Mopar Garmin-Built GPS Automotive Navigator
 |
    17 years
|
I have had Garmin GPS devices for several years now. Today I test drove a a Dodge Grand Caravan with a Garmin-Built GPS Automotive Navigator in the dash. We actually already have a 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan and I specifically did not get a factory GPS because I wanted one that can be moved from vehicle to vehicle. I must admit, however, that the Garmin built into the dash on the Dodge looked pretty slick. Anyway, I would like to hear from others here that have used the Garmin in dash GPS. How do you like it? Is it pretty easy to update maps, add custom POIs, and manage Favorites? I am just assuming that you can insert a DVD to update maps or possibly use the USB port in the dash to add POIs. I would particularly like to hear from people that have, or have had, BOTH in dash and stand alone GPS devices. If I recall correctly, the economics of it a couple of years ago were such that the built in navigator, which I Don't think was Garmin, was quite a bit more expensive than a stand alone unit.
In-Dash Navigation
I've had two in-dash navi units. Both were Kenwood (with Garmin navigation). I've also had four portable Garmin GPS units (2 nuvis, and 2 StreetPilots).
The in-dash units have a couple of advantages that I like:
1. larger screens make it a little easier to see things, and I like the rearview camera
2. automatically muting the music whenever instructions are given means I can have the music cranked up and not miss anything important
3. it's nice having the unit come on automatically every time I start the car.
4. I don't have to decide where to put the unit. It's always in the same spot and I don't have to stow it when I stop somewhere
Loading custom POIs is easy. With the first unit I had, I just put them on a CD and loaded them from that. My current unit uses either the USB port or a micro SD card to load them.
They are definitely more expensive though. But of course, you're paying for other features, such as the ability to play CDs and DVDs, iPod, Handsfree phone, etc.
The portable units have their place too. It's nice to be able to use them in whatever vehicle you're going to be driving, let the kids borrow it, etc.
Mopar Garmin-Built GPS Automotive Navigator
Thank you very much for the kind reply. That is exactly what I needed to know!