How Lexus Makes its Handcrafted Wood-Carved Steering Wheels
11-09-10, 01:09 PM
#16
Very nice article!
I don't think the entry-level Lexuses get these handcrafted parts. Probably only the LS (which also has hand-buffed body panels for perfect paint). Anyone knows the exact list of models that get such treatment?EDIT: Hmm since the last pic of the article shows the interior of an RX350, it seems to imply that the RX and all models positioned above it get the handcrafted wheels...which are basically all Lexus models except the ES and those that do not have wood steering wheel as an option (IS, HS, CT, LFA). That's a lot of labor involved if true! 
I don't think the entry-level Lexuses get these handcrafted parts. Probably only the LS (which also has hand-buffed body panels for perfect paint). Anyone knows the exact list of models that get such treatment?EDIT: Hmm since the last pic of the article shows the interior of an RX350, it seems to imply that the RX and all models positioned above it get the handcrafted wheels...which are basically all Lexus models except the ES and those that do not have wood steering wheel as an option (IS, HS, CT, LFA). That's a lot of labor involved if true! 
11-09-10, 01:13 PM
#17
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But then again, the handcrafted steering wheels pictured throughout the article have three prongs, so it's definitely not the LS's. So which model is it for?
Last edited by Mister Two; 11-09-10 at 01:19 PM.
11-10-10, 02:53 AM
#24
Lexus Test Driver
I love my RX wood wheel 
Seriously the wood trim and steering wheel where a part of my buying decision for Lexus. Turned down other versions of the same car cause if was not there.
Seriously the wood trim and steering wheel where a part of my buying decision for Lexus. Turned down other versions of the same car cause if was not there.
11-10-10, 01:39 PM
#28
Lexus Fanatic
With wood steering wheels, you have to make sure that the wheel-alignment guys are VERY careful with the braces they put on the steering wheel rim to keep it centered while the alignment-settings are being done. I've seen what those braces, if carelessly applied and taken-off, can do to regular padded and leather wheel-rims...one can only imagine how they could mar fine polished wood.
11-10-10, 06:52 PM
#29
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Wow. That's pretty impressive. I always wondered how those things were made and how they came together. Thanks for posting.
I also recall being told that the cost of a wood steering wheel (can't remember which model though) ran $3000. Must have been one of those solid wood ones at that price I hope.
I also recall being told that the cost of a wood steering wheel (can't remember which model though) ran $3000. Must have been one of those solid wood ones at that price I hope.
11-12-10, 01:21 AM
#30
This is one of the best Post of all time, someone should make this a sticky!!
I had an LS430 Ultra last year.. wood was fantastic, i now have a GS430 with a wood steering wheel and wood is thicker on this wheel.. Now That I know how they're made, makes me love my car even more..
Thanks!!
I had an LS430 Ultra last year.. wood was fantastic, i now have a GS430 with a wood steering wheel and wood is thicker on this wheel.. Now That I know how they're made, makes me love my car even more..
Thanks!!