After a three-month search, I found a 2010 G37 Convertible with 26K original miles. Clean carfax, etc. Biggest challenge right now to make it perfect is going to be replacing the LCD screen on the infotainment system, which is inexplicably boogered up.

I'd like to keep it stock, but was told those head units are VIN-locked, so I can't just pop in another one. However, I did see used and reconditioned screens on eBay. Seems they can be replaced independently of the head unit.

I know there are aftermarket options, some breathtakingly cool, like the Tesla screen kit. However, I'd like to keep the stock appearance and functionality. ANY TIPS OR ADVICE ON THIS, AND options for keeping it OEM? Thanks!

 

Wow, what a find! Gorgeous in red, too.
I can't speak to your problems with the Nav system, about all I can do is welcome you to the forum.

There's a "chip guard" on your lower rear fenders. It's just a thick piece of clear vinyl, but after 14 years it will get really discolored, just like that. You can remove it easily enough with a hair drier and a plastic edge.

 

Yes, you can. Nothing in the infotainment system is "VIN locked;" ECU and BCM, yes, radio, no.

Any 2010+ screen will work just fine. It will be totally "plug-and-play" just make sure to disconnect the battery before doing any electrical work.

Congrats on the nice find... I've been "quasi" looking for a 'Vert for months with no luck (but I'm very picky). Anyway, lots of luck.

 

There's a "chip guard" on your lower rear fenders. It's just a thick piece of clear vinyl, but after 14 years it will get really discolored, just like that. You can remove it easily enough with a hair drier and a plastic edge.[/QUOTE]

Thanks for the reply and welcome message. I'll look into removing or replacing the chip guards. Do they actually do much to protect the lower quarter panels?

 

Thanks for the info. Plenty of used or reconditioned units on eBay. Should I replace just the screen, or the whole head unit?

I got this beast for $15K after a lengthy search. There are now a lot more on the market with low miles at that price point. After Jan 1st, a whole slew of them came on the market, and prices seem to be trending downward, especially on the non-S models like mine. Some around $13K with 50-75K miles, too. Even low-mileage Q60s are dipping into the mid to high teens.

 

Thanks for the info. Plenty of used or reconditioned units on eBay. Should I replace just the screen, or the whole head unit?

I got this beast for $15K after a lengthy search. There are now a lot more on the market with low miles at that price point. After Jan 1st, a whole slew of them came on the market, and prices seem to be trending downward, especially on the non-S models like mine. Some around $13K with 50-75K miles, too. Even low-mileage Q60s are dipping into the mid to high teens.

 

Unfortunately, yes, it does protect that small section of the fender from rock chips. Do you have a tint shop in your area? They could easily and inexpensively put something new there.

$15k for a Vert with 26k miles seems very reasonable. Good for you.

 

Just focus on the display. There is no need to replace parts "just because." As the old saying goes, "If it ain't broke..."

Also, make sure the replacement part matches the specs of your car. In other words, if you have NAV the replacement MUST come from a car WITH NAV.

I already have a Coupe so getting the same model 'Vert would be redundant and ridiculous for me and I have zero intentions of ever parting with my Coupe. I'll find something with my specs, eventually...