Has anyone installed an aftermarket GPS Nav? Can you share your experience?

I have a few considerations:

1. In-dash unit with flip-up screen replaceing the
current factory stereo. Between Alpine, Kenwood, and Pioneer, I like the Pioneer units for its value and functions (touch screen, remote, and voice controlled). The only down side is that none of the units above matches the red illumination of the MINI. The advantage is they all have relatively fast search/reroute time because of they're DVD based. Also the screen can be used for DVD, reverse camera, Playstation, etc..

2. DVD based system with a screen mounted under the toggle switches in the center console. In this case, the factory stereo is intact.

3. Garmin 2650 custom installed in the space under the toggle switches in the center console. This is a touch screen and remote-controlled unit.
http://www.garmin.com/products/sp2610_2650/index.jsp

4. Garmin iQue 3600 mounted on a phone mount on the passenger side of the center console. It's the least expansive and most compact.
http://www.garmin.com/products/iQue3600/
http://mossmini.com/Shop/ViewProduct...eIndexID=39361

Suggestion please!

 

I have an ipaq 3635 with a GPS reciever antenna and software that I use. I havent mounted it yet, but I intend to. I JUST got it working 2 days ago... I dont really have a need for it.. but i had an ipaq 3635 sitting around.. just had to uninstall linux and reflash CE

 

I have a Garmin Streetpilot III and love it. I have it installed in the middle of my dash, turned toward me for a "head's up view"

Of course Garmin specifically warns not to operate the unit while driving, but of course I do and anyone that has one is going to do it.

My concern with the iQue is that you are going to have to poke at it with a stylus while motoring.

Mounting the other unit beneath the toggles is going to make it very distracting to see and use while driving. I know this because I once temporarily mounted the Streetpilot III there and although it was "stealth", it was very inconvenient.

Anyway, if I were in your position, I think that the in-dash unit replacing the current stereo is the best way to go if you do not like the idea of mounting something on the dash.

 

Oooo.. That Garmin iQ3600 looks great.. I'd probably get that over the other formats, just because it's also an organizer, and it's transferable between cars. :smile: I'd like to see how the screen looks in person before I shell money out for it. Are there retails sales of that somewhere?

 

Thank you for the suggestions! :smile:

I like the stealth installation of the Garmin in the center console. Is it really inconvenient? Since the new Garmin is remote controlled, will that help? Or is it because its location is too low in the field of vision while driving?

Poking with a stylus may not be too convenient either! Although the nail of my pinky can be a good poking device.

The in-dash flip-up DVD unit is sweet, if only the illumination color matches the factory red. On the second thought, this would be an expensive choice, which would exceed my budget for mods. Instead, I want to invest $ in the performance upgrades.

Decisions! Decisions! Decisions!

 

I would do what I did - but you have 1 extra expense...

Get an Ipaq 3635 or like (3630, 3650, 3670) from ebay shouldnt run you more than $150 MAX, you can get them for $100 if you wait for a good one

Then get a GPS addon for it (TomTom is most exp.) but they can be had for as little as $75-$100 (makre sure it is 3600 specific)

Then get a mount, creative ones can be as cheap as $15 or pay for one at like $50...

Then you need the program for the ipaq - $20-$60 depending on programs

So you are running about $$210 to infinity!

i would say the RIGHT choice with this method would be about $300

Still cheaper than the Ique or garmin, and you get an Ipaq which is a great device (you can get a CF card and turn it into an MP3 player for your car as well...

 

davecsumini & friends...

I am in the same boat as you. I am thinking of installing a nav system under the switches. My only concern is the screen may not be able to flip out with the gear shift (MCS)... As I understand it, the screen needs to extend all the way out before flipping up. I also understand that pioneer makes the best system out on the market now.... I hope this helps. I aslo agree that the nav systems are a lot of cash... plus you may have to have something custom installed....

I lean more to the pioneer nav system for the audio aspect-- it will speak to you with your directions.... just another thought.... a couple of screens that mount / attach to the sun visor.... any suggestions?!?! Comments?

 

another thought... based on some other posts the SWIX will allow you to keep the controls on the wheel.... anyone tried this successfully with an aftermarket nav system?!?!?

Thanks

Skoobee

 

Skoobee, I agree with you that Pioneer is by far the best aftermarket Nav currently on the market. I'm using SYS-910NAV in one of my cars and Alpine NVE-N852A in my truck. Also my wife has a factory nav system (similar to Kenwood). Pioneer has the best value and provides most functions. The installation wasn't too bad, just time consuming. Most of the time spend was taking interior apart and running the wires. I installed both Alpine and Pioneer systems. I really enjoy working with electronics and cars.

If I do a flip-out screen, it will replace the factory stereo. If I install it under the switches, it will be a flat panel monitor only, independent from factory stereo. In which case, I have to build a custom housing using fiberglass. Monitor embedded in the sun visor is also a good idea.

The more inexpensive alternative is to get the Garmin unit and install it under the switches.

As sdaneher mentioned, PDA units (i.e. iPaq or iQue) will also work nicely.

