is350ace

Back when I first got mine I used to average around 19mpg, sometimes less. It's just hard not to use that HP. Now that I'm older and the novelty has worn off I average 23 mpg. That's around the lifetime average too. I'm not sure if the valve spring recall is affecting your fuel economy because mine is slated to be replaced too. Regarding the traction control; the traction control button only controls wheel spin. Above 20 mph mine turns back on. There is a larger system called VDIM in which traction control is only one component. VDIM monitors more than just wheel-spin. On my model, pre-2008 i think, disabling VDIM required a "pedal dance" on each start-up. On your model holding down the traction control button for around 5 sec disables the VDIM until you shut off the car. Be warned though, the car is a different beast when VDIM is disabled. You develop a false sense of security when you always have it on. You will be able to spin the wheels to your hearts content, and even spin the car out. Zero-to-60 times are not accuratly measured without the proper equipment. Typical times are around 5.2 sec. I've seen 1/4 mile times from 13.5 to 14.5 with an experienced driver.

Well, I pulled up too far into a parking place again and snagged my front spoiler on the concrete barrier. Why do they make them 1 inch too high? Anyway, is this spoiler an aftermarket part or a factory replacement?

I think the transmission is sealed on the new IS. I think it's supposed to last for the life of the vehicle.

I got the dealer to do mine when I had those recalls done. They actually did it for free. They did act like they were doing me a favor though, "We changed the battery for you at no charge." I would've been *BLEEP*ed if they tried to charge me.

I've thought about doing the same thing. What if you simply use the electric locks on the doors, and lock it, and then close the door with the car running. When returning to the car, I don't know if the touch door handles will work or if you'll have to use the unlock on the keyfob. I'll try it this afternoon if I remember.

The IS350 in ECT PWR mode shifts quicker than any other automatic I've ever driven. I know the ISF has to be better but I haven't driven one... Yet.

That was a waste of R&D money.

If a key fob is in the trunk or anywhere in the car, and you try to use the other key fob to lock the car, it will beep at you and not lock the doors (I've done it and couldn't figure out why the car wouldn't lock). Considering the above scenario, if the key fob is in the trunk, but too far away to register the button, why don't you just push the trunk release located in the cabin? The doors couldn't be locked unless you manually locked them. Bottom line, Lexus has done its best to prevent user errors. If you are really intent to lock yourself out, there are ways to do it.

I have the same, and I LOVE it. It does get mighty HOT though.

If you keep holding down the unlock button all 4 windows roll down and the sunroof opens.

If you press the lock button on the remote twice, they turn off. Pressing the one on the door twice doesn't work.

I'm sure it can be done. I did it on my 06. It has been posted in these forums before. Either search for it, or I'm sure bartkat will come through for you.

I have an 06 with 48,500 miles. My lifetime mpg is 21.6. I've gotten 25~26 on a tank but it took a lot of effort feathering the gas. For me it wasn't worth it, all the boring days driving to work for a measly 4 more mpg. Like it was said above, anything above 20-21 is pretty good for a 300+ hp car. I'm just not ready to go "green" yet.

I also got the rotors replaced, for free! I though it was mighty early for them to be that worn though. But, since they were free, I didn't ask many questions.

They replaced my rotors. But I had mine done on the TSB, and they were Free. I was amazed that they needed replaceing also. Seemed rather quick to me.