After 6+ years of owning the car since new, I literally just now noticed that the front air dam (non F sport) is functional (looks like a radiator behind the grill) ONLY on the passenger side, with the drivers side sealed off with plastic. Has this always been the case, and if so, why??

 

The automatic transmission oil cooler is located behind that grille. It seems like an awfully vulnerable location.
Picture is an LC, but I think it is very similar to the LS.

 

Ahh, thank you! Agree that it seems like a vulnerable position.

 

Its actually a great spot for keeping it cooler. My previous car (GS-F) had the trans cooler on pass-side and motor oil cooler on driver-side. I was thinking to open the driver side just for more air intake cooling. But yeah, once you realize one vent is open......Just feels like I must bring balance with the other.

 

https://www.topendmotorsports.com/le...oler-44605.jpg

It appears the piece mentioned is more center of the LS500.

 

On my 2020 LS500 AWD that cooler is behind the small grille on the passenger side.

 

Yup I made sure mine was on the left vent. That link showing center mounted is referring to the Lexus IS.

 

Your most certainly correct!

 

I’m confused.
It’s best to say either driver’s or passenger’s side.