appleton

If you grab one of the wiper arms by its base you can change the position of the wipers from their normal "low" position to the "high" position, which is officially "winter" mode. By resting higher the wipers are less likely to get frozen in the kind of slush that can accummulate at the base of the windshield when the car sits through a snow fall. Unfortunately, the wipers only swing freely on their arm in the "high" position; in the "low" position you'll scrape the back lip of the hood against the top of the wiper arm. I did that soon after I got my 08.

Luc

Thank you for that. I totally missed it... had no idea there was a "winter" mode.

Shortly after buying my 08 ES 350, a service station attended lifted and propped up my wiper blades while cleaning the windshield. Soon after, I noticed that paint had been scraped off the edge of the metal cowling that partially covers the blades when they are in the resting position. I tried flipping up the wiper arms myself and sure enough they would not bend to open position without scraping along the edge of the cowling. Thought this was an engineering weakness, but never got around to mentioning it to my dealer. After my last regular maintenance service (now a year + later) I noticed that the wiper blades were resting "high" on the windshield to the point that they were a bit annoying. Thought this strange since no service was done to the wipers. Upon closer inspection, I noticed that the wiper arms have been replaced. Sure enough, now when lifted away from the glass they bend at the mid-point and no longer scrape against the paint.

I will certainly ask my dealer about it at my next visit. While the new arms are a definite improvement (providing they lower the blades back below my line of sight), I find it odd that the work was never mentioned to me or indicated on my invoice. It makes me wonder if they were quietly fixing a problem in order to avoid having to repair the damaged paint?

Wondering if anyone else has had their wiper arms changed or if their wiper arms currently scrape the paint when propped out?

I'm a new member and I'd like to know if anyone has purchased the new dvd for the 8.1 version of GPS Navigation? If you have, is it worth spending the money for the update? Can it be purchased somewhere else other than a Lexus Dealership? I've looked around a little on the internet, but I'm not sure. If you have any information on this topic concerning purchasing the update, please let me know.

Thanks.

To learn more about the Version 8.1 update, visit http://owners.lexus.com Select Manage Vehicles>Navigation Map Feedback

You are supposed to find release notes listing the changes made since the Version 7.1 update, coverage overview and more.

Unfortunately this is for Lexus owners in the US. I could not enter a Canadian address to see the information.

Perhaps someone in the US could copy and paste the updates here in the forum?

hi poncherello; So you have caller I.D. working with Rogers on a Blackberry? I'm am pretty sure that just having blue tooth does not guarantee that all of the features will work. Even the Lexus phone list indicates as much.

The caller ID works with my blackberry and Verizon service.

Then the difference is in the carrier. Verizon works, but Rogers does not. Interesting.

As long as the phone has blue tooth capability it will work fine. I have three phones programmed into my 07 ES. A blackberry, a Krazr, and a chocolate. No problems switching between them either.

hi poncherello; So you have caller I.D. working with Rogers on a Blackberry? I'm am pretty sure that just having blue tooth does not guarantee that all of the features will work. Even the Lexus phone list indicates as much.

My Motorola Razr was on the Lexus list and works fine for making and receiving calls hands free. Caller ID does not work nor does the battery strength indicator through the car's hands free system. The cell signal strength does work.

Rogers is my carrier if that makes a difference. I tried several phones and none were fully functional. Even tried a Blackberry (everything but caller I.D. worked).

Just picked up my '08 ES 350 UL today and already used the outbound and inbound handsfree calling. The phone I have is a Motorola V3 Razor through T-Mobile. The service technician paired the phone with no problems. Made several inbound calls with no problem. Taking any inbound calls wasn't an issue.

However, when I recieved a call, it did not display the incoming phone number and/or any other identification. I checked the Lexus website and looked up my phone/carrier. Of all the options listed, it does indicate "Handsfree system displays incoming caller identification" as 'Yes' meaning I should be able to see the incoming phone number/name on my Nav screen.

Anyone have any experience with this issue and/or suggestions on how to resolve? I'm hoping it's not an issue with a software version difference on my exact V3 versus what Lexus says should work.

Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!

I have the same problem with the same phone. Am using Rogers (Canada) as the carrier. Incoming calls do not display name or number on the Navi, even when the incoming caller is listed in the car's address book.

Would love to find a solution to this. Otherwise the phone links, and works well.

Which way was the prevailing wind? :)

Hmmmm......

I guess I haven't noticed that any new car with electronic engine controls and EFI, since about '92, has a fast idle mode....

