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Lexus IS/GS: Suspension Modifications

Suspension modification is the first upgrade many people consider to enhance performance and style and achieve a sporty feel in the Lexus.

By Brett Foote - November 17, 2014

This article applies to the Lexus IS, GS (2005-2013).

When you talk about performance, most people think about engines, horsepower, and torque. But what good is all that power if you can't turn a corner? Suspension upgrades are a great way to extract a ton of performance and fun out of the Lexus, but with so many options, it can get pretty confusing. If you are looking to upgrade your suspension, there are a variety of ways you can do so and improve your car's handling characteristics at the same time. These options include performance, coil-overs, a strut tower brace, an anti-sway bar, and air suspension setup. Here's a handy guide that navigates through the popular suspension upgrades and will help you choose the right one for your needs.

Coil-overs

Figure 1. A set of performance coil-overs for a Lexus IS.

DIY Cost – $500-$1,000
Professional Cost – $700-$1,500 for labor plus parts and an alignment
Skill Level – Moderate: requires technical skills and some specialized tools.

A set of performance coil-overs is a great way to upgrade the handling and lower the Lexus a little as well. While OEM coilovers are essentially just tuned for comfort, aftermarket setups can retain that quality ride, while also vastly improve handling characteristics as well. Many are also adjustable, which allows you to dial in the right setup for your needs. Some popular brands of coil-overs for the Lexus IS include KW, Tein, HKS, and JIC.

Strut Tower Brace

Figure 2. A strut tower brace is a simple but effective upgrade.

DIY Cost – $30-$300
Professional Cost – $60-$400 including labor
Skill Level – Easy: requires little skill and few tools to complete.

Adding a strut tower brace is a quick and easy way to improve handling for little coin. Essentially just a metal bar, a strut tower brace stretches from one strut tower to the next, going right over the top of the engine. This simple addition increases the structural rigidity of the car, making it tighter and more responsive, especially under hard driving. Some popular brands of strut tower brace include Aristo, RMM, and Cusco.

Anti-Sway Bar

Figure 3. A stock IS sway bar compared to an aftermarket one.

DIY Cost – $200-$400
Professional Cost – $250-$500 including labor
Skill Level – Easy: requires few specialized skills and basic tools.

Anti-Sway bars are another simple yet effective upgrade. Much like a strut tower brace, an anti-sway bar simply bolts into the suspension and prevents the car from swaying or rolling when turning a corner. This is especially noticeable under hard cornering or under quick turning when you are trying to avoid something on the road. Some popular brands of anti-sway bars include TRD, Daizen, Emusa, and Eibach.

Air Suspension

Figure 4. Air suspension allows for ride height customization.

DIY Cost – $2,000-$4,000
Professional Cost – $3,000-$5,000 including labor
Skill Level – Advanced: requires specialized skills and tools.

Air suspensions allow for the ultimate in suspension customization. You can alter the ride height, as well as the handling characteristics of your Lexus with the simple press of a button. Of course, you must pay for that convenience. But air suspensions also allow you to soften up the ride when you aren't in the mood for corner carving, which is a big advantage. When you are ready to play hero, simply tighten everything up and go have fun. Some popular brands of air suspensions include KSport, Air Runner, and Air Force AIR.

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