ideally i dont need a fancy chrome tip exhaust, just looking for a diy (flowmaster, magnaflow) type. Again coming from a truck and just overall like hearing a bit of grunt when the car is on and moving.
Welcome to CL. How many miles are on it?
See the below links to answer some of your questions. Note that one is to the tire sticky thread.
You may want to review all the sticky threads and FAQs.
I recommend making sure all maintenance is up to date and the vehicle thoroughly inspected before spending money on modifications. It is those unexpected failures on aging cars that can hit the budget. FYI changing the transaxle or power transfer unit as Toyota calls it on the hybrid is very easy. You simply drain and fill it up until fluid runs out the fill hole. it holds 4 quarts. There are many youtube videos showing how to do it as well as threads here.
Also note that brake pads can last 100,000 miles on a hybrid, but the caliper slide pins should still be lubed every few years as well as changing the brake fluid.
Being a hybrid with the engine turning off and on all the time, changing the exhaust will be of minimal benefit sound wise. Also that is not what Lexus is all about. It is a quiet luxury cruiser. There are not many aftermarket upgrade parts for these vehicles. If you want noise and to go offroad, maybe trade it in for a Ford Explorer or Dodge Durango or Jeep Grand Cherokee or Toyota 4 Runner.
Hybrid is not a good choice for anything other than a paved road. There are expensive components that hang low which can get entangled with brush and not necessarily with rocks.
09-02-23, 06:50 PM
new Rx450h owner with personalization questions
