BXIS250

I'm basically looking for the best way to get Bluetooth playback in my 2005 IS 250. Unfortunately, it only has Bluetooth hands free. I would like hands free and playback.

I'm sure I could easily get Bluetooth audio playback by buying a Bluetooth to Auxiliary adapter, but then I wouldn't be able to navigate to another track with the wheel.

So, does any ML equipped stock head unit support Bluetooth playback? If so, will it even fit in my 2005 model?

Bichon

Your best bet is probably one of the aftermarket integration kits from companies like Grom, iSimple and Vais, e.g., https://gromaudio.com/store/all-toyn_lex5_.html

Also, I assume that your car is actually an '06, as the 2IS was introduced as an '06 model back in 2005.

BXIS250

No it's actually a 2005. Production of the IS 250 started in September of 2005 and mine was built September 19th 2005, first registered to an owner on November 30th 2005 and entered my country May 7th of 2019, I imported it from Germany yesterday, bought last Saturday.

Anyway, I was afraid aftermarket solutions were going to get mentioned. I was really hoping on an OEM solution. Don't the 2010+ models have an HD navigation screen? Wouldn't these have extra features like Bluetooth playback?

mcomer

Bluetooth for the audio did not arrive until the 2010 model year on any Lexus, just phone prior years.

BXIS250

That's great! Does that include Bluetooth playback or just hands free? Because mine already has hands free. Also, do you know if the 2010 HU will fit a 2005 model?

Zmon

iTrader: (2)

It would require some serious rewiring work as the harnesses are different and quite a few were eliminated on the newer ones, most who've tried gave up on it and it really isn't worth the cost. Your best bet is to do as mentioned above, get something like a Grom V1 if you want to use carplay/android auto, or just buy some various BT adapter (again, choices mentioned above). I've been thinking about grabbing a V1 myself for a while now.

BXIS250

I'm not bothered by rewiring, it's kind of my speciality and I love wire works. Does it just require other plugs or rewiring the wires to different locations?

xxmariolxx

I wouldn't waist my time trouble shooting something your not certian of there's no tutorials online of how to switch to a newer year head unit. Easiest way is get a AUX to Bluetooth with a ground loop isloater so it sounds clean. You won't have steering wheel controls but that's not a huge trade-off for barely any money or work

BXIS250

It is for me. I really like doing wiring. Do you know what the differences are? If just the wiring locations are different it's just a matter of repinning the plugs.

I'm also interested in an 8" screen android head unit from ebay, apparently doesn't fit according to the seller. Not with that attitude... I like me a good challenge.

eframsal

iTrader: (15)

No matter how much you like rewiring, I don’t think it’s possible. The 2010+ electronic components are different. In addition the previous head unit had 6 connections while the newer units have 10. The plugs aren’t even the same.

BXIS250

Interesting. This just gets better and better. Everything is possible man.

What electrical components do you mean, exactly?

eframsal

iTrader: (15)

I wish I kept the plugs that go into a 2010 Navigation unit so I could show the differences. If I was going down this path, I’d get a subscription to Toyota’s TIS for the wiring diagrams and then get the dash harnesses from each model to verify. Way too much work for me but maybe you have the time. The community would benefit from your efforts.

mandyfig

Get a Bluetooth adapter (I use Bluetrip), plug it in the console box power port and your IS has an audio input in the console box as well. Select AUX and you have music! Solved. I am happy with mine.

flowrider

iTrader: (9)

BXIS250, your Lexus is actually a MY 2006 IS250. Just because it was produced in September of 2005 does not mean it's a 2005 vehicle. Manufacturer's usually start to manufacture vehicles in September of the preceding MY. Some, even before that. A current case in point is the 2020 Lexus RCF, released on 1/13/2019.

Lou

ExplorerII

I bought a bluetooth adapter that plugs into the aux cord and is powered by the USB port in the center console. I paid $10USD and it works fine for my use. Hope this helps and you are enjoying your new Lexus!