TestnDoc

Hey guys,

I have an '01 LS430 ultraluxury. Does anyone know if it will be possible to upgrade to the new generation 4 software/hardware? Would I be able to have a bluetooth phone and satellite radio? Costs??Thanks in advance for the input......

jp82729

Getting the gen 4 navi is easy, I've done it on an '03. Just switch out the nav ECU and DVD.

I think bluetooth and satellite radio is much more difficult and involves changing out a good portion of the instrument panel. I can't say for sure though.

LS007

**edited and removed the wrong information*** Generation 3 systems have the GPS antenna hookup, the interface to the stereo, Lexus Link/cell phone and speed pulse wires connected to the ECU in the trunk. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to upgrade as well just to have the latest hardware/interface, but I'll settle for the new navigation DVD update due in October with updated map database and over 5 million points of interest.

As for the XM, unless it's a separate unit on the 04' (like a ECU) for the stereo it would probably require replacement of your ML tuner (also found in the trunk). It would be best to confirm this with Lexus directly or a knowledgeable Lexus parts department.

I like to study the LS430 Electrical Wiring Diagram (EWD) book. It's simply amazing to see how this car is put together from an electrical design standpoint. It will be worth the investment in the 04' EWD when available - just to see how things have changed and what new 04' electrical features could be fitted into a 01-03'.

jp82729

Not sure where you got that information, but it is incorrect. The gen 4 nav ECU looks almost exactly like the gen 3 ECU and is still located in the trunk in '04 LS.

LS007

I recall reading this, but it could have been the new Honda system that doesn't have a separate ECU. I just wonder if the Lexus Gen 4 navigation system is totally plug (or pin) compatabile with Gen 3. What did your Gen 4 ECU cost you? I know the Gen 3 nav ECU retails for over $5K. This hardware upgrade just wouldn't be worth it to get the new interface and couple features. With the new navigation system supporting bluetooth phones... Is the bluetooth module in the nav ECU or display unit?

jp82729

Don't know any pricing info, I did the ECU swap on a test vehicle. The ECU connectors were completely compatible; it's basically a 10-minute swap out. However, the gen4 ECU I installed into a '03 LS had a slightly different part number than an actual '04 LS ECU, but I am 99% sure that the navigation function would work if you used a '04 LS ECU. I stress only navigation, because it may affect other areas of the vehicle that communicate with the navi.

I think the bluetooth is in the display, so you would not get that function. Personally, I would say it's not worth it and wouldn't recommend it, the cost is probably too much and it may affect other functions in the car. The gen3 system is still great anyway.