Consistent ~800 RPM idle speed, yes, even with additional, intermittent, extra loads, A/C, power stearing use when parked, etc.

I bought my ES 350 at the beginning of winter. Noticed that it revs fast when first started. 1500 or 1600 RPM. If put into gear I feel catapulted out of the garage. I thought that it was a cold weather trait but now that spring has arrived, I'm still rocketing out of the garage. I will be asking about this at my 24,000 KM check up (15,000 miles). Has anyone else noticed this fast idle? Was it an easy fix / adjustment at the dealership? Oh and yes, my car is noisy with what has been reported as piston slam until it warms up.

Just wondering how many people have their new 350's garaged versus in the driveway or street?

Mine is out all the time, I am in the midst of cleaning up the garage to get it in there.

cheers all

The question is, what would they use the space for?

For me, the space could have been used for something else. It's a personal thing I suppose. I was surprised to see it, but clearly there are a few people who get some use out of the tape deck in 2008. I suspect though, very few.

I guess I'm one of the "very few", mainly because it's easier to just put in the cassette, rather than converting everything to a CDr.

I also have a few cassete tapes that I can't get in CD. Its nice to have the tape deck. Anyways who'se it hurting if its there even if you never use it?

For me, the space could have been used for something else. It's a personal thing I suppose. I was surprised to see it, but clearly there are a few people who get some use out of the tape deck in 2008. I suspect though, very few.

I was pleased that my ES350 had a tape deck. I have a large collection of cassettes that I collected years ago, some with music complilations that cannot be duplicated. By the way! I still have my 8-track player.

YIKES!!!!! It's time to upgrade, you are truly missing out on today's sound quality :)

I tend to agree, but to each his/her own. I would have guessed there were very few people still using the cassette deck in the ES 350. 8-tracks are on another level. Hey, if the Lexus ride was just a little smoother, maybe we could spin some of those 'natural sounding' LP vinyl discs somewhere on the dash.

I believe that most (if not all) recent model phones with Bluetooth technology should work. I am just not able to send my address book over to the car automatically, so I just add into the car's phone book only the numbers that are frequently dialed.

Perhaps you could try connecting with a friend's phone that you may consider purchasing. The settings could always be removed. :)

My Bluetooth enabled Rzr phone is not that old. The basic functions work, but the caller ID and battery indicator do not display on the nav screen. It's the combination of provider and hardware that needs to be right to get it all. I'll keep testing with friends phones when I get the chance. So far, no luck.

I would appreciate it if anyone could provide feedback on a specific issue.

Rogers is my cell provider. I chose a MOTORAZR™ V3T GSM from the Lexus list of ‘tested’ devices although it was difficult because the Canadian / US models don’t match exactly. The Razr I selected does not marry all functions (phone operates through the NAV on my car). Specifically, the Caller ID and battery strength indicator do not work. Caller ID works on my cell phone, but does not show up on the NAV screen. The battery strength indicator isn’t a big deal, but it would be nice if the Caller ID worked. I have manually entered my entire contact list into the car’s telephone book, so the data is there and available to the system.

Does anyone in Canada, who is with Rogers, have a cell phone that is fully functional with their ES 350 UL? If so, would you share what model it is? Thanks.

So... just as I feared, the Lexus hands free system doesn't work with ANY Rogers cell phone in Canada. At least based on responses through this forum. Darn. Hard to believe that could be possible.

Hello Appleton, I use an HP iPAQ 6950 on the Rogers network and have had no issues. However, this phone is similar in size to the BlackBerry.

Thank you for information. You are the first person I've heard from to say they have a phone fully mated with all features being displayed. Even my dealer couldn't come up with a suggestion for phone that was guaranteed to work fully. Thanks again.

I would appreciate it if anyone could provide feedback on a specific issue.

Rogers is my cell provider. I chose a MOTORAZR™ V3T GSM from the Lexus list of ‘tested’ devices although it was difficult because the Canadian / US models don’t match exactly. The Razr I selected does not marry all functions (phone operates through the NAV on my car). Specifically, the Caller ID and battery strength indicator do not work. Caller ID works on my cell phone, but does not show up on the NAV screen. The battery strength indicator isn’t a big deal, but it would be nice if the Caller ID worked. I have manually entered my entire contact list into the car’s telephone book, so the data is there and available to the system.

Does anyone in Canada, who is with Rogers, have a cell phone that is fully functional with their ES 350 UL? If so, would you share what model it is? Thanks.

