I've been debating between OEM navi and aftermarket. Was wondering what benefits in terms of functionality (not looks) would be for each, e.g. OEM vs Garmin vs. in-dash units (such as Pioneer, Alpine, Kenwood).

Also, I would be getting the HK systems so would I have a problem installing an in-dash system?

I checked the threads and saw some useful information but most of it pretty old so I wanted to get some fresh answers!

Oh, and is it true that w/the OEM unit you need to be stopped to have full functionality?

 

OEM Nav will ALWAYS be better than any OEM nav in any car. Its always going to be on the cutting edge. Pioneer is usually well on the cutting edge including, just like MINI, XM traffic ... plus you can add a backup camera, TV tuner, satellite radio (and traffic), Bluetooth, plus a big HD drive (not sure of the size but probably over 30 gigs ... so no need for Ipod, just move your mp3s to the HD.

Maps are moot. Everyone gets the maps from Navteq.

Garmin and newer magellans have the advantage of Sirf receivers, not sure pioneer does that yet.

GPS units you plug in CAN be a pain because you plugin/plugout.

If I were to do it again, get the car stripped. Rip out the HU, add something like the Pioneer Z1/Z3 whatever the latest is with all the options you want, like cameras, bluetooth. and if you want more stereo power, then any competent stereo show can add anything aftermarket you want

Best of luck ... just my opinion.

 

I think you mean aftermarket is better Thanks Chows for the input.

I tend to agree with you and don't particularly want the OEM nav, but while researching I've come to realize I could definitely do with some sort of system.

BTW, I park on the street so not sure if anyone has any experience with the Pioneer's and such... I know there's one that is all black when closed, but maybe thieves would still know it's there... I got my window smashed once already for a crappy Sony stereo...

 

Oh, and can I install it with the HK or do I need to get the stock stereo for that?

 

There are LOTS of previous threads on this that have been done to death. There are pros and cons of each - and your preferences may differ than others. I chose OEM, and I'm very happy with it. You might not be... who knows. Search and learn! You of course mean an aftermarket in-dash system, not the OEM one (obviously no issue with the OEM one). With aftermarket, you will probably need to get an adapter of some kind - there are some available, as I understand it. I think one is called the "HK Enabler".Well, the answers haven't really changed much. Nope, full functionality whether moving or stopped.OK that's a contradictory statement... I gather you meant "Aftermarket Nav will ALWAYS be...". And in terms of technology, I agree. Whatever is the newest thing will always be the latest technology, of course. Now, the R56 Navigation system might play "catch-up", but a year or two from now, I'm sure Aftermarket will have newer stuff. There are other Pros to the OEM though that might outweigh the decision for some people (like a larger screen or reduced theft risk, for example).

 

I run iGuidance on a Compaq iPaq, connected via bluetooth to a Holux Sirf Star 3 thing in the boot.

I can also run various versions of Tom Tom, Streets and Trips and a couple of other navigation programs.

I can carry my iPaq in my pocket, and also use the same unit in multpile cars (and on my Ducati) via a couple of brackets and cables.

I can get updated software and maps cheaply and easily.

You can run aftermarket with the HK system - both aftermarket GPS and head-units - there is a device called the HK enabler that allows you to run a 'normal' head unit with the HK kit.

If you want voice directions it is a little more difficult - I have a cable that allows me to listen to my iPod and also get voice from the GPS but it does not pause the iPod or lower its volume - although this is probably fairly easy....

Personally I love the sound of the HK system, I have XM (via an XM Direct and blitzsafe combo), AUX input for my iPod and navigation via my iPaq.

 

I did search, but there are always some answers I never find

So, thanks for the input on the fact that it works moving or not (something mentioned in another thread, obviously wrong), and also the updates on setups (the threads I found talk mostly about fairly old and discontinued models...).

I'll take it from here unless anyone has any other non-mentioned point of view...

 

Yeah, dyslecsic

With units like the Pioneer, they replace entirely the HU and are integrating into the car. Screens are just as large, if not larger, than OEM. Stealing one would be the same difficulty as stealing the OEM unit.

Your comments are true if its a portable unit left inside the car but not for the full replacement units.

Does the R56 unit use a Sirf receiver? I dunno, just wondering

 

I do have to disagree on this one... the OEM units don't get stolen because there's no aftermarket value to them... but I got a crappy Sony CD HU stolen from my VW, with considerable damage to the dashboard which had to be replaced. They just yanked it out with who knows what, and left holes all over...

 

OK, I meant in relative terms of ease of removal