The multi-information display screen in our 2013 Lexus ES 350 has totally malfunctioned, is distorted showing no info, and Lexus says it needs to be replaced which will cause the odometer to be disabled so our trade in value has been reduced $4000-5000, since it will become a mileage unknown vehicle. Is this remotely true? Also what should we expect to pay for such a repair if we wanted to keep the car?

 

That is interesting but just doesn't sound right. There was some discussion about replacing mine on a 2013 a few years ago (warranty on a leased car) but nothing about zeroing everything out. Hopefully someone here can give you more advice.

Dave Mac

 

And further, if this happens to be a warranty repair that will have such an affect on your resale I would contact Lexus corporate. In fact, even if it is not being warrantied I think I would call Lexus. This just sounds like someone trying to pressure you into buying a new car - not what you should expect from a Lexus dealer.

Also, I would not let them replace the multifunction display without first disconnecting the battery for about 15 minutes and even replacing the battery - which solved my problem on a 2013 permanently.

Good luck.

Dave Mac

 

Thanks, Dave,
Would you know if the mileage information is stored somewhere other than the odometer in the car? You have been a great help. The Lexus service department claims to have no knowledge concerning this repair!!!

 

Not a warranty issue. Out of warranty. Can the cluster be replaced, and the mileage registered and pre-programmed in the new cluster before it is re installed?
?

 

That is a good suggestion. With the electronics on modern cars, many problems are the result of computer glitches, and simply rebooting the car's computers can solve many problems. Even if doing so doesn't solve the problem, it is something worth trying.

 

I would think that the mileage data is stored in the car's computer but would have no idea how to access it. I'm quite sure it is not stored in the multifunction display. If it could be readily accessed and or changed that would be a hi-tech way of turning back and odometer so I don't even know who would do it for you - I bet the dealer would say they are not allowed to do it.

In addition to disconnecting and maybe even changing out the battery for a reset I think you might go to another dealer if you can for a second opinion - this all just doesn't sound right to me. I once had a much less severe diagnosis presented to me - not on a Lexus - and within minutes a salesman appeared with a "deal" for me on a new car. I did get a new car, but from the Lexus dealer down the street.

Dave Mac

 

Thanks Dave for all your help. We've discovered that the cluster can legally be replaced with a VIN number and registered mileage and be virtually the original odometer. The mileage is also recorded in at least two other modules in the computer system. We have reached an agreement with the dealership, they have increased the trade in value and I am now the proud owner of an RX 350 SUV. I guess I'll have to join a new forum in the future. Thanks again for responding

 

Congratulation - Glad it worked out.

Dave Mac