GS - 2nd Gen (1998-2005) Discussion about the second generation GS300, GS400 and GS430 (1998 - 2005)

Aftermarket navigation/stereo upgrade options

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Old 06-09-13, 06:05 PM
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UncleRico
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Default Aftermarket navigation/stereo upgrade options

So im looking to by my first 2nd gen GS300. Im not dead set on getting a model with navi, but it would be nice to have if I needed it. But I do want bluetooth for music and talking. Im just wondering if there are any cool aftermarket upgrades for the navigation. If there is nothing cool is it just better to get a non navi and upgrade the stereo? I dont plan on having amps/subs so thats not a factor. Does either the factory navi or non navi models have bluetooth capabilities? Or at least an easy mod to add it? Or is it better to just upgrade the stereo?

Basically which is the best route to go?
Old 06-09-13, 06:18 PM
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rgarjr
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Your best bet is to get an aftermarket headunit in there. I had OEM navi but yanked it out and got a 7" display Pioneer Avic.

There's just a lot more features that can be had with an aftermarket head, like iPod integration,Video Playback, HD radio, Sirius XM radio, SD card/ USB flash drive, BT audio/voice, Reverse Cam, Live Traffic for Nav. The list goes on.

Last edited by rgarjr; 06-12-13 at 03:16 PM.
Old 06-09-13, 07:25 PM
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blacksedan
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It'll be easier if you go the non-nav route and upgrade to aftermarket double din. updated maps and BT music streaming and phone calls is a major plus, I use those features everyday. If it helps, I have the OEM double din kit with a Kenwood DNX9990HD. Great head unit, garmin GPS, BT audio and phone calls, love it.
Old 06-12-13, 07:15 AM
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UncleRico
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Ok thanks for the info. Guess Ill be looking for a non navi GS!
Old 06-12-13, 10:30 AM
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lowKut
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OEM navi is not all that you would expect - trust me, perhaps a mobile phone gives better guidance than OEM navigation.

Plus side on aftermarket is if you want to upgrade your sound system the music quality will sound so much better.
Old 06-13-13, 10:28 AM
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UncleRico
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Ya thats kind of what I was thinking too. But now my problem is deciding on the vehicle. I keep going back and forth from a GS300 to a IS300. I love both and cant decide. lol
Old 06-13-13, 10:39 PM
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Jets300
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Originally Posted by rgarjr
Your best bet is to get an aftermarket headunit in there. I had OEM navi but yanked it out and got a 7" display Pioneer Avic.

There's just a lot more features that can be had with an aftermarket head, like iPod integration,Video Playback, HD radio, Sirius XM radio, SD card/ USB flash drive, BT audio/voice, Reverse Cam, Live Traffic for Nav. The list goes on.
Exactly.. this is why a double din is next on my list.
Old 06-14-13, 11:38 AM
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bigrose
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Originally Posted by UncleRico
So im looking to by my first 2nd gen GS300. Im not dead set on getting a model with navi, but it would be nice to have if I needed it. But I do want bluetooth for music and talking. Im just wondering if there are any cool aftermarket upgrades for the navigation. If there is nothing cool is it just better to get a non navi and upgrade the stereo? I dont plan on having amps/subs so thats not a factor. Does either the factory navi or non navi models have bluetooth capabilities? Or at least an easy mod to add it? Or is it better to just upgrade the stereo?

Basically which is the best route to go?
This really isn't going to help much, but UncleRico is an EXCELLENT username, sir. Well done.
Old 06-15-13, 06:55 PM
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cmara2k9
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Originally Posted by UncleRico
Ya thats kind of what I was thinking too. But now my problem is deciding on the vehicle. I keep going back and forth from a GS300 to a IS300. I love both and cant decide. lol
If it has to between those too, get the GS300 the IS300 is small and the gas mileage is poor for it's size, Unless you just want the sportier car than that would be the IS300 for sure
Old 06-16-13, 01:24 AM
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blacksedan
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It's not that hard of a decision given your choices. Both cars are definitely unique in their own ways. I've had both before. The IS300 is smaller, compact but I loved the handling and sporty feel of it. I now currently own a GS300, is larger and feels more comfortable but it's slow as crap and handles like a boat. After all is said and done, I'll still choose the GS over the IS. I love the comfort after a long day of school and work. Besides, if I'm in the mood for some speed and cornering, I'll just jump in the weekend whip.
Old 02-14-14, 06:13 PM
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Andz94
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If i were to get an aftermarket head unit can i use the oem cd changer? it works great so i want to keep that feature.. im looking at an alpine or a pioneer double din
Old 02-14-14, 07:08 PM
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porn-adkt
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Originally Posted by andz94
if i were to get an aftermarket head unit can i use the oem cd changer? It works great so i want to keep that feature.. Im looking at an alpine or a pioneer double din
no..........
Old 02-22-14, 01:10 PM
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srob817
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My car has factory nav which I hate!! Ive been doing some searching and I think all I need to put a Double Din in is the non-nav radio surround correct???
Old 02-26-14, 08:18 AM
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SoCalSC4
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My GS was fully loaded except for Nav, which is exactly how I wanted it.
I was going to 'bin the stock radio anyway. I replaced it with a Pioneer Nav/DVD unit.

Make sure you get the nice, new dash factory radio trim piece that works with a double-DIN unit - from Carson Toyota - it matches the dash perfectly, unlike the black ABS plastic Metra dash kit.
Old 02-28-14, 03:56 PM
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nezlyfe
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Go with aftermarket. in general i don't like oem navi although the new lexus line does have real time traffic which is nice. I have a pioneer avic d3 and full sound system
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