That's right you guessed it. The next Navi upgrade software is now slated for April or so says the Acura person who called me back and left a message. I thought I would send them an email inquiring and they actually contacted me back and provided the April date even though I didn't mention any timeframe. They also called it a "minor" update.

Still think we're going to get a major (complete) update in September? I think so...Sept 04.

 

this is really disappointing!

sidemarker

 

Dear Mr. Shawn S:

Thank you for contacting Acura Client Services regarding the Navigation System's DVD upgrade for your Acura.

Each fall, a Navigation System DVD update disk is available for purchase.
This disk contains updated mapping and Points of Interest (POI) data. The latest version for 2000-03 CL, TL, RL and 2001-02 MDX is Version 2.05 released September 2001. If you have the 2003 MDX with voice activation, the system contains the latest software.

Unfortunately, there has been a delay in the upcoming Navigation DVD for the 2000-03 CL, TL, RL and 2001-02 MDX. The scheduled release date will is April 2003. You may want to check back at www.acura.com during this time or contact the Navigation DVD order line at (888) 549-3798 for further update information.

You can contact our Acura Client Services phone group at (800) 382-2238 if you need further assistance. For your information, we are open Monday through Friday, from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Pacific Standard Time.

We understand that this matter may not have concluded to your satisfaction and regret any disappointment this response may have caused.

Thank you
again for contacting Acura Client Services.

Best Regards,

G. Mariano
e-Support Specialist
ACURA CLIENT SERVICES

 

Just called the Navigation DVD order line.
It was an answering machine with an outgoing message that said April, and that said it would only include updates for four cities - They listed Albany, Lake Placid, something Charleston, and I forgot what the other one was.

I left a message saying that I was concerned that my navigation DVD was very out of date with regards to addresses and place names. I asked for a call back, but I doubt I'll get one.

I think it's funny that a new release comes out each fall but that the last release was fall 2001.

Whatever.

 

I guess Soopa BITCHES to them better then I do.

Shawn S

 

guys do you really think you will ever actually get any type of so called "major" upgrade for your 2000-2003 nav systems??? i seriously doubt that such a thing even would happen...given how outdated the nav system is in the 2001-2003 cl's..(i mean come on, it is based off 1998 technology) there really is no point in them doing a major upgrade...and what would a so-called major upgrade include?? without actual physical changes to the hardware or screen or controls, it would be virtually impossible to do any type of "major" upgrade....

besides, the focus of honda/acura is now 100% on their NEW navi that we are seeing in the MDX and the accords....

im sure you will get another update with new roads, POI, etc...but i think you guys holding your breath for any "major" upgrade to a 5 year old navi system that has already been phased out are crazy

 

Jim, You’re WAY to negative most of the time.

All they need to do is update the road database.
I could give two SHITS about the GUI screen or voice command in the Accords.

Just update the FAWKIN roads.

Shawn S

 

yeah, and thats exactly what you will get, an update of new roads and POI...that is a "minor" upgrade, which is how they typically are, correct?

all im saying is that all this talk about a "minor" upgrade now and a "major" upgrade in the fall is most likely never going to happen. why would honda/acura invest hundreds of thousands of dollars in making some kind of major upgrade for a nav system that has been abandoned in favor of the latest technology?? it just doesnt make sense for them, as a company looking to make money, to invest a shit load of money into a major upgrade for someting that maybe 10-15% of the owners will actually buy....what are you "major upgrade" dreamers expecting anyways?? full conversion to 3-D mapping?? voice command??? GUI screen?? etc? if you want that kind of stuff, the only way to do it is go aftermarket or buy a new car...period.

im not negative, i just tell it like it is.

 

muahahaha.

ph33r soopa! :devil:


and i'm with shawn... i couldnt give a FUCK about the GUI/Features... our nav is just fine. Does everything I need/want.


But the lack of full or accurate mapping data is BS.


The thing consistently sends me down roads which are no longer there... or have been changed... or are now one-way.

Especially in the city.


Lexus/Infiniti have had FULL mapping for Albany since '00 or '01... Acura still only has mostly major streets. No side streets and barely any POI's


Sounds like they fixed it this time round here. But I heard that with the last update too... and was sorely dissapointed.


I guess I'll be crossing my fingers

 

Jim. No.

A "minor" upgrade is just what this is... mapping data for 4 new cities.


A "major" upgrade is the addition of the FULL US/CANADIAN mapping database that was completed by NavTech in '01

Alpine has integrated the database in their software.


Theres no reason Acura shouldn't have it already.


Lexus and the rest have tons more mapping data then Acura. Even Honda's systems have twice the mapping information.


Nobody is asking for 3d mapping or any crap. I don't give a fuck. If I did I wouldnt have gotten a factory navi.

I just want accurate mapping. Thas all.

 

So as soon as something new comes out, a company should drop the prior technology? That's like saying when Intel comes out with the PIV, that companys should stop developing their software to run on the PIII.

