Does everyone show an a WiFi network in their car labeled “Smartphone_connect_xxxxxx” where the letters shown as x are simply a six digit hexadecimal number? I have a 2026 450e Premium and this shows up every time I power the car up. I have not enabled the WiFi trial and can’t see where I can disable this in the menu. From a security perspective, I don’t want to leave this unused network enabled since it is attached to the car.

With that said, I have three questions:
1. Does everyone have this WiFi network?
2. I assume this is the car hotspot, correct?
3. Can anyone guide me to the menu where I can shut it down?

Thanks in advance!

 

My WiFi’s name was Lexus_RZ. I have not noticed a WiFi named that but will look next time I drive.

 

While we introduce our phones to the car with Bluetooth pairing, BT is not capable of
connecting the Navigation Maps to the car system. When you tap on the Lexus screen
Settings/Bluetooth and Devices and then your phone's name, you will see three (3) sliders.
Top two are Bluetooth (phone and media), the third is for the WiFi connection and will be
labeled Apple Car Play or Android Auto depending on your phone. Our phones use WiFi
to connect at home, work (and Panera shops), it uses the cars WiFi for Maps and streaming.
When you slide the third button On, it disconnects the BT and your phone will show the Wifi address.

The confusion arises because new Lexi also offers a 90-day trial for the ability to have and
pay for the entire car to have a Hot Spot. Got kids in the back downloading full length movies?
Travel to weak coverage areas? Very few guests in my experience actually sign up for the extra
service. Note: the phone connection WiFi is free and not related to the offer.

 

Ok. Thanks! I think I understand what you are saying. So this is the WiFi network that Apple CarPlay requires and has nothing to do with the hotspot service? If I remove all devices, or disable the option for them to use CarPlay (hypothetically of course), this network wouldn’t appear?

 

Yes, you understand it perfectly. The trick to using ACP effectively is to press and hold the steering wheel "talk" button until you hear the Siri trill and then start all commands with a verb. Call, dial, text, show, play, take me to are all verbs to use. I just recently discovered that is your phone contact list also has street addresses in addition to phone numbers, Apple Maps will get you directions to it. "Call John mobile, text Mary's cell, we need directions to Dave Smith's house.