So... just as I feared, the Lexus hands free system doesn't work with ANY Rogers cell phone in Canada. At least based on responses through this forum. Darn. Hard to believe that could be possible.

Whenever I have songs that contain a lot of bass, the rear speakers (I have the Mark Levinson stereo) produce a horrible distortion sound, I had the same problem with my other ES300. It doesn't always have to be loud either, just certain frequencies of bass are enough to make it sound terrible. Is there any way to minimize this without adjusting the audio system settings much?

**Also, has anyone else (that has the rear sunshade) been aggravated by a rattle in the back panels from the stereo's bass? any ideas?

Fairly early on I noticed that certain music with heavy base caused the speaker(s) to sound "wrong". I had previously tweaked the bass / treble so that base was slightly boosted from the neutral setting. I moved it back to neutral, and have not experienced the annoying bass thumping sound since. IMO, the Levinson sounds darn good without upping either the bass or the treble.

I would appreciate it if anyone could provide feedback on a specific issue.

Rogers is my cell provider. I chose a MOTORAZR™ V3T GSM from the Lexus list of ‘tested’ devices although it was difficult because the Canadian / US models don’t match exactly. The Razr I selected does not marry all functions (phone operates through the NAV on my car). Specifically, the Caller ID and battery strength indicator do not work. Caller ID works on my cell phone, but does not show up on the NAV screen. The battery strength indicator isn’t a big deal, but it would be nice if the Caller ID worked. I have manually entered my entire contact list into the car’s telephone book, so the data is there and available to the system.

Does anyone in Canada, who is with Rogers, have a cell phone that is fully functional with their ES 350 UL? If so, would you share what model it is? Thanks.

Microsoft's Sync works really well btw

As for the dealer, they ALWAYS mess with all the settings and I never have understood why. Its almost like when you have a maid service clean your house and they move stuff around to make it look like they've done stuff where they havent lol

I was only joking about the MS Sync, it's fun to pick on the KOS (King of Software)! Being a computer geek and working in that industry, it has been done since the mid 90's...

Baddboi, about the memory settings with the windshield wipers, lights and even the setting to have your mirros tilt when in reverse, what a great suggestion!

And Appleton, the last wipe! It's kind of like going to the bathroom, no matter how much you shake it, the last drop ends up, well you know where...

LOL... too funny AZ.

This thread is starting to look like the "above average age" owners post.

Back to on-topic. What do you guys think of the windshield wiper controls? Can you see them? To me they are blocked by the steering wheel.

AZ,

I agree with you that the wiper controls are bocked from view although it hasn't bothered me a great deal. What is a bigger bother is the delayed 'final wipe' that is supposed to catch the drips after you've sprayed your windshield. More than 50% of the time, that last wipe of the blade leaves smears and streaks behind. Better to leave the drips.

I am truly enjoying my first Lexus so I hope the thread of this topic stays constructive. I don’t want to come across sounding negative. There are a few small things that I miss versus my previous car as well as a few changes that I wish Lexus would consider. These are just small issues in the scheme of things:

• Seat heating/cooling controls are hard to see without leaning forward.
  
• The maximum retained power interval could be longer. (windows won’t open by the time you get a fill up and are ready to pay)
  
• The Levinson system sounds amazing. Wish the display would scroll the mp3 track text so that all of the file name could be seen.
  
• It would be nice if the volume would “slide” or “fade” up to the current loudness setting when the system is powered on (not sure if I’m explaining that well)
  
• The volume button on the steering wheel is too slow at changing loudness when pressed (I said these were tiny issues, but I’m aware of this every time)
  
• Ash tray and cassette deck? Seems wrong in a 2008 vehicle.
  
• Oh, and finally there are the missing hooks… but that is being dealt with already in another thread (-:
  

With all of that said, I really do like my ES 350. The list of things I like about it would be twenty times longer than the list above. I was just curious to know if anyone else felt the same way about any of these items?

Appleton -

Based on the target age (55) and annual income ($125K) for this vehicle, I suspect the ashtray was installed for the "cigar afficianado" and the cassette deck seems to be a Toyota thing! I agree with your entire list and would add the following minor tweaks:

1.) ML audio system should allow for the driver to control the AUX device from the steering wheel or worst case the NAV touch screen (I.E.: ability to shuffle through artists, albums, tracks, etc)

2.) Interior lighting should be improved - especially in the back seat area.

3.) Add side mirror indicator signals.

4.) Trunk - add an auto open feature on the key FOB - one that completely opens the trunk vs. simply popping the lock.

