How far can I update the maps on my 04 LS? It appears to have the original OEM map. I have been told by several dealers that is not a good idea to put the most current maps on the car because the new maps will overload the navigation computer and it will freeze up (data overload). I've been told that once it freezes up, there is no going back....the entire computer needs to be replaced. It does not happen on every update, but a lot of updates turn into a frozen mess.

What are your thoughts? Have you ever done an update this large?

 

I haven't heard of such a thing. I updated mine (pretty sure it was the orig OEM one) when I went off to school in Chicago to the most current one (ver 11 I think) and it did just fine. Just take out the old disc and pop in the new one, the car will do the rest. The newer one now offers a split screen while directions are on to tell you of various POI's at most upcoming exits/distance before upcoming turns. Pretty nifty IMO and worth the update.

 

Be aware that if you do this upgrade (from any version 5.1 or earlier) to a later version, you will lose the ability to override the Nav lockout. From all reports in this forum, this change is irreversible without jumping through hoops, since the Nav software is actually updated, not just the Nav and POI databases.
You may or may not care about this, however others feel very strongly about it (search on "override").
Also, be sure that you get the right update (without checking, I think you need Gen 4). If you get it from a dealer, they should give you the right DVD.
If you don't mind, please post the asking price for the update.

 

Never heard about a freeze up with new versions of the maps. However, after about version 5.??, the hack to allow in-motion use won't work.

So Miniz, what did you end up buying? Pics??

 

I ended up getting a 2004 LS with Modern Luxury, Smart Key and Euro tuned Sport suspension in pearl white with parchment interior. It has 63k miles. I gave up on finding the custom luxury car. I looked forever and had dealers looking for me and all we found was beat up junk with a ton of miles or a price tag that would buy me an LS460.

 

I upgraded the original disk on my '02 UL to a version 11 last fall. It works perfectly and was a nice upgrade. I believe the price was $159 or $169, it took about 5 minutes.

I have never heard of "overloading" , it does not sound right to me. I know many don't like the NAV but I do. It is easy to use, dependable and gets me where I want to go. For my occasional use, it works great.

 

Congrats on the find. I don't believe parchment was available in 04, only cashmere, ash, and black in the ML & premium.

 

You are correct. I meant cashmere. I was thinking about newer models.

I must say that I was impressed by how well the euro tuned sport suspension improves the feel of the ride.

 

What version would have come with the car stock in 2004?

 

My 01 had the original disc when I purchased my car 2 years ago making it 9 years old! I updated to the version 9 making a big difference as an upgrade at that time.

 

So I guess my 03 Ls will be fine with an version 5? Saw one for sale in my area for 50 bucks.

 

If you live in an area like mine (Dallas/Fort Worth) with a lot of growth, running an old map could result in some strange routes if you actually use the older system to navigate. For a price of just $169, it may be worth sucking it up and paying the money for the 11 disc instead of buying an older release. I currently have the 2007 release, which is ok, but I am going to update this year.

Compare this to the cost of updating the navigation system in an E-class Benz. Ouch.

 

Check out lexus of north miami. Best deal I could find. Just installed mine 10 minutes ago. It seems to be working perfectly.

 

I'm curious to know when will Lexus stop producing updates for our cars? Anyone?