mbud

Is it possible to update the grill on the 2002 es300 to the 2005 es330 grill. The newer grill has the chrome going around it...

Is it a straight swap? or does it need fabrication? has anyone done this before?

LexFather

I want to say the hood and grill shape is indeed different. I would suggest calling Sewell Lexus or Carson Toyota and ask them, they would know.

lexusk8

I recall a member here who did the '05 grille swap to his '04 ES330. If I remember correctly, it was pretty much a direct bolt-on.

tuan92129

I'm interested in doing that kind of swap too.
What about the projector hid headlights?

steviej

iTrader: (1)

Actually, is NOT a direct bolt on to the 2002.
Even though the 4 mounting bolts line up perfectly, the secondary hood release needs to be swapped out as the connecting rod on the 05/06 hood is longer. The actual mount of the release hook is further away from the latch than on the 2002. This means the secondary release mechanism from your 2002 will not reach when remounted on the 2005 grill.

Most importantly, the 2005 grill is a tiny bit taller than the 2002 grill. If just the grills are swapped out, the hood will not close properly. To get the hood to close, the bumper cover would have to be cut right where the grill decends onto it. It was at this point I returned my 2005 grill and secondary release to Sewell for a full refund.

steviej

mbud

Wow i didnt realize fabrication would be needed for this. lol I'd rather not cut into my bumper.

Hey steviej, a little off topic... you car looks amazing! what wheels did you put on your car? also did you lower it?

steviej

iTrader: (1)

nope, I haven't dropped it.
The tread and wheels are 235/40ZR-18 Goodyear Eagle F1 GS-D3 on Chrome Enkei LM1/5S (if I do them again, I will go with 225s).

check you PM.

steviej