Lexus IS GS: Performance Modifications

This article applies to the Lexus IS and GS (2005-2013).

There are many modifications that can be made to the Lexus IS or GS that will make the ride uniquely your own. Some of the more popular modifications are to change your headlights and taillights to make the car pop. New rims and tires can really make it stand out in a crowd. Upgrading the cold air intake, the exhaust, and sway bar along with adding a performance chipset may increase power and handling to your Lexus.

Performance Modifications

There are a few things that you can do to increase the performance of your ride. Aside from adding a NOS system, the performance modifications will not increase your horses or your MPG an incredible amount. The most common performance increase will come from upgrading your exhaust system. Changing out the cold air intake is more on the cosmetic side when the hood is lifted, but it can add a modicum of an increase. Changing out your sway bar can give your car a handling boost, and adding a performance chip is controversial and should only be attempted if you really know what you are doing.

Performance Chipset

DIY Cost – $60-$70
Professional Cost – $200 and up
Skill Level – Moderate to difficult because of the expert knowledge of the Toyota/Lexus ECU that is necessary to prevent serious damage.

Toyota and Lexus have the ECU locked down very well and encrypted. Producers of these chips claim that adding this chip will give you an increase of 50HP while saving you up to 6MPG and improving mid range performance, increasing TQ, etc. There is some controversy with these figures as others state they are too high. As the debate continues, you should decide if the cost is worth the risk. Using a professional for the installation is highly advised if you do not think you can do it on your own.

Sway Bar Upgrade

DIY Cost – $450 for the kit (front and rear)
Professional Cost – $650 or more
Skill Level – Moderately easy; not a difficult install, but it would be made easier if you have some help to hold up the bar while inserting bolts.

The sway bar is what holds the suspension to the wheels and controls how much "roll" your chassis gives when you make a turn, especially a sharp turn. A very popular upgrade is the F-Bar upgrade that is much stiffer than the stock sway bar. There's at least a 50% stiffer setting for this F-Sport sway bar and it really shows. Your ride will be much more responsive with much less under-steer going into a sharp turn. You won't slide in your seat as much. This makes the car feel much sportier, and although it will not increase your horses, it will allow for a higher speed into the turns. For less than an hour's time with install, this is a modification well worth your time and effort.

Performance Exhaust Modifications

DIY Cost – $700
Professional Cost – $1,000 and up
Skill Level – Moderately easy; parts are made for correct fitment, should be close to perfect fit.

The exhaust system is the easiest and most cost-effective way of increasing some of the horses under your hood. One of the most popular brands is the Tannabe Medallion Touring. For about $700 and 30 minutes of your time, the increase of 5-7 horses is well worth it. If you are looking for something similar but really loud, the HKS Hi-Power exhaust system is the way to go. For considerably more (about $1,200), the LMS system will get you about 9-10 HP gains.

Featured Video: Lexus IS/GS Performance Mods

Related Discussions

• Performance Chips The Mother Thread - ClubLexus.com
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