I know the Nav system has been much discussed but wanted to update some info.
First, I have the latest 10.1 U92 version maps in my 2011. But the problem is not the maps...it's the routing.
If you are not traveling in a major metro area, you won't get detailed routing. For example, in Okla there are only 2 or 3 metro areas that have detailed routing...OKC and Tulsa. Everywhere else and you're on your own! It will route you down the major streets but not anywhere else.
The streets and names are there, but it just won't route you. You have to find your own way. Incredible. It even states this in the manual.
My 8 year old cheapo Mio Gps works better....MUCH better!
You'll get no argument there. It does not have detailed info for some way out there places, like one way streets, no left turn, and other important navigation information. That's why it won't help you find your way. Your handheld set might not have that info either, but the liability is much less for a Garmin than an in dash unit. I.E if your handheld unit directs you the wrong way down a one way street you wouldnt have a legal leg to stand on if you caused an accident, but if your factory in dash nav does the same thing its another story.
I can understand and appreciate that. But I'm not talking way out there places. My city is 30,000 and it won't route off the main roads. There are many even larger cities in Okla. that it won't route. This is the way it is in every state.
Have you looked at the routing maps? It's incredible how much there is that it won't route. The maps look like the old cellular phone coverage maps only worse...here a little there a little.
To say that I am disappointed is an understatement...had I known this I may not have even bought the car....
Well that's pretty bad. I can only speak for my area, but I've yet to find a spot this has happened in. I always assumed it was way up in maine or something that was a problem. Is this the first car you have had with NAV? Do other brands have similar issues in your area?
Honestly, the car was advertised with navigation and if it can't "navigate" me through my home town of 30,000 people Id be pretty upset. This would be an issue worth reporting to Toyota @ 800-331-4331
Last edited by MAToyotaSales; 05-13-2011 at 07:40 PM.
To be fair, my Toyota dealer did do all they could to resolve this issue. They drove the car and came back thinking the Nav DVD was messed up or missing. They upgraded the software from the 9.1 to the 10.1 for free, hoping it might correct the problem.
When this didn't work they called Toyota and spoke to someone who basically said "Tough Luck, that's the way it is. It only routes Metro areas". I guess 30,000 doesn't qualify.
So I might try calling myself, but I have a feeling I won't get very far.
I do appreciate your help and understanding...too bad you don't work at that 1-800 number!
Other than this, the car has been a dream to drive.
The only nav worth a darn is the google maps navigation on my droid. I dont even really bother with the oem nav anymore. Takes too long to program, has crappy routes, and stops giving you directions if you go a side street.
__________________
2007 Avalon Limited w/ Laser Cruise 97K Miles and Counting...
2002 Dodge Ram 1500 Quad Cab 4x4
That's the problem with NAV. It may work for some but sure not for all. Even in Metro areas, map will get old dated in a year or 2. We have NAV in other cars in the family and we barely use it. We use Google from my iPhone or Tom Tom
That's the problem with NAV. It may work for some but sure not for all. Even in Metro areas, map will get old dated in a year or 2. We have NAV in other cars in the family and we barely use it. We use Google from my iPhone or Tom Tom
Valid point...and spending $200 bucks to update the map is pricey, too!
BUT, after owning this car now for 6 months (wife drives it except for trips...) and having had a chance to get used to the somewhat quirky interface, I'm getting more and more comfortable with it and am overall quite happy with it now that I've been reading up on how it really works....and have figured out the non-intuitive, quirky (at least when compared to my Garmin) interface.
I also wasn't much of a fan of the nav unit but got used to it after a period of time. But - once I started carrying a smartphone (Sprint's EVO) I haven't touched it since. It's far easier to speak the address, or location name, that I'm looking for and have the Google nav interface guide me there. I get updated map info every week or two as well.
If you're in the market for a new Avalon, save the added expense of equipping it with nav and spend it on a smartphone instead. You'll be a lot happier!
I think I would have no problem getting use to the interface and other quirks....my problem is that it absolutely will not navigate or route in the places I travel.
It's not a flaw of info, but an intentional flaw of design.
I could handle outdated streets, weird routes, ect., but my problem is that it won't even try, and in fact was never meant to try. It was designed to NOT try, and that is what is so aggravating.
The AutoGuide.com network consists of the largest network of enthusiast-owned enthusiast-operated automotive communities.
AutoGuide.com provides the latest car reviews, auto show coverage, new car prices, and automotive news. The AutoGuide network operates more than 100 automotive forums where our users consult peers for shopping information and advice, and share opinions as a community.
ToyotaNation.com is an independent Toyota/Lexus enthusiast website. ToyotaNation.com is not sponsored by or in any way affiliated with Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. The Toyota, Lexus and Scion names and logos are trademarks owned by Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc.
Linear Mode
