Thinking about a GX460

[gatormark91]

Toying with the idea of moving to a newer platform (GX 460) than my 2000 100 series. One thing that is important to me is the ability to install an aftermarket radio. Looking on the ole' Internets and on MUD, thinking this is not looking like this is something that is being done? Is there any particular GX 460 year or radio option that would make this option a possibility? Or is it like the later 100s that have integrated HVAC controls in the radios (possible, but very, very difficult on those)?

Thanks!
Mark

 

[TX GX460]

There is a lot of integration in the stock display/head unit besides audio, including climate, navigation, vehicle settings, DVD (if you have that option), etc. The basic head unit design has not changed for the 2010-2019 model years. Some of the earlier 2010-2013 base models have a non-nav option with a smaller screen and without the integrated controls that is probably easier to upgrade, but they are not easy to find.

If you want to do something different like integrate Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, most people are doing a tablet screen conversion kit installation. They used to only have 470 versions, but some 460 kits have been popping up lately. These kits have all of the functionality integrated for climate control, etc., and it will plug into factory wiring harnesses (sometimes with a little modification due to Prado/GX harness differences). But it also uses the factory amplifier and speakers, so if you wanted to go this route you are going to have to do additional modifications to change amplification hardware. Also beware that these kits typically come from China or other SE Asia countries and have very mixed histories of customer service and support.

Check out the GXOR facebook page for some of the tablet conversion kit threads. There aren't many on the GX 460 yet but some have been posted there.

 

[VirginiaCruiser]

I've recently bought a GX and this was also a concern. In my 80 I run an aftermarket head unit with apple play. I find after I mounted my iPad I no longer care about the functionality of the head unit. I control everything I need from the iPad and Bluetooth it to the head unit.

I have the cellular enabled iPad mounted in the center console. Gps, music, internet searches, everything is available and ready.

Im not sure how much longer we will be able to swap head units in a car, everything is integrated and sized differently.

Good luck with your search, a connected iPad mounted in my center console is my solution

 

[dwh13]

Here's a 2011 in Central SC for sale with no nav. These are pretty rare, I think I've seen two during my search.

 

[sacmaster]

Here's a 2011 in Central SC for sale with no nav. These are pretty rare, I think I've seen two during my search.

That one’s been on Craigslist here for a long time. It looks like you would have to get some kind of custom made center stack cover if you wanted to replace the stereo since the plastic all appears to be one piece from the top down to the climate controls. Plus you’ve still got the same volume and tuning knobs the nav system has. Seems like it would be a big job to replace the radio.