I currently own a 99 TL with Navigation. I know that they came out with DVD based navigation in 2000. Now is there a free up grade to the newer dvd based navigation for the 99 models? Or is this possible? Thanks

 

Last sept, when I took the 99 TL in for service, the service advisor said that there was a bulletin that a possible hd to dvd navi upgrade might be in the works. I never heard anything of it again..

 

KS3kgt, come on... free? I think I'll have whatever you're drinking. j/k

My friend asked recently about his 99 and was told that he basically has to buy the whole navigation unit and pay for the install. He was told that it is very expensive and so far hasn't been attempted.

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Jason
<A HREF="http://www.adamoski.com/acura.html" TARGET=_blank>
</A>
2000 Acura 3.2 TL w/ Navigation
Satin Silver / Ebony Interior
Comptech Headers & Exhaust
Comptech Springs & Sways
Comptech Air Filter
Factory Spoiler & CD Changer
Burlwood Shift Knob, 2001 Cup Holders
30%? Tint, Tinted Rear Plate Cover
Removed Acura & 3.2TL Badging From Trunk
Removed Front Plate Holder

 

Check this out. There is a part that says Navigation system exhange program for the 99' TL. Print this form out and take it to the dealer, they have to tell you what it is? If it is really an exchange then let us know. I'm going to the dealer tomorrow, I will ask them about it.
http://www.alldata.com/TSB/01/99010926.html

 

I would think it would be in Acura's best interest to get rid of the HD based '99 Navi models so they don't have to deal with the HD updates -- it's a pain for them to have to do it, so it would be so much easier for them to just tell customers to call this 800 number and order the DVD (and pay the service charge). Let some other third party company (Alpine?) deal with the distribution issue.

 

The above bulletin is to inform dealers how to send in defective 99 navi components for exchange to speed up the repair process. It has nothing to do with retrofitting the new systems in the 99. As far as I know, there are no plans to make such an upgrade available at this time. Sorry.

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Wayne Gruen
Service Manager
Park Ave Acura

 

Plus, it's not just a simple unit replacement! All the wires need to be changed and maybe even the screen (at least connectors on the screen)!!!
The video signals from the HD unit is different than the DVD unit.


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1999 Dark Emerald Pearl TL w/ nav
Factory underbody kit and rear spoiler.
Comptech springs, sways, headers and exhaust.
RS Akimoto Funnel Ram III Intake.
18x7.5 +48 5Zigen Heidfeld wheels with 225/40ZR18 Nitto NT-555 tires.
Inspire Tail-lights with Polarg M-23 P8711R signal bulbs.
DEI Viper 550ESP Alarm
Pics of my TL
Pics of my S2000

 

socal28, are you sure about that? I was told that in fact, the cabling and video signal is the same. The difference between the 1999 and 2000 screen is merely the smudge-free coating. I would find it hard to believe that Alipine would make a major change like the cabling and video interface because the navi unit also controls the AC controls and interfaces with the Bose head unit. And I can't imagine Acura changing those other system just to satisfy Alpine.

I was told by someone from Alpine and Acura that they were in fact interchangeble (the HD Navi unit and DVD unit) with the 1999 screen. Although, no dealer would ever agree to installing a DVD unit in a 1999 vehicle (with stock screen) because it would invalidate their service agreement with Alpine.

 

And I meant to add, I was given the option of replacing the entire system (1999 navi unit to 2000 unit) at a cost of over $3000, not including labor costs which might add another few hundred or more...no thanks! It can be done, but definitely not worth it...I'll just get a 2003 Type-S w/Navi.

 

akelley,
The screen itself may be the same, but the connections to the screen are different!
The cableing from the unit to the screen is different too!
The HD units uses separate RGB signals like the computer to the monitor. DVD uses one wire similiar to a RCA jack like VCR to TV.
The screen may have both inputs, but the video input connections are different!
I believe the back of the unit connectors are different too (have to double check)!
I have also talked with Alpine about this too! They basically said the same thing!
I wish it were simple as swapping the units!

 

I think the 99 TL owners were robbed. Why the hell couldn't they just come out with the DVD based in 99? I don't see why they went to Hard Disk and than switch to DVD. Isn't that more expensive for the company, not only that we have to get an upgrade if we go out of our Zone - bull shit i want my 2 grand back.

 

Nevermind, I'll keep it, its too much fun messing around with it.

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K.S.
1999 3.2 TL

 

socal28, I believe you. Thanks for confirming this for me!