There aren't just CL owners who'd want this upgrade. Think of all the TL owners too.

 

Its everyone, CL, TL, RL, MDX... they all share a mapping database...

 

My interpretation……..

MAJOR UPDATE:
Only adding several cites per state. That’s what happened when they went from 1.09 to 2.05
I’ve had both and they look EXACTLY the same in my area. Only MAJOR roads and Interstates are covered.
Turn off the highways and the screen goes blank within a mile or two.

MAJOR UPDATE:
All cities and roads covered from the Navtech database.
By “all” I mean all roads that were mapped when the software was written.
I don’t expect it to be 100%, but I don’t feel I should have to drive 5-Miles from my house before I hit something that’s on the map.

Allentown is a pretty big city in my area, but on the NAVI screen only about 20 of the hundreds of roads show up on the map.

 

1.09 to 2.05 they also added gas station icons! Well . . ... at least for the companies that paid to have their logos added!

 

Don't forget the HONDA ODDESSY minivan also has the same system as us. I upgraded the 1.09 version that came with my 2000TL that I purchased 12/28/99 to the 2.05 version. This was way over a year ago when it first came out.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Soopa™
[B]
Alpine has integrated the database in their software.


Theres no reason Acura shouldn't have it already.


I just got the latest Alpine DVD Navi installed in my CL-S and it is pretty dead on. I don't understand why Acura cannot incorporate the database that Alpine has because they get it from the same company. Make's no sense to me, but when you do get it you will be most happy. When and if you get it....

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by RacerXE24
[B]Got any pics of your navi installed?


Sorry for the mini thread hijack...

 

I actually disagree with this statement, though respectfully of course.

I think that what we are seeing is a result of the fact that the in-car navi systems have only just become ubiquitous in the last few years.

I think that the auto manufacturers will find that continuing database support for their older non-current navi systems will be a big perceived advantage to customers. I think that it will start with one manufacturer gaining a reputation for continually supporting their older navi versions, and eventually all of them will have to do it to stay competitive.

Either that or they are going to need to build some kind of backwards compatability into their new dvd releases.

Or in the alternative, they are going to make the navi capable of updating itself via satellite.

In the end what it comes down to is that auto-makers spend a lot of money on convincing target markets that the cars are stable, reliable, and up-to-date. The last thing they want is for people to change marques for better perceived software support.

Sometime in the near future, the average consumer will only consider a car an option if it has a navi. And once a consumer owns a car with a navi, the navi will be major consideration in their next car purchase, and once the navi is a major consideration then software support will be a large perceived value.

At that point, the automakers will give continual support to navi databases.

I wouldn't be suprised if they do away with the discs altogether and just do a ROM flash when you go in for scheduled maitenance. That is....if the satellite database doesn't come in first.

 

I think most people are exactly right when they say we are looking for new features and functionality. Just new roads and POIs.

Nothing I hate more than trying to go "Car Wash #1" on 10th and Lexington and when you get there, "Car Wash #1" closed down....two years ago. That's not a high-tech Navigator...that's a wild goose chase.

Something else is going on here. Acura is not refusing to release the data. They're not abandoning "old technology". They're not trying to garner more sponsors to help pay for the software. They're not doing the math to see if 10,000 users is what it takes to "breakeven".

It's more like this. The file labeled "Update '01 Navi" is sitting on someone's desk and he just hasn't looked into it lately. Or the project keeps losing priority because Acura is overwhelmed with other "more important" things. Or the head of that department quit last summer and the next guys doesn't give a crap about the urgency of the new software. Or the Honda guys are slow to deliver the software to the Acura team so they finish up their side---office politics.

Or seriously, there's something wrong with the contract between Navtech/Alpine/Acura and somebody's not playing ball. Until they all agree, no new DVD. Maybe Navtech told Acura the first two updates would be "free" and they turned about and force Acura to pay up and Acura got pissed and disbanded the CL/TL project after they used up whatever scraps they got for two more lousy updates.

 

Can't wait for the new Navi software ... I've heard the new Navi DVD will add 8 HP to you car

 

What do these Navi disks cost? Considering what my dealer charges for accessories, probably a lot.

 

I forget the exact price & someone correct me please it cost around $125 or $150 for the upgrade. I forget what I paid over a year ago for the 2.05 version from ACURA but its over $100.

 

April is over.

No DVD. :angry:

 

I emailed them and used my awesome bitching skills to try to justify releasing a major upgrade to the current 2.05 version. <sigh>, I even traded my 01 typeS non-navi to this 03-6speed w/Navi only to find out the car has been discontinued AND the NAVI BLOWS...

FUCK YOU ACURA. I hate you and I hope ALL OF YOU ASSHOLES WHO MAKE THE DECISIONS GET ***SARS*** and I hope your kids get them too! BITCH ASSHOLES!

