My 2000 RX does not have the black rubber mat protecting the area just aft of the tailgate...which has gotten scratched over time. Any ideas on an after market addition to match what the newer RX's have?

 

I think this was discussed a couple of years ago. The 1st choice IMO would be the Lexus OEM part, from your local Lexus dealer or one of the discount Lexus parts suppliers (several of which support this site). It is held by adhesive. I also seem to recall reading that the Toyota minivan? part is the same size, but with the Toyota name and a lower cost.

 

They sell it at www.irontoad.com. Navigate to the lexus section and choose your model year RX. It's around $70.

I used a bumper protector for a Sienna (2001) instead. It doesn't go to the edge of the back of the car, but it was less only $30 if I recall. No Lexus or Toyota written on it.

 

The technical term for it is the "rear bumper step pad".

 

I went through Irontoad a few years back and got the OEM part. Had Lexus on the step and goes on with 3M tape. You just have to make sure the surface is really clean and doesn't have any wax on it, or the 3M might come loose over time.

$70... forgetabout it, why get an aftermarket???

 

My 2003 has this, it is a nice basic feature that helps protect the bumper from light surficial wear, and on some vehicles it is known as a Rear Bumper Appliqué, just to add a little French flair!

 

Stongard used to make a piece of 3M protective film for the pre-2001 RX that did the same job but without that ugly black doormat. Another feature of the film was that you could "cheat" the installation slightly aft, allowing it to hang over the edge of the bumper, protecting from objects that lean or fall against the bumper. It was a little expensive, but looked great on light colored cars where the black doormat didn't really look that good.