Daily Slideshow: Best Mods for the IS300

Footwork

Before you do anything to the IS300 you want to make sure you’re running on good tires. These cars had good suspension design from the factory and are a lot more capable than you think. Before to slamming your car and ruining all your camber curves throw a good set of tires like Michelin Pilot Sport Cups or BF-Goodrich Rivals. This will bring out some of the cars handling characteristics so you know what to modify next.

Sway bars and Brake Pads

These two modifications will make the biggest net gains to your Lexus for the cheapest amount of money. Good brake pads can be found for a couple hundred dollars with sway bars coming in around the same price. They are easy to install for the weekend DIY-er with a YouTube video and a decent set of hand tools. Word of caution on rear bars: if you buy one with adjustability built into it always start off on the softest setting! Hawk and Porterfield are both highly recommended when it comes to brakes!

>>Join the conversation about the best mods for the IS300 right here in Club Lexus.

Turbocharger

One of the best-kept secrets of the IS300 is that it shared a platform with the famous Toyota Supra. The 2JZ-GE takes well to boost and can be cheap to build up compared to the factory turbocharged equivalent. Boosting one of these instantly catapults you into the sleeper category. No one really bats an eye when they roll up next this car. Perfect!

>>Join the conversation about the best mods for the IS300 right here in Club Lexus.

Coilovers

Addressing the suspension on these cars is a serious concern. They have good geometry from the factory, but that doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. At the end of the day, you are driving a Japanese economy car so performance wasn’t the name of the game when the car left the assembly line. Custom valved Koni yellows and Eibach springs can work wonders. I’d take this over any TEIN coilover personally. Definitely, something to consider!

>>Join the conversation about the best mods for the IS300 right here in Club Lexus.

Formula for Success

Added power, increased grip, and improved suspension will take you much farther than you think. Crazy APR wings and fully gutted interiors aren’t something you should consider until you’re hitting the track regularly and can produce consistent, competitive lap times. You’ll save money, become a better driver and feel more rewarded by taking smaller steps and maximizing their potential along the way. Hope you enjoyed reading. Keep the shiny side up! 

>>Join the conversation about the best mods for the IS300 right here in Club Lexus.

For help with your repair and maintenance projects, please visit our how-to section in the forum.