hi friends!

i'm new to the 2gs and cl (00 platinum 2gs3 170k) and have done minor upgrades here and there using this site for parts, instructions, recommendations...

figured i'd post something to share since my 2gs3 didn't come with a compass in the rearview and i really wanted one (for no real reason)

didn't see it on search so mods i apologize in advance.

tools needed:
flat head precision screwdriver or other (for prying)
PH2 phillips
torx driver

parts needed:
97-03 lexus rx autodim rearview with compass (or other)

steps:
1) pry open lens cover off of front map/dome lighting for removal.
tip: the plastic housing is soft so be careful. i ended up dinging mine but oh well.

2) two silver phillips screws to take off

3) pry open homelink module for removal
tip: i went from proximal (metal clips) to distal (plastic tabs) for removal

4) two silver phillips screws to take off

5) unplug harnesses for lighting, moon/sun roof motor, homelink

6) locate harness for mirror and unplug

7) mirror has plastic triangular cover that pulls off at the windshield mount

8) take off torx screw holding rearview to windshield mount
i forgot what bit size torx, sorry.

9) rearview removal

10) mount new desired mirror

then go in reverse (order) for installation
test the modules you (un)plugged for function before sealing everything back up.

i am not liable or responsible for your errors!
this was an easy and painfree chore from an admitted beginner.
i am not sure if other model rearviews will install properly but the rx was a flawless fit, easy plug and play
the auto dim and compass works 100%
i think there's a region code to program if yours isn't working but mine was pulled from a US model

total cost: 40 dollars (ebay), 30 mins labor

hope this helps someone out there.
good luck have fun.

 

okay i dig this, post up a pic of the final product please!

 

here is a pic.

 

very cool write up and thanks for providing a pic... I'm sure others will follow including myself... thanks

 

Thank you so much, wish there were more people in the world like you.

 

Nicely done Offbad. I add it to the sticky'ed 2GS FAQ and DIY Thread

 

Great mod, the good news also is their only like $40 bucks on Ebay, black or grey...

 

Haven't searched but what pops in my head is compass rear views came in non nav cars since the nav has the compass built in to the GPS?

 

^ Yea, you have to select MAP/Dest button and the GPS compass will display on the screen.

 

I think I already did. can't remember lol

 

Nice write up. Cool mod... Thanks!!

 

While trying to do this mod on my 99 GS300 I stripped the T30 Torx screw that holds the original mirror onto the mounting bracket on the windshield. My new mirror has the screw and the bracket that it screws into. My question is can I just drill the head off the screw off and pull the mirror and bracket out and put the new mirror in its place? Anyone else have this issue with this Torx screw? It is really on there and local shop tried with cutters to grip and turn it as they could grab it but it wouldn't budge. Just afraid to crack the windshield or do more harm than good and ruin the mirror entirely. Any help or pictures anyone has after this screw is removed would be helpful. Thanks!

 

I finally got around to completing this mod after stripping the T30 Torx screw a couple years back. I drilled into screw head with a small drill bit and then used a small Speedout bit and it popped right out. Since I have a 99 GS300 I have attached the applicable pages from the 01+ models Users Manual that describe the steps to change the mirror compass geographic location and calibration process.

 

Hey when you plugged in your mirror did it show two weird looking symbols that look like eights or did it just go to C? Mine is stuck with the two eights I put it in calibration mode and drove soo many circles but it never changes.

 

No I never got these symbols. Sounds like there may be an issue with the display being stuck in some internal test mode. Make sure the connector is seated correctly with no bent pins. Maybe unplug battery and see if it resets. Best thing would be to try another mirror if it persists.