I recently purchased a 98 GS400. The vehicle has the Premium
Lexus/Nakamichi Factory Stereo with the CD Changer mounted in the glovebox. Here's my problem: when I insert a CD Magazine, I can hear the cd's load & see "LOAD" if I press the CD button on the head unit. However, I NEVER hear any of the CD's play, even if I manually select a different disc. After a minute or so, I see "ERR 5" on the display.

I have verified that the CD's are placed label-side down & even tried different cd's, but I can't get the CD's to play.

My questions:

1. What is the "ERR 5" code?
2. I have heard that you can "reset" the CD Changer. How do you reset it?
3. Anybody else have this problem?

I called a local Lexus dealer & they think I need to buy a new changer (for $500!). $500 plus my old amp, head unit & Boston Acoustic speakers from my previous vehicle will get me a much better sounding aftermarket stereo. I must say, I'm not very impressed with the sound of the "Premium" system. It's very tinny sounding, but then all I can listen to is FM radio.

In the meantime, I love my "new" used GS 400! I don't regret not buying a 540i!

 

Sorry to hear this. Make sure there is not a CD already stuck inside the CD changer.

Is it the factory cd magazine?

 

No, the CD/cartridge isn't stuck. It's a brand-new cartridge that I bought from my local Lexus dealer. I also borrowed a friends cartridge, but the same thing - no sound , ERR 5.

I also just found out that Pioneer is the OEM for the changer & you can use Pioneer's cartridge which is half the price of Lexus (no surpise) at Best Buy.

I'm going to bring it to Lexus first, then a local mobile audio shop.

thanks! -Russ

 

got an err 5 here too...
and now a stuck cartridge!!!! any help is appreciated