Hi all. I am about to purchase a 2001 UL but it has a slight problem. No audio is coming through the system. The navigation works, the audio controls and screen work, just no audio. I spoke with a Lexus mechanic who told me that it is most likely the amplifier which seems to be a common problem on 01 ML systems. He recommended getting a cheap one at best buy and calling it even. He said it was under the drivers seat? I can't seem to figure out after lots of searching if I can replace the amp with an aftermarket one. Could it be something else if the navigation is working??

 

never heard of bestbuy amp fitting plug-and-play on a Lexus. You can try Lexus specific junk yard & see if one of theirs work. At least you'll know right there and then.

 

Negative. Your lexus mechanic is incorrect. I know you can get special pieces that allow you to use the nav/head unit with an aftermarket amp, but then they are very expensive. I don't believe that they are simple hi/lo convertors. Not to mention the issue with the new aftermarket amp and the speakers. It is not a simple task. And the amp is in the trunk, not under the seat.

 

Thanks, thought this was a little off. It's just crazy to be that after these cars being on the road for almost 12 years we are having to salvage amps off old cars when they break. Lame.