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2017 IS 350 F Sport Infotainment Screen Flickering/Blackout & Camera Issues

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 3:28 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2017 Lexus IS 350 F Sport

I'm having some really annoying electrical problems with my 2017 Lexus IS 350 F Sport. The infotainment screen has started flickering on and off, sometimes it just goes completely black for a minute or two before coming back.

When it's acting up, the backup camera also becomes intermittent or doesn't show up at all when I put it in reverse. It's really frustrating and distracting.

I've tried restarting the car, but it doesn't seem to help consistently. Is this a known issue with the 2017 IS models? Could it be a loose wire, or is the whole unit failing?

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 3:28 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

  1. Soft Reset: Try a soft reset of the infotainment system. On many Lexus models, you can do this by holding down the audio power button for about 10-15 seconds until the system reboots. This might clear a temporary software glitch.
  2. Check for Updates: Sometimes, software bugs can cause display issues. Check with your Lexus dealership if there are any pending infotainment system software updates for your specific model year.
  3. Inspect Connections (if accessible): If you're comfortable, you might be able to carefully check the wiring connections behind the head unit. Loose or corroded connections can cause intermittent power or data flow, leading to flickering and blackouts. However, this often requires panel removal.

Potential Causes:

  • Loose Wiring/Connector: The most common cause for intermittent issues is a loose or corroded electrical connector, either at the back of the display unit, the head unit, or within the wiring harness.
  • Faulty Display Unit: The display screen itself could be failing, especially if the flickering is localized to the screen and not other electrical components.
  • Head Unit/Nav Module Failure: The main infotainment head unit or a related navigation module could be developing an internal fault.
  • Power Fluctuation: Less likely, but a fluctuating power supply to the unit could also cause this.
  • Backup Camera Specific Issue: The backup camera's intermittent nature could be a separate issue with the camera itself, its wiring, or the reverse signal, but it's often linked if the main display is also failing.

When to See a Shop: Given the complexity of modern infotainment systems and the potential need for panel removal to diagnose wiring, it's highly recommended to take your Lexus to a dealership or a reputable automotive electronics specialist. They have the diagnostic tools to pinpoint whether it's a wiring issue, a faulty display, or a problem with the head unit. Ignoring it can be a safety concern, especially with the backup camera functionality being compromised.

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