I know this is a common problem on the SC430s and would like to take a shot at fixing it on my 2002. So far these are the things I've narrowed down to as the problem:

1. Switch - glows green (seems ok) but I ordered another switch on eBay just in case that was confirmed working. Both only work intermittently so I don't think it's this.
2. Motor - the door opens smoothly when it works.
3. Control unit - my thought is it's probably this.

Does anyone know if you can order the control unit that sits on top of the Mark Levinson receiver? I saw one on eBay I could purchase as well. The door seems like it's running smoothly (not out of alignment) and works maybe 1 every 20 times I click the button. Thanks!

Edited to add: I found the part number on MyLParts.com it's 55406-24010 and the cost is $1,068.23. I think I will stick with eBay

 

What is the failure mode (other than it intermittently not opening)? Does it make any noises or any other unusual things?

 

I'll take a look when I get the car back from service today. I was looking at the Lexus owner records from a couple years ago and it said the previous owner needed to replace the entire assembly.

I did find just the control unit on eBay for $179....as opposed to the entire Mark Levinson radio (that includes the door mechanism). I think I can swap out the light colored wood door for mine with a couple of screws.

 

Here is my thread on the servo motor.
https://www.clublexus.com/forums/sc4...oor-motor.html

 

Do you think I should buy the whole unit on eBay, and just swap out the wood door? I have the dark wood interior. I think it would work!

 

The whole working unit for $179 instead of $1079 (from Lexus part) is pretty good!

 

that is what I did... as you said before, the cover is an easy swap and a salvage yard will usually stand behind their products! I purchased many...all four HVAC vents, master cylinder, video screen etc. everything worked as advertised and reasonable prices.

 

Kevin, have you removed the unit from the dash to take a look at everything?
my post above had to do with the Nav screen replacement but I would guess to say the radio unit uses the same motor.
i looked up the unit on eBay and I would pull the unit, check it on my workbench and possibly look at replacing the little servo motor. Can you solder?
the motors are $2 ea and I purchased three Nav Door motors for about $8 shipped.

if your not good at doing that stuff, I would recommend you purchase the assembly for $179, but you need to be sure it will correct the issue.

 

if it comes to it, the front wood panel can be replaced. Only two small screws. I've taken mine off to vinyl wrap it.

 

Great, thanks. I've gotten the center console out and from what I've read the a/c controls come straight out as well? If so, I'll order the part today and replace the door. Thanks!

 

Yes, the AC control comes out with some pull. There are youtube videos showing the process, a bit daunting if you have never done it, but quite doable.

 

Yup there's 1 good DIY on on utube...

 

Great I'll check it out thanks!

 

....just be very careful of where you're grabbing & pulling it. I didn't watch the youtube video & actually pulled the face of the a/c control panel, off the unit.....needless to say, it was an expensive lesson...lol

 

Thanks! I was just about to do that until I saw the video!!