NAV System

[Daubs]

First, I must say I'm not a huge fan of factory installed NAV systems. Sure, they are cool and integrate nicely into dash and other electronics. But I've heard some horror stories about them (having to purchase new map CD's/DVD's, initial cost is very high, etc.).

 

And why not get a Garmin Streetpilot (or something similar) for ~$400 that you can move from vehicle to vehicle.

 

Another part of me thinks this trend towards factory NAV systems is just a ploy to get us to buy new vehicles...cause we all want the latest-and-greatest.

 

So all that said, would you get a NAV system on your next new vehicle. Poll-up and let us know why...

[Machine]

First, I must say I'm not a huge fan of factory installed NAV systems.  Sure, they are cool and integrate nicely into dash and other electronics.  But I've heard some horror stories about them (having to purchase new map CD's/DVD's, initial cost is very high, etc.). 

 

And why not get a Garmin Streetpilot (or something similar) for ~$400 that you can move from vehicle to vehicle. 

 

Another part of me thinks this trend towards factory NAV systems is just a ploy to get us to buy new vehicles...cause we all want the latest-and-greatest.

 

So all that said, would you get a NAV system on your next new vehicle.  Poll-up and let us know why...

 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

 

 

 

Nope, not in my trucks

 

To your point - get a garmin streetpilot and move it from vehicle to vehicle.

[Shaners]

I got one in my wifes new Chrysler Pacifica. It came standard as part of the "Signature Series" package.

 

I don't know how much we'll use it, but it is kinda cool to turn it on once in awhile.

 

The one nice feature on this unit, is that it uses a projector to inlay your mapping in the middle of the speedo. That way you don't have to glance down and to the center of the instrument panel to check your progress. Everything is nicely laid out inside the gauge cluster.

[afishinado]

I just bought a new to me '02 Tahoe. Since I plan on having it 3 years or so I decided I wanted to get all the electronics hard wired and GPS was going to be one of the items. I use a Treo 700w as my cell phone, I just purchased a Co-Pilot Bluetooth and software. I figure once the novelty of the GPS wears off and I will only use it when I need it it would be the way to go. I'll let you know how it works out.

[pm26]

I just saw a new Honda Goldwing with a factory installed Navigation system. Now that's really going overboard!

[Truckman031]

I don't want one. I would rather buy a map and pocket the rest of the money.

[redvett]

I use a Magellan and really like it especally since i can use it in my car,truck,jeep & ATV. Gives me more usability for the buck.

[pm26]

I use a road atlas and I like it.

[USA1Fan]

Yep. But only because I can't get the backup cam and DVD setup both without also getting the factory NAV.

 

Prior to reading the 2007 Tahoe topic feedback where I discovered the >5 mph lockouts on the Nav settings thing, I was just against GMs GMT900 Tahoe / Av setup where the rear DVD is only a screen, and relies on the same slot that the Nav uses. This means that you can use either Nav or DVD, but not both at the same time. That should really make my kids happy on our next long trip. "Sorry kids, but daddy doesn't know the streets in this area, so we have to turn off 'Brother Bear' for a while.."

 

As a result I'm probably going to buy a PDA / GPS combo to use most of the time. As a bonus the software and maps are usually cheaper and easier to update, and I can use it in either of my vehicles. I probably won't use the built-in nav in the new Av much at all.

[rmreid]

Ordered the GM NAV system on my new C6 and it is just ok compared to features and ease of use compared to aftermarket portable NAV units.

I did not waste my money when I got my new Silverado instead I bought a Garmin Quest off of ebay and pocketed the balance of the money for a bed cover and bed mat

[2005 Z71]

With free Internet maps, why do you need a Nav system? The whole nav system is interesting... for geocachers...

[Tucson_02Silverado]

NAV's seems to be for the PDA carry type...I just don't really need one.

 

As was mentioned, the PDA or notebook GPS version is much more useful as well as WAY less expensive than an indash unit. Highend 17" widescreen notebook is around $2300 + $150~$200 GPS software/antenna. Even a highend fully loaded PDA is only around $800

 

Rear view cameras are much more useful, but again not on the dash. The rearview mirror should turn into a monitor when in reverse.

[USA1Fan]

The only sort of rear view camera available from the factory requires the nav, so I'll have it regardless. Mainly because I don't feel like tearing my ride apart right after I buy it, especially to put in something that's a factory option. But I agree with the general gist of what you're saying, both about cost and about location of the rear view camera system.

 

And 2005_Z71, it all depends on where and how often you drive I guess. I've heard similar feelings from other people before. If I was settled in one location and rarely (or never) took long trips to places I haven't been before I probably wouldn't care for nav either. Being military though, and stationed stateside but a bit of a way from home I do travel quite a bit in unfamiliar areas. Up til now I've taken advantage of those web sites you mention to plot routes and such, but they're little use when you run into construction delays, accidents, or simply take a wrong turn. Most GPS systems can not only track your progress and guide your way, but also calculate detours or new routes while you're in the middle of your trip. This includes unplanned changes like taking the last right when it should've been a left or simply exiting the interstate to bypass the 10 mile jam caused by the speeding motorcycle rider that's dying to avoid the big SUVs in front.

[redvett]

First, I must say I'm not a huge fan of factory installed NAV systems.  Sure, they are cool and integrate nicely into dash and other electronics.  But I've heard some horror stories about them (having to purchase new map CD's/DVD's, initial cost is very high, etc.). 

 

And why not get a Garmin Streetpilot (or something similar) for ~$400 that you can move from vehicle to vehicle. 

 

Another part of me thinks this trend towards factory NAV systems is just a ploy to get us to buy new vehicles...cause we all want the latest-and-greatest.

 

So all that said, would you get a NAV system on your next new vehicle.  Poll-up and let us know why...

 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

 

 

 

Nope, not in my trucks

 

To your point - get a garmin streetpilot and move it from vehicle to vehicle.

 

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

 

 

 

I am with "Machine" on this one. Get a Garmin and then you can switch it to any vehicle.

Works for me.

[OnyxMAX]

magellon gold 120

map soft ware 99 (thinking of getting the lakes software)

sd cards 50

useing it in the truck, car, boat, plane, bike, hikeing, hunting, priceless.

 

in dash is so hip hop might as well put screens in the headrest and every other availible square inch.