ClubLexus - Lexus Forum Discussion

Lexus IS GS: How to Install Lowering Springs

Installing lowering springs on your Lexus IS or GS is one of ways you can lower it without spending too much money on a lowering kit or airbag suspension.

By Bart Kempff - November 24, 2014

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

Lowering the Lexus IS or GS is one of the most popular modifications you can do. You can spend a lot of money buying a lowering kit or airbag suspensions, or you can change the springs with lowered ones yourself.

Tools Needed

  • Spring compressor
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Car jack car stands
  • Ratchet set with torque gauge

Step 1 - Remove the wheels

Pry off the hub cap, loosen the wheel lug nuts, then jack up your Lexus IS or GS. Place the car stands underneath and remove the wheels. Verify that your car is on a flat surface and the jack stands are completely secure before you continue with this project.

Figure 1. Car resting on jacks to allow for wheel removal.

Step 2 - Locate the strut assemblies, including the strut bolts, brake bolts, and front sway bar

Refer to your owner's manual or online specifications to locate these parts. For the front of the car, you will have to go through the hood, and for the rear of the car, through the trunk and side panels. For the front of the Lexus IS, be careful when taking apart the brake system, specifically the ABS wires.

Pro Tip

When removing these parts be certain not to touch the AFS sensor that controls your lights. After installation you may have to adjust your AFS sensor as your Lexus IS will be lower.

  • Figure 2. Brake bar.
  • Figure 3. Strut assembly.

Related Articles:

  • How to Replace Your Rear Shocks - ClubLexus.com
  • How to Replace Your Front Shocks - ClubLexus.com

Step 3 - Compress the spring that is around the strut

Use your spring compressor to compress the spring around the strut. Use your ratchet to remove the bump stop from the strut. You will now be able to remove the spring from your Lexus IS.

Figure 4. Compressing the spring around the strut.

Step 4 - Install the new lowering spring

Install your new lowering spring over the strut. Use the spring compressor to put pressure on the spring. Re-assemble the struts in reverse order from step number two.

Figure 5. Installing new spring.

Pro Tip

When reassembling the struts in reverse order, be certain to reference the specifications to ensure that you are applying the correct amount of torque to the bolts you are tightening. Over torque or under torque may cause future damage to your Lexus IS.

Step 5 - Re-install the tires

Re-install the tires by reversing the directions in step one. Lower your Lexus IS or GS and visually check that the new lowering spring is operational. You will also want to verify the alignment of the wheels. You may have to adjust the toe and camber of your wheels as the lowering may have placed them in a different position.

Related Article:

Featured Video - How to Install Lowering Springs

Related Discussion