wallvestor

I bought a 2014 RX 450h F Sport in Portugal this week. It's my third Lexus and so far the best.

I think the look is better on the front spindle grill if it flows as one, all in black. The middle bumper breaks the continuity. I had a local paint shop here in Portugal give me an estimate to paint it black like the lower spindle grill, for only 50 euros ($65).....but I thought that seemed low and maybe he wouldn't be using paint that can withstand being on the front bumper where there can be debris from the road striking the bumper.

I've looked around the forum and found one poster who used a black wrap on the center bumper, but I couldn't find any postings where this mod was done using paint. Any suggestions?

salimshah

vinyl wrap is another option. If you don't like it, just peel if off.

You can photo-shop your image and see.

Salim

Droid13

You can also try Plastidip, which is also peelable if you don't like it (if you apply enough coats). Its a flat black, but pretty easy to do yourself just to see how you like it.

MellonC00

My preference is NO. The appearance of the grill is large enough. Unless you are really going after the Predator look, I'd say leave it alone.

ronmaiden

I'd also try plasti-dip first and see how you like it and if not simply remove it.

RickC5

I've used Plastidip, and found that IF you think you may want to peel it off at some point, be sure to spray on MANY coats--at least 8-10--or it will be too thin to peel off easily. Other than that, Plastidip is easy to use, looks pretty good and you can do it yourself. Also, be sure to let the spray cans sit in hot water for several minutes before spraying, as the finish will be much smoother if you do this.

Don Nguyen

You won't see many people doing paint to black out the bumper's center portion nowadays, since it is such an easy solution/option to simply get that section wrapped. Realistically speaking, it will probably be cheaper than painting it as well.

wallvestor

all in all I think I will wrap this rascal. I shy from painting it now as it will be difficult to return to the original paint. As everyone seems to say either a wrap or plastidip will allow me to remove it if I so desire.

I will have it wrapped by a guy here that also installs window tint. Thinking of how easy wrapping should be and the perceived idea of being it more robust in absorbing minor road debris, I think it's best for now.

Now, I must decide whether to get a carbon fiber look or a just a flat matte finish.

Oh, is there anything to consider with respect to putting the wrap over the park assist sensors? Just put it right over the whole sensor?

wallvestor

.
Thanks everyone for good advice. I wrapped the front bumper with a satin finish black. It matches the lower plastic grill well. Guy was great and only charged 30 euro....about $35. Looks much better, IMHO.

Non

Good choice, looks very good!

JDR76

Looks fantastic!