salr

I will be leasing a 2012 RX350 and would like to carry two bikes via a rear hitch. I have read a lot of the threads about Curt hitches, etc. Since my car is leased, there would be problems if I make any mods to it by having an after-market hitch installed (trim faschia, etc). I do not need wiring -- only the hitch. Has anyone had any experience with having dealer installed hitches in the NY area (prices, etc). Would like to use my Thule trunk mount, but given the weight of the carrier and the two bikes, I am sure that the rear spoiler would be a problem.
Thanks.

markrivers

Go ahead with the modification, as long as you return it to the dealer without all the after market stuff, you'll be ok.

MX5NES350

Unless he has to cut anything to install the hitch. I'm unfamiliar with how various hitches install, however, if any plastic needs to be cut it may be best to keep the hitch on or go to a junkyard/salvage yard to find replacement plastic. At the end of a lease the person leasing the vehichle is responsible for any cosmetic damage as a result of accident/modification/etc along with any other wear and tear items that are deemed to be not normal. That's why I've always avoided leasing. Well, that and mileage limitations since I drive so damned much.

InRBigness

get the dealer to install the hitch. That way they need to take it back with the hitch on it.

Evitzee

With the RX you have to cut the under bumper fascia to get it to fit. Review the Curt on line instruction sheet to see how it is done. Putting a hitch on should not be a problem on a leased vehicle.....it is pretty inconspicuous. On line price for hitch and bike carrier is about $260 and can be done by any reasonably competent person. If the lexus dealer does it I've heard prices in the $1,100 to $1,200 range (plus the hitch price). Do it yourself and save $$$.

ThChinaman

Evitzee is right. I've installed the Curt hitch and Ihad to cut the fascia. It took me about an hour because I forgot where the screws went, but besides that, the installation was really easy and straight forward. It's not worth it having the dealer install it.

salr

Thanks all. I found that some of the Rx-350's have a tow receiver accessory (MSRP $650). With a 58% residual on the lease and pricing negotiation, that may be an option. Will have to investigate further between that and the Curt.