Rear shock absorbers in RX450h with pneumatic suspension

[Vadim]

Rear shock absorbers in RX450h AL10 is one of the parts “built to last”, and rarely require attention.

However, if you have RX450h SE-L with pneumatic suspension, and decide to replace the rear shocks for some reason, mind that they differ from the ones used in sprung suspension.

Particularly, the shocks for air suspension have less travel for compression and a built-in spring, which prevents full expansion (though it can be expanded to approximately the same length as normal shocks with some force).

This is differences compensate for the specifics of air spring as opposed to coil spring, and only appropriate shocks should be used in each case. Fortunately, original shocks retail for £50-£100 in sharp contrast to other lexus suspension parts.

Rear shocks for pneumatic suspension (the shorter) and sprung suspension (the longer):

Access: easy.

Mechanical skill required for replacement: moderate (just remember to tighten the screws when the suspension is loaded as if the car was standing on wheels normally).

Tools required: second car jack to support the wishbone when the shock is removed, and to preload the suspension before tightening screws; impact wrench desirable.
 

Time required: 25 min each side (with impact wrench).

[Stevo11]

Does anyone happen to know the part number for the rear shocks (air suspension)? Mine seems to hit bumpstops/bounce a little more than it should.

Thanks

[Stevo11]

48531-48164 for anyone looking for it in future.