RML133

Try stuffing some foam down along the edge where the dash meets the windscreen. I've put in 3x 6 inch strips, one in the centre, the others either side. This sorted out my 'creaking' problem which drove me mad. Part of the problem being that the car is so quiet on the inside that any creak or crackle can become a nuisance. The crackle seemed to come from around the instrument cluster and I spent ages trying to trace it and fix it. I found that when I placed my hand on the dash on top of the cluster, that stopped the noise. But it turned out that wasn't where it was coming from. I picked up this idea from a thread on the USA Lexus Owners site, but can't point you to the exact one. But it did appear to be a regular problem with the Series II RX bodywork. Since doing this, I've had no problem, and a truly silent car.

Worked perfectly. Many thanks. My wife will be most pleased. How did you find out how to do this?

The low fuel warning bulb has failed in my dash unit (2003 RX300 Mark II SE-L). Can I get a replacement bulb instead of replacing the entire in dash display?

Andrew By trial and error I've found that I have no problem when using a CD to burn the MP3 files to. However, with a DVD it just won't read it. I think that the DVD can only be encoded as DVD-Audio, which appears to be quite an esoteric format that never really took off. It appears to be encoded the same way as the audio track on conventional DVDs. Indeed, when you insert such a video DVD, you do hear the soundtrack, but you can't really browse it. So I conclude that the only way to maximise the number of tracks is to forget the DVD route. Rather, compress to a suitable level the MP3 files before copying them to the CD. I've used 320 which allows for 4-5 CD equivalents. Using higher compression will of course give more. Folders are supported, including artist and album names, and I imagine there may well be a maximum of 99 files per folder. But I've not tested to that limit and as I've got it working now how I want I'm not experimenting any further. But I am disappointed that I've not been able to obtain the appropriate owner's manual information through this forum.

Doesn't ANYONE have this information ...... !

I have replaced the radio unit in my 2003 RX 300 with a later version that includes playback of DVDs and CDs containing MP3 (and WMA) files. Have burnt a DVD with MP3 files but the unit doesn't read them. Whilst it recognises the disk as DVD, I get the message 'NO MUSIC'. I have tried 3 different file structures, from root, through to primary and secondary folder. I suspect that to get this to work I need to set up a specific file structure. But I don't have the Operating Manual for this later unit. Would appreciate it if any member with a similar unit (DVD/MP3/WMA) could look in their manual and advise the correct file structure, together with any other instructions. (Found the unit on eBay and replacement was relatively easy. The connectors from the old unit fit perfectly the new and all the functionality of the old; FM, LW, TAPE, DISC, are retained in the newer unit. There are additional connections for DVD video playback, I imagine through headrest monitors, but I'm not interested in that as I always sit in the driver's seat - the car's built for MY entertainment, not my passengers').

I did this exercise on a BMW X5 about a year ago. (You can do it on their website under 'build your own BMW). Even after adding in the options that the Lexus RX didn't have (MP3, DAB, TV) the price came out similar. I was surprised, and enlightened. Really, I don't think the 'extra value' is there anymore with Lexus. It's my heart that keeps me driving one, not any sound financial reason.

Does the GROM replace the CD unit, or can the CD unit coexist (as Vaistech) ? It's not clear on this point on the Carputer website.

Normally I wouldn't bother, but as this is being talked about here I thought I'd contribute my own experience. First my views on car salesmanship. Generally, if as a punter you go into a car showroom, you've probably already decided what you want. Thus, the purpose of the car salesman is not to mess up the purchase. Well, I've been into Lexus Cambridge on a few occasions. On some of those, I could have been SOLD a car. But on all of those occasions, I've left without buying. And I didn't regret it afterwards. I can think of a number of reasons why the deals didn't go through. Sometimes it was the salesman himself, following a set pattern and not listening to my questions. Partly, it is what appears to be the sales policy of either the dealer, or it may be Lexus GB. We all know that Lexus are back in the dark ages when it comes to fitting the latest ICE technology - MP3, iPod, DAB, TV, etc. (This hasn't always been the case; about 10 years ago they were right up front with SatNav, Bluetooth. But in recent years they've lost their way). But here then is an opportunity for a dealer to fill that weakness and offer to fit what ever aftermarket solution you want, be it from Vaistech, Denison, whoever. But they don't. They're lazy. All they want to do is sell what Lexus GB gives them. No more, no less. (Or, more charitably, Lexus GB won't let them do more than that). Yes, I could fit my own aftermarket accessories. But why should I if I'm buying a new car? So I have resolved that the dealer won't make easy money out of me and that I'll buy my Lexus second hand. Which is what I did about a year ago. Bought a 2003 RX 300, White, in superb condition. Cheap at the price, 'cos white is 'not popular' - but I like it. Now, with such a secondhand car, I'm very happy to fit the accessories I want myself. Now that same secondhand Lexus, I gave to Lexus Norwich and asked them to do what they would have done if they themselves had acquired the car in part exchange and were reselling as a Lexus approved pre-owned car. Dear oh dear. They just couldn't get the glue right on the wipers auto sensor. Had to go back 3 times. Got a bottle of wine in the end, but no real apology from anyone senior for my time and trouble - and to mollify their embarrasment. The frustration here is that Lexus service is touted as one of the best around. Well, if that's the best then I dread to think what the second best is. Let me say here that for the car itself, I do like Lexus style, engineering, etc. I will probably keep buying Lexus, albeit second hand. But as a manufacturer, they need to put in the latest ICE technology (which is relatively mature now; its been around a long time). And the dealers need to step up to the mark and give the level of customer service that the brand merits.

