I have been reading a lot of stuff here lately about our Gen 3 RX-350s, trying to resolve a few electronic setup issues. I may have come across something of value for the early 2010 RX-350 owners.

Short Story: It looks like the early 2010 models came with the Gen 5 firmware that was used on the 2009's. This impacts the Nav unit and some of the Stereos functions. The dealer can update the system to Gen 6, if he knows how to do it.

More Details: I had gone in because I had the infamous iPod scrolling problem. Previous, the dealer had done the LSB-0039-009 update for me. This allowed the scrolling to move faster, but the second you stopped sculling, the first song was played, like kit or not.

When I went in for a Maps update (8.1 to 13.1), the dealer could not load the Gen 6, 13.1 maps. 2010 RX-350s are Gen 6, right??? Well, they couldn't get it to work. By chance, I had asked them to update the Nav firmware if one existed. Anyway, that is what they decided they had to do. The firmware update, updated my system to Gen 6. Then, when they loaded the Gen 6, 13.1 maps, everything worked.

This update also fixed the iPod scrolling issue I had. Big Score!!!!

Also, previously, my setting menus looked a little different than the Owners Manual stated. Now everything looks like the 2010 Owners Manual.

What defines "Early 2010"?: Regarding this Gen 5, Gen 6, issue, I don't know... Maybe the same people that have sunglass holders instead of the new Enform? I heard the electronics where updated for Enform. I think this change happened around August 2009 (build dates).

Speculation: I am guessing that people will ask if they need to pay for a Maps update to get this fix. I am guessing the answer is no. But, you may have to pay shop rate for 30-60 minutes for a tech to install it.

I wrote this so other early 2010 RX-350 owners knew about this issue and possible fix. IF anyone has more or better info, please post it.

I still have one lingering question, Unless someone here knows, I may have to visit the Dealer one last time... Before I got the Gen 6 update, I tried to get them to program the Rear Door, so when I pressed the switch on the rear door, it automatically opened. The election was greyed out in their laptop software. The tech said that may be because I had an early 2010 build. I wonder if they could now program the Rear Door like I wanted?

 

As far as 'early 2010s,' I'd say it refers to the ones built before Enform was introduced in August 2009. That was about half a years' worth of production, even less for the RXh. From what I recall, the iPod scrolling issue did not affect all '10 RXs. Lexus addressed the issue in early 2010. The fix was available for RXs built before then. So was a power extension cord. I guess enough people complained about having to dive deep into the cavernous middle console. It was also about the same time they added the little coin tray too.

Regarding programming the rear tailgate (discussed extensively here), I don't buy it can't be done. The trick seems to be finding the right dealer to do it. A few were listed in the above thread. I'd ask around. The tech who did mine back in July 2010 said nonchalantly that it was a matter of knowing Lexus programming. My tailgate opens under power with a two second push and hold. All I can say is good luck finding a dealer to do yours.