Lexus Faulty Software Bricking Infotainment Systems

First Posted: Jun 09, 2016 06:07 AM EDT
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Technology has become a burden for cars lately and now Toyota's Lexus is turning up some problems tied up to the vehicle's infotainment system.

Barely days after that flawed WiFi feature involving the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, another vehicle is having its share of problems as well.

The reason behind the Lexus issue is believed to be due to faulty software. Such has been depriving owners problems like using maps and the radio system of the said vehicle.

A report from BBC bares that the Lexus is suffering from a faulty software update in the United States, something that was delivered wirelessly, something similar on how smartphones are updated with the latest patches and software.

Per reports, the update has plagued infotainment systems with no longer usable. While Lexus owners can live without a radio, the problem here is that it goes as far as to affect as well the navigation assistance and climate controls as well.

Toyota is aware of the problem and has acknowledged the issue. The latest update on the matter is that Toyota is working round the clock to come up with a solution to the problem. While the issue has been plaguing Lexus models in the US, it remains to be seen if vehicles in other countries are experiencing the same “bricking” on their infotainment systems.

A spokeswoman claims that no such issue has been reported over in the UK. She also adds that the problem could be tied up with Enform, the data-transmitting subscription service which is not available in European regions.

Lexus owners dealing with the problem have reported that the screens boot up and flashing something purple before eventually crashing. This scenario repeats regardless if the car is in motion or stationary.
For other Lexus owners, some have resorted to disconnecting the car battery which would technically force the system to reboot. The tactic did work but only temporarily since the same problem returns after several hours.

One US dealer of Lexus suggested that affected vehicles need to be brought in so that they can be fixed, pinning the blame on a “bad line code” when the update was sent out.

"The programming issue is resolved but Lexus needs to reset your system. The repair is simple and no appointment [is] necessary. Please visit our service department for assistance," read the advisory.

Among the models affected are the 2014, 2015 and 2016 Lexus models, a row that could threaten the iconic car brand’s reputation which is ranked as the most reliable car per Consumer Reports.

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