TopDown

The SC430 is less a sports car and more a grand touring machine. Drivers who prefer the SC over the German automobiles are generally drawn to the quiet smooth ride and general isolation from road conditions. Precisely why the Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes dirvers don't like the car. As iolmaster points out the tires make a very noticeable difference in overall ride characteristics. I currently run the Bridgestone Turenza Surinity on a 2004 SC with outstanding results. Runflat tires are notorious for their rough ride and tendnecy to skate on uneven pavemant conditions primairly due to the stiff sidewall design.

Having issues with a cloudy climate control display? A common problem with some cars is the plastic surface on the climate control display can start to look a bit funky. A spritz of McGuire's NTX glass cleaner on a nice microfiber towl does nothing. Frustrated I dug into the dark recesses of my do-it-yourself detailer's cabinet and found a container "glass clay". For the uninitiated glass and body clay is this miracle stuff that when used with the associated lubricant can yield amazing results to the paint and glass of your car. When sitting behind the wheel it's like there's no glass at all! (Wolfgang or Girots are good sources). I took a pinch of clay and sprayed it with a tiny amount of lubricant then very gently went over the surface of the display several times then buffed and followed with a small amount of 303 protectorant. It looks like new! Fabulous under all lighting conditions but unsure of result duration.

Replaced the runflats with the Bridgestone Turenza Serenity. Fabulous results. Very quiet, smooth ride with excellent handling. Highly recommended. Only 800 miles to date so no report on wear. Will post at next rotation.

Trying to keep a starfire pearl SC in like new condition. I've seen several older SCs and the front end seems overly susceptible to rock dings. Is the "clear bra" or paint protection film a good solution? Is it best to have this installed by the local Lexus dealership? Does the final look of the product detract from the overall appearance of the car? Any specific detailing precautions or recommendations? Thank you for the input!