 

Because I use different cars for long road trips, I got a nav system for my iPaq instead of a single car solution.
I get several map updates per year (based on NavTech maps) as well as software enhancements.

Maybe you could enhance your Acura system with an iPaq

 

Yeah I got the other Navi stuff too...on my PDA, on my laptop...I even have a Garmin GPS V. But they promised me a disc that I could buy...what's the problem? Why all the delays?

 

My letter to Acura.....................................

Acura Customer Service,

When will the latest NAVI DVD be available to purchase?
I have version 2.05F and am looking for the next upgrade.

I spoke with Customer Service in early December and they said January 2003.
I spoke again in January and they said April.
Well, now April is half over and I still haven't heard anything.

I'm really disappointed with Acura for not supporting their existing customers while the newer and much improved version of the system is available for the Honda Accord.
I paid over 2-Thousand dollars for this system and its running a road database that hasn't seen a major update in over THREE YEARS !!!

What is the problem here ?

Shawn S

Their CANNED reply...........................................

Dear Mr. ********:

Thank you for contacting Acura Client Services regarding the Navigation
System's DVD upgrade for your Acura.

Each fall, a Navigation System DVD update disk is available for purchase.
This disk contains updated mapping and Points of Interest (POI) data. The
latest version for 2000-03 CL, TL, RL and 2001-02 MDX is Version 2.05
released September 2001. If you have the 2003 MDX and 2004 RL with voice
activation, the system contains the latest software.

Unfortunately, there has been a delay in the upcoming Navigation DVD for
the 2000-03 CL, TL, RL and 2001-02 MDX. The scheduled release date is Fall
2003. You may want to check back at www.acura.com during this time or
contact the Navigation DVD order line at (888) 549-3798 for further update
information.

You can contact our Acura Client Services phone group at (800) 382-2238 if
you need further assistance. For your information, we are open Monday
through Friday, from 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Pacific Standard Time.

We understand that this matter may not have concluded to your satisfaction
and regret any disappointment this response may have caused. Thank you
again for contacting Acura Client Services.

Best Regards,

G. Mariano
e-Support Specialist
ACURA CLIENT SERVICES

 

Hm, I just called the phone number above and, sure enough, the message says the major upgrade will be released this fall. But now they provide a few details, which is somewhat encouraging, perhaps they are finally going to deliver (I think dhlesq's argument above makes tons of sense!):
1. They are promissing 95% of US coverage through "both verified and non-verified addresses"
2. They upped the price to $185.

I tried web-site (Purchase DVD link on Acura's Owner's Link page) and the page is down at this time.

Costly, isn't it? Perhaps those of us who have DVD copiers should pull together in groups of 2-3 to buy... (no morals reading please, with over of broken promisses, they should be giving it out with big discount now IMHO!)

 

at $185, I will pass or be a beta tester for DVD clone...

Now if there is still no mpas for Canada, I will be more If Mazda is providing Navtech maps for its RX-8 why not Acura?!!

 

holy dug-up thread batman!

well, at least our n00b is using the search feature!

 

I’ll be buying the new NAVI DVD the day it’s released and am entertaining all offers for copies made on my new DVD burner that I just bought on Tuesday.
Normally I’m against piracy, but Acura can SUCK THE BIG ONE for making us wait THREE PHUKING YEARS for this “upgrade”.

Shawn S

 

Really what it comes down too is our Navi is old and probably not worth updating for Acura. I honest try not to use the Navi to much cause for the most part its sucks. It tends to drive you all over the freakin place. Granted when you know where your going there are always shortcuts but this system is really a piece of shit for 2 grand. It makes no sense why the 2003 CL's with Navi don't have the same one as the 2003 Honda accords with Navi. Its pretty disappointing knowing that the shitter Accord has a better Navi then the CL. Regardless if an update does come out I'm not sure i even need it, Maryland is pretty well covered.

 

Its pretty pathetic that all the navi screen is used for is Directions and AC, why could they really optimize the LCD touch screen and do shit for the radio or show tire pressure or gas milage. I mean its terrible that you pay that much and all you get is a freakin Navigation. You can go to Best buy and get a piece of shit GPS directional satilite system to keep in your car for about 4-5 hundred

 

I just purchased my '03 CL-S on 6/24/03. When (and if) an update is released in the fall, will I get it for free, or will they force me to pay as well?

 

Get if for free? bwhahahahahahaahahahaha
wooo that's a good one.
-----
And for those with burners don't forget to read my sig, i've had that for at least 3 months now.

 

Don’t be HATEN !!!
The Acura NAVI system is awesome, but it just needs the road database updated.
This has been discussed over-and-over-and-over again.
You can’t compare a system that was “leading edge” in early 2000 to the new stuff being released today.

Shawn S

 

I will be definitely buying the new version.

Kansas has almost grown two-fold in the last 3 years. My database is awful.

 

hmmm...