Lexus IS 350 F Sport: Black Emblem Upgrade Guide

Hey car enthusiasts! Are you looking to give your Lexus IS 350 F Sport a sleek and aggressive makeover? One of the simplest and most effective ways to do that is by swapping out the standard emblems for black ones. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about upgrading your Lexus IS 350 F Sport with black emblems. Let's dive in!

Why Choose Black Emblems for Your Lexus IS 350 F Sport?

First, let's talk about why black emblems are such a popular choice for Lexus owners. The main reason is aesthetics. Black emblems offer a striking contrast against most paint colors, giving your car a more sporty and customized look. They can transform the entire vibe of your vehicle, making it stand out from the crowd. Standard chrome emblems can sometimes look a bit dated or blend in too much, while black emblems add a touch of modern sophistication.

Beyond just looking cool, black emblems can also enhance the overall theme you might be going for with your car. If you're aiming for a stealthy, blacked-out appearance, black emblems are an absolute must. They complement other blacked-out modifications like window tints, black wheels, and dark paint jobs. Even if you're not going for a full blackout, black emblems can still add a subtle touch of aggression that enhances the car's natural lines and design.

Another benefit is that black emblems are relatively easy and inexpensive to install. You don't need to be a professional mechanic to do it yourself, and the cost of the emblems themselves is quite reasonable. This makes it a great entry-level modification for anyone looking to personalize their Lexus IS 350 F Sport without breaking the bank. Plus, if you ever decide you want to go back to the original chrome emblems, it's easy enough to switch them back. So, with all these advantages, it's no wonder that black emblems are such a popular choice among Lexus enthusiasts. They offer a great combination of style, affordability, and ease of installation.

Finding the Right Black Emblems

Okay, so you're sold on the idea of black emblems – great! Now, how do you find the right ones for your Lexus IS 350 F Sport? The first thing to consider is quality. You don't want to end up with emblems that fade, peel, or look cheap after just a few months. Look for emblems made from durable materials like ABS plastic with a high-quality black finish. Powder-coated emblems are a good option, as they tend to be very resistant to scratches and fading. Also, make sure the emblems are designed specifically for your Lexus IS 350 F Sport. While some emblems might look similar, the size and shape might not be an exact match, which can lead to fitment issues.

Where can you find these high-quality emblems? There are a few different options. You can check with your local Lexus dealer, as they may offer black emblem kits as an accessory. This is often the safest bet in terms of ensuring a perfect fit and finish, but it might also be the most expensive option. Another option is to look online. There are many aftermarket retailers that specialize in automotive emblems and accessories. Sites like Amazon, eBay, and specialized Lexus parts websites are all great places to start your search. Just be sure to read reviews and check the seller's ratings before making a purchase to avoid getting scammed or ending up with a low-quality product.

When browsing online, pay close attention to the product descriptions and photos. Look for emblems that have a clean, glossy finish and sharp edges. Avoid emblems that look like they have rough surfaces or uneven paint. Also, check to see if the emblems come with adhesive backing. Most aftermarket emblems will come with pre-applied adhesive, which makes installation much easier. However, you might want to consider purchasing some extra adhesive tape just in case the included tape isn't strong enough. Finally, don't forget to compare prices from different sellers. Prices can vary quite a bit, so it pays to shop around and find the best deal. With a little bit of research, you should be able to find a set of high-quality black emblems that will perfectly complement your Lexus IS 350 F Sport.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Before you start the installation process, it's essential to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Having everything on hand will make the job go much smoother and prevent you from having to stop mid-way to run to the store. Here's a list of what you'll need: New black emblems, Heat gun or hair dryer, Fishing line or dental floss, Plastic pry tool or trim removal tool, Microfiber cloth, Adhesive remover (such as Goo Gone or WD-40), Automotive adhesive tape (optional, for extra adhesion), and Cleaning solution (soap and water or isopropyl alcohol).

Let's break down why each of these items is important. The new black emblems are, of course, the star of the show. Make sure you have the correct emblems for your Lexus IS 350 F Sport, including the front and rear emblems, as well as any model designation emblems (like "IS 350" or "F Sport"). A heat gun or hair dryer will be used to warm up the adhesive on the old emblems, making them easier to remove. Be careful not to overheat the paint, as this can cause damage. Fishing line or dental floss will be used to gently saw through the adhesive behind the old emblems. This is a safer alternative to using a screwdriver or other metal tool, which could scratch the paint. A plastic pry tool or trim removal tool will help you gently lift the old emblems off the car without damaging the surrounding paint. Again, avoid using metal tools for this step.

