ZZ-2 IT3-LEX Interface for Lexus: CarPlay & Android Auto Installation Guide
Model Numbers: IT3-LEX15, IT3-LEX17, IT3-LEX19
Contact: 929-220-1212 / 877-241-2526 | www.zz-2.com
Overview
This document provides installation and configuration details for the ZZ-2 IT3-LEX interface, enabling Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality in compatible Lexus vehicles. It also supports camera inputs.
Components
The kit includes the following main components:
- ZZPLAY Interface (IT3)
- Screen Cable
- AV, USB Cable
- ANTENNA
- GVIF Cables (OLD Type for LEX15, LEX17; NEW Type for LEX19)
- Harnesses (High Type for LEX15; OLD Type for LEX17; New Type for LEX19)
Body Connector Specifications
Detailed pinout specifications for the main connectors:
AV CABLE
1: CVBS_GROUND, 2: REVERSE_CAM_VIDEO_INPUT, 3: GROUND_SHIELD, 4: USB_GND, 5: DATA +, 6: DATA -, 7: 5V POWER, 8: REVERSE_12V_INPUT, 9: FRONT_CAM_VIDEO_INPUT, 10: GROUND_SHIELD, 11: REVERSE_12V_INPUT, 12: REAR_12V_POWER_OUT, 13: GROUND, 14: 12V(ACC)_OUT
POWER / CAN
1: CAN3_LOW, 2: CAN3_HIGH, 3: CAN2_LOW, 4: CAN2_HIGH, 5: CAN1_LOW, 6: CAN1_HIGH, 7: GROUND, 8: IEBUS_OUT +, 9: IEBUS_OUT, 10: IEBUS_IN +, 11: IEBUS_IN, 12: ACC, 13: AD1, 14: AD2, 15: MIC_IN_P, 16: MIC_IN_N, 17: AUDIO_GND, 18: AUX_DETECT, 19: MIC_IN_P_CAR, 20: AUDIO_OUT_L, 21: AUDIO_OUT_R, 22: AUDIO_GND, 23: GROUND, 24: B+
Other connectors include LVDS, HDMI IN, USB / VIDEO.
Car Compatibility Chart
The IT3 interface is compatible with various Lexus models across different production years and screen sizes. Key models include:
| Car Model | Production Year | Specific Models |
|---|---|---|
| IS (XE30) | 2013 ~ 2016 | 7 inch |
| IS (XE30) | 2017 ~ | 10 inch |
| CT (A10) | 2015 ~ | 7 inch |
| CT200 (A10) | 2014 ~ | 7 inch |
| NX (AZ10) | 2015 ~ | 7 inch, 10 inch |
| UX (ZA10) | 2018 ~ | 7 inch, 10 inch |
| RX (AL20) | 2018 ~ | 8 inch, 12 inch |
| ES (XV60) | 2013 ~ 2015 | 8 inch |
| ES (XZ10) | 2015 ~ 2017 | 8 inch, 12 inch |
| GS (L10) | 2017 ~ | 8 inch, 12 inch |
| LS (XF40) | 2012 ~ | 12 inch |
| LS (XF50) | 2012 ~ 2017 | 12 inch |
| LX570 (J200) | 2018 ~ | 12 inch |
| RC | 2016 ~ | 12 inch |
| LC | 2014 ~ | 12 inch |
Visual representations of Lexus IS, CT, ES, GS, RX, UX, and NX models are provided in the original document.
Installation Guide
Important Notes:
- For vehicles with a Joystick, the 15H-KT harness must be connected to the joystick.
- For vehicles with a Small Touch Pad, ensure the A# connector is plugged into the C# connector.
- Audio playback requires the system to be in BT Audio or AUX mode.
- For Lexus systems using AUX for sound, the Audio Ground Wire typically MUST be grounded.
- The Screen Correction T-Harness is essential to prevent screen flickering.
- If the vehicle has a Joystick, the KT harness must be installed, and the 'Remote Lever' option must be selected in Setup.
- ATTENTION: ⚠️ For system software version 3.6.13 and later, use OEM Bluetooth streaming for all audio playback from CarPlay/Android Auto.
Wiring Harnesses: Specific harnesses are provided for different Lexus models (LEX15, LEX17, LEX19) and controller types (High Type, OLD Type, New Type).
Activation by Original Buttons: Specific buttons on the steering wheel or console (e.g., Menu/MAP, Back, Joystick, Dial, Touchpad) are used to switch between OEM mode and CarPlay/Android Auto. For example, pressing the Menu button for 2 seconds typically switches modes.
Audio Playback Options
These settings are accessed via the ZZPLAY main menu > SETUP.
- Use Car's BT Channel (ON): Sends all CarPlay/AA audio (music & telephony) directly to the factory radio's Bluetooth stream source. Requires phone to be Bluetooth-connected to the factory radio. Use BT Audio source. This setting may reboot the unit.
- Use Car's BT Phone (ON): Sends CarPlay/AA music to AUX, but telephony to the factory radio's Bluetooth system. Phone must remain Bluetooth-connected to the factory radio for calls. Use AUX Input source for music. Answer calls via steering wheel controls; place calls using Siri for best results.
- Use Car's BT Channel & Phone (OFF): Sends 100% of audio from CarPlay/AA to the AUX input, including phone calls. Factory Bluetooth connection is not required. May cause echoing; MIC settings can be adjusted. Required for Phone Mirroring sound.
