My wife’s RX350h has climate control through the Lexus app. I just got a 2024 ES300h F Sport with all connected services but every time I start the car with the app, the ac does not turn on nor I have the option to set the climate using the app like my wife does.

is this normal?

 

On my 2019 ES, the climate system operates in the same manner as when the car was shut off. However, I don’t have any controls on the app, which may have started with the updated electronics starting with the 2023 model year. My 2021 RX is the same, except the heated steering wheel won’t come back on with a remote start from the app. The sun heats it up plenty this time of year anyway…

The 2023 RX 350h was the beginning of a completely new generation. It is possible they simple won’t alter the app for any models in this generation. They may want to leave some incentives to get you into the latest generation when it comes out - in other words, perhaps a marketing decision?

 

The app has various features/functions across different models. Unfortunately, to my knowledge, the ES does not gain these extra features such as climate control. With the heat wave we've had here, I set my HVAC to Auto and do remote start about 5-10 minutes before I need to head to my car. Come back to a nice and cooled down car. Just a shame that we ES owners don't get these updated features.

 

Just leave your CC in AUTO and everything should function as dictated by the temp settings. My ES is six years old and it's worked that way from day one. If your doesn't perhaps a trip to the dealer is needed.

 

Works, thanks

 

So, it works but when I get to the car and open the door, the AC stops until I start the car, is that normal?

 

Yes the car shuts off when the door is opened, unlock the car, or open the trunk.

 

Basically, what you're seeing is capability differences between the "new" 19ePF V2 Electrical Platform used in redesigned Lexus models such as the RX and the older 15ePF Electrical Platform used in older yet to be redesign Lexus models such as the ES. Amongst other new capabilities, the 19ePF V2 Electrical Platform provides the capabilities to remotely change a vehicle's climate setting (through the Lexus app) and to have a remotely started vehicle to continue running when the driver's door is opened.

For a chart showing the capabilities differences between Lexus Electrical Platforms, see Northside Lexus's Melissa O'Connell's "Tech Tip Tuesday - Top 10 Things to Know for Lexus Interface Vehicles" starting at the 54 second time mark: