rocky1

My dealer wants $550 to buy and install the XM radio chip. Is there any cheaper way to accomplish this?

twister

Its not really a chip but rather an external module that plugs in series with your current setup and integrates into your audio system so you can control it right from there. Not sure about own Lexus satellite module, but for example VAIS Tech control module and receiver will cost you about $300 (just parts). The only way you save a money is by installing it yourself. Otherwise, $550 (or maybe you can bargain it down to $500?) would be a pretty good installed price. I have seen a number of people in here being quoted by their dealer close to a grand.

rocky1

In here? Do you work for/at Lexus? Thanks

twister

Would I have made hundreds of posts in this forum about my piece-of-crap ES350 (2 failed tranny and a buyback that got me into GS350) and helped others to get out of this car IF I would work for Lexus?

*disclaimer* I said MY POS ES350, so if you love yours - its the best car in the world

Regarding satellite install, I got mine installed from a dealership (they subcontracting shop which installs VAIS Tech) for $450. I can install it myself, but $150 I paid for their labor actually gave me a warranty from dealership on the unit. So in a future if anything inside gets fried, they can't use it as an excuse about "outsider tweaking with electronics”

If you have some patients and want to do search in the forum, I'm sure you will find posts with people who actually paid $1,000 or more for satellite option. Some dealerships really take you for a ride if you have deep pockets and have no idea how much things really cost.