I recently fixed a problem with a defective fan in my factory stereo and upon dissemble realized we have a 100GB 4200 rpm 2.5" hard drive that stores all the software and factory nav.

I think my old windows 98 computer had a hard drive as slow as this.

I just bought a 100GB Intel SSD from Amazon:

There is an access cover on the side of the factory stereo that makes it easy to remove.

I plan on cloning the factory hard drive with Acronis True Image to the new SSD. Installing it in the factory stereo and see if it runs.
If it does the Lexus Nav/software should run much faster on the SSD

I'll report on the results once I get the hard drive. Worst case it doesn't work, I reinstall the factory hard drive, and return the SSD. I don't see why not if the hard drive is an exact copy/clone of the original.

 

Sounds interesting, keep us posted.

 

Yesssss, let us know how it goes. This would be a nice upgrade to the factory HD.

 

Pics of stereo access please!!

 

I'll take pics when I do the removal and post with the results.

 

This would be really clutch if you get it working

 

SSD may speed up loading time but I doubt it would be any faster. It's not like the NAV is a high data application but we'll see. Good luck.

 

The only benefit I can think of is, it will be quieter. Also, SSD's are pretty prone to failure if not properly powered down. That would be my biggest concern, if it even works.

 

Another aspect to be concerned with is will the SSD hold up with the environmental conditions. Temp variations, vibrations. Is the factory drive off the shelf or specifically for rugged applications?

 

Awesome idea Peasodos... waiting for an updates buddy. If it's working, make sure you create DIY thread with pics

 

What will this accomplish?

 

old school spinning drive vs SSD ?!?!?! twice faster loading time let's say

 

Things aren't always as simple as one thinks.

 

The factory drive is an off the shelf 2.5" hard drive, same one you would find in any laptop. I forget the brand exactly, but I'll post pictures when I take it out again.
As for operating temperatures ssd's are usually 0c-70c. There is also extended temperate and storage temperature. These ranges are much lower like -40 degrees Celsius. Extended temperature means it can handle that temperature for some time before breaking down.

The factory hard drive is sandwiched in the stereo unit surrounded by electrical components that require fans because they produce a considerable amount of heat that requires cooling. Two fans(2 pin/wire) in a push pull configuration that are always on and one were the mb controls the speed(3 pin/wire). It will be like a heat warmer for the ssd. So even if it is really cold outside once you turn it on, the stero/nav unit will warm it up.

I went with Intel because from experience in the past I know they are incredibly reliable. Worst case it fails I can always swap the factory hard drive back into the slot. If it does work we'll see how it holds up in the winter.

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Get rid of all the lag in the nav system. Much more snappier operation. The ssd will be dead silent compared to the platter drive.