National Post (National Edition)
Navigating the costs of navigation
Onboard vehicle navigation systems have become a very popular option for many vehicles, including lower priced entry-level units. What’s not to like about them? They’re built into factory infotainment systems, provide turn-by-turn navigation, have verbal reminders, and some of the more advanced units can allow you to take the most fuel-efficient way to your destination, or avoid construction. But often the love affair between factory nav systems and their owners hits a major detour when it comes time to update them.
Many drivers got their first experience with a navigation unit through popular portable devices from makers such as Garmin, Tom Tom or Magellan. These units almost always come with a “maps for life” feature that lets their owners connect online and download updates any time they want, for free. The hand-helds also include a program to remind users when an update is a good idea (usually after a year or two of service). And many smartphone nav apps silently update their databases continually. So when a vehicle owner graduates to a ride with builtin factory navigation, they can be excused for expecting the same level of service with map updates as their humble little portables provided. After all, if a navigation device company can provide free updates on a $100 unit, surely a carmaker can do the same on a $50K SUV.
But automakers do charge for nav updates, starting at about $200. Some use other firms to do this, such as Fiat Chrysler Auto with Here (an app and software firm), while carmaker Honda sells and ships nav update discs directly to consumers. The main problem with most nav updates (whether free or not) is that buyers have no way of knowing in advance exactly what they’re purchasing. While nav software suppliers may offer general info such as how many new addresses and routes they include in a particular download, they seldom, if ever, get specific. So if you live and drive mainly in the Maritimes for example, it’s almost impossible to know what benefit you’ll get from any update you elect to buy.
What can you do if you’re stuck with a factory nav system? First, consider carefully if you really need an update. Unless you drive regularly in regions where your nav system has let you down because of missing new streets and addresses, you probably don’t need a new download. If you absolutely have to get your nav up to date, contact the software supplier and ask if they can provide details on new addresses in areas you travel in. If you’re planning a new vehicle, think about the down-the-road costs of map updates and ask for this info in advance.
You may decide to go with your smartphone or a portable unit but check the instrument panel real estate to make sure you can mount one safely without a windshield distraction.