shvc1991

Good morning everyone. I recently picked up a 2013 ES350 and I really like the look of the rear end on the new model. Does anyone know if the rear valance/diffuser on the bottom of the rear bumper is interchangeable with the 2016 one? While I'm at it, is it possible to do a front end conversion as well?

Thanks for any and all help!

azipod

There's a lot more to the 2016+ updated looks than just the bumpers and valence. In the back, the tail-lights and quarter panels look very different as well. In the front, there is a lot more going on. You'll need a new hood, fender, headlights, in addition to the bumper.

If you need the 2016+ look, you mind as well sell your car and buy a 2016+ model instead -- you'll save a lot more money and you'll have something that's genuine.

lesz

I agree 100%. Even if those changes are possible, by the time you buy all of the parts needed to make those changes on the front and rear of the car, you are likely to have spent almost as much as it would cost to trade your 2013 ES for a 2016 ES or, perhaps, even more. Plus, you will lose even more on the other end when it is time to sell or trade that modified 2013 ES. Even if you consider the changes to be an "upgrade", used car buyers want a car that looks like it was designed in that model year, and that is likely to be even more true for used Lexus buyers. When used car managers (and many private buyers) evaluate the value of a vehicle, they will severely discount the value of heavily modified vehicles. Besides the modifications, themselves, used car managers and private buyers will also be concerned about the possibility that you made other mechanical or electrical modifications that could cause reliability issues down the road, and they will, therefore, be less likely to pay top dollar for a heavily modified vehicle.

The bottom line is that, if it is important to you to have the 2016 look, it makes more sense to sell your 2013 ES and buy a 2016 ES than it does to try to make your 2013 look like a 2016.

shvc1991

Thank you for the responses. I was just curious about what it would take to do the conversion... in reality I would really just like to change the rest valance/diffuser and exhaust tips. I wonder if it's as simple as removing the current one and replacing it with the new one.

peteharvey

If I'm not wrong, the bonnet, trunk lid, front and rear quarter panels are the same; check to see if the part numbers are the same.
If I'm not wrong, the rear valance and exhaust tips can be changed.
So too the rear tail light four piece set, and the headlights and front bumper cover.

SW17LS

I recall reading somewhere on here that the rear valance and the bumper cover are in fact one piece. So if you were going to replace the valence you would need the whole bumper cover.

The fenders, hood, trunk lid, rear quarter panels are all the same. Whats different is the rear lights, the bumper and valence, the headlights, the front bumper cover and grill.

I would be shocked if all of this would not bolt right up. Remember though the I believe 2016+ has LED headlamps, so there would be some electrical work there also.

shvc1991

I really appreciate all of the answers. I looked further into it by actually calling the local Lexus dealer and the rear valance and bumper cover are one piece. As SW15LS said, one would need to replace the entire bumper cover. Shame.

SW17LS

Makes no sense to me why they did it that way...to me that makes it hell for body shops because they have to mask off all that lower valence when they paint...

peteharvey

Yes, they have to mask it off, often the rear valance is painted in its own color too.
One piece rear bumper and valance is stronger than a two piece design.

I would wait and year or two, and just trade-in for a 2016 ES.
Changing the four tail light lenses, the rear bumper, exhaust tips, the front bumper, headlights and fog lamps - just isn't worth it IMO - unless I run into someone at the front, while someone else rams me up the rear, and the insurance company is paying for it, and I'm just paying for upgrade to 2016 components.

SW17LS

The rear valence is just black plastic. It's unpainted. On the GS and LS it's two pieces.

shvc1991

It truly is an inferior design to its counterparts. I was thinking the exact same thing when I was given the facts. The guys over at Lexus were just as bewildered as I was. The reason I asked about the rear end conversion is because the valance part of the bumper on my car is actually showing age. I'm not sure if it's from hard water in my area making the plastic fade in some areas, but it is definitely getting worse the more the rear end sees the sun.

Nelexus88

There are products available for restoring unpainted black plastic bumpers and trim. Forever Black is one I have used on several different vehicles and it works well. Comes with a built-in applicator.

jollick

Forever Black looks like good stuff and supposedly lasts up to 7 years. Here is a video
Thanks for the tip.

Alexbenz

was anyone able to convert some of the new pieces from the 2016 model onto 2013-2015? I've done these sort of things on prior cars. Issue is sourcing out parts if your trying to get them used. Also finding a shop that is knowledgeable helps big time if your not doing it yourself. The whole sell the car and upgrade to the newer model isn't the way to go. What if you love your car an d it's been a great car to you but you just want a refresh? Hate when i hear that kind of reply.

egk2lexus

I saw someone use Avalon tips and looked pretty good, i plan on swapping out the round tips soon. I have to do some research.