I have a Lexus dealer 15 minutes away, about 30 minutes closer than Toyota, so I occasionally buy parts there. They act like Lexus is not related to Toyota. Typically I give them the Toyota part number and they act like they have no idea how to pick it out of stock. One they were nice enough to call the Toyota dealer and even asked them how much they charge (anybody know if that's more or less than Lexus would charge?) Then they came out with a part with Toyota/Lexus written all over it and the same part number that I gave them.
On other occasions I've had to convince them that the GX470 parts are generally the same as the 4Runner. Anybody else run into this or know why this is? I would think they would welcome selling parts to Toyota owners, but they make me not want to go there.
If the dealer you go to is purchasing from another dealer, there is markup. It is not as easy as you’d expect getting Lexus parts from toyota or vice versa. Some stuff is easy but not all. Also a Lexus parts guy might not know toyota parts/what transfers over and vice versa. My toyota database is strictly toyota and Lexus stuff doesn’t crossover. I work at a toyota dealership
Last edited by alextmullis; 10-12-2019 at 09:22 PM.
I would suggest that buy online and have it delivered save time and a few pennies. Bring the parts guy pastries or box of donuts next time you visit they will remember you.
I only go to the dealer when I need something ASAP, like this weekend when I broke my radiator cap. I'd just like to find the key for how to quickly buy Toyota parts from this Lexus dealer. I assumed that giving them the Toyota part number would be the easiest, but that hasn't been the case. And I have no idea why they would not charge the same price regardless of if I was buying it for a Toyota or Lexus.
Luxury car companies like to distance themselves from their parent company. Lincoln doesn't want to be called a Ford. Cadillac doesn't want to be called just a GM car. Lexus doesn't want to be called A Toyota. Even though that's what they really are.
Like someone else mentioned they are not the same database, some parts are the same but not all. Also dealerships are franchises so they can mark it up as much as they want and if you're buying from their luxury brand then it's reasonable for them to charge a luxury price even if it is the same. Bring them donuts maybe they'll take care of you.