Note: ? If the vehicle is not factory-equipped with Bluetooth, AUX must be used for audio, and 'BT Channel' must be OFF.
DIP Switch Settings
DIP switches on the interface control various functions. Settings are typically OFF or ON.
- Switches 1, 2, 5: Controller Type (Knob Type, Joystick Controller, Touch Pad Type). Specific combinations determine the controller.
- Switch 3: Selection of car mode.
- Switch 4: Screen Size (7 inch, 8 inch, 10 inch, 12.3 inch).
- Switch 6, 7: Not Used (Default OFF).
- Switch 8: External Microphone (ON) or Original (OEM) Microphone (OFF).
Car Model Selection: DIP switches 3 and 4, along with specific combinations of 1, 2, and 5, are used to select the car model and screen size. For example, specific settings are listed for UX (ZA10), LS (XF50), ES (XZ10), NX (AZ10), IS (XE30), CT200 (A10), ES (XV60), and RX (AL20).
Joystick/Touchpad Specifics: For Joystick, set menu setting to 'Remote Lever'. For Touchpad, set menu setting to 'Mini Touch Pad'.
Settings Menu Navigation
The interface has two main menu systems: CARPLAY/Android Auto menu and the ZZPLAY Interface Menu.
- Entering ZZPLAY Interface Menu: From CarPlay/AA, select the 'Exit' tile. If no phone is connected, using the activation button will enter the ZZPLAY menu.
- Returning to CarPlay/AA: From the ZZPLAY Interface Menu, select 'Return to [icon]'.
- Setup Menu: Access via 'Setup' in the ZZPLAY Interface Menu.
- System: Contains Language, Display options, Software Update preparation (contact ZZ2), and System Version information.
- Audio: Controls audio levels (Global Vol, Music, Speech, Alert) and microphone settings. ZZ2 recommends using OEM Bluetooth for audio. If the provided microphone is used, adjust Microphone Gain (OP) low and Microphone Delay to eliminate echo. An 'AEC Auto Setup' option is available for automatic echo cancellation.
- Reverse: Configures camera options (OEM or Aftermarket), Reverse Line Detect (wire trigger), Reverse Display Track (dynamic guidelines), Reverse Display Radar (for OE sensors), Front View Time (for front camera), Reverse Match Original (positioning), and 360 Display settings.
- CarPlay/Android Auto: Adjusts screen positioning (Left/Right/Top/Bottom Scrap) and other features like Auto Dark Mode. The 'Enable Carplay U/D Key' feature should NOT be used.
Wi-Fi Channel: Used for wireless phone connection. If connectivity issues arise, reset phone network settings and set the interface's Wifi Channel to '6'.
Wheel Key Swap: Adjusts navigation controls (e.g., UP=UP to UP=DOWN). Not supported in all vehicles.
Touch Pad/Remote Lever: Select 'Mini Touch Pad' for Touch Pad vehicles or 'Remote Lever' for Joystick vehicles (Lexus only).
Using Car's BT Channel: As of SW version 3.6.13, this should be ON for all installations (unless the vehicle lacks OEM Bluetooth). Use OEM Bluetooth Audio source for all sound. This is the recommended setup.
HiCar Map Confirmation: Not used in North America; leave OFF.
FAQ
- ❓ No Audio: Ensure the OE system is in BT Audio (latest software) or AUX mode. Some AUX inputs may be labeled 'Media Interface' or use a USB conversion.
- ❓ Echo/Delayed Echo: Occurs when using OEM AUX instead of OEM Bluetooth. To fix: update firmware to at least 3.6.13, then enable 'Using Car's BT Channel' in ZZPLAY setup and use factory Bluetooth Audio.
- ❓ Connection Issues (iPhone): Perform a 'Hard Reset' on the iPhone periodically (e.g., twice a month) to clear cache and improve reliability.
- ❓ Siri Silent Read-out: Fix 1: Perform a Forced Restart (hard reset). Fix 2: Disconnect from CarPlay, stay connected to OEM Bluetooth, activate Siri, and turn up volume using phone keys while Siri is speaking.
- ❓ Android Wireless Connection Issues: Ensure Android OS is up-to-date (min. v11). Clear Android Auto app cache. Some phones (TCL, Motorola) may have compatibility issues; use a USB-C cable.
- ❓ Full Screen (10"/12" Screens): Only model year 2017+ Lexus units support full screen. Check if FM or NAV can go full screen in OEM menus; if so, CarPlay/AA can also go full screen with the correct DIP switch setting. Otherwise, it will be split screen, requiring the 8" setting.
- ❓ Joystick/Split Screen Control Issues (LS/GS): Some LS and GS models have different wiring configurations. Refer to harness modification details if this occurs.
Support and Agreement
For support, contact support@zz-2.com or call 929-220-1212 (Toll free: 877-241-2526 Ext. 2 for Tech Support).
Agreement: End users agree to use the product in compliance with all State and Federal laws. ZZDOIS LLC dba ZZ-2 is not liable for misuse. The product is intended for off-road use and passenger entertainment only. Users must read and understand the manual before installation. By installing/using the product, users agree to ZZ-2 LLC's terms and conditions, including limitations of liability for damages.
