mpierson

I want to get some kind of radio Bluetooth adapter for my 05 LS 430! I know they make some replacement screens that work with android or iPhone anybody have any experience with these and how well they work?

DrVlikhell

The replacement screens are an entire Android head unit upgrade. You basically end up with an Android tablet as your "infotainment" system similar to how new cars work. Navigation on these Android head units is done by whatever Android app you prefer and not by the LS430 NAV system. You can also load whatever Android app you want on them and connect them to the internet either via your phones hotspot or you can insert a SIM card so it can have it's own mobile data, similar to how you would with a 4G/5G capable tablet. The AC controls are also done in Android but unfortunately you loose all of the physical AC buttons except the individual Temp up/down buttons for the driver and passenger. Everything else with the AC is done entirely on the screen. It also does Android Auto and Apple CarPlay if you're into that. I installed one in my previous 01 LS430 and it works very well. There are a few quirks, like not all of the AC controls work correctly, it will never get any Android updates, and a few other random things, but if you want full modern functionality it's a pretty neat upgrade.

That said, it's absolute overkill if you're only looking for Bluetooth functionality in your car. There are Bluetooth adapters out there that are compatible with the LS430. I haven't used any but from what I read a while back, I think they either hijack or replace the CD changer input. I'm not sure if they're able to use the factory mic in the 04-06 cars or if they need to have a separate mic installed for phone calls. I never paid any attention to that because my cars have been 01 models and they don't have a mic.