[toolman_johnny]

I'm seriously considering adding NAV to my 2005 E320 CDI. I've read lots and lots of posts about this, and am close to pulling the trigger.

My car has the COMAND head unit that is compatible with NAV, so it seems all I need to get, is the NAV/DVD drive (that goes in the truck), some cables, antenna splitter, and the new interior truck side panel that has the cut-out for the DVD drive.

Question is...in terms of the maps themselves...is there one single DVD (disk) for all of the US, or are there multiple? I know that older vehicles used CD's...and those were certainly multiple disks, but is the same true for the DVD based system?

Also, I've heard about upgrade discs that might be needed from time to time...to upgrae the units software/firmware? Where would I find out if I need this, and if I do...are they available without paying MB the big bucks? Thanks in advance, TJ

 

[air4matic]

Single DVD

The update map DVD is available for download if you search around.

Why would you go through the trouble of getting the NAV? It's outdated and overpriced. Any portable GPS for $100 or so these day will run circles around it.

 

[jwight]

Just getting into the Nav system in our new (2007) car but I tend to think a pure sat nav system is the way to go. Apparently, the newest M-Bs use that system but these older ones use disc based maps even though they receive GPS info to determine the car's position - weird. Biggest issue I have so far is the disc doesn't contain all the map info and POI's found in the portables, and it may or may not let you enter an exact street address. Trying to input our house before leaving the dealer, the best it would do is navigate to a range of addresses on our street.

 

[surflj]

A lot of negative press has been dished out against the MB system. I had a handheld GPS before, and now have the NAV in my MB. It is not a very intuitive interface but once you get used to it it is fine, and it has always gotten me to my destination. But to retrofit your car will probably be very expensive. I'd rather not have a handheld in a car with wires dangling about, so if $$ is not an issue I'd say go for it.
In response to your question, the DVD is for the whole USA. If you get a new NAV sytem from MB try to get an '10 DVD so you are up to date.

 

[james54]

I agree with Air4matic. My $100 garmin is much easier to use and is more accurate than the nav in my '08 W211. Is there an upgrade that is better than my '08?

 

[toolman_johnny]

Thanks for the replies. I do struggle with the idea of spending big bucks to get the MB Nav/DVD reader, etc. I've owned several Garmin's and love them. In the end, I gues I'd like to be able to use my MB system rather than dangling cords, and/or getting a portable Nav unit out every time I want to use it. Can the MB NAv system be fiddled with while the vehicle is in motion? If not....then I might avoid it altogether. Hate when manufacturer's do that (prevent use while vehicle is in motion). Make me hit an override button or something....but don't prevent the systems use altogether...especially if I have an able bodied passenger that can do the entry. Oh well. I'm all ears.

 

[jwight]

Yes it can but not a good thing IMHO - too many button pushes needed and the screen is not line of sight. If you have a passenger to operate it fine, otherwise it's too distracting.

 

[air4matic]

Yes it can but not a good thing IMHO - too many button pushes needed and the screen is not line of sight. If you have a passenger to operate it fine, otherwise it's too distracting.

x2

It's next to impossible to fiddle with it while driving unless you want to get into an accident. It's very user unfriendly.

BTW, the Nav doesn't even have text-to-speech. The lack of this feature is a deal breaker these days.

 

[surflj]

it is interesting that the NAV will text to speech major roads like interstates but never smaller secondary roads like avenues, etc.

 

[NSKPhila]

Alternative Nav Mounting

I added the Nav unit to my 03 320.. followed the pictures and directions on the Audio/Electronics forum.

Save yourself some money and aggravation.. make a "U" bracket and mount the Nav unit under the rear shelf.
You can work 2 bolthead and washer in between the metal shelf and the inside finished shelf and let them hang down (no drilling of rear shelf). I put a 1/4-20 nut on, then a rubber washer on top and bottom of the U bracket and finally another 1/4 nut with locktite, (This helps to cushion the Nav Unit when it's mounted).. then mounted the Nav unit.
There's enough slack in the cables to move them, just have to undo one wire wrap.

Don't forget the antenna splitter and the fiber optic change under the driver side rear seat door sill.

RE - the address.. MB unit will only take you to the block of the address.. In Germany, that's all that's allowed. They value privacy there - they don't even allow caller ID!.

 

[uphilli]

Can the 2009 HD based Nav unit for the E350 be fitted into a 2008 E350...without much modification?