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Lexus GS: Exterior General Information

When it comes to modifications, exterior always comes first. Here's how to completely change the looks of your Lexus GS.

By Brett Foote - December 8, 2014

This article applies to the Lexus GS (2005-2013).

The exterior is generally what many automotive enthusiasts worry about, because it is the part of the car that everyone else sees the most. This is why we buy nice wheels, body kits, and upgraded lighting. Like most popular brands, Lexus offers a wealth of options for those looking to improve upon factory looks and stand out from the crowd. But what are some of the more popular modifications for Lexus, and what are the latest trends? We've rounded up the answers to those questions below.

Body Modifications

Figure 1. The F Sport body kit is a popular modification for non-F cars.

Body modifications typically start with the addition of a body kit of some sort. Lexus offers a nice upgrade from the factory with its F Sport models, which feature more aggressive styling all the way around the car. If you don't have the cash or the foresight to purchase an F Sport model, you can still get the same aggressive look with a body kit. Just make sure you factor the additional cost of paint into your purchase, which can add a good bit to the total price. And watch out for potholes and curbs. The body kit consists of a front under spoiler, side skirts, and a rear diffuser. You can also add a matching rear spoiler to this kit.

Lighting

Figure 2. Upgrading your car's lighting adds both great looks and improved safety.

Whether you want to upgrade your headlights, taillights, fog lights, or all three, there are a lot of benefits that come with better lighting on your Lexus. Upgrades in this department really bring a lot of visual appeal to add to an increase in visibility at night or in poor conditions. If your car is an older model without HID or LED lighting, conversion kits are readily available at many different price ranges to fit your budget.

Wheels

Figure 3. Aftermarket wheels can drastically change the look of your Lexus.

Wheels are one of the most popular upgrades for any car, and for good reasons. You can bolt on a set of wheels and tires quite easily, and drastically change the look of your ride in the process. Whether you are going for flashy or racy, the options are almost limitless. Depending on the size and material you choose, you can also improve performance and handling with a wheel change. New wheels can vary in price anywhere from $500 to literally thousands of dollars. Enthusiasts often say that you shouldn't do any modifications until you modify your wheels first.

Wheels can also be complimented by replacing the lug nuts. There are varies types of lug nuts from colored ones, all the way to custom looking ones specifically for your needs.

(Related Article: Sexy lug nuts - Clublexus.com)

Paint

Figure 4. A quality custom paint job will really set you apart from the crowd.

If you are really looking to stand out from the crowd or possibly take your ride to car shows, a custom paint job might be just the trick. Whether you get some crazy gold flake, a color shifting paint, or simply a stripe or two, custom paint runs the gauntlet from mild to wild. Just remember that this kind of modification is highly subjective, and if you want to sell the car one day keep in mind possible buyers may not share your individual tastes. This modification is also a risky one, because you can pay for a cheap paint job that would cost you $2,500 and risk ruining the look of the car, or you can invest more money and actually make your car look modified.

(Related Article: How to Find a Good Paint Shop - Clublexus.com).

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