2IS FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) and DIY Thread - NEW MEMBERS PLEASE START HERE

[flipside909]

Here are a few Frequently Asked (and answered) Questions regarding the Second Generation IS. Simply click on the underlined links to be taken to another thread with more details.

Section One - Forum rules and general navigation

Click here to be taken to our forum rules including important details regarding our work safe environment, guidelines against personal attacks, group buy rules and even details on what signature images are allowed (those pictures you see when members post at the bottom of their reply). Please take the time to read them as our forum rules are strictly enforced.

Although the 2nd Gen IS is a relatively new model, we already have quite a bit of history - please look through before posting a question. This FAQ tries to capture the most common, but please search before posting. We're writing a new 'how to' on advanced search but you can get the idea in this post.




Section Two - Purchasing research and acquisition of a 2nd generation IS (2IS)

• How can I/did I get a good deal? Click for our primary thread on pricing discussions.
• What price discount off MSRP Did you get? Poll (click "view poll results" if you have not voted)
• What are the specifications for the New IS?
• Where can I find the official Lexus press releases on the New IS?
• Where can I download the e-brochure for the 2IS??
• Where can I find real-world reviews on the New IS? also check out this detailed review of the IS350 by CL member davlav
• 2IS audio system overview
• Audiophile member reviews the 2IS Mark Levinson audio option
• 2IS Mark Levinson audio option vs Pioneer audio option
• Is the Navigation option worth buying?

Section Three - Other 'general' questions that come up frequently:

• What are the ages of buyers of the 2IS? and and a similar thread with a poll.
• What do buyers of the 2IS do for a living?
• What color 2IS are members buying?
• What are IS350 insurance costs like for members?
• What car did your 2IS replace?
• What is VDIM?
• How many miles were on your 2IS when you took delivery?

Section Four - NEW 2IS owners registration and welcome!

• How do I get on the ClubLexus New IS Owner Registry?
• Is there a member map of the 2IS owners on ClubLexus so I can see if anyone is near me?
• Where do I find the IS250/IS350 Photo Gallery to look at pics of member's 2IS's?

Section Five A - OEM Tips, Tricks, and DIY's (Do It Yourself)

• What are all the Lexus Personalized Settings (LPS) I can have configured on my 2IS by the dealer?
• How do I enable "Dyno Mode" or the VSC/TRAC defeat in 2006 models? or 2007 & 2008 models?
• What does the ECT Power button do?
• What is the MAINT REQ'D light and how do you reset it?
• How to change the oil in your IS250 or IS350.
• How to turn off the seat belt alarm.
• How to adjust the bluetooth microphone sensitivity.
• Summary of navigation voice commands.
• Tips on updating the door lock settings.. and step-by-step here.
• Smartkey door unlock tips.
• Learning about the 5th gen Lexus Navigation System.
• How to reset your 2nd gen IS electronic control unit (ECU).
• DIY: How to change the front brakes on your IS350. or IS250.
  
• DIY: How to change the rear brakes on your IS250 or IS350.
• My car is rattling and buzzing inside - what can I do?
• I've tried everything and I can't get my Homelink to work, what now?
• DIY: How to change the differential fluid in your IS350
• DIY: Cabin air filter change

Section Five B - Technical Service Bulletins and Recall Information

• 2006 2IS Seatbelt Recall
• ISx50 Low Dust Brake Pad TSIB (.pdf posted on page 7)
• 2006 2IS Fuel line Recall

Section Six- Modifying your 2IS with aftermarket products

• What performance chips are available for the 2IS?.
• Aftermarket modifications catalog thread (member examples).
• Aftermarket wheels fitment thread (member examples).
• Aftermarket suspension options thread (examples).
• Aftermarket bodykit thread (member examples).
• Where do I find the Lexus Japan parts for the New IS?
• How to enable DVD, Phonebook, MP3 folder, etc. while moving.
• Override to change navigation destination while in motion.
• How to install (hardwire) a Valentine One radar detector in your 2nd generation IS.
• Vaistech SLI iPod integration installation with pictures.
• How to hide the amber piece of your taillights. Another good thread on the same topic.
• How to install HID's on your non-HID equipped 2IS.
• How to replace OEM foglight bulbs with aftermarket bulbs.
• How to replace OEM foglight bulbs with HIDs.
• How to replace parking lights with LEDs.
• How to install illuminated scuff plates on your non Luxury Package 2IS.
• What are car cover options for my 2IS?
• What are front window shade/shield options for my 2IS?
• What do different window tint % and film options look like on the 2IS?
• Warning about door pillar rubber trim & heat guns during tint install - make sure your installer knows about this issue!
• How to install lowering springs
• How do I get the AFS light to turn off after installing lowering springs? (Solution on page 3)
• Why won't my power windows roll up after disconnecting the battery?
• How to install the Lexus XM Satellite Radio in your 2IS.
• How to install 'Halo' headlights on your 2IS.
• How to build the 'Pipe Bomb' for your non-TPMS compatible aftermarket wheels.
• An alternative solution for your non-TPMS compatible aftermarket wheels.
• How to install the Lexus OEM Sport Pedals in your 2IS.
• Can I install the Lexus OEM navigation system in a 2IS without navigation?
• How to install "JDM" LED turn-sign mirrors on your 2IS.

Section Seven - Discovering the rest of Club Lexus

Now that you've explored the 2nd Gen IS forum, we want to make sure you knew about the rest of Club Lexus and took advantage of all it has to offer. Click the bolded and underlined text to visit the mentioned sub-forum.

We've created a new classified advertisement forum specific for the 2IS and a gallery to host your 2IS images, free of charge!

We have a dedicated Automotive Care & Detailing forum that is for discussions on washing, waxing, polishing, detailing, cleaning and maintaining the the beauty of your new Lexus. This forum is moderated by two professional detailers.

Our Vendor Marketplace is the place to find group buys and great deals from ClubLexus' supporting vendors.

The Wheels & Tires Forum is where you can ask all sorts of questions about aftermarket rim and tire combos.

If you want to shoot the breeze about SOB (some other brand) of vehicle, try Car Chat or ask about something else in life try the ClubHouse.

We have many local meets for Lexus enthusiasts, check out the forum for your area.

and this is just a start... I wanted to make sure you took some time to poke around and discover the other areas of the forum that can enhance your Lexus ownership experience. Welcome to our community!

Club Lexus thanks Flipside909 for developing the first draft of this FAQ in December 2005 and all members who have contributed to the content linked above . If you have suggestions to add to the list, please pm DaveGS4. This list is intended to be a living document so please nominate posts you think will be useful to new and existing members alike.

Thank you for your enthusiasm and participation on Club Lexus.

- DaveGS4 - Last updated Feburay 9, 2009