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Pioneer AVIC-U280 Add-on GPS navigation module with built-in traffic information receiver

Item # 130AVIC280

You've got a great Pioneer DVD receiver in your dash — why not give it some additional functionality? The...

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You've got a great Pioneer DVD receiver in your dash — why not give it some additional functionality? The...

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Item # 130AVIC280

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About the Pioneer AVIC-U280

Dave Delamere

Blaze a path with a Pioneer navigation upgrade

You've got a great Pioneer DVD receiver in your dash — why not give it some additional functionality? The AVIC-U280 GPS module connects directly to your Pioneer DVD receiver, adding reliable navigation tools to help you find your way. You'll have access to detailed HERE (formerly known as NAVTEQ) maps of Canada, Puerto Rico, and the  entire United States,  as well as eight million points of interest for finding important stops along your route. Commuters in metropolitan areas get the added advantage of a built-in traffic-information receiver which provides updates on congestion so you don't get stuck in a jam.

Blaze a path with a Pioneer navigation upgrade

You've got a great Pioneer DVD receiver in your dash — why not give it some additional functionality? The AVIC-U280 GPS module connects directly to your Pioneer DVD receiver, adding reliable navigation tools to help you find your way. You'll have access to detailed HERE (formerly known as NAVTEQ) maps of Canada, Puerto Rico, and the entire United States, as well as eight million points of interest for finding important stops along your route. Commuters in metropolitan areas get the added advantage of a built-in traffic-information receiver which provides updates on congestion so you don't get stuck in a jam.

Pioneer AVIC-U280 Add-On Navigation module

This powerful guidance system is smaller than a paperback book.

Works with 2010-up Pioneer DVD receivers

The compact AVIC-U280 works with select 2010-up Pioneer DVD receivers, allowing you to access maps on a high-quality touchscreen display that puts you in fingertip control of the action. A switch on the module allows you to match the video output resolution to your receiver. Your Pioneer receiver will mute your music, deliver the directions you need, then start the music playing again. The AVIC-U280 also includes an SD™ card slot, so you can easily upload new maps as they become available.

Find your way

Plug the AVIC-U280 module into the back of your compatible receiver and then use your Pioneer's touchscreen controls to take charge of the navigation functions. You can choose a destination by entering a specific street address or intersection, or by selecting a hotel, restaurant, shop, or another of the eight million points of interest. You'll see the preloaded road maps on your receiver's video screen, as it displays your current position and your destination. Text-to-speech technology provides voice prompts over your car speakers that announce actual street names at turns, so you'll hear "turn right on Sullivan Street," instead of "take the next right."

Maps in 2D or 3D orientation

You can choose to view the maps in 2D or 3D orientation — with the latter, you'll see landmarks and buildings represented in three dimensions to help you get a better sense of your bearings. The receiver will also show you the posted speed limit along major roads, and visually warn you when you're exceeding it. You'll also get lane guidance to put you in the right position for your next turn, and junction view that gives you a realistic picture of complicated interchanges.

Don't get stuck

When you see bad traffic conditions along your route in metropolitan areas, you can ask the receiver to find a new path to your destination and save time. The receiver will even factor in historic traffic patterns along your route when mapping, so it'll automatically guide you to the smartest route, depending on the time of day. The traffic updates don't require a subscription and are free for the life of the receiver.

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Product highlights:

  • add-on GPS navigation system for compatible 2010-up Pioneer AVH in-dash multimedia receivers
  • GPS satellite antenna and TMC traffic-information antenna
  • hook-and-loop velcro fastener and RGB cable
  • built-in road maps of the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico by HERE (formerly known as NAVTEQ)
  • 8 million points of interest
  • free TMC traffic reports in metropolitan areas (no subscription needed)
  • text-to-speech voice prompts announce street names at turns
  • 2D and 3D map views
  • lane guidance and junction view
  • route customization options
  • SD card slot for map updates
  • 5-5/16"W x 1-1/8"H x 4-7/8"D
  • warranty: 1 year
  • MFR # AVIC-U280

What's in the box:

  • Add-on navigation module
  • 8GB SDHC map card
  • 6.5' Navigation cable (terminated by a data-bus connector on one end and a RGB connector on other end)
  • 6' Power/ground harness
  • GPS antenna (with attached 10' cable)
  • Traffic antenna (w/ attached 8' cable)
  • Self-adhesive pad
  • 2 Velcro strips
  • Machine screw
  • Owner's Manual
  • "Caution!" note
  • Warranty Card
  • Online Product Registration

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More details on the Pioneer AVIC-U280

Mark G.
The Pioneer AVIC-U280 replaces these items:

Product Research

Features

Compatibility: The Pioneer AVIC-U280 Add-on Navigation System is compatible with the following 2010 and up Pioneer AVH-series navigation-ready multimedia head units.

