Refurbishing Is200 17" Alloys

[Gavin G]

Hi all

I'm over here in Ireland and hopefully will be in a position to buy a 2000/2001 IS200 Sport in the very near future. Unfortunately, on every one I've looked at so far, the standard 5 spoke 17" alloys (which I like) are very tatty.

The finish seems dull probably due to brake dust not being cleaned off reguarly and of course there's the dreaded kerbing and the wheels generally just look tired.

I know that a brand new set would probably cost a bomb so I was wondering how much hassle/expense would it be to have them professionally restored to their full glory? I've heard some horror stories in the past about so called alloy wheel refurbishment where the end result is far from satisfactory.

Any advice appreciated,

Gavin :)

[GRiM]

Hi Gavin

You're right that the wheels on an IS200 2000/2001 can look a bit ruff.

It's a widely known issue that was only sorted on IS200's from January 2002 onwards.

Basically, the wheels supplied with Lexus models prior to 2002 only had one coat of laquer applied.

Since 2002, there have been two coats of laquer added to reduce the chance of corrosion.

I do know of a company based in Lisburn, called Lister Engineering, that can refurbish alloys and make them like new. The down side is they charge £25 a wheel.

If you are interested in refurbishing wheels, you could give them a shout and see what they'll charge for a set of 4.

[Gavin G]

Hi GRiM,

Thanks for your prompt reply!

Have you or anyone you know had any experience of the company you mentioned? How good a job do they do and once the wheels are done do they keep their appearance in the long term?

£25 a wheel wouldn't be that bad if the job was up to scratch and I'm sure would be much less expensive than forking out for a new set!

Cheers,

Gavin

P.S. Does there be any meets, get togethers etc. for Lexus owners in N. Ireland? I'd be interested in catching up with the crew. Must say your car looks the business!

[TonyGoose]

Can the wheels not be replaced under warranty ??

Maybe they don't do it south of the border ...

If so, a trip north could possibly be beneficial :)

We have a europe wide warranty after all.

[GRiM]

I've used them in the past and their results are excellent.

Be aware they can have a long waiting list.

Up to two weeks. :o

There hasn't been a N.Ireland Lexus meet, yet.

But with numbers growing, who knows...

I've been to one in England when I was last over there..

Nice bunch of chaps.

Except of course for Zee, who's a miserable git.

[Scorpion]

Grim quote 'I do know of a company based in Lisburn, called Lister Engineering, that can refurbish alloys and make them like new. The down side is they charge £25 a wheel.'

Damn cheap over the water, just paid nearly £50 a wheel down south :o