Rear Window Shade
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Pole Position
Joined: Apr 2018
Posts: 307
Likes: 74
From: CA
Rear Window Shade
When I purchased my LS, the salesman claimed that the retractable shades were a common problem on the LS. Is this really true? Since the, I've always been reluctant to use it because I am worried it will fail. Has anyone experienced any issues with the shade? is this really a know issue or just a farce?
Pit Crew
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 237
Likes: 22
From: WA (formerly: KY)
In my sample set of three (all have both side and rear shades), I’ve never had an issue with the shades. In reviewing the service history of dozens of LS600’s while shopping for my last purchase, I don’t recall any stating a repair to a shade was performed. I do recall one dealer mentioning a side shade repair was needed on a recent trade and the part was on order, but I don’t know if that was a case of wear or abuse/misuse. I’m sure a pet or small child could destroy them with little effort. As far as I can tell it is designed to last. Though I’m curious to hear from those that have experienced it failing, and to know if it is an expensive repair.
Pole Position
Joined: Jun 2014
Posts: 2,653
Likes: 557
From: AR
I have both the 2 side shades and the rear shade. The side shades will not come down unless A: I push the button to take them down or B: someone opens the window. I went into the system via my Carista app and turned the rear shade off so that never lowers when I put the LS in reverse. I can hit the button and take it down if I want but it will not go down now just because I am backing up. I figured way less ware and tare on it. I have no problems seeing through it plus we have the backup camera.
Dennis
Dennis
Racer
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 1,846
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From: Sacramento, CA
I have both the 2 side shades and the rear shade. The side shades will not come down unless A: I push the button to take them down or B: someone opens the window. I went into the system via my Carista app and turned the rear shade off so that never lowers when I put the LS in reverse. I can hit the button and take it down if I want but it will not go down now just because I am backing up. I figured way less ware and tare on it. I have no problems seeing through it plus we have the backup camera.
Dennis
Dennis
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Thread Starter
Pole Position
Joined: Apr 2018
Posts: 307
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From: CA
I have both the 2 side shades and the rear shade. The side shades will not come down unless A: I push the button to take them down or B: someone opens the window. I went into the system via my Carista app and turned the rear shade off so that never lowers when I put the LS in reverse. I can hit the button and take it down if I want but it will not go down now just because I am backing up. I figured way less ware and tare on it. I have no problems seeing through it plus we have the backup camera.
Dennis
Dennis
Pole Position
Joined: Mar 2016
Posts: 2,598
Likes: 300
From: Missouri
The Carista app will let you turn OFF the rear shade retraction. I do leave mine up most of the time, but I retract it as needed. I have not given a thought to the mechanism failing. I am not going to stop using a convenience feature as needed. If I am constantly worried about it failing, and the cost of fixing it, maybe I wouldn't have the car in the first place. Of course, I have two things going for me. First, being an LS, these things are really well designed and reliable compared to other car makers. Second, full disclosure, I do have a Lexus Platinum VSA warranty until 2024.
Driver School Candidate
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 14
Likes: 0
From: TX
I've replaced one of my side shades which only had a minor problem (the tiny rear secondary shade wouldn't stay extended). I use my rear shade all the time and there is no mention of shade problems in the vehicle's (2007/114k miles) entire service history.
However, I have the executive package and I dread ever having to get under the rear deck to replace anything such as the rear shade as it appears the rear seats and center DVD player/storage need to be removed.
However, I have the executive package and I dread ever having to get under the rear deck to replace anything such as the rear shade as it appears the rear seats and center DVD player/storage need to be removed.
