1991 Lexus Background Info
The 1991 Lexus Vibe
Welcome to 1991, the year Lexus finished its hostile takeover of the luxury world. While the Europeans were still figuring out how to make a cup holder, the LS400 and the sleek SC400 were cruising the interstate in eerie silence. In my database, we've focused on the true survivors of the era-the essential Black Onyx and that iconic Dark Gray Metallic cladding that gave every Lexus that dignified, two-tone "tuxedo" look. Back then, a Lexus didn't just have paint; it had a mirror-finished statement of intent that made other manufacturers sweat.
Paint Health Check
We are deep in the Peeling Era now. In '91, Lexus was using high-tech multi-stage clear coats to get that legendary depth, but even the best Japanese engineering eventually bows to three decades of UV rays. If your roof looks like it's suffering from a bad sunburn, you're looking at delamination. Once that clear coat decides to part ways with the base color, it's a slow crawl toward total failure. On the ES300 or GS300, keep a sharp eye on the horizontal surfaces; if the finish looks cloudy or starts "snowing" white flakes when you wash it, the clear is ready to check out.
Restoration Tip
Since this is a base-and-clear setup, you can't just buff your way out of a peeling mess. The secret to keeping a '91 Lexus looking "showroom" is to **seal every chip immediately**. A stone chip is more than just an eyesore; it's an invitation for moisture to crawl under the clear coat and start lifting it like a cheap sticker. Clean the area with a prep solvent, dab on your color, and-this is the pro move-ensure you apply a fresh clear layer over the top. If you catch the chips early, you can stop the delamination before it turns your hood into a topographical map of regret.