Try this: http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAP...52BSI%26otn%3D8 I recently bought one off eBay from this seller in Japan. Arrived within 2 weeks. Well packed. Looks good. I plan to replace the whole Lexus radio unit. If link above doesn't work, the eBay seller name is zeroism702. He appears to specialise in hard to get after market accessories for Lexus and Toyota.

I bought a 2003 RX-300 SE-L a few months ago. It had the Parrot CK3100 already installed. It works a treat!

Just leanrt today that WHITE is now available. Both for the RX400h and the RX300. It's still a special order with delivery of about 12 weeks, but at least we now have the choice. Indeed, the salesman didn't know about it. Remembered me from a few months ago and still though white wasn't available. But a colleague pointed out it was. When he looked into the new brochure, sure enough, there is was as an option ........ ............................................. W H I T E :) :) :) :) :) :) Now what about the DAB and MP3 ??????????

Another point is that with the audio system fully integrated into the car, this makes it virtually impossible to steal. But it does mean that you are stuck with that technology for the life of the car. Contrast this with an audio/nav system that fits the standard DIN holes. It may be easier to steal, but it does mean that you can keep up with evolving technology. So, in my view, manufacturers that integrate their audio/nav/etc into a console must either offer the latest technology at the point the car is sold, or, provide an upgrade path in terms of software upgrades and equipment upgrades (all at a reasonable price, of course). It is a great shame that Toyota/Lexus don't and this lack of foresight detracts from what is an otherwise excellent product. Sadly they only get 9/10. For me to pay for a new car (and get knocked with the initial depreciation) I'm looking for 10/10.

Many thanks for all your respones and may I turn respond to some of them in order to clarifying my position. 1) I'm not disputing the quality (of sound) of the Lexus system. Yes, it truly is great. However, without modern features such as connection to and control of mp3 players, and a DAB radio, it could not be described as 'state of art'. There are a number of DAB stations I would like to listen to that are not available on FM. 2) Whilst I know that there are aftermarket options, I don't want extra pieces of kit around the dash - it should all be integrated. Even if I went for the aftermarket route I find that dealers are most reluctant to fit is as its not original Toyota/Lexus equipment. 3) OK, I accept that I'm confusing ICE with the integrated console. But I'm not interested in what passengers can enjoy so the DVD and headset screens are superfluous for me. 4) Re: WHITE - Don't see why this should affect the resale value. I sold my WHITE Chrysler Voyager last year an the colour was not an issue. Also, WHITE is made by Lexus regularly in Japan for other markets. I don't see why I can't order one as a special option. I have a GS300 which I'm very happy with - but buying an RX300/400 with its current spec would not give me anything extra in terms of new toys - so why bother with changing? I find this all a great shame as I do like the Lexus principle of including everything in the price. It is a great shame that 'everything' does not include features that have been around for some time on lesser marques.

I'd like to buy an RX400h - been thinking of this for some time. But what puts me off buying one is that despite what Lexus say in their literature, the ICE system is NOT state of art. That is, it does not feature either DAB radio or MP3 player connectivity. Also, reading various threads here and elsewhere, there doesn't appear to be an easy way to get these. Toyota/Lexus are way off the mark in not providing for these technologies which, quite frankly, have been around for some time. Does anyone in the trade know if and when this issue will be addressed? Also, I'd like a WHITE one. You can get them in the USA and Dubai - they look superb? Why can't I have a WHITE one in the UK? - Even if it's to special order? I bought a Toyota LC Amazon last year and WHITE was an option - although it would be a special order. Why not on the RX400h? It's not difficult, surely?????? So at this stage without these issues being addressed I'm not parting with my money. And it annoys me that Lexus promote the ICE as state of art when it clearly isn't.