A microfiber cloth will be used to clean the area around the emblems and to wipe away any residue. Adhesive remover will help dissolve any remaining adhesive after the old emblems have been removed. Be sure to use a product that is safe for automotive paint. Automotive adhesive tape is optional, but it can provide extra adhesion for the new emblems, especially if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions. Finally, cleaning solution (such as soap and water or isopropyl alcohol) will be used to clean the surface where the new emblems will be installed. This will ensure that the adhesive bonds properly. With all these tools and materials in hand, you'll be well-prepared to tackle the emblem replacement process. Remember to take your time and be careful, and you'll have your Lexus IS 350 F Sport looking sleek and stylish in no time.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Alright, let's get down to business! Here's a step-by-step guide on how to install your new black emblems: Start by cleaning the area around the existing emblems. Use soap and water or isopropyl alcohol to remove any dirt, wax, or debris. This will ensure that the adhesive on the new emblems bonds properly. Next, use a heat gun or hair dryer to warm up the adhesive on the old emblems. Hold the heat source a few inches away from the emblem and move it back and forth to avoid overheating the paint. Heat the emblem for a few minutes until it feels warm to the touch. Take your fishing line or dental floss and gently saw through the adhesive behind the emblem. Start at one corner and work your way around the entire emblem. Use a slow, steady sawing motion to avoid breaking the fishing line or floss. Once you've cut through most of the adhesive, use a plastic pry tool or trim removal tool to gently lift the emblem off the car. Be careful not to scratch the paint. If the emblem is still stuck in certain areas, use the heat gun or hair dryer to warm up the adhesive again and continue sawing with the fishing line or floss.

After the old emblem has been removed, use adhesive remover to dissolve any remaining adhesive residue. Apply the adhesive remover to a microfiber cloth and gently rub the area until all the residue is gone. Be sure to use a product that is safe for automotive paint. Clean the area again with soap and water or isopropyl alcohol to remove any traces of adhesive remover. Dry the area thoroughly with a clean microfiber cloth. Now it's time to install the new black emblems. Before you remove the adhesive backing, hold the emblem up to the car to make sure it's properly aligned. Take your time and get the positioning just right. Once you're satisfied with the placement, peel off the adhesive backing and carefully press the emblem onto the car. Apply firm, even pressure for several seconds to ensure a strong bond. If you're concerned about the adhesive not being strong enough, you can apply some extra automotive adhesive tape to the back of the emblem before installing it. Repeat these steps for all the emblems you want to replace. Once you've installed all the new emblems, give them a final wipe down with a clean microfiber cloth to remove any fingerprints or smudges. And that's it! You've successfully upgraded your Lexus IS 350 F Sport with black emblems. Stand back and admire your work!

Maintaining Your Black Emblems

To keep your black emblems looking their best, it's important to properly maintain them. Just like any other part of your car, emblems can get dirty, faded, or damaged over time. Here are a few tips to help you keep your black emblems in tip-top shape: Regularly wash your car. This will help prevent dirt, grime, and other contaminants from building up on the emblems. Use a mild soap and water solution and a soft sponge or microfiber cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish on the emblems. Wax your car. Waxing your car will not only protect the paint but also help protect the emblems from fading and oxidation. Use a high-quality automotive wax and apply it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Avoid using automatic car washes with brushes. The brushes in automatic car washes can scratch and damage the emblems. It's always best to wash your car by hand. Protect your car from the sun. Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause the emblems to fade over time. If possible, park your car in a garage or under a carport to protect it from the sun's harmful rays. You can also use a car cover to provide additional protection. Clean off any bird droppings or bug splatters immediately. Bird droppings and bug splatters can be very corrosive and can damage the finish on the emblems if left unattended. Use a mild soap and water solution and a soft cloth to gently remove any droppings or splatters. If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, consider applying a sealant to the emblems. A sealant will provide an extra layer of protection against the elements, such as salt, snow, and ice. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can keep your black emblems looking like new for years to come. Remember, a little bit of care and attention can go a long way in preserving the appearance of your Lexus IS 350 F Sport.

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! Upgrading your Lexus IS 350 F Sport with black emblems is a fantastic way to add a touch of personal style and aggression to your ride. It's a relatively simple and inexpensive modification that can make a big difference in the overall look of your car. By following this guide, you should have no problem finding the right emblems, installing them correctly, and keeping them looking their best. Now go out there and give your Lexus IS 350 F Sport the black emblem treatment it deserves! You will feel awesome with this personalized upgrade.