new here:
I know this sounds like a hefty job but, is it possible to install navigation system into a 2004 ls w/o ?
any advice, exerience etc would be helpful

 

Honestly, the cost in parts and labor you would be better off selling the 2004 and buying one with a navi system in it.

The navi system spans from a gps antenna on the roof, cd player in the trunk, and an entirely different dash. There could be many other parts which are different. Best thing to do is to get a service manual and compare the differences between models.

 

i thought it would be something that complicated. I know for certain the air vents are in two diiferent places and on the lexus site it said the nav comincates with steering and speed in case it loses the gps signal, so those are my two biggest problems...

 

I thought all the LS430's had in-dash CD changers??

Wait, you might be talking about the DVD one.

 

How about an aftermarket one?
Yank the factory CD changer out and put it in there.
When you don't want to see it, you can just close the wood door panel and everything looks stock again.

Retrofitting an OEM nav system onto your LS is WAYYYYYYY too much work and not cost effective.
Like Unrealii said, you'd be better off trading in your 04 for another one with Nav.

 

oops, yeah, the cd player in the trunk, I meant dvd.


Here's a website for the toyota service manual. http://techinfo.toyota.com/ Sign up for one day ($10), and download all the lexus manuals you need.

 

I can vouch for the Garmin Streetpilot as a great aftermarket add-on. There are features in these that I wish the Lexus system had (auto-zooming as you approach turns, timer countdown to next maneuver, sort by nearest, sort by name, no lockout while in motion etc).

They can be moved between vehicles and $634 is a lot cheaper than trying to install the OEM system.

My wife has a Streetpilot III in her minivan and loves it.

Streetpilot 2610