Buy Lexus GS450h Tow Eye Cover

Below is an in-depth, plain-language guide to the Lexus GS 450h tow eye cover-including what it is, which cars it fits, why it matters, and how to replace or paint it yourself.

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Overview

The tow eye cover-also called a tow hook cover, towing-eye cap, bumper tow plug, or tow point cover-hides the metal tow eyelet receiver in your GS 450h's front bumper. It keeps water, grit, and insects out of the threaded hole, preserves the car's smooth look, and can be popped off in seconds whenever a tow strap or eye-bolt is needed. Lexus documentation shows the cover is tethered so it will not drop to the ground when removed, and the eyelet screws in with right-hand threads for quick roadside use. (ManualsLib)

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Fit Years

Lexus parts catalogs list two main versions that fit the hybrid GS:

• 2006-2011 (3rd gen) part no. 52129-30907 (standard bumper). (Lexus Parts)
• 2013-2015 (4th gen) part no. 52129-30911 (standard & F-Sport bumpers). (Lexus Parts)
  Later 2016-2018 facelift cars share the same shape but may need light sanding on one edge to sit flush.

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Why It Matters

1. Prevents corrosion: A tight-fitting plastic lid blocks water, stopping rust on the steel insert. (ManualsLib)
2. Maintains aerodynamics: Even a small hole can whistle at highway speed.
3. Saves repaint costs: A missing cap exposes raw steel that can stain the paint around it.

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Where to Find It

Look low on the front bumper, just left of center on U.S.-spec cars. The cover is roughly 2 inches across and sits flush with the bumper paint.

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How It Works

• Insert a plastic trim tool into the small gap and pry gently.
• A short plastic tether prevents loss; unhook it if you will repaint the piece.
• Screw the supplied tow eye bolt clockwise until snug with the wheel-lug wrench.
  A quick video demonstration is available on YouTube.

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Materials

The cap is molded ABS plastic, primed at the factory and ready for color coat. Modern ABS resists UV fading and flexes with the bumper in minor bumps. (Lexus Parts)

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Common Issues

• Falls out in car-washes-high-pressure jets can dislodge a loose cap.
• Paint scuffs from tiny parking scrapes.
• Body-shop misplacement after bumper repair; always ask for the original back. Owners on Lexus forums often report the piece disappearing after a wash or minor bump. (Reddit)

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DIY Install

1. Clean the opening with mild soap.
2. Align the plastic tangs with the slot and press firmly until you hear a click.
3. Tug lightly to confirm it latched. The entire job takes under one minute.

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Paint & Finish

Find your three-digit Lexus paint code on the driver-door jamb sticker, then order matching touch-up or spray. (Club Lexus)
Steps: sand with 600-grit, apply plastic primer, two light color coats, and a clear coat. Let each layer dry 10 minutes. A warm, dust-free garage is ideal.

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Towing Tips

• The hybrid GS must be hauled with rear wheels off the ground (flat-bed is best) to protect the electric motor. (ManualsLib)
• Outside North America the GS 450h is rated to tow up to 1 500 kg braked / 750 kg un-braked. (CarsGuide)
• Lexus USA warns that trailer towing is not recommended, which explains the blank "tow rating" in many U.S. manuals. (Reddit)
  For general roadside advice, see AAA's guide "What to Expect When You Get Towed."

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Related Parts

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Environmental Note

ABS is recyclable. If your old cover is cracked, place it in rigid-plastics recycling where available. Lexus says hybrid GS 450h models cut tail-pipe emissions yet still deliver 338 hp. (Lexus USA Newsroom)

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Q: What does a tow eye cover do?
A: It seals the bumper's towing eyelet hole so dirt and water cannot enter, and it keeps the bumper looking smooth. (ManualsLib)

Q: Will a GS 350 cover fit my GS 450h?
A: Yes-parts 52129-30907 or 52129-30911 fit GS 250, 350, and 450h bumpers of the same year range. (Lexus Parts)

Q: Is the cap painted from the factory?
A: It is shipped in primer; you or a body-shop must color-match it to the car.

Q: How do I remove it without scratching?
A: Use a plastic pry tool wrapped in tape and lift the edge gently. (ManualsLib)

Q: Where is my Lexus paint code?
A: On the driver-side door jamb sticker-three digits such as "1H9" for Tungsten Pearl. (Club Lexus)

Q: Can the GS 450h tow a small trailer?
A: In Australia and Europe it may tow up to 1 500 kg with brakes, but Lexus USA advises against towing. (CarsGuide, Reddit)

Q: What thread does the tow eye bolt use?
A: Standard Lexus right-hand thread-screw it in clockwise. (ManualsLib)

Q: What if I lose the tether?
A: The cover will still clip in, but add a short nylon string to keep it from falling during roadside repairs.

Q: Does a missing cap affect safety?
A: Not directly, but the open hole can rust and could whistle at speed.

Q: Is ABS plastic recyclable?
A: Yes-check your local recycling center for rigid plastics drop-off.

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