How To

How to Install a Car Navigation System

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

If you are tired of buying, storing and using road maps, you may want to install a car navigation system. Global positioning systems, or GPS units, have come a long way since their inception, and it is easier than ever to install one in your car. The hardest part will be deciding which one you want.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • GPS unit (with mounting instructions)
  • basic tool set
  1. Step 1

    Research which type of car navigation system you wish to purchase. There are dozens of brands, models and price ranges. The most popular in-car navigation systems—and often the best value—are portable, meaning you can remove them from one car and use them in another.

  2. Step 2

    To begin installation of a portable or “plug-and-play” car navigation unit, consult the owner’s manual. Most of these models require very few tools and very little modification of your car.

  3. Step 3

    Decide where in the car you wish to place the unit. A dashboard location gives the GPS antennae a clear path to the sky. Make sure the power adapter cord for the unit will reach to the cigarette lighter in your car.

  4. Step 4

    Mount the base of the navigation unit to your chosen location. Many models come with a suction cup windshield mount. Others come with a weighted mount that sits on the dash, but could move around during sharp turns or sudden stops. The best bet is to use a mount that either bolts to the dash or comes with a strong, but removable adhesive.

  5. Step 5

    You can buy and install additional mounts for other vehicles in which you wish to use the navigation unit.

Tips & Warnings
  • Don't buy an in-dash or DVD-based GPS unit. These are often difficult to install and much more expensive than portable GPS units.
  • Do not mount your portable navigation unit where it may become dislodged and create a projectile hazard.
  • Do not install the mount for your portable unit over an airbag.

Post a Comment

Post a Comment
  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This

Related Ads

Get Free Cars Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.   en-US

eHow Cars
eHow_eHow Cars