bigalexus

Hey guys i recently ordered my OE ipod integration kit from the group buy at Carson Toyota and im wondering if i should install this my self or just take it to the dealership which will cost around 300 . I realize it probably depends how mechanically skilled you are but from people who have done it themselves how hard was it?

whlkev

there is a diy guide, just follow it correctly like playing legos

you'll be fine

300 bucks, there is a lot of things you can do with that money

like get a new ipod touch to go with the kit

rominl

iTrader: (4)

300 bucks to install it?! dude, give me 100 and i will provide you drinks as well when i install it

seriously, it's a relatively simple diy. i wouldn't say it's super simple coz' you are still taking apart quite a few things including a 4k head unit, but with another set of hands, it's not bad at all

bigalexus

Haha i wish you lived closer cuz i would do it in a heart beat! Oh another question is there drilling involved?

rominl

iTrader: (4)

it depends on where you want to run the wires for the ipod. for example if you do glove box, you can probably get awawy with no drilling

some people put it in the armrest. i haven't checked in full details, but so far i haven't found a good opening there

RudeDoggy

As someone who has never done a mod on a car in his life, I can say that it's not as daunting a task to install something like that in your car.

Your hands will probably sweat and you'll be super nervous taking apart your console and pulling out your head unit, but if you're careful enough and follow all the directions laid out in the HOWTOs, you should be fine.

Unless your time is worth $300/hr, you're better off doing it yourself. It took me about 1 hour the very first time I took it apart. (I've taken it apart a few times now since the first time and now I can get it all out in about 5 minutes.)

bigalexus

I looked at this how to thread for the vaistech ipod install https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=253626
can i follow the same instructions for the oem ipod?

passnu2

iTrader: (33)

if you want to come to Chicago (suburbs) I will do it for you. We can do it next weekend later in the day Saturday or anytime on Sunday. PM me if that helps. It will take ~ 30min to install

ecount00

yes it's really the same as using the vais adapter. you have to remove the center console, then the head unit to plug whatever unit you have into the back.

I'm not a DIY pro at all but by preparing by getting those directions down pat, it was easy and i'm glad i installed the vais. go for it. just go slow and step by step.

rominl

iTrader: (4)

yes that method will work fine

cohare

Ecount - I saw in your signature it looks like you have sat radio and Integrated Ipod? I thought it was one or the other?

bigalexus

Thanks a lot for the offer! after reading everyones response to the install i think im going to try myself if it doesnt work out though i will send you a pm! Thanks for the response guys

ecount00

The original lexus ipod adapter was one or the other when it came out earlier this year. I don't know if there is a later one this isn't limited. The vais adapter i got is compatible with both. integrates with the touch screen. there are some limitations in how it emulates and ipod (play lists show up as disc numbers etc). they have fixed that for gen5 systems. I have gen4.

passnu2

iTrader: (33)

your welcome! most of the chicago guys are at my house, we are always doing something and i have plenty of tools. come visit us in the chicago region.