5.) Add a "mute" button to the steering wheel for the audio system.

6.) Add some additional wood grain options to select from - the "Dark Gray Bird's-Eye Maple Accent" available on the LS would be a nice option.

7.) Redesign the steering wheel (bottom half of steering wheel should be designed like an upside down "Y") - I hope that makes sense.

I also really like my ES 350 and can not wait to take it on a long cruise to truly enjoy the luxury ride!

I think we are on the way to designing the PERFECT automobile.

Some great ideas on this and the previous posts. Seems too, that a lot of these ideas would not add much cost to the production of the car. Leaving out the cassette deck and the cigar tray would save a few dollars to invest in some of the suggested areas.... lighting, spring loaded trunk lids and coat hooks!

Appleton -

My ES has a coat hook on each side (back seats) of the vehicle. Part of the issue, IMO, is that car manufacturers do not heed the advice of their consumers! I would imagine that there are some very strong minded individuals, with some rather large egos, that are designing these vehicles and have put their "mark" on the design. However, if Lexus is taking the time to conduct the research and track some of these posts, then I agree, they are well on their way to designing the perfect car (at least for a few of us).

I believe the 2007 ES 350 has coat hooks. Many customers complained however about the lack of lighting in the rear seat area of the '07. In 2008, Lexus responded by adding lights. Unfortunately they put them where the hooks used to be in the '07 model. Not sure if egos came in to play here. My guess is Lexus knowingly sacrificed the hooks for what some might argue was a safety issue (too little light for rear passengers might = hot coffee spills or whatever). Given what I guess to be the average demographics of an ES 350 buyer, many are in the jacket and tie league and probably miss the hooks. Oh, the handle grips work has garment hangers, but they are awkward.

I am truly enjoying my first Lexus so I hope the thread of this topic stays constructive. I don’t want to come across sounding negative. There are a few small things that I miss versus my previous car as well as a few changes that I wish Lexus would consider. These are just small issues in the scheme of things:

• Seat heating/cooling controls are hard to see without leaning forward.
  
• The maximum retained power interval could be longer. (windows won’t open by the time you get a fill up and are ready to pay)
  
• The Levinson system sounds amazing. Wish the display would scroll the mp3 track text so that all of the file name could be seen.
  
• It would be nice if the volume would “slide” or “fade” up to the current loudness setting when the system is powered on (not sure if I’m explaining that well)
  
• The volume button on the steering wheel is too slow at changing loudness when pressed (I said these were tiny issues, but I’m aware of this every time)
  
• Ash tray and cassette deck? Seems wrong in a 2008 vehicle.
  
• Oh, and finally there are the missing hooks… but that is being dealt with already in another thread (-:
  

With all of that said, I really do like my ES 350. The list of things I like about it would be twenty times longer than the list above. I was just curious to know if anyone else felt the same way about any of these items?

Appleton -

Based on the target age (55) and annual income ($125K) for this vehicle, I suspect the ashtray was installed for the "cigar afficianado" and the cassette deck seems to be a Toyota thing! I agree with your entire list and would add the following minor tweaks:

1.) ML audio system should allow for the driver to control the AUX device from the steering wheel or worst case the NAV touch screen (I.E.: ability to shuffle through artists, albums, tracks, etc)

2.) Interior lighting should be improved - especially in the back seat area.

3.) Add side mirror indicator signals.

4.) Trunk - add an auto open feature on the key FOB - one that completely opens the trunk vs. simply popping the lock.

5.) Add a "mute" button to the steering wheel for the audio system.

6.) Add some additional wood grain options to select from - the "Dark Gray Bird's-Eye Maple Accent" available on the LS would be a nice option.

7.) Redesign the steering wheel (bottom half of steering wheel should be designed like an upside down "Y") - I hope that makes sense.

I also really like my ES 350 and can not wait to take it on a long cruise to truly enjoy the luxury ride!

I never thought about the trunk popping all of the way open. Terrific idea. Lexus put a hand grip on the inside of the trunk lid so that you can close it without touching the outside surface of the car. Yet, you almost have to touch the outside when fully opening the lid.

A mute button on the wheel would be brilliant.

I really enjoy music but have never purchased any sort of Ipod device. I'm sure if I did I would want the kind of connectivity you suggest.

Good stuff!

I wish though the would get away from the 1960s LED clock!!!! It looks like an old Timex digital watch I used to have.........haha!

I think an analog style clock (with hands) would be a better fit with an ES 350.