Navigation & Audio Suction cup to the dashboard?

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Apr 27, 2007 | 10:40 AM

#26

dstock

2nd Gear

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Quote:

Originally Posted by suzyq

Dropped of the MINI at 10am for what I thought would be a 1-2 hour install. Apparently, the installation takes about an hour, but the programming takes several hours, so I had to leave it overnight.(I guess once the GPS is hardwired, it has to integrate with the car's electronics to let the on- board computer know that it is there - or something like that):impatient :impatient

I promise to post pics as soon as I get it back tomorrow.

Programming for a stand alone unit? That sounds like a bunch a hooey to me! Still will be interested to see the pics! Good luck and hope you get your mini back today.

Apr 27, 2007 | 11:13 AM

#27

suzyq

1st Gear

Joined: Feb 2007

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Pics of Garmin Nav. for MINI

The unit has been hardwired to the car. They said that the car's electronic system needed to update or something like that after the install. They didn't charge me for the time. Actually, I got a great deal on the unit when I purchased the car. $560 installed (List price was $750 for the unit, not including install) Yes, one can purchase the Garmin nuvi 360 for less, but this one has a cool mount (pics uploading now), it is MINI branded and installed(useful if there are problems later), has the cool MINI icons and splash screen -choice of several cool MINI pics (which they programmed to include my Oxygen Blue/White MINI.)or mini logo. It is also programmed with MINI dealers. Having a problem on the road? Just tap the MINI dealer screen on the menu and the GPS will take you there. I just picked it up, so am still exploring the options/features. More to follow.

http://www1.snapfish.com/slideshow/A...76/t_=34028176

http://www1.snapfish.com/slideshow/A...76/t_=34028176

http://www1.snapfish.com/slideshow/A...76/t_=34028176

http://www1.snapfish.com/slideshow/A...76/t_=34028176

Apr 27, 2007 | 11:16 AM

#28

suzyq

1st Gear

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Oh yeah, I almost forgot. . . choice of male(Daniel) or female (Emily) voices with British accent!!

Apr 27, 2007 | 11:50 AM

#29

minicooper4me2

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Quote:

Originally Posted by french_toaster

If you do go the adhesive strip route, I would suggest 2 things.

1) Try to use acid-free adhesive strips. Usually the packaging will say "acid-free" right on it. Over time acid can and will ruin a painted finish. Another thing to look for is a price difference in what seems to be similar products. Acid-free products are more expensive then acid-based.

2) Prior to using any adhesive, make sure that the contact surface is clean, and while removing the strip, keep a blow dryer on the strip to keep the adhesive soft. Doing both will make the separation from the dash cleaner, and hopfully avoids any damage. This process will stretch the strip out, so it would be wise to use a new one.

Hope this helps.

Thanks for the tips. Do you recommend any adhesive remover chemicals if the doing the blow dryer doesn't remove the adhesive completely?

Apr 27, 2007 | 02:21 PM

#30

dstock

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SuzyQ,
Sounds like a you got a good deal, I'm just not buying the whole "programming" thing. I have a Garmin Zumo which has similar features to the Mini Garmin including the British "Emily" or "Daniel" which is great fun. I have a couple Mini splash screens uploaded to mine but would be fun to see what others Mini is offering. The nav is really fun, I would have gotten the Mini unit but I need one for motorcycling as well so I went with the Zumo.
Happy motoring!

Apr 27, 2007 | 06:28 PM

#31

True Joy

3rd Gear

Joined: Mar 2007

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From: Harwood Heights

Quote:

Originally Posted by minicooper4me2

Thanks for the tips. Do you recommend any adhesive remover chemicals if the doing the blow dryer doesn't remove the adhesive completely?

The idea behind this technique is to NOT use any chemicals. When done properly, the adhesive strip will come off clean. If your fingers can't stand the heat, use some tweezers or needle nose pliers.

IF you need to use a chemical, I would suggest GooGone. GooGone is a form of acid too, but it is not as active. However, the main function of any type of adhesive remover chemical is to breakdown. Unfortunately, it is not at all selective. So make sure you try to rub off the adhesive as gently as possible. You may get the adhesive off, but you can rub off the shiny finish too. Use a soft cloth, that has some texture. Enough texture for the adhesive to get caught in, and obviously not so abrassive, that it will scratch the surface. When completely gone come back with a very very light solution of dishsoap on a soft rag.

Intense no? Makes Suzyq's option more appealing. I like it.

Good Luck.

Last edited by True Joy; Apr 27, 2007 at 06:29 PM. Reason: Spelling

Apr 27, 2007 | 10:39 PM

#32

minicooper4me2

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Oh, I'm just thinking about worst case scenario if the piano black surface doesn't work. I may then use the adhesive to the top of the dash board. I have the Harman Kardon GPS-500 portable GPS on order. I'll post the result.