I don't have Apple Car Play with the Nav. Just the basic radio/ cassette/CD. The volume **** "works" one way. UP! I want to replace it but EVERYTHING comes up for the Apple system replacement/ upgrade. I DON'T WANT THAT! Has anyone replaced just the basic system either with a used unit or repaired their unit? If so, what issues can I expect?

 

You have the base system or mark levinson either way you need to remove the wood parts of the center console and remove the stereo that way

 

I assume you mean that you have the non-Nav Pioneer radio system fitted to the basic models like pictured below?


Does your car not have the additional volume controls behind the steering wheel? (left side)
If those work, you have a workaround. If they don't work or are not there then replacing the radio with a working used one shouldn't be too difficult.

 

That's what I got. I would just like to have everything working like it should. Didn't know if anyone had tried repairing it or if like so much else, a properly working used one would act up with the security.

 

I'll let others reply on the security as mine has the Nav with Mark Levinson.
Mine doesn't have any security beyond not fitting in any other vehicle so I would imagine yours is the same.
Do you have to enter a code if you disconnect the battery?

It'll probably be cheaper to buy a working used unit that having it repaired.
Have you tried controlling the volume with the steering wheel buttons?

 

Could just be volume control needs cleaning. Try turning back and forth real fast to see if helps. If does and still a problem take it apart and spray contact cleaner in control.

 

Steering buttons work fine. I'm just into tinkering and trying to fix stuff. I just absolutely hate dealing with computer controlled anything. No, I didn't have to put any codes in when I swapped the battery. Thought process is to replace it with a refurbished one but I don't know enough about the security systems in these things to take the chance on spending that kind of money if it's set to the Vin. the way some others are.

 

I'm pretty certain none of the LS430 radios are set to the ECU or VIN as that would make replacing it a nightmare, even for the dealers.
As Alex says, it sounds like the sensor behind the volume **** is the problem.
Older radios used a potentiometer (variable resistor) and have limited rotation, but the newer ones use a rotation detector and can be turned forever.
If it's a potentiometer then it can be cleaned with some cleaning spray if you feel confident in taking it apart.
If it's a rotation detector (slotted opto-switch) then chances are it's a cracked solder joint where it connects to the circuit board.

The LS430 has computer controlled everything including the radio (that is why the steering volume buttons still work), so the computer side of it is still fine, just the volume control itself has died.

You will also need to take your radio out to get the part number to make certain that you are ordering the correct replacement part.

 

Bigboomer is 100% correct the radios are not linked to the ecu requiring a code like the early 2000's cars did. Look on ebay they have both style radios for $200-$600, remove the wood trim gear ****, its about 4 bolts I think to remove everything.

 

Volume controls generally just need cleaning but if replacement is warranted it is not difficult. If a used unit is purchased it will have a 20 year old volume control also.