Jmason57

Pictures will definitely follow once I've finished with the lil bits of work I'm doing to bring it right back to as-new! As for my stumble towards lexus ownership, it was an odd one. It was time to get rid of my Alfa MiTo Cloverleaf which I adored but no longer fit my lifestyle, I am doing a lot of miles now and really wanted a refined saloon car. I was planning treating myself and getting a new Giulia as I had just got a new job, however realised that it would be better to put the money towards other things. Thus begun my search for an older luxury saloon, I had an E46 3 series as my first car which was great but so unreliable so BMW's were out, Audi's are too common and quite frankly not refined enough and mercedes are not my style. Thus for the combination of reliability and luxury in an older car, the is250 really was the only logical choice! I'm unbelievably happy with my decision and it was exactly what I was looking for. Very happy new Lexus owner!

Hi Pete, Apologies for the confusion, it was in fact another Pete who reads the forums but is not in fact a member! I wasn't aware there was a famous Pete on here and probably should have clarified!

So the main dealer quoted 197 for the part so I've ordered it through them, will be with me within a couple of days! They wanted 330 for labor... The local upholsterers with a very good reputation have said they'll fit it for 80! So looks like I'll be 280 into it which quite honestly is nowhere near as bad as I was expecting. Thanks again for everyone's help and advice, will update the thread with some before and afters when it is done!

Thanks for the help guys, through the amayama link I managed to find diagram that lists the foam part number (71501-53010 for anyone who needs it). Unfortunately due to the complex nature of the foam piece (which includes more than foam because of the heated and ventilated element), no one wants to touch trying to recreate it. Going to give the dealer a ring and see how much they charge, if it's not too ridiculous I'll get it locally.

Hi all, So after picking up my new is250 the drive home was somewhat less than comfortable. On the drivers side, despite the seat being in excellent condition, the foam in the lower seat has definitely been crushed significantly over the last 14 years. I know a great automotive upholsterer who will do the job, but for the life of me can't find the moulded foam to buy anywhere. Anyone have a lead on a place to buy the foam piece, not too fussed about the price, just want it sorted! Many thanks, James

FOUND Thanks to Pete I'm now the proud owner of a low mileage 2006 SE-L in absolutely pristine condition, a car that's truly a testament to its previous owners.

Hi all, I'm on the hunt for a new auto IS250 SE/L. My search so far has been full of misrepresentation and wrecks that have been passed around, hence my posting on here. My rough criteria is: Transmission: Auto (With paddles) Age: 06-10 plate Interior: Leather (Any colour) Extras: Nav preferred (non-essential) I do not care about mileage in the slightest, however a full service history (indy specialist or main dealer)/low owner count/matching tyres is essential (More for proof of care than anything). Genuine private sales only! I'm a real car enthusiast with cash in place and hoping to find a loved car in great condition that I can continue to love and spare no expense on. Many thanks, James