Hi

I am completely newbie here. I bought a 07 plate IS250 from a local car supermarket last year. Recently I have noticed the paint of all alloys start "bubbling" and coming off from the wheels. The front wheels are worse than rear ones. I will be greatly appreicated if someone can advise me:

1. Is it common problem? I read some comments on this website and know Lexus had this issue on pre-2002 cars.
2. Depending on costs, is it better to get someone refurbished? will the problem happen again after few months? how much is it cost?
3. For more expensive option, where is the cheapest place to buy a new sets of 4?

Many thanks in advance

Ossy

[quote name='Ossy' timestamp='1290436505' post='739103']
Hi

I am completely newbie here. I bought a 07 plate IS250 from a local car supermarket last year. Recently I have noticed the paint of all alloys start "bubbling" and coming off from the wheels. The front wheels are worse than rear ones. I will be greatly appreicated if someone can advise me:

1. Is it common problem? I read some comments on this website and know Lexus had this issue on pre-2002 cars.
2. Depending on costs, is it better to get someone refurbished? will the problem happen again after few months? how much is it cost?
3. For more expensive option, where is the cheapest place to buy a new sets of 4?

Many thanks in advance

Ossy
[/quote]
Yes it's a common problem, but only in the UK if you believe Lexus. It was a common problem with the IS200 and IS300, and we now have the same with the IS250 and 220D. If it's out of warranty (three years on the wheels) then the cheapest fix is to have them stripped back and refurbished. If you get it done by a reputable refurbisher they should last longer than the OEM. Last time I had mine done on the IS200 (after the first set was replaced after two years with new) it cost me around £50 per rim.

Many thanks Tango. Unfortunately the 3 yrs warranty lapsed March this year. Don't think Lexus Liverpool will be interested to deal with me. Anywhere I can buy a new set of original Lexus alloys without paying dealer price?

[quote name='Ossy' timestamp='1290511792' post='739153']
Many thanks Tango. Unfortunately the 3 yrs warranty lapsed March this year. Don't think Lexus Liverpool will be interested to deal with me. Anywhere I can buy a new set of original Lexus alloys without paying dealer price?
[/quote]

you are as well off geting yours refurbed, they will last longer than buying a new set.

It could be worth kicking up a fuss with the dealer (pointing out know issue). They may play nice and replace them anyway, or cut you a deal if you really want to buy new, soon to be corroded, alloys.