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Lexus IS: How to Install a Lowering Kit

Lowering your Lexus is the most popular modification. Here is how to do it yourself and save a lot of money on labor.

By Scott Deuty - November 26, 2014

This article applies to the Lexus IS 250, IS 350 (2005-2013).

Lowering the suspension system is a common modification that many Lexus IS drivers have implemented. This is an easy upgrade that involves replacing the springs with newer versions, which only requires minor tools and about half a day's effort.

Materials Needed

  • Metric sockets and wrenches
  • Spring compressor (returnable at most auto parts stores that have a lending program)
  • Hammer
  • Pry bar
  • Jack and jack stands

Step 1 - Raise the vehicle and remove the wheels

Loosen the lug nuts on your wheels before raising the vehicle as the leverage could knock it off the jack. Be sure to rest the vehicle on jack stands. Place the tire and rim under the vehicle to catch it in case it falls off the jack stands.

Figure 1. Raised car on jack stands.

Related Video:

Step 2 - Remove the three nuts from the shock tower located under the hood

Use a 14 mm wrench to remove the nuts located under the hood. The three nuts are located on top of the wheel well.

Figure 2. The shock tower nuts.

Step 3 - Remove the bolts that hold the brake lines

Remove the two bolts holding the brake line to the shock absorber.

Figure 3. Remove brake line bolts. The arrow points to the brake line.

Step 4 - Remove the nut from the lower shock mount

Use a 17mm wrench to remove the nut that holds the bottom of the shock absorber.

Figure 4. The lower shock mount nut.

Step 5 - Remove the nut from the lower control arm and the end link

Use a wrench to remove the lower control arm (LCA) bolt and end link.

Figure 5. LCA bolt is indicated.

Step 6 - Remove the shock assembly

Use the jack to relieve stress on the A frame in order to get the bolts free, and remove the assembly.

Figure 6. A removed bolt.

Step 7 - Remove the spring

Loosen the nut that holds the spring and then lower the jack. You may have to use a spring compressor or pry bar in order to remove the spring.

  • Figure 7. Lower the jack and suspension arm.
  • Figure 8. Using a compressor to remove spring.

Pro Tip

Wear safety glasses and gloves as many of these items are under pressure or stress from the suspension system and weight of other components.

Step 8 - Insert the new spring and assembly

You may have to use a spring compressor in order to insert the new spring. In most cases, a lower spring is not as tall as the original and slips right in. After you set the new spring in place, put the cover back on and tighten the bolt.

Figure 9. A spring compressor helps shorten the spring for easier installation.

Step 9 - Repeat the procedure for the back springs

The back springs are similar to the front with three upper bolts located in the trunk and a single lower bolt. Remove the three belts from the trunk, then remove the one bolt holding the bottom shock absorber in place, and wiggle it out. Use the same procedure in steps 7 and 8 to remove the spring from the shock, install the new spring, and re-install again.

  • Figure 10. View of the upper shock bolts for the back springs.
  • Figure 11. Remove the two bolts that hold the shock to the body.

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