Factory Nav

[zach2011]

I bought my CR-Z without a nav because I wanted this specific one and got a really good deal, but I knew at some point I would add a navigation system. I don't think I want an aftermarket one, I don't like the way most work. But if you have an aftermarket that you like, information would be nice - maybe I'll go that route.

My question is, I've been seeing some Honda systems that look exactly like the ones in the CR-Z but have different part numbers than that one, does anyone know if they'll work? And what all it would take to add a working factory nav to my car?

Oh, and if anyone has removed their factory navigation system I'd be interested in buying.

Thanks in advance.

[romiata]

I have an aftermarket nav from Pioneer: AVIC110bt. An outstanding head unit that does everything well. I updated it to the 120, but now there is a newer version. I love everything about it- Pandora, iPhone interface, speech recognition (that is better than the one we had in our '08 Accord EX w/nav!), I can even stream Netflix through it! It is all included within the head unit- no external gps, amp, etc... I didn't buy the upgraded CR-Z because I knew I would eventually change everything....

Looks factory

[TotallyCRZ]

I have no clue how you would be able to remove the old stereo and put a Nav in. It seems impossible because of the cutout of the dash. But seeing Romiata (sp?) do it, I'm sure you could too. Good Luck!

And if you were to get a NAV, I would stay away from the Honda system. People say its a 6 year old piece of ancient technology.

I think Clarion systems are nice, they seem to have a nice selection of devices. The software on their devices are also decent. I would also take a look at BestBuy or other audio video places, they might have nav. systems. I think it's also nicer to have only one DIN and have a screen that slides out. But that's just me.

EDIT- Yeah, Clarion's are nice for 1,000 dollars (New 2011 models) i think you should find something else XD

[zach2011]

Romiata, that looks awesome. Where did you get the surrounding panel for the screen? I think as long as I can find one of those I'll be okay with an aftermarket system. Does it retain factory Bluetooth?

[holeydonut]

I'm 100% behind replacing the factory system with an aftermarket nav. I have the stock Honda Navi... and I'm the one who is severely displeased with how the unit has not aged well for its current implementation.

I hope TotallyCRZ can comment as to which factory options are retained (bluetooth, in-dash aux-port, steering wheel controls, etc).

The only good thing about the factory Nav is that it's been around so long that there are some interesting hacks you can do to it. This is how I have a backup camera and secondary video aux input (DIY's linked in my sig).

[romiata]

It's a Metra installation piece: maybe $30 on eBay. I don't have the factory Bluetooth, but the Pioneer one is great- I can stream music, receive/send calls, etc... I also can hook up a back up camera, which I will be doing in the next few weeks, & I'll be connecting the steering wheel controls. All in all, factory like but better IMO. Plus, I bought the head unit for $400 on Craiglist. It cost $1400 MSRP 3 years ago. I then bought the software update on eBay for $30 (Pioneer charges $200) that includes a map update and changes the interface. Also, because it was used, I bought a Pioneer wiring harness on eBay for $90- brand new. I've been VERY happy with the results. I hooked up a Precision Power amp to 2 8" Polk Momo subs an replaced the front separates with a set of Polk Momo's, too. Next is adding another amp for either a pair of 10's or 1 12" sub to be enclosed on the spare tire well. Lastly, replace the 61/4"s in the rear and I'll be content




Btw, everything can be hidden except for the head unit

[romiata]

Also, you can order the install kit from Crutchfield. They send you a "how to" with pictures that are usually very detailed. When I called, it wasn't available. I even offered to use my car as a test vehicle- they are only about an hour from my home. They said they had what was needed but hadn't released it yet... Oh well- I found everything online

No radio!

My old Pioneer AVHP3500bt (?) original installed (traded for my Viper 5901 w/remote start!)

[zach2011]

Thanks for the awesome replies guys. I only really wanted the Honda one for a 100% factory look (plus I liked the startup screen).

But I will definitely be going this route because it seems easiest and worth the money to put an aftermarket in. I just want everything to look as stock as possible. So is yours a double DIN? Also how easy is it to install one? I can't do wire splicing but I can deal with harnesses and removing dash panels.

This should be a good thing to add to my list, along with rain-sensing wipers, remote start, reverse sensors, etc etc. I already installed a heated washer fluid system, it'll be so easy to melt the ice in the winter.

[aerodan]

Romi, why did you get rid of your Viper? I'm considering an alarm with gsm or similar, but having trouble deciding. Maybe they're all just useless nowadays?

D

[romiata]

@Zach- I had a buddy at BestBuy do the complicated stuff. Removing the head unit is easier than it should be: a bolt beneath it near the cubbyhole that you need to remove, and basically pulling out the radio. Honda is always good (or bad ) about making it easy to remove...

@Dan- I think you misunderstood: I traded AWAY my old radio FOR the Viper I really got over: I paid $320 for the AVHP3200bt ( retails for $499, but usually $450 ) and received the Viper alarm, installed. The alarm alone is normally $499.00. I would definitely recommend my 5901! Great alarm over all and love the Auto Start feature: cooling down in the summer and heating it up in the winter! It even tells you what the temp is inside your car! Very nice alarm