Hi everyone,

I am a soon to be 4th Gen owner (trading in my 3rd Gen . . . i am going to miss her!). Soon to come is a black with skirt package TL base FWD. Just wondering is it possible to convert it to a Tech? Is it possible to install the Nav system and if so does anyone have specifics?

proweller

 

Why don't you just get the BASE model with Tech package?

 

Sorry, I don't follow why you want to go through such an undertaking. I would imagine the modifications would be massive (dash replacement, cutting holes in door to put speakers, internal wiring, etc...)

What's wrong with getting the tech package up front, just want the nav and nothing else?

 

Well to be honest tech package price was a little out of my league and I am getting a super deal on the Base FWD demo without the tech. I guess I should clarify ... just want to be able to install the NAV and wondering if it was possible without needing to cut any holes out in the dash etc. Other tech features can do with out as I am sure it would be a brutal and pretty silly undertaking. I know in the 3rd gen I have seen where people have actually installed the NAV after the fact on a base.

proweller

 

yes, you can install navigation on any car. the new 09 units are probably gonna cost you though

 

OK I see what you're saying. Sorry, I don't know much about an mod like this but I would imagine part/entire dash would need to be replaced to accommodate the bigger screen and rework the center console to have that big scroll knob, assuming you want to make it look like a TL tech. I just think the nav screen install alone would be pretty brutal and costly so I wonder how much $$ is actually being saved going this route without compromising build quality.

Good luck!

 

Shoot... i was thinking that perhaps the screen size would be the same and that it may be an easy undertaking. Anyhow I pick up the car on Saturday. Looking for Rims at the moment so will post pics as soon as I put them on. Thanks for the help!

proweller

 

Huge mistake IMO, just get the FWD with tech and work the dealer down on price. The tech package is more than Navigation, the stereo is quite good for a stock system plus so much more.

 

Just get a $300 portable car GPS system.

 

parts for the conversion will probably run around 5-6K easily, the new system runs on a automotive grade HDD, the stereo system rips cd's, etc. and the navi is hooked up to various sensors that helps it monitor the car for issues. Its really not worth it, get the one with the tech or forget it.

 

Yeah not to mention no warranty and the upgrades will be $0 in resale value, maybe even bring the value down especially on a dealer trade-in.