Correct! Lexus has scammed us all, but other manufacturers are doing it also. BMW created a special proprietary cord to connect to your phone, that you had to buy separately. I just want the updated infotainment system that has both Sirius & XM programming, along with Apple Car Play.

 

So what does the dealer do for a couple hundred bucks?

 

Dealer drives car to bay, connects the computer to the car uploads the latest maps, all this will take less than 30 min, but if you break it down into labour, equipment and space used and know how you come up to close to $200, also don't forget that a dealer like any other business must generate a return per Sq Ft and there you have it.

 

Actually the maps come on a micro SD card. I believe all the dealer does is to tell the computer that it is OK to use the new maps.

 

Inserting a new micro SD card with the latest map update into the card reader slot yourself won't work because the dealer has to download some sort of software to make the new card work. I just went through this process with the service manager at our Lexus dealer. He said without this software download at the dealership, your screen will say "error" with the new card. He said typically it takes about 75 to 90 minutes to download software and get it installed properly. Our dealer charges $150+ labor plus about $210 for the map update memory card. Typically you must order the new SD card beforehand and paid in full first before service will install it for you. And there's no refund on the card if you change your mind because that's a special order. Yes, Lexus really got greedy with this setup. Not much you can do except bite the bullet and pay the dealer to do it for you if you really need the map update.

 

The old map was a waste. Do you really think the new one is better? In a year or two it will be obsolete. I wish the marketers at Toyota realize that their customers are much smarter.

 

agreed. Most don’t realize that a map update represents a tiny fraction of the road and business changes that actually occurred since the previous update. I think I updated my maps for a car once about 20 years ago. LOL, now I just used google maps if needed. But the dynamic maps/cloud service implemented works pretty good.

 

What is the latest version of Navigation Software. Where can I buy the newest Micro SD card for my RX?

 

The Lexus dealership had to order my update for my 2016 last year. Lexus use to have a web page showing Nav systems and latest updates.

Now they have a PDF listing.

https://lexus2.custhelp.com/app/answ...UyMSUyMQ%3D%3D

 

Unfortunately that link has not been updated by Lexus in several years. It's still showing the -17 version and I just bought the latest update, which is -20.

Part number for the latest version is PT219-GEN09-20. I bought the Micro SD card for that version online from Sheehy Lexus of Annapolis. Just installed it in my 2017 RX 350 today.

 

Is the latest fall/winter Navigation Update Out? I have a 2018 RX350 with the original maps. What can I expect to pay for the part and the labor? Thanks

 

were you able to program yourself? What is cost for latest part + labor?

 

The latest map is out. They usually come out in December. The official Part number is PT-219-GEN09-21. I just ordered one for my 2018 RX350. According to the Lexus parts person, it is a simple upgrade procedure. He said to just remove the old Micro-SD card while the vehicle is off and insert the new Micro-SD card. Then start the car. It will find the new map and load it. Prices vary and some online sites won't even sell them to owners. I found one for $210 plus tax with free shipping. My local Lexus dealer quoted me $425 for them to provide the Micro-SD card and install it.

 

Found locally.

Looks like I may be able to do it. Thanks
Note he said PT-219-GEN09-21 is same price

 

That may be the 2020 map if the last 2 digits in the part number indicate year.