Lexus IS F

The Lexus IS F came out for the 2008 model year. That makes it 18 years old, and I still think it's one of the most important cars Lexus ever made. It's where the 2UR V8 story started. Everything that came after, the RC F, GS F, IS 500 and LC 500, traces back to this car.

So let's talk about why people still build them, in Japan and here, and how NOVEL and HighSpark fit in.

Why the IS F still matters

A compact sedan with a naturally aspirated V8. That formula is basically gone now. Toyota and Lexus spent over a decade refining the 2UR into the bulletproof engine it is today, and the IS F was the first car to get it.

And there is something to be said about wide open throttle in a naturally aspirated V8. You can't really get that from a new car anymore, at least not in a package this size.

The biggest takeaway: build it to last

At 18 years old, the IS F build conversation is different from a new car. Reliability comes first. Then you add the parts that make it feel special.

Step 1: Coils

Short answer: replace your 2UR coils when you've confirmed one is bad, or before you add power if the originals are old. If one has already failed and you plan to keep the car, I'd do all eight. If you're selling soon or money is tight, replacing the bad one is fine. Just know the others are the same age.

That's the whole answer. The rest of this post is the details: how to tell it's actually a coil, the one-vs-eight tradeoff, Standard vs Premium, and why I always bring up coils before someone buys headers.

Some background on why I'm writing this. At Mod in Japan, we're the North American master distributor, and a lot of our customers drive IS F, RC F, GS F, IS 500 and LC 500 cars. 2UR coil questions come up more than you'd think. Sometimes it's a misfire code. Sometimes it's someone about to install headers who wants to make sure the engine is ready. The question is basically always the same. When should I replace them, and do I really need to do all eight?

What the coils actually do

Looking to enhance your driving experience and stay ahead of the curve?

Look no further than the ESCORT Max 360c Mark 2 radar detector and M2 dash cam combo! In our latest episode of MIJ Tech, Steven takes you through the features and benefits of this cutting-edge accessory system that has been a game-changer for our MIJ Tacoma over the past 8 months. 

Join Steven as he shares his personal experiences and insights into the ESCORT Max 360c MK2 radar detector. With exceptional range, lightning-fast notifications, and directional arrow indicators, this radar detector ensures accurate detection of X, K, and KA bands, keeping you informed and prepared on the road. 

Discover the convenience of features like the GPS memorized lock, which allows you to permanently silence false alerts from recurring locations, and the built-in speedometer, perfect for vehicles with oversized tires. 

But the benefits don't end there. Steven also dives into the seamless integration of the add-on 1080P M2 dash

Are you ready to take your Lexus F model to the next level of performance and sound? Look no further than the NOVEL Racing Japan Exhaust Manifold, a masterpiece of engineering and craftsmanship that promises to elevate your driving experience to new heights. 

In our latest YouTube video, we delved into the world of aftermarket exhaust systems, focusing on the highly anticipated NOVEL GEN II Exhaust Manifold designed specifically for Lexus 2UR engines. Join Steven from Mod in Japan as he takes you through an in-depth review of this renowned exhaust manifold, shedding light on its unique features and the unparalleled driving experience it offers. 

Crafted by only two artisans in Japan using traditional bending techniques and meticulous attention to detail, the NOVEL exhaust manifold is more than just an aftermarket upgrade – it's a work of art. Each tube is painstakingly formed by hand, resulting in a manifold that not only delivers exceptional performance but also emits a signature sound

The MFR Engineering aluminum chassis mounted aero kit for the 2008 - 2015 Lexus IS F is the perfect balance between function and form.  For daily driving purposes this aero kits is made of incredibly strong aluminum, which protects the undercarriage and critical components underneath your car as you drive around.  While being functional you can drive with peace of mind knowing that components like your oil pan, electrical lines, another exposed under body components are shielded from potential damage.'

To purchase please check out the links below:

Full Kit (Front Diffuser, Side Diffuser and Rear Diffuser) - Click Here for details
Front Diffuser 
Side Diffuser 
Rear Diffuser 

Full Aluminum Chassis Mounted kit includes:

• Front Splitter
• Side Splitter
• Rear Diffuser
• All necessary hardware and brackets for a full installation
• Made of 6061-T6 and 5052 Aluminum
• Powder coated black for anti-corrosive properties
• Weight:
  • Front Diffuser: 15 lbs
  • Side Diffuser: 10 lbs
  • Rear Diffuser: 13 lbs

   

  
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