I have a weird problem with the radio on my '13 ES350. None of the radio sources work (AM, FM, satellite), but the Bluetooth and iPod audio options work fine. Here are the details:

1) Not Mark Levinson, not navigation
2) The power button doesn't work to turn on the audio. I have to use the Source option to turn on the unit. Once on, the power button works most of the time, but not always, to turn off the audio.
3) When I scroll through the audio options, the 3 radio sources are displayed. But when I try to select them (using the scroll wheel), nothing happens.
4) Bluetooth and iPod work fine (volume control, skip options, etc.).

Thoughts, other than replacing the head unit?

 

It's almost a 9 year old car, so would it be worth a replacement? There may be a repairable and easy fix to restoring the radio portion, but I wouldn't count on it. Go to your local car stereo shop and get some free advice. Someone there will probably be familiar with just about anything that goes wrong with car audio.

 

If you plan on keeping the car and it is the radio that's gone south, I'd go to a junkyard and buy a radio from a wreck. Should be loads out there by now... New one is $$$$

 

I remember Ford radios from the 1990's had an anti-theft device that made removed, (or stolen) radios useless. Is that tech still used today? I want to go to the junkyard that has all the Lexus parts I need.

 

Might have an anti theft default but probably a code to reactivate the radio like most other manufacturers. You would just have to obtain the code. In most cases the codes are available on the internet...

 

I believe theres a simple reset process for the radio, cant recall, you'll have to search for it.

 

Excellent question. My 1997 Avalon had that feature. I had to enter the code when I sold the car to remove my personal code. I don't recall seeing that security feature discussed in the owner's manual of any Lexus vehicle I have owned (since 2004).