Has anyone installed an aftermarket In-Dash GPS system?

[Maliksky]

I am not concerned about the installation per-say, but more about the specific unit?
There are many aftermarket units and they all look nice, most are okay.
I have been reading up on this subject for the past four days and my eyes are bleeding.

If you have done this please tell us what unit you purchased and for what car and if it works correctly.

I would like to get one for my 2008 Toyota Rav4 ... it only has 25,000 miles on it.
I had to get it serviced and the Toyota dealer offered me $13,000 for it.

 

[sixer9682]

Not here; I just don't see the value in it when it's quicker and easier to use something like google maps on my phone instead.

 

[Turbo]

I have done a few, depends on the features you want. Then take a realistic look at what you really need, and go from there. I can't justify it and I get them for cost, and install it myself for no labor... take that for what its worth

 

[Maliksky]

These In-Dash GPS, DVD, etc units are not that expensive these days, around $250 to $500. They have a lot of features. As far as my Rav4 goes it's a snap to put one in.

 

[Maliksky]

Not here; I just don't see the value in it when it's quicker and easier to use something like google maps on my phone instead.

Do you have to pay for an Internet connection for your phone?

 

[balls2dawall]

Google Maps for the win; even some vehicles let you download to the head unit. Google Voice; "naviagte me to the grocery store." That easy; I travel all over the place and that is what I use. I first tested in NYC and had no issues. Maybe the only drawback is lost data service; but they have apps that you can download maps. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.here.app.maps

 

[sixer9682]

Do you have to pay for an Internet connection for your phone?

That's just it; I'm already paying for a data plan for the phone, why would i want the expense of the GPS unit and then add on a monthly subscription fee for navigation on top of that? It seems more like duplicating what I already have access to while piling on the costs.

 

[HomebrewerCraig]

Buy an iPad or some other tab, load Google Maps on it (yes you can save maps for offline use OR tether it with your device) and use that as your navigation. There, I just saved you a ton of money and it wasn't even for car insurance.