Ultimately, I want a voice-guided nav w/ complex routing capabilities. I know both DVD-based systems and Garmin units can provide that, although DVD units are much faster. My other concern is to maintain factory appearance as much as possible to keep away prying eyes. Hard to decide!

 

I have the perfect nav system for the MINI - voice activated and NO screen - pop up or otherwise.

will be listed on the sponsors page very shortly.

wait for the details before deciding.

Works like a charm and is hidden.

Earl

 

that is very tempting. more info?

 

I just got the Garmin 2610. It works really well. Right now it is on the dash right in front of me. I am looking into placing it under the toggle switches but then will need and external antenna. It doesn't look bad on the dash and I ran the power to an out of the way location. I plan on posting some pics on how I did it soon. Basically because the voice directional speaker is intergrated into the power cord, you can't just hardwire it in. You need to keep the cigarrette plug as that is the speaker. I installed a new power outlet under the steering column and behind the knee bolster and just ran the power cord there and plugged it in. You only see about 3 inches of cord from the unit to the steering column and then it disappears. You can still hear it fine and it can be unplugged and moved on a moments notice.

If anyone has installed something similiar under the toggles post some pics so we can check it out. Thanks and good buying.

 

I want to stay away from the prying eyes as well so a steathy system is a must. I was also pondering something in th eglove box -- there is lots of room however that just seems like a pain to use...

So I am still without a a nav system or a solid plan.... hmmm.

I do like the idea of a full screen. Does pioneer make something like that? Anyone know of a place to buy just the flip out screen-- mounting the dvd player in a steathly location?!?!?!

 

>>1. In-dash unit with flip-up screen replaceing the
>>current factory stereo. Between Alpine, Kenwood, and Pioneer, I like the Pioneer units for its value and functions (touch screen, remote, and voice controlled). The only down side is that none of the units above matches the red illumination of the MINI. The advantage is they all have relatively fast search/reroute time because of they're DVD based. Also the screen can be used for DVD, reverse camera, Playstation, etc..
>>
>>2. DVD based system with a screen mounted under the toggle switches in the center console. In this case, the factory stereo is intact.
>>
>>3. Garmin 2650 custom installed in the space under the toggle switches in the center console. This is a touch screen and remote-controlled unit.
>>http://www.garmin.com/products/sp2610_2650/index.jsp


I have been toy'n w/ this issue for a bit myself.
I'm pushing towards the Garmin 2650...as it seems to what I personally need in a nav system.
It seems a bit pricey, but it is newly released and I figure after Christmas ...it should be ...reasonably priced..when resellers figure out that no one actually has the cash to purchase one :smile:

Keep me posted w/ your search... as I'm interested :smile:

Peace,
D


>>
>>4. Garmin iQue 3600 mounted on a phone mount on the passenger side of the center console. It's the least expansive and most compact.
>>http://www.garmin.com/products/iQue3600/
>>http://mossmini.com/Shop/ViewProduct...eIndexID=39361

 

I will check out the Garmin 2650, but I like the idea of being able to watch a movie in the car... it just seems so cool. I am searching tolearn about it now. thanks for the input...

Skoobee

 

Correct me if I am wrong...

With a nav system doesnt it give you locations of resturants etc in the area you are in?!?!? With the Garmin and other nav ideas shared is this the same? Such as the pda idea? or would the pda have to be connected to the internet or something? any ideas?

 

Skoobeedu,

The iNAV (totaly hidden except for mike (the size of the last part of your thumb) and the Antenna (about 1 14" square)) is totaly voice operated with no screen and gives you choice of exact address, city, categoris (i have a list of 47 differnet ones) like airport, amusement park, through university and winery. restaurants include sub-categories like aferican, american, blkan cajun, etc. through thai, turkish, vegetarian, vietnamese. it gives location and phone number of the one you pick.

Soon to be on the Sponsor directory with all info.

Earl

_________________
SCURVES

 

>>I just got the Garmin 2610. It works really well. Right now it is on the dash right in front of me. I am looking into placing it under the toggle switches but then will need and external antenna. It doesn't look bad on the dash and I ran the power to an out of the way location. I plan on posting some pics on how I did it soon. Basically because the voice directional speaker is intergrated into the power cord, you can't just hardwire it in. You need to keep the cigarrette plug as that is the speaker. I installed a new power outlet under the steering column and behind the knee bolster and just ran the power cord there and plugged it in. You only see about 3 inches of cord from the unit to the steering column and then it disappears. You can still hear it fine and it can be unplugged and moved on a moments notice.
>>
>>If anyone has installed something similiar under the toggles post some pics so we can check it out. Thanks and good buying. :smile:

 

>>Correct me if I am wrong...
>>
>>With a nav system doesnt it give you locations of resturants etc in the area you are in?!?!? With the Garmin and other nav ideas shared is this the same? Such as the pda idea? or would the pda have to be connected to the internet or something? any ideas?

Both Garmin and PDA units have extensive listings of POI (point of interests), which include restaurants and more.

