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GX470 ANDROID AUTO


Lexus GX470 and Android Auto: How to Add Android Auto to Your GX470

The Lexus GX470 is a capable luxury SUV that blends comfort and off-road prowess, but like many older vehicles, its infotainment system lacks modern features such as Android Auto. If you’re looking to add Android Auto to your Lexus GX470, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we will explore how to integrate Android Auto into your vehicle, so you can enjoy hands-free control of your smartphone, better navigation, music streaming, and more while driving.

Let’s dive into the process, options, and steps to get Android Auto in your Lexus GX470.

What is Android Auto?

Android Auto is a feature that allows you to connect your Android smartphone to your car’s infotainment system, giving you access to apps like Google Maps, Spotify, Waze, YouTube Music, and more, directly from your car’s touchscreen. It enables hands-free control via voice commands or the car's touchscreen, allowing you to manage navigation, music, calls, and messages while keeping your focus on the road.

Key features of Android Auto include:

  • Google Maps/Waze for navigation with real-time traffic updates.
  • Music streaming via apps like Spotify, YouTube Music, and Google Play Music.
  • Voice commands via Google Assistant for safer interaction while driving.
  • Hands-free communication to make calls, send texts, or use apps.
  • Google Calendar integration for reminders and appointments.

Does the Lexus GX470 Support Android Auto?

Unfortunately, the Lexus GX470, which was first introduced in 2002, does not come with Android Auto pre-installed because this feature was not available at the time of the vehicle's release. Lexus began adding Android Auto support to its vehicles starting around 2020. This means that if you own a 2019 or earlier Lexus GX470, you won’t have native Android Auto support.

However, there are still ways to add Android Auto to your older GX470 through aftermarket upgrades or retrofits. Let’s explore your options for getting Android Auto in your vehicle.

Option 1: Aftermarket Android Auto Head Unit

If your Lexus GX470 doesn’t support Android Auto out of the box, the most effective way to upgrade your infotainment system is by installing an aftermarket Android Auto head unit. These units replace the stock head unit with a new system that is fully compatible with Android Auto and offers modern features like Bluetooth connectivity, GPS navigation, and voice commands.

Steps to Install an Aftermarket Android Auto Head Unit:

  1. Choose the Right Head Unit:

    • Make sure the Android Auto head unit you choose is compatible with your GX470.
    • Look for units with Bluetooth support, a touchscreen (preferably 7-inch or larger), and GPS capabilities. Popular brands like Pioneer, Kenwood, Sony, and Alpine offer reliable Android Auto head units.

  2. Tools and Materials You’ll Need:

    • New Android Auto head unit.
    • Wiring harness adapter (specific to your GX470’s make and model).
    • Steering wheel control adapter (if you want to retain steering wheel functionality).
    • Trim removal tools to carefully remove the old head unit from the dashboard.

  3. Remove the Old Head Unit:

    • Carefully use trim removal tools to remove the dashboard panel around the head unit.
    • Unscrew and remove the existing head unit. Disconnect the wiring and cables, ensuring you keep track of where each connection goes.

  4. Connect the New Head Unit:

    • Use the wiring harness adapter to connect the new head unit to your vehicle’s wiring. This ensures compatibility with the car’s power, speaker systems, and antenna.
    • If you’re keeping steering wheel controls, use the appropriate steering wheel control adapter to make sure your buttons still work with the new unit.

  5. Test the System:

    • Once the new head unit is installed and secured in place, power up the car and check the system.
    • Test the Android Auto functionality by connecting your Android smartphone via USB (or wirelessly, if the head unit supports it).
    • Ensure that features like Google Maps, Spotify, calls, and voice commands work properly.

  6. Reassemble the Dashboard:

    • Once everything is working as expected, reassemble the dashboard and trim around the head unit.

Option 2: Retrofit the OEM Head Unit (Professional Solution)

If you prefer to keep the OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) head unit in your GX470 but want to add Android Auto, you may be able to retrofit the system with a compatible Android Auto update. This typically involves replacing the internal components of the head unit or installing a software update that allows it to support Android Auto.

How to Retrofit the Lexus GX470 Infotainment System:

  1. Check with Your Lexus Dealer:

    • Some Lexus dealerships may offer a retrofit package to add Android Auto to older vehicles. While this is a more expensive option, it ensures that your car’s original infotainment system will work with Android Auto.
    • You can contact your local Lexus dealership or check online for any available retrofit solutions for the Lexus GX470.

  2. Use a Third-Party Retrofit Kit:

    • There are third-party retrofit kits available that can allow you to add Android Auto to your Lexus GX470’s existing head unit. These kits usually include the necessary hardware and software to enable Android Auto and may include an upgraded touchscreen display.
    • Some popular third-party companies that offer these types of retrofit kits include NavTool and NAVIKS.

  3. Professional Installation:

    • If you choose a retrofit kit or a professional upgrade, it’s recommended to have the system installed by a professional technician to ensure everything works smoothly and to avoid damaging your vehicle’s interior components.

Option 3: Use an Android Auto Wireless Adapter

Another option is to use an Android Auto wireless adapter. These adapters plug into your vehicle’s USB port and connect to your Android phone via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. While this option doesn’t replace your existing head unit, it can allow you to access Android Auto wirelessly on your existing infotainment system (if it has Bluetooth support and the ability to run basic smartphone mirroring).

How Android Auto Wireless Adapters Work:

  1. Plug the Adapter into the USB Port:

    • Plug the wireless Android Auto adapter into your vehicle’s USB port, where you would normally connect your phone via cable.

  2. Pair Your Phone:

    • Pair your Android phone to the wireless adapter through Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
    • Once connected, Android Auto will appear on your vehicle’s infotainment screen.

  3. Use Android Auto:

    • You can now use Android Auto to control apps like Google Maps, Spotify, and WhatsApp via your car’s touchscreen or voice commands.

Conclusion

If you own a Lexus GX470 and want to add Android Auto, there are a few options available to you:

  • Install an aftermarket Android Auto head unit for a modern, feature-rich infotainment system with all the benefits of Android Auto.
  • Retrofit the original infotainment system at a Lexus dealership or through a third-party solution.
  • Use a wireless Android Auto adapter to connect your phone to your existing system for wireless functionality.

Adding Android Auto to your Lexus GX470 can enhance your driving experience by giving you access to modern navigation, music, hands-free communication, and much more. Whether you opt for an aftermarket head unit, a retrofit, or a wireless solution, upgrading to Android Auto will make your vehicle feel more connected and up-to-date.