XeroK00L

I'm going to lower my ES a couple of inches after the rims are replaced (BTW, my tire shop says they couldn't find Manaray Vertec VR5 imported anywhere in the US, so I'm gonna settle with 19" ADR M-Classic), but my dealer says it's probably not a good idea since it'll most likely ruin AVS (adaptive variable suspension), an option I like quite a bit.
Can anyone here confirm if that is true?
Thanks.

Lex Diamonds

Confirmed XeroK00L; I had the same conversation with my Lex dealer about a year ago when I asked the head mechanic about Rims and a drop. I was told that you wouldn't have a problem initially but over time (wear-n-tear) that your suspension WILL GO and you will not be covered under any Lexus warranty. Since I am not a millionaire, I decided to do any extremities cause I need that warranty.

I believe that there was someone else on Club Lexus that asked a question about How much will it cost to replace/repair and ES suspension due to 20' rims.

nixmax

Thanks Lex,
I was too in the proccess of shopping for some 20" but not any more. In that case what is the suitable size without affecting warranty or any quick wear and tear of the suspension. Would 18's be the best or even lower coz the stock wheels do suck? Please advise.
Thansk,
- George

squarehat

Suspension damage aside, I don't even think 20" rims would physically fit on an ES without extensive fender mods. Even 19"s require fender rolling, at least on the '01 and earlier cars.

XeroK00L

Thanks for the suggestion Lex Diamonds
What I was really asking, however, is whether or not the AVS (adaptive variable suspension--a '02 option that allows drivers to switch between the sports and comfort modes) will stop behaving properly or as intended when the car body is lowered for a couple of inches.
I know this is gonna cost me the warranty on the suspension but I still much prefer to do it because personally I think the car looks better when lowered with larger wheels.
Would really appreciate any further comments on this matter.

Lex Diamonds

I am sure that it will offset the AVS cause (1) your adding more weight to the car with any size rim other than 16-17' (2) Lowering the car shock suspension will also create a problem with the AVS. I know a Lex Mechanic told me heavier wheels/rims/whatever can cause a difffernt feel in the Lexus Skid Control options but I wouldn't be able to confirm that - I stayed with the factory chrome to salvage my warranty.