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Is a portable navigation system the right fit for you? Check out more photos of car gadgets.
King Wu/©iStockphotoWhen was the last time you needed directions? Do you still keep a map in your car? Navigation systems, once exclusive to airplanes and cruise ships, are now a common feature in everyday cars. Even budget models often come with optional or standard factory navigation systems. Drivers today have several choices, including portable navigation devices, real-time directions via services like OnStar, or using their mobile phones for directions. Suddenly, accessing directions on MapQuest from a home computer doesn't feel so cutting-edge.
With so many options, choosing the right navigation system can be tricky. While using a cell phone for directions is convenient, most phones don't provide audible, real-time guidance. This means drivers have to manually read and memorize directions. The safest choice for many drivers is a real-time GPS navigation system, which uses global positioning to track your location and guide you with turn-by-turn directions, all through an audio system that allows you to keep your focus on the road.
Choosing the right GPS for your car can be confusing. There are three primary options: a factory-installed system in a new car, a dealer-installed system in a new or used car, or a portable unit that requires minimal or no installation.
In the following sections, we will explore which GPS navigation system offers the best value and which one is the most suitable for your needs.
Factory and Dealer GPS Systems
A factory-installed navigation system is built into the vehicle directly from the manufacturer, just like the radio or seat belts. Many consumers prefer this option because the system is integrated into the vehicle's design, allowing for seamless controls from the dashboard without the need for additional remote controls or extra switches. However, these systems have some downsides. Since they are factory-installed, maps are often stored on CDs or DVDs and can become outdated. Some manufacturers do offer updated maps, but the system's high price tag is a significant drawback, with costs ranging from $1,000 to $4,000. Also, these systems are typically non-transferable between vehicles, so if you own multiple cars, only one will have a navigation system.
Dealer-installed navigation systems use the same equipment as factory systems, but the installation takes place at the dealership. The price tends to be a bit lower than factory-installed systems, depending on the selected system and dealership labor costs. However, these systems come with similar disadvantages, and potentially more. Since they aren't original equipment, the components may not integrate as smoothly into the vehicle's dashboard. Additionally, while dealerships often offer warranties for their installation, adding such a system may void existing warranties on your vehicle. It's important to investigate how this might impact your vehicle’s warranty before proceeding.
Continue reading to discover the features of portable GPS systems and determine which option is the best fit for your needs.
OnStar, the system available in General Motors' vehicles, is widely recognized for its ability to alert emergency services in the event of a crash. However, many may not know that OnStar also offers turn-by-turn navigation, similar to other systems available today, though without displaying a map. Drivers can also use OnStar for making restaurant reservations and running vehicle diagnostics.
Portable GPS Systems
Portable GPS systems are the most budget-friendly option of the three, but they typically lack some of the advanced features found in factory systems, like Automatic Crash Response or Vehicle Diagnostics. Their appearance is often less sleek as well, since they aren't integrated into the car's dashboard. Instead, portable units are typically mounted using suction cups on the windshield or dash. They run off the car's lighter or power outlet, with cords often trailing down the dash. These systems are more vulnerable to theft and usually have smaller displays compared to built-in systems. However, they are much cheaper, with prices starting as low as $100, and since they are portable, there are no installation costs. Plus, the portability means you can easily move the device between vehicles.
If affordability is your primary concern, then a portable GPS system is your best choice. These devices are available in nearly every major electronics store and are easy to purchase online. However, if you're shopping for a new car and desire a sleek dashboard, a large screen, and plenty of advanced features, a factory-installed system may be a better fit. Given the recent slowdown in new car sales, many dealerships are offering these systems at no additional cost, and many drivers appreciate the convenience of using existing car controls for the system, in addition to the reduced risk of theft.
When choosing between a portable, factory-installed, or dealer-installed GPS, it's important to note that while factory and dealer systems are visually appealing and function well, they typically don't increase the resale value of your car. By the time you sell, the system will probably be outdated. If you're leasing or plan to keep your vehicle for just a few years, negotiate for a steep discount to avoid dealing with an obsolete system. However, if you're planning to keep your car for the long term, a portable GPS might be your best option.
Discover more about automotive electronics and other related subjects on the following page.
Navigation systems aren't the only advanced features some car manufacturers are introducing. Certain in-car entertainment systems now include hard drives, allowing you to store and play music and photos. You can also control the radio, mobile phone, and even climate settings using voice commands.
