bumble701

I recently bought a 2011 Lexus RX 350 without navigation. What all do I need to install navigation to this vehicle. I know you need the hard drive, but do you need a special 'touch' screen or is the screen I already have 'okay'? Also, will I need special software, extra pieces/parts, etc??? The prices I am finding for factory used hard drives are around $2000k and for the 'touch' screen display 7" are around $500 used. Do I need both? Do I need more than these items? Is there somewhere I can buy what I need for much less money?

corradoMR2

If you want the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) nav system, on top of the hard drive, you also must get the Remote Touch (the "mouse") to be installed on the console which controls the nav. There is no touch screen, it's an 8in LCD screen

Personally, getting all the components , plus labor, will be VERY pricey ($3-4K at least) and an investment you will only get a fraction back on resale.

Personally, for about $200 you can get a good aftermarket nav that also has more features than the OEM like 3D maps. The system will not be as nice looking and integrated for sure, but is 20x cheaper and you can bring that with you in your next car.

Good luck

ggebhardt

I would save OEM navigation for you next RX and look at the Garmin units. Even the best of these 3rd party nav systems will cost only a fraction of what the parts would be to do a retro-install OEM.

Sorry

vlad_a

I would attempt retrofitting a 7" screen where the climate control info is.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/garmin-n...&skuId=7534216

This would have to be a professional install. You may want to visit a few reputable shops in the area to see what they can do.

Not sure what to do about the original screen. Mine came with the OEM Nav, so this plan was abandoned.

As far as getting OEM Nav installed into your RX, it would be a complete and utter waste of money. It is extremely expensive and very limited in what it can do. A $100 portable unit beats it any time of the day.

roy7777

Comparing with the Lexus navigation, I still like Garmin and Waze on iPhone more. In my personal experience, Lexus navigation sucks, not worth to install.

RickC5

In addition to what the other posters have said, don't forget that your current screen displays info on the radio, climate control, outside temp and phone info/bluetooth. This may mean additional $$$$ to spend on interfaces for these items on the NAV screen. Something you must research if you decide to continue.

I totally agree that adding a OEM NAV system to your truck is very cost prohibitive, and the ONLY reason I could think of for doing it is if you actually need a NAV system several times a day. That said, don't forget that the factory NAV cannot be modified while driving. You must be stopped to change stuff. Plus, the annual database upgrade (optional) is about $125.

We keep a $200 Garmin NAV system under the driver's seat if we ever need to use it. Free lifetime upgrades! We have had Lexus factory on two vehicles and used them very infrequently. However, the LCD display is nicer than the cheapo screen used when you don't have NAV, and the user-interface with NAV is better.

vlad_a

If you need Nav several times a day, then OEM is not the way to go. It simply isn't that great.
The updates are not $125, they are $300. It is a dealer-programmed option that involves a labor charge.

ggebhardt

I have not had any major problems with any of the navigational systems in any of my Lexus. They may not be accurate 100% of the time but nor are the Garmins.

corradoMR2

^^^ Agree.

The only thing with the Lexus NAV is graphics and features can be found better in the aftermarket ones. Plus some people prefer a touchscreen. Personally I prefer the Remote touch and finger-print-free screen.