Removing the cross bars, simple DIY
Thread Starter
CL Community Team
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 12,398
Likes: 455
From: GA
Removing the cross bars, simple DIY
Saw the 2010 RX350 at the auto show and got some inspiration to remove the cross bars. It has been something that I have been wanting to do.
Here's step 1:
Remove rear trim. Hold on center and lift. It does not want to move but you will need some jogging.
Here's step 1:
Remove rear trim. Hold on center and lift. It does not want to move but you will need some jogging.
Lead Lap
Joined: Mar 2004
Posts: 444
Likes: 3
From: California
Roof Rack
I didnt like the look of the rack on my RX300 or 350. So I ended up taking them off both.
On the RX350 you can remove the entire rack. And install the long spacers that come with the panaorama sunroof. Looks much nicer. Sold the roof rack for almost 2 car payments.
On the RX350 you can remove the entire rack. And install the long spacers that come with the panaorama sunroof. Looks much nicer. Sold the roof rack for almost 2 car payments.
Instructor
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 901
Likes: 420
From: Ontario
I did this on my '08 and admit that a couple of the tabs that lock the covers in place broke off. I tried to be extra careful, but couldn't figure out how to pull up or out while removing that cover. Also, getting them back on was a chore as well. That yellow post you see in your photo kept falling out. Did you do anything in particular to squeeze or push or pull, something that made removal without snapping the locking tabs any easier? Note that the cover still held in place even without those pesky tabs, but I was so paranoid about it that I didn't do this on my '09, yet!
Thread Starter
CL Community Team
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 12,398
Likes: 455
From: GA
^^ Yes, washing is a lot easier!
That yellow locking tab was a PITA. You almost need to replace them after you yank them off. And the tabs, they broke the minute you pull that trim.
Yes, without the racks, they look sleek and clean. maybe in a few months, I will take them off and see what it looks like!
That yellow locking tab was a PITA. You almost need to replace them after you yank them off. And the tabs, they broke the minute you pull that trim.
Yes, without the racks, they look sleek and clean. maybe in a few months, I will take them off and see what it looks like!
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Thread Starter
CL Community Team
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 12,398
Likes: 455
From: GA
You can buy the cover as stated from Lexus, some people have them done, do a search, I think it is about $180. Or else you must seal to keep water out. Nobody can see much, not noticeable.
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Pole Position
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 355
Likes: 0
From: CA
Hey Keys, that looks like my RX! I also have my tails "smoked," although not as dark as yours.
I love the look of my RX without the roof rack or rails, I'll never use them. But it's just taking up room inside my garage. How much could I get for them?
When it's time for new tires, I want to get 19" wheels. I'm just not sure where to get them...
I love the look of my RX without the roof rack or rails, I'll never use them. But it's just taking up room inside my garage. How much could I get for them?
When it's time for new tires, I want to get 19" wheels. I'm just not sure where to get them...
Driver
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 128
Likes: 1
From: NY
Or maybe the 2010 RX is just quieter in general...
Pole Position
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 355
Likes: 0
From: CA
I haven't noticed much of a difference in wind noise since taking them off... maybe a tiny improvement in gas mileage if I drive normally. I don't really drive in complete silence, so I either have the windows down or music cranked up.
Thread Starter
CL Community Team
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 12,398
Likes: 455
From: GA
I tried to listen if I had less wind noise, but could not detect it. I was hoping that the wind noise (or some other kind of noise) was going to lessen, but so far maybe not.
Anyway, after a few weeks, I may remove the whole rack...really much better look.
Anyway, after a few weeks, I may remove the whole rack...really much better look.
Driver
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 70
Likes: 0
I like the no cross bar look. I think it going to be a quick project as soon as the weather warms up.
Keys... where do I get the smoked tail lights. Is it a film that goes on and how "durable" might it be in some harsh cold weather?
Keys... where do I get the smoked tail lights. Is it a film that goes on and how "durable" might it be in some harsh cold weather?