Hi All. I have a 2008 RX350 all wheel drive with about 75,000 miles on the odometer. Recently I had the opportunity to drive a new RX and noted how different the ride felt compared to my RX. I cannot remember if my RX rode that well when it was new. However, assuming that it had some of those attributes when new, what parts in the RX should be replaced to get as close to the new ride feeling as possible?

I have already replaced my tires with new Michelins but that made very little difference to the ride. I've read many postings about changing the struts/springs and using the original Lexus parts to restore the ride. So that's something I'll look at doing soon. But I think most of my complaints about the quality of the ride has to do with a perceived looseness in the suspension system. So I'm thinking certain bushings may need replacement. Any suggestions as to which ones I should be looking at? Is there anything in the all wheel drive suspension that's different from the front wheel drive?

Thanks for any input that you can provide. I'm not thinking of buying a new RX as the design and size of the new one does not appeal to me. Other than the ride quality, my old RX still is a beautiful car.

Bob

Shocks and struts are probably what you are feeling is worn. That being said, sway bar bushings are a good add on, and definitely check the control arm bushings as if they are worn, the suspension will definitely feel "loose"

Thanks for the suggestions about which bushings to check. Do you know of a reliable way of checking to see if the bushings are worn out? I remember watching a mechanic use a pry bar to show how loose one was on an older car of mine, but I wasn't convinced that the new bushing wouldn't move the same amount with a pry bar.

I've been trying to find solutions to the sloppy ride in my 2006 RX330 as well. I don't want to lower the vehicle, but I do want to stiffen the suspension a bit. The thought came to me today to see if it's possible to put RX400h struts and springs on my RX, simply because the curb weight of the 400h is about 300lbs heavier (if I remember correctly). Has anyone done this? Would it cause the springs to be loaded weird - thus making it unlevel? Curious to hear people's thoughts on this.