Lexus: How to Paint Your Engine Cover

A Lexus with a painted engine cover will have a different, sportier look compared to one with a stock cover. Here's how to paint it yourself at home.

By James Karuga - December 29, 2014

This article applies to the Lexus IS, ES, GS, and RX (2005-2013).

Among various Lexus owners, the roles of engine covers are quite contentious. Some Lexus owners vouch for them, arguing they limit engine noise for the vehicle's occupants. Others argue that engine covers are merely for aesthetic reasons and their presence limits proper circulation of engine heat, resulting in costly engine problems and upgrades. Either way, a thorough paint job on your Lexus enhances its appearance and adds a feel of luxury and sport to it. This guide shows you how to paint the engine cover, and includes the cost of doing it yourself versus taking it to an auto shop.

Materials Needed

Engine cover paint and clear coat
600 to 800 grit sandpaper
Detergent or degreaser
Brush
Prep solvent (optional)
Star screwdriver
Socket

Step 1 - Remove the engine cover

Remove the engine cover using a screwdriver or socket depending on what is fastening the plastic cover at the top of the engine. The Lexus IS 250 has rivets holding the cover in place; a screwdriver can pry them out with ease.

Step 2 - Clean and sand the engine cover

With the cover out, pour the detergent or spray the degreaser and scrub it to remove dirt or stuck-on oil. Then, sand the cover lightly and uniformly with the sand paper. After sanding, rinse the cover and take note to sand again where the surface is not uniform. You can also wipe the cover with Prep solvent after sanding it.

Figure 2. Use a detergent or degreaser to clean the cover.
Figure 3. Use 600-800 grit sandpaper on the cover.

Step 3 - Paint the engine cover

Each engine paint manufacturer has unique specifications on the number of coats to be applied on the cover. Depending on the type of paint you use, apply the paint coats as specified. For each application, wait for around ten minutes before applying the next coat. In most instances there are three to four paint coats that can be applied. The final coat applied in most instances on your Lexus' engine cover is the clear coat. The most common engine cover paints are Dupli-Color Engine Enamel and VHT Caliper Paint.