When did Lexus get rid of their version of ONSTAR and why did they do it and do the other luxury names still have it and if so why isn't Lexus competitive?

 

Lexus's version is called LexusLink and it actually is OnStar with Lexus dedicated operators. LexusLink is still very much alive. What's happened is that a very limited number of '04 models are being produced with Lexus Link but they are hard to find. Lexus is currently in the process of developing new hardware to be compatible with the digital wireless networks that are so prevalent now (the current LexusLink hardware is analog-based). They expect the new hardware to be fully available with the '05 model year. Retrofits will probably be available. The new hardware must also work with the analog systems but 2008 is when digital will be exclusive and any analog hardware still out there will probably cease to function.

This information came straight from a LexusLink customer service rep.

 

Ah. Thanks. I was just curious!

 

i'm new to this forum, i'd imagine the questions and information that i'll seek, you guys probably discussed in detail years back.

sorry for the inconvenience.

it'll be ok.

L.

 

This is great info, if you learn of any new developments, postings would be great!

 

Yes there is an update to my original post. Lexus currently is stating that there will be NO retrofit of the digital into those vehicles that currently have analog. There is a Limited Service Campaign number 4LA that applies to 2001-2004 LS430's. This campaign details how the dealers are to perform a COMPLETE and PERMANENT removal of analog Lexus Link hardware. The Campaign specifically states this:

"Although there is nothing wrong with the Lexus Link hardware, the FCC ruled that cellular telephone companies operating in the United States are no longer required to provide analog service after February 2008. Cellular carriers are quickly transitioning to digital networks and since Lexus Link uses analog technology and cannot be modified to digital operation, Lexus is offering this customer satisfaction program because we understand customers may prefer to remove the hardware completely, or they may want to eliminate the voice prompt that is sounded each time the vehicle is started."

 

I'd like to have my LL system removed by the dealer. Is this a FREE option that I can pursure? Where did you get this information to begin with?

Thanks in advance...

 

Yes, this is a free of charge service.
Lexus sent me a detailed letter explaining the procedure.

I believe you can bring your LS in, and they'll be able to remove the Lexus Link components for you.

 

i think the real story is The Lexus link is no more. No one was renewing it so Lexus did away with it.
Everyone has a cell phone, it is really a stupid option for the money.....

 

Yes, this is a free service. If the dealer gives you any flack just tell the the procedure is covered by Limited Service Campaign number 4LA

LexusLink is OnStar with Lexus dedicated operators. It's very popular and getting more popular every year. I for one think it is a very good system from a security and safety standpoint. It has a "LoJack"-type system so whenever anyone tries to steal the car, it silently calls LexusLink to inform them and provides the GPS coordinates where the car is located. I also like the fact that if I am in an accident, it automatically calls LexusLink to inform them to send the paramedics - again using GPS coords to precisely locate the car. Kinda hard for a cell phone to do all that.

 

I have a new 04 ls430 & they have no lexus link in them..... They told me no one wants it so they did away
with it. My 2001 the first 2 years were free & i did not renew it for the 3rd. If it gets stolen I dont ever want to see it again..If i get hurt so bad that i cant use the cell phone,,,,,, O well i wont remember it...

 

My dad has a 2003 GX470 and it has Lexus Link on it. Well they told me that after February 2008, Lexus link service will no longer be offered to analog customers. But the Limited campaign Ends i think december of 2007. So if you bring your car before dec 2007 then it's free. That's all I know. Not to mention, the Lexus Link Message is annoying. You have to hear it everytime you start the car "The Lexus Link is Active". Can't turn it off. But if you dont have the service active, Then you get a longer message that is 4 times longer then the active message.

 

How much are the annual fee for this feature

Thanks

 

http://www.lexus.com/lexuslink/


~ Cap

 

i just had the lexus link removed from my wife's GX 470....
Yes that message is a pain in the rear........to say the least
I'm glad it is gone..................