I've got a couple of questions about the DVD-based navi that hopefully someone can help me out with...

(1) I just purchased my TL-S w/navi a few days ago, after looking at TL's since '99. Somewhere along the two-year reading/research/testdrive/negotiating/buying process I came under the impression that a new purchaser was entitled to one free DVD software upgrade, then must purchase any subsequent releases. Am I imagining the single free upgrade part? Now that I've purchased, I've looked all over for information about it and can find none. Was this an older promotion, perhaps just for the HD navi in the '99, or am I just totally confused? (I did look at another car along the line that had a navi unit...)

(2) Thanks to posts on this forum I've been able to access the "secret" diagnostic functions of the navi unit. Do the Helms manuals have any detailed information on these diagnostic functions and exactly how to use them? I'm especially interested in the recommended procedure for yaw calibration.

Thanks!
-djsteve

 

1. I'm not aware of any free upgrade.

2. Yes. The Helm manual has details about the screens not document on the owner's manual.

 

1. There's no bundled upgrade plan, although you may negotiate this with your dealer before purchase.

2. I've discussed the yaw rate calibration in some detail in another thread. Search for "yaw rate calibration" to look it up.

 

What you probably read was regarding the '99 models. These models used a hard-disk based navigation system and those owners were entitled to a free upgrade, if for no other reason than owners couldn't really do the upgrade themselves. For the 2000 model year and up Acura switched to a DVD-based navigation system. Since owners can do this upgrade themselves (simply pop in a new disc), there are no free upgrades. Upgrades supposedly come out once a year (in the fall) and cost ~$150, and can be ordered directly through the Acura website. Some dealers allegedly promised some '02 buyers one free upgrade but I don't think we've seen anyone yet on this forum that has cashed in on that (we'll have to wait until the fall upgrade to see).

 

The free upgrade was for the 99 TL HD Navi. When the 2000 model came out some salespeople were confused. I also think they lured people into to buying cars with the Nav like this.

 

Thanks for the info. Looks like I'm probably remembering the deal for the '99 TL's. Oh well. It would be nice if they offered an upgrade to '02 buyers, since the new version is scheduled to come out in only a few months.

Looks like I'll be investing in the Helms manuals as well. I bought the set when I purchased my '93 Integra GSR, and they proved to be a great asset through the years.

-djsteve