Lexus NX 300h Android Head Unit Installation & Review

Upgrade Your Lexus NX 300h with an Android Head Unit

Many Lexus NX 300h owners are increasingly interested in enhancing their vehicle's infotainment system. The desire to connect smartphones like iPhones and Android devices directly to the factory monitor for navigation, music, and calls is a common upgrade. At OurCar Seocho, we specialize in installing dedicated Android Head Unit modules for the Lexus NX 300h, transforming your driving experience. This review details the process and benefits based on a recent installation.

What is an Android Head Unit?

An Android Head Unit, often referred to as Android Auto or Apple CarPlay integration, is a system that allows your smartphone to seamlessly connect with your car's display. The module installed by OurCar Seocho is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, catering to all smartphone users. A key advantage is that it integrates with your existing factory monitor without replacing it. This means your NX 300h's original infotainment system remains fully functional, with the Android Head Unit acting as an overlay. The installation utilizes a 'plug-and-play' (Zeck by Zeck) method, ensuring no damage to the original wiring, making future servicing or reversion to factory settings straightforward.

The Installation Process

The Lexus NX 300h's factory display uses an LVDS cable for high-definition digital signal transmission. To maintain this quality, the Android Head Unit module must also support the LVDS interface, which is why vehicle-specific modules are crucial. Our skilled technicians at OurCar Seocho carefully remove the dashboard's factory monitor and inspect the internal wiring for any damage. The Android Head Unit module is then discreetly installed behind the monitor and connected using the LVDS cable, integrating with the existing setup without cutting or splicing wires.

Installation Process:

1. Careful disassembly of the factory monitor from the dashboard.
2. Inspection and verification of the vehicle's original wiring harness.
3. Connection of the Android Head Unit module via LVDS interface without altering factory wiring.
4. Reassembly of the monitor and thorough testing of all functions.

Following the physical installation, a comprehensive testing phase is conducted. This includes verifying power, seamless switching to the Android Head Unit interface, and confirming that voice commands and original steering wheel controls function correctly. Only after ensuring every aspect operates flawlessly is the vehicle returned to the owner.

Using Your New Android Head Unit

Operating the Android Head Unit on your Lexus NX 300h is remarkably simple. After installation, you can activate the Android Head Unit mode by pressing and holding the MENU button for over 2 seconds. Once the screen transitions, simply connect your smartphone via a USB cable. While both wired and wireless connections are supported, we recommend a wired connection for enhanced stability and reliability during driving. Wired connections also keep your phone charged, though wireless offers convenience.

Features and Benefits

The most popular feature of the Android Head Unit is its integration with navigation apps like TMAP or KakaoMap. Utilizing your smartphone's GPS and real-time traffic data, you get more accurate routing than the factory navigation. Updates are frequent, and traffic information is instantaneous. Music streaming from apps such as Melon, YouTube Music, or Spotify is also fully supported, bringing your favorite playlists directly to your car's display.