  • 2016: AVH-4200NEX, AVH-X7800BT, AVH-X6800DVD, AVH-X5800BHS, AVH-X4800BS, AVH-X3800BHS, AVH-X2800BS, and AVH-X1800S
  • 2015: AVH-4100NEX, AVH-X7700BT, AVH-X6700DVD, AVH-X5700BHS, AVH-X4700BS, AVH-X3700BHS, AVH-X2700BS, and AVH-X1700S
  • 2014: AVH-4000NEX, AVH-X5600BHS, AVH-X4600BT, AVH-X3600BHS, AVH-X2600BT, and AVH-X1600DVD
  • 2013: AVH-X8500BHS, AVH-X7500BT, AVH-X6500DVD, AVH-X5500BHS, AVH-X4500BT, AVH-X3500BHS, AVH-X2500BT, and AVH-X1500DVD
  • 2012: AVH-P8400BH, AVH-P4400BH, AVH-P3400BH, AVH-P2400BT, and AVH-P1400DVD
  • 2011: AVH-P6300BT, AVH-P4300DVD, AVH-P3300BT, and AVH-2300DVD
  • 2010: AVH-P5200BT, AVH-P5200DVD, AVH-P4200DVD, AVH-P3200BT, and AVH-P3200DVD
Note: The AVIC-U280 plugs into the RGB connector of these Pioneer head units. The included SD-card must be inserted into the AVIC-U280 for the head unit to recognize it.

HERE Navigation: The AVIC-U280 offers a comprehensive map database from HERE covering the entire United States (including Alaska & Hawaii), Canada, and Puerto Rico enabling users to route to millions of destinations; including 8 Million points of interest (POIs). The map database is stored on the in 8GB SDHC memory card (the SDHC memory card must remain installed in the unit). Map updates via a SD/SDHC memory card will be available at later date.

Note: Car navigation maps are frequently updated. While this database was judged to be as accurate as possible at the time of its release, a map database can never be 100% accurate. Road information that is maintained in the map databases, such as turn restrictions or road names may change over time.

GPS Receiver & Antenna: The unit has a built-in GPS receiver and comes with a magnetic GPS antenna. The AVIC-U280 accurately measures your current location by the Global Positioning System, a network of satellites orbiting the earth to give you time and position information. The accuracy of the GPS information depends upon how good the reception is. The GPS antenna can be installed outside or inside the vehicle.

Real-Time Traffic Updates: Partnering with Clear Channel Broadcasting's Total Traffic Network, the included Traffic antenna provides real-time traffic data for over 90 major cities in North America, including US and Canada. Check your commute route in advance or re-route to your destination to avoid traffic congestion. There is no subscription cost and no annoying on-screen advertisements.

  • Road segments affected by traffic incidents are displayed with an alternate color on the map and small symbols above the road show the nature of the incident.
  • When traffic information that may affect your route is receive, this system will warn you that it is recalculating the route and navigation will continue with a new route that is optimal considering the most up-to-date traffic conditions.

On-Screen Map: The Pioneer AVIC-U280 displays a real-time moving map illustrating your current position and intended route on your compatible Pioneer AVH-series receiver. It will show map scale and geographic details such as lakes, rivers, highways, buildings, and towns. Your route is marked with a green line, while your vehicle is indicated by a red arrow on the screen, and checkered flag marks your destination. As you travel the AVIC-U280 guides to your destination with arrows on the map and directions at the top of the screen. The map screen will also indicate the distance to your next maneuver. During your calculated route, distance to your final destination, timed need to reach the final destination, and estimated arrival time are all displayed on-screen. You can adjust the following map settings.

