Portable GPS in center console storage box

[desiAquarius]

Hi All,

I have a 2007 Camry XLE without navigation. I just bought a Magellan RoadMate 1412 GPS unit from costco.

I wanted to mount the GPS in the center console storage box (the box below the stereo) permanently. The logic was that I would open the console lid while driving the car (and using the GPS) and then close the lid when the car is parked (to hide the GPS).

The problem I'm having is that when the GPS is in the center console box it doesn't get reception. If I put the unit near the cup holder it works. My friend has a 3 year old Garmin that works in his Accord's console box.

Does anybody else have a GPS mounted/placed in the center console storage box? Also, if you have a GPS that works in this place can you please tell me the make/model of the GPS?

Thanks
desiAquarius

[GT-R]

Hmm... You can get the external antenna for the GPS.

I used to have Garmin Nuvi, but now I'm using Harman/Kardon, they both have the ext. antenna ports. I don't know about the magellan, check the website.

Well, in my opinion, Garmin is the best GPS out there, since my H/K is driving me crazy now, I'm going back to Garmin.

Putting it in the center console is a good idea, I'm gonna try that.

[njerald]

Originally Posted by desiAquarius

Hi All,

I have a 2007 Camry XLE without navigation. I just bought a Magellan RoadMate 1412 GPS unit from costco.

I wanted to mount the GPS in the center console storage box (the box below the stereo) permanently. The logic was that I would open the console lid while driving the car (and using the GPS) and then close the lid when the car is parked (to hide the GPS).

The problem I'm having is that when the GPS is in the center console box it doesn't get reception. If I put the unit near the cup holder it works. My friend has a 3 year old Garmin that works in his Accord's console box.

Does anybody else have a GPS mounted/placed in the center console storage box? Also, if you have a GPS that works in this place can you please tell me the make/model of the GPS?

Thanks
desiAquarius

You can possibly plug in an amplified antenna. They are only about $20 delivered.

My Magellan 3250 is mounted in the compartment to the rear of the shifter and gets great GPS and traffic reception there.

[desiAquarius]

Thanks CamryGT-R.

I was thinking of getting an antenna but this GPS doesn't have bluetooth and I am not enthusiastic about a visible antenna wire!!

If/when you try putting your Garmin in the center console let us know if it works.

[GT-R]

You got it, mine will arrive tonight from Costco.com

[eddiefromcali]

A co-worker of mine also put his GPS in the center console of his 05 accord. He got a cheapo gps too and it works. Its a nice spot but hard to see when your driving. G/L though!

[holimont]

I keep my cheap-o Tom-Tom in the storage compartment. It works there. But I usually put it to the rear of the shift handle when I use it because it is easier to see. And to fiddle with when I screw something up.