ColdFusion

iTrader: (2)

Title says all - does anyone know the color/a similar color that can be purchased in spray form that matches the color on the 2011+ F-Sport Grille inserts for IS models?

I ask because I'd like to get an F-Sport style Grille for my '06 IS350, but all the aftermarket ones I can't stand the flat black and shiny *** chrome color. I intend to get one of the two and paint on a similar color so it matches the style. Yes I know this is nit-picky, but it's the smallest details that make all the difference IMO.

Anyone with insight, please chime in!

Icy350

iTrader: (18)

Tamiya spray paint. Its used for RC cars. I believe that the color is gun metal.

zmcgovern4

iTrader: (2)

Why not just buy OEM? if you're that concerned about the color and OEM look, that would be the best option. It will hold up much better than a rattle can finish.

Jeff Lange

iTrader: (1)

There is no such thing as OEM for a 2006. The only option is the aftermarket which comes flat black. If you wanted it to match the OEM style, you'd have to paint it.

Jeff

ColdFusion

iTrader: (2)

^What Jeff said lol. If there were an 06-08 OEM grille I'd hop on that ASAP.

zmcgovern4

iTrader: (2)

Learn something new everyday

ColdFusion

iTrader: (2)

So I found an old thread regarding painting F-Sport grilles here on CL, I'll be following that guide and paint choice to paint mine. Will report back with results in a few days

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/is-...stalled-2.html

SeanIS350

iTrader: (2)

The Toyota paint code 1E3 Phantom Grey Pearl is what matches the OEM f sport wheels exactly. Not sure if the wheels match the grill exactly but if I was painting my grill again I would use this paint.

ColdFusion

iTrader: (2)

Hmm, I saw that paint at AutoZone when I went to a different store, but the color didn't seem metallic enough for my taste. Is it shinier/more metallic in person?

SeanIS350

iTrader: (2)

I would say so... It's definitely not flat. Take a look at pics of the rims that come with the 2014+ IS350 F sport models and you will get a good idea.

ColdFusion

iTrader: (2)

So I took your advice and bought the Toyota 1E3 Phantom Grey Pearl you suggested. Pretty pleased with the results.



Stock form. I taped off the middle since I wanted to keep the insert and logo middle part black. Surface was wiped with 70% IPA before priming.



After layer of primer.



After two coats of paint.



Finished off with two light coats of gloss finish. Maybe I overdid it, so it could've just used 1 coat.







Compared to the stock grille. Definitely has more grey in the color, slightly less metallic and slightly less yellow/gold hue.





In the surround.









Prelim fitting into car. Looks pretty damn like an OEM part if you ask me.

Thanks again to SeanIS350 for changing my mind and sticking with the 1E3 paint

zmcgovern4

iTrader: (2)

that looks good!

SeanIS350

iTrader: (2)

your welcome man... Glad it worked out.

Looks dope! I wish I did mine that colour but now I'm too lazy to redo.

lysis250

iTrader: (18)

That looks clean, gotta do that to mine once I get it.

ColdFusion

iTrader: (2)

After a week or two of driving (also better out door pic):



Loving it, although several parts have chipped off , maybe should've used a better primer or something. One of the larger chips is off the upper left corner.