  • 2D/3D Map Mode: The Pioneer AVIC-U280 allows you to view its on-screen map in a 2D (two-dimensional) or 3D (three-dimensional) view. 2D View displays a normal two-dimensional map with North or your direction at the top of map screen. Similar to paper road maps, the 2D mode, shows you streets, roads, and elevation by color. In 3D mode, your direction is at the top of the map screen and you can see the altitude and elevations differences. You can distinguish between valleys, mountains, and elevated roads. In selected cities 3D landmarks and 3D buildings are also displayed.
  • Color Mode: You can switch between daytime and nighttime color modes or let the unit's software switch between the two mode automatically a few minutes before sunrise and a few minutes after sunset.
Note: The on-screen map offers Smart Zoom. When you approach a turn, the map will zoom in and raise the view angle to let you easily recognize your maneuver at the next junction. If the turn is at a distance, it will zoom out and lower the view angle to be flat so you can see the road in front of you.

Lane Guidance & Signposts: The Pioneer AVIC-U280's navigation map offers helpful lane information and signpost guidance, along with exit service.

  • Lane Guidance: When navigation on multilane roads, it is important to take the appropriate lane in order to follow the recommended route. If lane information is available in the map data, the map screen will display the lanes and their directions using small arrows at the bottom of the map. High lighted arrows represent the lanes you need to take.
  • Signposts: Where additional information is available, signposts substitute arrows. Signposts are displayed at the top of the map. The color and style of the signposts are similar to the real ones you can see above the road or by the roadside, They show the available destinations and the number of the road the lane leads to.
  • Junction View: If you are approaching a freeway exit or a complex intersection and the needed information exists, the map is replaced with a 3D view of the junction. The lanes you need to take are displayed with arrows. Signposts can also be present, if information is available.
  • Exit Services: While navigation a route, you can find gas, food, lodging, and restrooms near upcoming exits along major highways and freeways.
  • Tunnel View: When entering a tunnel, the map is replaced with a generic tunnel image so that surface roads and buildings cannot distract you.

Audible Alerts: The Pioneer AVIC-U280 offers various audible alerts and functions to help you get to your destination safely.

  • Voice Guidance (Text-to-Speech): In addition to graphical on-screen directions and maps, the AVIC-U280 provides voice guidance and turn-by-turn directions. You can choose a male or female voice in English, French, or Spanish. Some of the voices are capable of text-to-speech, announcing the street names along with the turn directions. You can adjust the the AVIC-U280' voice guidance volume independently from the compatible Pioneer head unit's main volume.
  • Safety Alert: This function can warn you when you approach road safety cameras, school zones, or railroad crossings (if available). You can also add your own alert points. Beeps or the spoken type of alert will be heard when you are approaching of these points.
  • Speed Limit Warning: Some maps may contain information about the speed limits of certain road segments. The AVIC-U280 provides an audible warning if you exceed the recommended speed limit.
Note: The unit will mute the audio of the other sources during navigation voice-prompts.

Where Am I? & Destination Search: The Where Am I? screen contains information about the current position (or approximately the last known position if GPS reception is not available) and a button to search for POIs and emergency assistance nearby. The Destination Search menu offers search tools to find your destination and play your route.

  • Browse Map: Select a point on the map for your destination by touching the screen.
  • Address: Input your destination address by house number, street, and city (or county).
  • POIs: Search over 7.9 million POIs (points-of interest) by name, near you current location, near your destination, or around a city.
  • Favorites (including Home & Work): You can save your favorite addresses and POIs for quicker access the next time you are traveling. You can also save your Home and Work address in your favorites.
  • History & Smart History: The places that you have set as destinations in the past are automatically stored for easier access. Smart History suggest these previously used locations as destinations based on your navigation habits, using parameters like the current time of day, the day of week, and the current location.
  • Combined Search: You can enter search keywords to find addresses, favorite places, recent destination, and POIs.
  • Coordinates: Allows you to search your destination by longitude and latitude values.
Note: Your vehicle must be stopped and the parking brake will need to be engaged to enable certain navigation functions; such as Address search and Coordinates.

Route Calculation: The Pioneer AVIC-U280 calculates your route based on your Vehicle Type, Route Method, and Avoidances.

  • Vehicle Type: You select what type of vehicle you are driving, so the navigation unit can determine the best route based on your vehicle type (Car, Bus, or Taxi).
    • Note: The route database does not contain all local restrictions for commercial vehicles.
  • Route Method: You can choose which route method (Fastest, Shortest, Green, Economical, or Easy) the navigation unit should use when calculating your route.
    • Fastest: give a quick route, if you can travel at or near the speed limit on all roads. Usually the best section for fast and normal cars
    • Shortest: gives a route that has the smallest total distance of all possible routes. It can be practical for slow vehicles
    • Economical: combines the benefits of Fast and Short; calculates as if it were calculating the Fast route, but it takes other roads as well to save fuel
    • Easy: results in a route with fewer turns and no difficult maneuvers
  • Avoidances: You can tell the navigation unit to avoid certain types of roads along your calculated route, such as - Highways, Tolls, Carpool/HOV, Unpaved Roads, and/or Ferries.