I'm leaning towards Garmin 2650 or 2610. The only disadvantage of 2610 vs. 2650 is the Nav becomes helpless whenever the satelite signal is lost for an extended period of time, i.e. in a tunnel. In an area like Boston where there're a lot of tunnels and constructions, I found Garmin Streetpilot III not very helpful. I ended up paying for unneccesary tolls. :smile:

 

The Garmin 2610 also gives you restaurents, movies, gas stations etc... . You download the map info over the internet and then install whatever maps you want from your pc to the unit via a usb cable. You can get updates and whatever from the Garmin web site. If you are going away for a trip you can download the info for the area say... New York... into your unit, take it with you and then plug it in in the rental car COOL!. Its touch screen is easy to use as well as the remote control. The calculation speed is real fast and it changes light color depending on nite or day. I got mine on Ebay for $750. Retail is about $1100. I am still thinking of a way to put in under the toggle switches but I want it easily removal so I can take it out and put it in my SUV (yeah I also drive one of those). I will post some pics Sunday night as I am off to Disneyland for the night with the family. See ya all tomorrow.

 

thank you for the info. That is great. I didnt know that.. I would like to see the photos of how it looks in the mini. Thanks again

Skoobee

 

For around $750 and no tempering with factory wires (i.e. speed sensor, etc...), Garmin 2160 might be the best alternative to the costly $1700 factory GPS. I like the touch screen and remote control functions. 2160 probably has faster mapping/routing than its predecessor Streetpilot III. According to Garmin's website, the AutoLocate® time has improved from 5 min (Streetpilot III) to 2 minutes (2610/2650). This is still quite a bit slower than DVD-based units that only take a few seconds. But for the money, not bad at all.

Here're some of the best price I can find for different GPS setups:

1. Garmin iQue PDA unit: $430
2. Garmin Streetpilot III: $580
2. Garmin 2610: $750
3. Pioneer SYS610T (DVD nav w/ 6.5" touch screen): $1360
4. Pioneer SYS910NAV (DVD nav, CD/DVD/MP3 player, flip-up touch screen, 45Wx4 stereo): $1800

As of now, Garmin 2610 looks like a strong contender for me. I have a little over a month before the delivery of my MCS. Meanwhile, I'll do more research. :smile:

Thank you for all your inputs!!!

 

good going... I am still leaning more to the pioneer dvd nav systems. I think that is going to be the best for the money. I think that I would rather spend a bit more to get more stuff... it may last a bit longer. Ok, well, I would like to see a picture of how the garmin looks in the car under the toggle switches.. anyone have one out there?!?!?

Skoobee

 

>>good going... I am still leaning more to the pioneer dvd nav systems. I think that is going to be the best for the money. I think that I would rather spend a bit more to get more stuff.
>>
>>Skoobee

Excellent choice!!! Out of all the Nav I've used (Pioneer, Alpine, Kenwood, Garmin Streetpilot & Streetpilot III), Pioneer is the most advance system with most features. The SYS-910NAV is a great buy. :smile:

 

Just though I'd put in my .02 on the GPS debate.

I did the research and at first I was planning on a PocketPC based system. After borrowing a unit to play with I changed my mind. Specifically it was an iPaq 1945 with bluetooth GPS module and Pocket Map Naviagtor. It was a hassle to use and rather delicate for auto use. Also the start up was involved, not to mention the multiple resets.

I bought a Garmin 2610 and am very impressed. I compared it against an OEM system in a Nissan Murano. Route calculation time was within 1-2 seconds and routes appeared identical. The advantage to the Murano system was a screen twice the size of the Garmin and a 3D view. The advantage of the Garmin was the touch screen, a better lock on the satellites, automatic bypass of the warning screens and the ability to use it while in motion. Also the Murano unit kept reminding the driver to continue straight at every freeway interchange. The Garmin kept quiet until turns.

In the MINI I am using the sandbag mount and it sits right behind the tach on the dash. I will probably replace it with the stick on mount once I decide that is its permanent home. When I park it fits perfectly on the parcel shelf out of sight. Also the 2610 remembers the route and will continue navigation within about 15 seconds after key on if it can see the satellites. If you swivel the unit slightly the passenger can use the remote to program it while the driver drives.

One possible issue with the Garmin is that the supplied 128M CF card will only hold about 10% of the US database. For example I was able to fit California from a little north of San Francisco down, east to Las Vegas and that was about it. That was enough for my normal travels though. The PC based software is decent but not outstanding. Loading the CF card took about 10 minutes but was a walk away operation after selecting maps. Also the POI "Yellow pages" appear to be about 1-2 years out of date based upon items I searched for.

The iQue runs the same software and data CDs as the 2610 and has a higher resolution screen but appears to pan across the map slower and is not as car friendly based upon side by side use in the store. You will also need the car kit and a 128M SD card to equal the 2610 in functionality. I'd recommend the 2610 over the iQue even with its higher cost.

I've read about the Pioneer unit but I felt that it didn't look as good in the dash as the MINI headunit so I didn't pursue it.

Sean