Replace the Radio's LCD in a Lexus

The following instructions will assist in the removal and repair of the faulty LCD component in the radios of 95-00 LEXUS, LS400 GS300 GS400 ES300 models.

Please read all instructions first before beginning and be sure that you understand all the steps necessary. The complete installation should take approximately 2 hours.

Steps

Preparation

  1. Plan for about 2 hours to complete the installation.
  2. Work in a well-lit area and be sure to protect areas of dashboard where you will be using tools to pry out vents and filler strip. The entire removal can be performed from the front of the radio.

Note - If you remove the Ashtray Assembly you can read the model numbers on the bottom of the radio - See comments in Discussion Section)

Removing the Climate Vents & Filler Strip

  1. Insert the dashboard trim tool or some other type of prying device (preferably plastic) between the vent casing on the dashboard near the Lexus Premium Sound System Logo (right-side). Follow the same process on the left-side of the casing, near the flasher button. It may take a few times moving from right to left, and it will take a considerable amount of force.
  2. Unplug the two electrical wires from the rear of the casing (Image 3).(Note you can lay the vent  assembly on the dash and not unplug the wires)
  3. The other 2 bolts are located behind the ashtray assembly under the radio. There are 2 clips holding the ashtray assembly to in place. To remove the ashtray assembly use the dashboard tool to pry it off by alternating between sides. Once the ashtray assay is removed the 2 bolts will be exposed.

Removing the Radio

  1. The 4 bolts that connect the radio/climate system to the frame are now exposed. (2 top, 2 bottom) Remove the 4 bolts from the frame. This will allow you to pull the entire unit out partially. Note: There may also be a round push-pin type clip next to the bottom right screw that must also be removed. I removed it using a small pry bar.
  2. Loosen the climate control from one side so you can free the face plate from the radio. There are 2 screws on either end of the climate control; you should only need to remove from one side.
  3. Remove the radio knobs (On some models). Remove the 2 small screws holding the face plate in place. Pull the face plate off by undoing the clips on the sides and bottom of the radio.
  4. Remove the cable from the rear of the LCD display.

Replacing the LCD

  1. Remove the two small screws from the LCD unit. This will free the LCD unit from the radio.
  2. Replace the LCD unit with the new part you received. Be very careful not to strip screws or tighten too much as you will crack the LCD unit. Note: Be sure to remove the protective plastic cover from the unit, before you replace the LCD.

Reassembling Dashboard

  1. Reconnect cable to rear of the radio.
  2. Re-attach face plate (2 screws) and radio knobs.
  3. Reconnect climate control (2-4 screws).
  4. Fasten radio/climate control to frame (4 bolts).
  5. Replace filler strip.
  6. Re-attach 2 power cables to vent unit.
  7. Replace vent unit in dash.



Tips

  • Please read all instructions first before beginning and be sure that you understand all the steps necessary. The complete installation should take approximately 2 hours.
  • The climate control assembly may have 2 plastic positioning tabs on either side which prevent it from being loosened as described above. If so, remove the 2 screws on either side of the climate control assembly that hold it to the sheetmetal bracket and remove the 4 bolts that hold one side of the radio to the sheetmetal bracket. ( A 5/16" socket wrench will do the trick.) Then the climate control assembly, and sheet metal bracket will come off and the radio faceplate will be easy to remove.

Warnings

  • IMPORTANT: These instructions are not in any way a guarantee for a successful Installation. Removing and repairing your radio is done at your own risk.

Things You'll Need

  • Philips Screwdriver (magnetic head, helpful), may need 2 sizes.
  • 10mm socket or US equivalent (w/extension).
  • Dashboard Trim Tool (optional) - You can order these online or find at some automotive stores. Harbor Freight 67021, the blue set, works well. If you wish not to use, you should use a sturdy piece of plastic (such as a thin plastic kitchen implement) or a flathead screwdriver with tape over the end.
  • Plastic container to hold screws (optional).
  • Tape (optional) - If you have a wood grain dash, you may wish to protect the edges where you will pry out the vents.
  • Old terry cloth towels to protect the center console as you work.
  • Part no CWM4931 may slightly differ - LCD DISPLAY ASSY which you can get directly from Pioneer. This part applies to the standard model with the cassette, not sure if it fits the Nakamichi. If you call Pioneer they will be happy to help you. Take out the radio to get the exact model number and enter it into the Pioneer model finder. This will tell you which replacement LCD part number to order.
  • For the 1997 Lexus LS400, with the Pioneer KEXP8156ZT head unit (label on bottom of unit visible after removing ashtray): Order part number CWM3714, LCD Indicator Assembly, online directly from Pioneer. Part number CWM4931 is incorrect for this model.

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