slk230red

My neighbor has a 2009 RX350 and had me look at her rear hatch because it was sticky when she touched it to open the rear hatch. It appears that something fell off and the black adhesive is still there. Anyone else experience this? It still opens, but it sure looks strange. Is there a plate, button assembly, or something that might have fallen off? Thanks

My neighbor just called me and asked about new tires for her 2009 RX350. She's getting new tires installed this week at BJ's and wanted to know about valve stems since they are included in the installation package. Since her Lexus has metal valve stems I assume that they are used instead of standard rubber stems. Do you guys get new Lexus valve stems when getting new tires or do just keep the original ones? Thanks

Hi Lexus Owners, Here's a question from a MB owner. Does the 2007 ES350 have an oil dipstick and automatic transmission dipstick? I guess I'm old fashion, but I still like gauges to monitor engine operation and dipsticks to check fluid levels. Also, does Lexus use a flexible service system for oil changes, etc., or is it strictly by mileage? If it does, can the service indicator be reset by the owner? I'm trying to get into the new generation of automobiles, but it's difficult.:) Thanks, Dave

Thanks for the informative replies everyone. Apparently I am on track concerning my comparisons of the ES300/330 and the C class MB. Although I have only driven one new 1998 ES300 and one new 2004 ES330, I came to the conclusion that Lexus offers more car for the money compared to the C classes from '94 to 2004. I have driven several C class loaners when I took my SLK230 in for sevice/repairs and I just don't see the MB quality of years past. The interior is inferior, not to mention just plain cheap and uncomfortable compared to Lexus. The things that I observed when looking closely at the ES class have been supported in the replies to my post. Littlerock, I don't know why your friend would rub her new C class in your face. She just bought a mass produced car that has no flare, comfort, or high customer satisfaction and reliability ratings. She just bought the Mercedes name. I don't know what happened to Mercedes, but I don't see them getting any more of my money. When I purchased my new SLK the salesman told me that in the Daimler Chrysler name, Chrysler is silent, ha ha. Well, it's not...you hear it when you drive. I don't want to sound like a disgruntled Mercedes owner, but I don't feel that Mercedes offers the quality of years past. Something happened and Mercedes needs to fix it to compete with other luxury cars, and yes, I agree that you have to get an S class to get a good MB. But that's a LOT of money to spend AND lose. I have always preferred German made cars, but now I am leaning towards a Lexus ES330. I can still remember that stunned look on my wife's face when she started up the ES330 for the test drive and she asked me if I thought the engine was running. I said, put it in drive and see if it moves. Now talk about quiet AND smooth! Thanks again everyone, Dave

Hello everyone, First of all, this is a GREAT site! Lot's of posts, replies, and good information. A couple of months ago my wife and I attended a GM car show in Tampa. GM had their new 2004 cars there to test drive along with competitors models. We have been driving MB's for twenty years and are looking to replace my wife's 93 mercedes. There was a 2004 ES330 and a 2004 MB C240 at the car show. When my wife got into the ES330, she was pleasantly surprised at the luxurious feel of the car and the performance of the car was equally impressive. When she got out of the ES330, I had her go directly to the MB C240 for a test drive. Well, there was no comparison. Interior, comfort, handling, performance, and overall feel did not compare to the ES330. What happened to Mercedes Benz? I have always felt good about purchasing a new MB, but now I'm not sure. The ratings have continued dropping over the past several years, but Lexus automobiles have remained high. Are Lexus cars surperior or is it the Service Department that makes them appear better? I would also like to replace my 2001 SLK230 soon and the only cars that look appealing are the Lexus models. I have never considered owning a Japanese made car, but it looks like it is the only alternative for reliability and customer satisfaction. Could any ex Mercedes owners give me some feedback about their switch to Lexus? Thanks, Dave