chiph9

Google maps are delivered over the internet, so you'd need wireless access.

A product like TomTom for Android stores the maps on the device. So you'll need a lot of storage space, but then you wouldn't have to use a hotspot & be in range of a cell tower.

Chip H.

BCrews

Download the GPS app CoPilot. You can download a map of the entire USA - they update every so often. If you pay, you can even get traffic alerts and rerouting. It's not great if you want to program a specific route (pain in the ***) but if you just use it like Google and say show me 3 routes to get from point A-B this is a great app that does NOT require over the air data- after the initial install of the map and app. You can customize it quite a bit and even download different voices.

I WISH I could swap the Mark Levinson Navigation with this kind of option- but it's just not worth the cost if mine is currently working fine.

HusH818

I ordered the back up camera from amazon as well
But it is not due to arrive until mid march.

it appears to mount in one of the factory license plate light holes and it has a led beside the camera to replace the light you have to remove.

I will post pics again once i get the camera in the mail

As for nav, you can install any navigation software you want as long as it is meant for a android device. So waze and google maps will work. However for real time traffic and police alerts you will need a wifi signal. of course this unit does have WIFI

HusH818

here is the camera I chose

chiph9

I wonder if it can use the factory backup camera and factory GPS antenna.

My OEM navigation system will only have maps as current as the 2013 map update - Lexus has said that's the last year they'll publish for the 1st gen DVD Nav system. So if I just had to have newer maps, this tablet would be one way to do that (replace factory nav+radio with this).

Chip H.

HusH818

the only way the rear camera and GPS antenna will work with this unit is if they have the proper connections

that being the yellow component cable for the camera
and the SMA (mini coax) for the gps antenna

Fluid

iTrader: (1)

Is your pic on the left your stock parts above/below (HVAC controls) the unit, or is this what is delivered? For the price, I assume it's just the radio/nav but need to verify - your car is a non-Nav model, correct? Mine is a non-Nav so it could be an option for me. I like the concept.

HusH818

The digital clock (above) and hvac controls (lower) were NOT included. It is just the radio unit in the center that is black.

Removing that whole unit proved to be the easiest way to remove the radio without risking any broken plastic clips.
It was also nice to be able to take the entire unit inside and do the wiring work while warm and comfy

Nothnghead

How's the audio? Does it send signal to all the speakers?

schum4

Just to clarify, you are still able to use the steering wheel controls?

HusH818

No the steering wheel controls do not work with the unit I bought. But I think if you purchased one with the right harness (in the link on the 1st post) the steering wheel will work.

There is a provision in the radio to program the controls. I just don't have the proper harness

Dashome

How is audio and call quality? Does the microphone work well? Also, what navi software are you using? I don't plan to tether it for internet access so it is important to me to have a good standalone (preferably free) option.

I was planning to go with a Kenwood unit until I saw your post. Thanks for taking the plunge. This will save a lot of money between the cost itself as well as having to buy a bracket.

Levin

That's looks awesome. If it was not for the AC controls I would replace my nav unit with that.

Creetopher

Nokia Here maps has free download off line maps. great turn by turn nav too!

LS400_96

HushH818, any update on the backup camera and sound quality of the new headunit? Curious how everything went? Would like to hear some feedback on this install. Thanks in advance!