Body Side Moldings (merged threads)
On a somewhat related note, one of my moldings has come loose by about 5 or 6 inches. The tape on the car itself remains firmly fastened.
I'm thinking when the weather gets a bit warmer here in Chicago that I use a bead of silicone adhesive to get it reaffixed.
Any thoughts?
Thanks.
I'm thinking when the weather gets a bit warmer here in Chicago that I use a bead of silicone adhesive to get it reaffixed.
Any thoughts?
Thanks.
3M makes all kinds of levels of adhesion strength and also a adhesion promoter if desired.
I may just wait for warmer weather and take them off completely.
The installation of new molding is not that difficult, just takes some time and attention to detail. The instructions are the same for all 2011-2015 RX 350 and 450H.
The auto supply paint stores usually do not stock the recommended 3M prep product but there are other products that do the job. 70% isopropol alcohol works well, make sure you use clean rags and wipe the application site thoroughly several times to remove any wax or coatings. A long metal ruler helps to set masking tape reference points correctly. There are RH and LF moldings, check the back of the molding to make sure what side it applies to, The instructions don't say anything about this.
You can use a hair dryer to heat sections of the molding as you apply it if it is cold. Do a little at a time. The adhesive works best when warmed. I have not had any problems with mine coming off, but I have reapplied them for others. You can purchase spray adhesive re activator. Applying new tape is next to impossible.
I purchased mine from Sewell for less than $100 including shipping and got them in a couple of days.
The auto supply paint stores usually do not stock the recommended 3M prep product but there are other products that do the job. 70% isopropol alcohol works well, make sure you use clean rags and wipe the application site thoroughly several times to remove any wax or coatings. A long metal ruler helps to set masking tape reference points correctly. There are RH and LF moldings, check the back of the molding to make sure what side it applies to, The instructions don't say anything about this.
You can use a hair dryer to heat sections of the molding as you apply it if it is cold. Do a little at a time. The adhesive works best when warmed. I have not had any problems with mine coming off, but I have reapplied them for others. You can purchase spray adhesive re activator. Applying new tape is next to impossible.
I purchased mine from Sewell for less than $100 including shipping and got them in a couple of days.
I installed the side body moldings and the mud flaps. I used genuine Lexus parts purchased online and followed the instructions. Both were easy to install and I saved some money and got the satisfaction of having done the job myself!
Last edited by mtmendez; Apr 30, 2015 at 04:14 PM. Reason: Added pix
I definitely like it better with the side molding. I think it improves the lines. But then again, my opinion and $3 will buy you coffee!
I see a few RX's around here with door moldings positioned at mid door, running horizontally. I suspect these are dealer "add ons" and not from the factory. What's the deal? I already have 1 ding (despite parking carefully) in our 6 week old RX. How much are these and must they be installed by the dealer? And how can I be sure they'll be installed correctly (level) etc? Or course even the moldings can get dinged, so I'm not totally sure they would be worth it. Does a ding on the molding look "less worse" than one on the door itself? Probably, but not much. Less chance of an indentation but still a big paint nick.
I purchased OEM Lexus mouldings from Concord Lexus on Ebay. Fair price, repainted, ready to install and quick delivery. I self installed.
You could also have it purchased and installed by your local dealer but it will cost you more.
You could also have it purchased and installed by your local dealer but it will cost you more.






