Hope some of you living overseas with your RX330s can help me out. We have a US spec 2004 RX330 with navigation and will be bringing her with us when we move to Germany. Will I be able to just get a DVD update disc with the european maps for the nav?

 

I think so, although I doubt that any US Lexus dealers carry it, although they could probably get you one before you head across the pond. My DVDs are labeled clearly that they are for US and Canada.

Also, I have a friend who picked up a Porsche in Germany and drove it through Europe for several weeks before having it (and himself) shipped home. He then just got a US disc and everything worked perfectly.

Depending on how much time you have, since Lexus dealers are rare in Europe, you might want to get the new disc here if you can. And be sure to check out the language options on the disc to be sure it speaks and displays in a language you can read and understand. Most have several language options, and English is usually one of them.

 

DVD and nav may be a smaller issue. You need to find out if your vehicle would be "street legal" in GDR. There are reciprocal agreements between nations and the imported vehciles must go through inspections/certifications. Depending on your assignement, you may be able to keep the US tags on your RX and be exempt from certifications .. but you must bring the vehicle back.

A friend of mine who went to Switzerland, came to the conclusion that it was better for him to sell the vehicle (rather than garage it in us) than to get certification.

Do not assume that since RX is sold worldwide, certification would not be required. Ask the right people and confirm.

Salim

 

One of my friends is taking her Murano to Israel as a diplomat, even she has to go through a certification and inspection process. It is not easy. Even had to change headlights to a Euro standard.

 

Even if the move is permanent, it would seem to make more sense to sell your US version here and buy something comparable for the same amount of money over there.

Why bother with all that, and shipping charges also?