Looking at buying a used 350C and I'd want to upgrade the head unit but I'm a little confused about the options. Anyone have experience with this?

1) Does this one (https://us.eurostyletuning.com.au/co...core-processor) work with the IS C? On the link it only mentions the "IS Saloon" as supported. I also don't know how to tell if I would need the "additional MOST converter" or not.

2) I do know there is also a GROM that I believe would add CarPlay to the factory screen, but I'm not sure if that's a good option.

 

Jdmcrownfocus supposedly has a grom-like alternative that at least doesn't take up the glove box, but the quality isn't very well documented.

 

I have used the GROM Vline and wasnt impressed...it is a cool idea but is not (to me) well executed...I had issues with the back up camera not working consistently as well as the wireless android auto not connecting despite following the steps from Grom audio. I know you are looking for Carplay so I cant speak to that but the whole interface is clunky with the resistive touch screen. Just too many quirks considering the cost. For $700 I would expect a flawless experience.

After the Vline failed (in my opinion) to stack up I tried a Tesla style radio from Rhinoradio. This was not without its hiccups either. However it was worth it. Eric at Rhino Radio was very helpful. Not only does android auto work flawlessly I also retained the OEM backup camera (you could use an aftermarket one but if youre lime me you arent looking forward to routing wires around the trunk of a convertible!)

Any questions let me know and I can probably answer them for you.

 

Hi Sephiroth, are you using a in-line step down converter to use the OEM camera or does it come with a special harness that allows you to use it? I use to have a similar unit but removed it because it didn't work with the OEM camera and also the rear defroster did not work. If the rear defroster works perfectly on the rhino unit, I would be very interested.

 

The 12v to 6v stepdown module wasnt necessary. All I had to do was move 4 of the pins from one part of the harness to another plug.

Now that you mention it I havent tried the rear defroster. I can say that all the other climate control functions work perfectly including the air circulation. I am currently having the Tesla trim surround wrapped in carbon fiber (the grey color sucks lol) but as soon as I get it back and put the stereo back in I will test it for you. Check out Rhino Radios and definitely choose the higher end version 8g ram 128gb storage...does take a while to get delivered (I opted for the standard shipping and in hindsight should have paid the extra $40) but in the end even with the work to get it going it was worth it. Eric from Rhino Radio is very responsive and helpful. No issues with the hazard lights or the airbag light that plague some of the other Tesla style units

 

I bought the car but decided to stay with the factory radio for now -- I don't hate it haha. I sit my phone on top of where the cigarette lighter is (ugh, I wish it didn't have an ashtray/cigarette lighter) in case I need to look at Google Maps.
I really love the car. White exterior, two-tone blue/white interior, one owner 63k miles, and it was only ever maintained at the local Lexus dealer near me.

 

Hey sorry for the late response so I did receive the Tesla frame and reinstalled...checked the rear defroster and it functions perfectly...let me know if you have other questions

 

Thank you for your interest in GROM VLine VL2 system for CarPlay integration to your car stereo.

We have two systems that will fit the 2010 IS 350C:
https://gromaudio.com/store/all-lex6_.html

The VLine VL2 system is for CarPlay / Android Auto and stand-alone Android. You can use CarPlay / AA or download and use the apps directly on the system.
The VLite VT2 system is for CarPlay and Android Auto only.
Both systems support wireless CarPlay and Android Auto. The factory backup camera will keep working; we have improved the factory backup camera integration since the early product release.
With the GROM VLine VL2 / VLite VT2 systems, you do not need any extra accessories to make it work. All sound is integrated through the factory stereo; the apps work with the touchscreen, buttons, and controls.

Here is our recent install video:

Demo video:

We are happy to answer any questions you may have

 

I have a question, I have the 2010 IS350C and wanted to make sure we are talking about the same radio model. I am just checking because the Rhino site shows a large range on models it fits.

This is the radio I have and many are saying AC and other controls wont work with certain models.

 

So I also have a 2010 IS350C, Nav with non ML audio which is what it appears you have. Rhino radio will ask you for pictures but it looks like you have the same radio I have. There will be some work you will have to do on the Rhino radio harness to get the backup camera as well as the illumination to match up. It is worth it though because the last thing you want to be doing is trying to fish an aftermarket camera wire with the convertible top. Eric from Rhino radios is very responsive, he is typically available later in the day also. I would email him at 10pm and he would respond back (Im on the east coast it could be he is on the west coast somewhere).

I havent had any issues with the climate controls. Rear defroster works fine and the air circulator works fine also.

 

Speaking of the CarPlay / Android Auto add-on to the factory car stereo of Lexus IS 2006-2013, we just started the group order. The details are available here:

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/cl-...l#post11719222

All GROM products integrate with the factory car stereos and retain all important stereo functions such as factory backup camera, climate controls and FM radio. There is no need to replace the stereo to add CarPlay or Android Auto. GROM VLine VL2 / VLite VT2 systems support wireless CarPlay and Android Auto.

We are happy to answer any questions you may have.



CarPlay on factory Lexus car stereo using GROM VLine VL2 system
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