How to Plan a Trip Using Your Car Navigation System

Car navigation systems have taken a great deal of guesswork out of road trips. No more stops at gas stations to ask for directions, just a quick consultation with your onboard virtual guide and you will be rolling on the right road. Follow these instructions if you want to plan a trip using your car navigation system.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Navigation system

1. Thoroughly read the car navigation system’s instruction manual. Car navigation systems vary considerably, and it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with yours before continuing.

2. Turn on your car. Many systems will not run if the car is not running or turned to accessory. Accessory is the ignition setting that allows your radio and lights to run without running the engine.

3. Initialize your car navigation system. Some systems start on their own, but yours may need to be initialized manually with an “On” button.

4. Locate the main menu. Most systems have a main command menu from which you can access the navigation system’s other features. When it is not the default screen, locate a “Menu” or “Home” button.

5. Use the navigation arrows or remote to move the cursor around the screen. Find an option for “Find a Route” or “Get Directions.” As this is the most popular feature on most systems, it is usually prominent.

6. Select the above option and enter your destination. Follow the directions to your destination. If you get off course, reenter your destination for a new set of directions.

Tips & Warnings

• If you cannot find your car navigation system’s owner’s manually, do an Internet search for the make, model and words “owners manual.” Many companies will provide a .pdf version for free.
• Plan your road trip in legs if it is a long one. You can do it all at once before you leave and save the routes. Or, you can wake up each morning and select the route to your next stop.