Lexus ES 300h CarPlay Retrofit Installation Review — Cost

Transform Your Lexus ES 300h with a Modern Android Infotainment Upgrade

Are you finding your Lexus ES 300h's original navigation system outdated and its backup camera fuzzy? Many owners, like the one who visited our shop, face these challenges. This 2016 Lexus ES 300h owner sought a solution to enhance their driving experience, opting for a comprehensive infotainment upgrade. We installed a large-screen Android All-in-One unit, a high-definition backup camera, and a 2-channel dashcam, all while retaining the factory audio system. This review details the process and benefits of such an upgrade, drawing from real installation experiences.

Seamless Integration and Enhanced Features

The core of this upgrade is a 12.3-inch Android All-in-One head unit, specifically fitted for the Lexus ES 300h using custom trim. This dramatically improves visibility and usability over the stock system. Crucially, the factory audio and climate control functions remain fully integrated and accessible. When adjusting climate settings, the information appears on the new screen, and audio from the Android unit, such as streaming music or navigation prompts, plays through the car's speakers via the factory AUX input. For connectivity, USB ports and a SIM card slot are discreetly housed within the glove box, maintaining a clean interior aesthetic.

The original backup camera's low resolution often made parking difficult. We replaced it with a crystal-clear, high-definition camera that significantly improves rear visibility. This new camera system includes dynamic parking lines that adjust with steering input, along with proximity sensors, making parking maneuvers safer and more precise. For added safety and security, a new 2-channel dashcam was also installed to record driving incidents.

Unlock the Full Potential of Android OS and Smartphone Connectivity

With a data connection via SIM card or Wi-Fi, the Android head unit becomes a gateway to a vast ecosystem of applications. You can log into the Google Play Store to download navigation apps, entertainment services, and more. The expansive 12.3-inch display supports split-screen functionality, allowing you to run two apps simultaneously—perfect for navigation alongside music or for keeping passengers entertained on long journeys with services like Netflix. Furthermore, the unit supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Simply connect your smartphone via Bluetooth to mirror your phone's familiar interface and access its apps, calls, and messages directly on the car's display.

Installation Process:

1. Removal of the factory infotainment unit and surrounding trim.
2. Installation of the custom-fit Android All-in-One unit and necessary wiring harnesses.
3. Integration of the new high-definition backup camera and 2-channel dashcam.
4. Configuration and testing of all functions, including audio, climate control, and smartphone connectivity.

This upgrade transforms the driving experience by bringing modern connectivity and entertainment features to a luxury sedan. The combination of a large, responsive screen, high-quality camera, and access to Android apps makes this an invaluable infotainment upgrade for any Lexus ES 300h owner looking to modernize their vehicle.