Google Maps on your phone are the best guides for finding complex routes, provided that you should be on two-wheelers or walking for short distances. GPS Systems for cars have replaced mobile apps, especially in cars as the main way of navigation devices among drivers.
Advanced GPS come with pre-installed offline maps which eliminate the need for an internet connection every time. Drivestylish best car accessories website has prepared a detailed guide on installing the GPS navigation system in the car.
Read ahead in detail and follow the steps properly:
Types of GPS Systems:
Before moving forward, let us know the types and specifications of this tool.
Of GPS systems:
Portable GPS Devices: Simple portable GPS for real-time navigation. Using satellite signals, it provides turn-by-turn directions with traffic updates and points of interest along the route. Some also include additional features like Bluetooth for making hands-free calls, and built-in maps which get periodic updates.
In-dash GPS systems are generally much more integrated and, in most cases, replace the original stereo system in your car or blend directly into the dashboard. They have touchscreens, Bluetooth connectivity, and even a backup camera.
Smartphone-Based GPS Systems: These use your smartphone as the navigation device, either through a dashboard mount or wireless projection like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Pre-Installation Checklist
GPS Device or Kit: Depending on your choice of portable or in-dash, make sure that it is the correct model.
Mounting Tools: The adhesive of a portable GPS is used as a mounting tool. An in-dash system has a set of tools, including screwdrivers and wiring connectors.
Wiring Harness: It is also for in-dash systems, and this wiring harness is to be installed with your car's electrical system.
Backup camera: Optional, but many in-dash systems support them.
Power: Most GPS devices require a power connection, either through the 12V lighter of your car or hardwired into your car's electrical system.
Steps for Installing a Portable GPS System
If you’re opting for a portable GPS, this is the easiest and fastest installation. These devices can be installed without professional help and typically take only a few minutes.
Step 1: Unpacking and Inspection of the GPS Device
Unbox your GPS Package and verify all the accessories such as mounting hardware, charging cable, and user manual are included. Verify that the unit powers on by connecting it to a power source like a cigarette lighter or a USB port.
Step 2: Picking up a mounting location
The most common places are the windscreen, using a suction cup holder, and on the dashboard with an adhesive or stand. The chosen spot should not hinder your view or any airbags. The surface must be cleaned with an alcohol wipe in preparation for proper adhesion.
Step 3 Attach the Mount
Attach the GPS mount to any mounting location desired. It has suction cups that attach by firmly pressing and twisting until locked. It is mounted by adhesive and takes a little time to dry before you can attach your GPS device.
Power Step 4: Connect the Power
Portable GPS units have a power cable that plugs into your cigarette lighter in your car. Route the power cable along the edges of the dashboard to keep it clean. Most units also come with the option of charging via USB.
Step 5: Turn On and Testing
Switch on your GPS device, and ensure it is receiving power from the car. Configure your preferences in the GPS, and test the device by entering a destination.
Install an In-Dash GPS System
In-dash GPS systems are much more complicated but offer a very classy look of being an integral part of the dashboard and adding functionality. However, this would require, as one can understand, working with the automobile's electrical system, or you can have it installed professionally.
Step 1: Prepare your car's dashboard
Disconnect the car battery first; it will eliminate all electrical disturbances caused by the installation of a stereo. Now carefully remove the dashboard trim surrounding your car's stereo or radio unit. On different cars, the removal of trim can be done using screw removal or clip removal.
Step 2: Remove the Old stereo
Take off the factory stereo or radio unit from your car using an appropriate screwdriver. Once removed, pull out the wiring harness that connects the stereo to your car.
Step 3: Installing the GPS System
It's now the time to connect your new in-dash GPS unit. If your new system comes equipped with a wiring harness, match those wires up corresponding to the connections you will be making from your car's electrical system (power, ground, speakers, etc.). You may have to splice the wires or order the exact wiring adapter for your car model.
Step 4: Install the GPS Antenna
Most in-dash systems require an external GPS antenna for better reception. Set this antenna on the dashboard or rear window for the best signal. Route the antenna cable through the dashboard and then connect to the GPS unit.
Step 5: Mount the GPS System
Connect everything and mount the GPS unit into the dash then screw. Replace the dashboard trim to ensure everything is flush with it.
Step 6: Replace the battery and test
Reconnect the car battery. Now, turn on the GPS. Enter a destination and test out all functions including sound, navigation, and any additional features such as Bluetooth or a backup camera.
A Smartphone-Based GPS System Installation
It is much more straightforward if you are running the same smartphone as your navigator. All you would need then is a good mount, a charging solution, and, in some vehicles, an integration way into the car's audio system.
Step 1: Select your 'Mounting Point'. Like portable GPS units, smartphone mounts come as either suction cup-based for windshields or adhesive-based for dashboards. Decide on an area where the phone will be in good view and does not cover your line of sight for the road.
Step 2: Install the Mount Attach the mount according to the manufacturer's instructions. For windshield mounts, apply suction pressure while twisting to ensure it stays stuck there. Dashboard mounts may require adhesive strips; thus, let the surface be cleaned with alcohol to allow better bonding.
Step 3: Set up Power One of the things that you would need to consider is having a charging solution. Smartphone-based navigation apps tend to consume battery power pretty quickly. You may opt to either use a 12V cigarette lighter charger or a car's USB port. Some mounts have integrated chargers for wireless charging.
Step 4: Integrate it into your car's audio You can integrate your smartphone with your car's audio system for a much better experience. If your car supports Bluetooth, you can simply pair your phone with the stereo and get voice directions and music. Otherwise, you might need an auxiliary cable or an FM transmitter.
Step 5: Test and Adjust In place, open your favourite way-finding app, Google Maps, Waze, etc. Input a destination and initiate navigation. Tweak the mount and the screen brightness to optimal viewing and make sure voice directions work through the car speakers.
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