First time posting, so please bear with me...

Just got a 2008 GS350 (no ML), and have spent a ton of time (my wife says too much) reading through various threads for advice on improvements. I have a few questions for the experts:

1. Nav override - there are 3 things I really would like to be able to do while moving - input destinations, access dial and phone book, and view mp3-cd songs and folders. Does the hybrid dvd option work for the 2008 model? I've heard yes and no...and it seems you have to be very specific in how you burn it (i've failed already).
There also seems to be a plug-and-play kit available, which only overrides the lockout for ~30 seconds. Very annoying if I'm scanning for a particular folder or song on an mp3-cd. Is the 30 second rule only for inputting destinations, or the ability to access phone book and mp3 info?
Finally - there's a wire cutting option. Recognizing the impact it has on my warranty, does this solve all my problems?
2. Voice input - is there a way to not have the lady give every specific instruction when using the voice input? i've tried the settings on the nav screen, but she still has a burning desire to give me detailed instructions (input state, city, etc). can i set the system to just beep?
3. Is there a way to stop the chime from sounding when the door is open? I was able to get the seat belt fix to work (thank you).
4. HomeLink - I can't seem to get the HomeLink to recognize my remote. I've switch batteries on the remote, but I only get the slow flash when I try to connect (never goes to the fast flash).

I've seen a lot of this info on previous threads, but don't know their relevance to the 2008 model - it seems like certain things have changed this year...thanks in advance for all your help and advice - this is a great source of information.

I absolutely love the car...

Try checking the tips and tricks section... there are tons of helpful information that should answer most of your questions... I am new here as well... Have fun

try this link

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=216004

Welcome to CL!
The 30 second limit only applies to the navi, anything audio/video/BT related is fully unlocked.

guess your garage opener has rolling code. try programming your opener instead.

Yep as SiccMonkey already said, the 30 second lock out only applies to input destination.

What impact does the wire cutting have on your warranty? It only voids it if the problem can be verified by the wire cutting. I wouldn't worry about it.

As for the voice input, it's in your menu as a setting. I think it's something along the lines of "voice guidance mode."

Check ReyRey 305's link to disable the door chime. It's a program sequencing involving turning on the accessories (not engine), switch instrument cluster display to something, turn off, turn back on again and hold a button for 10+ seconds, then buckle in seat belt. Keep in mind this gets reset once the battery disconnects.

HomeLink, you have a rolling code. Park the GS outside and get a ladder to find the "Programming" or "Learn" button on your garage door opener, press it, then within 30 seconds get in your GS and press the button you're trying to program. Hold it for a couple of seconds, depress, and repeat for 2 more times until the door starts moving.

The programming instruction is in the manual.

If you don't want to spend your time worrying about programming homelink, just call your dealership. My dealer sent out some gut who did it in like 2 minutes, it was great!

Welcome to CL... Lets see some pics..

I have just bought a 08 GS350. I love the car so far. I do have a question about the DVD playback from the main console. I have purchased the dual in headrest DVD package from the dealer and I have the Mark Levinson Audio/Navigation Package, but I am unable to select the “Picture” button. It is grayed out. Is it possible the dealer when they installed the dual DVD package disabled the front DVD playback? I have tried several times to play one and all I get is the audio portion. The dual DVD system the dealer installed is the Rosen AV7500

Any suggestions or help figuring this out would be greatly appreciated

Welcome to CL.....and GS is a very nice car indeed.......

Front DVD can only be viewed when car is parked with parking brake applied for safety reasons.

the kit from prestigious society does NOT have 30 sec issue. i have unlimited time with my unit from them. feel free to inquire them at chung@prestigioussociety.com

the hybrid dvd, from what i read, does not work on 08 or above anymore