OEM GPS Update?

[ARK_SWAMP_RIDER]

After having my 03 Limited 4runner, I've been very impressed. However, after using my Garmin Nuvi for the past year or two the OEM GPS has left a lot to be desired. I've tried entering a variety of addresses, and the large majority haven't been found. I've marked a spot on the street in front of my house, then pulled that up and have it take me there. Even though all the streets are showing accurately, it stops out on the main street. It's only a couple blocks to my house, but it just announces that voice guidance cannot continue. In addition, a lot of the roads are mapped incorrectly (my Nuvi has them mapped right). I'm really thinking about updating the map software. First, will this only update the actual map, or is there also an update for the user interface? I've spoken with the local dealer, they're saying ~$300 for the update, which I'm really not ready to turn loose yet. Where is the best place for the update? I'm new to the 4runners, so is there anything else I should know about the GPS unit? Thanks!

 

[triguy74]

i can't answer your question, but i would like to say this:

Don't put your home address in your GPS unit. Put a nearby address (like a store or gas station) so you can still find your way home if you need to, but no one else would know where you live if your GPS (or car) were stolen.

 

[toto]

The OEM GPS update will only update the database and maybe fix any bugs that might be in there. It won't make a drastic change to the user interface. You're limited by the hardware you have in your vehicle, unless you decide to swap that all out as well (not recommended - not worth the cost).

If you go hunting on eBay for an update disc, you need to make 100% sure that it's an "Update Disc" and NOT a "Program Disc". It's very common for people to try to sell their old discs on eBay when they buy an update, but most people don't realize that you can't use a newer, original factory disc as an update. You have to get a disc that's made to be an update. You also have to get the correct disc for your model year. Toyota has generations of nav, so you need a disc for your generation. Different generations use different hardware, and the discs are not cross-compatible.

Don't put your home address in your GPS unit. Put a nearby address (like a store or gas station) so you can still find your way home if you need to, but no one else would know where you live if your GPS (or car) were stolen.

There has been some discussion on this thought. If you have your insurance card and/or license plate registration in the glovebox (which many states require :ybrick, then the thieves have your address that way.

 

[ARK_SWAMP_RIDER]

Thanks! I guess my thing is that before I spend $200-$300 for the update (haven't checked ebay), I'll buy a brand new Nuvi with the latest software. I hate having the in dash nav and it being useless, but from a financial standpoint it just doesn't make sense to spend that much on the update. I'd still like some more input on your thoughts/ideas.