Route Planning: The Route Planner feature lets you built your route using the list of destinations you have chosen. You can modify the list as you like (adding or removing a destination (waypoint), changing a final destination, or setting a new starting position. The Itinerary page displays turn-by-turn instructions for your entire route and the distance between turns. You can preview all the route information and simulate travel along a projected route.

Modifying Route: You can select "Route Alternative" to see the turn-list and map screen of four routes (Fastest/Shortest/Economical/Easy) with the selected route planning parameters, giving you the option to select which route to take. You can also choose to Detour around the road ahead, avoid a specific road, or around a section of the route. If you depart from the original route, the navigation system recalculates the route and provides new directions.

Trip Monitor: The Trip Monitor contains useful information about your trip. This information can be saved manually when you reach your destination or automatically along your route. Trip log data includes; Start/End Time, Avg./Max. Speed, Total/Driving/Stopped Time, Total Distance, and Min./Max. Altitude.

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Customer Q&A

8 questions already asked

Q
How can I see my tow vehicle while driving?
linda  Jun 24, 2019
1 answer
A
Hi Linda, thanks for your question. The product that is linked to your question is a Pioneer Add-on GPS navigation module with built-in traffic information receiver. To discuss options for gaining the ability to view your tow vehicle while driving, chat with an Advisor online, or get in touch by phone at 1-800-324-9695. They will be happy to help.
jessica  Jul 02, 2019 (Staff)
Q
does pioneer have units that will function wit a 2017 chevrolet malibu hybrid dic (driver info center) that works with android auto or apple car play?
ronald  Aug 14, 2017
1 answer
A
You will want to contact an Advisor by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat to discuss compatibility with your factory system. They will be able to pull up your vehicle and see what items may integrate, and help you make the best choice for your system.
kenneth  Aug 14, 2017 (Staff)
Q
Does the AVIC-U280 output current elevation (above sea level) for display on the head unit?
jeff  Jun 23, 2017
1 answer
A
Yes: "The Pioneer AVIC-U280 allows you to view its on-screen map in a 2D (two-dimensional) or 3D (three-dimensional) view. 2D View displays a normal two-dimensional map with North or your direction at the top of map screen. Similar to paper road maps, the 2D mode, shows you streets, roads, and elevation by color. In 3D mode, your direction is at the top of the map screen and you can see the altitude and elevations differences. You can distinguish between valleys, mountains, and elevated roads. In selected cities 3D landmarks and 3D buildings are also displayed" You will find this information, and more, by clicking on the "Details" tab on module's main webpage. I hope that helps. My Bio: https://www.crutchfield.com/bio/Ryan
ryan  Jun 28, 2017 (Staff)
Q
i have the U280 with the AVH-4200NEX, works great just love it. The question I have, is there a way to get the clock displayed while navigating to a destination?Clock is displayed if in nav. mode and no destination is entered.
william  Jan 07, 2017
1 answer
A
If you purchased the product from Crutchfield, feel free to contact our Tech Support team. They can walk you through the settings on the product and see if there may be a fix. Our toll-free Tech Support number is printed on your invoice, and is also available under the "My Orders" tab in the "My Account" section of our website. If you did not purchase the unit from Crutchfield, then you may want to contact the manufacturer. You can also post your question in our forums: http://community.crutchfield.com. Or try our online support center: http://crutchfield.custhelp.com/app/answers/list/kw/.
kristina  Jan 09, 2017 (Staff)
Q
A lot of sources online say that the AVI-280 is plug an play. However, according to he manual, you have to ground the black wire and connect the yellow wire to power source. Is this something that is east to do? Or should I get this installed by a professional?
marco  Dec 18, 2016
1 answer
A
yes you have to connect the yellow to 12v, and ground the black, if you know how to put in radios, then its easy because its a standard thing.. battery 12v, not key switched 12v.
lamont  Dec 19, 2016
Q
Why does your site say the AVIC-U280 is not compatible with Pioneer AVH-X2600BT and the Pioneer site states that it is? Is it or is it not? Or should I just spend another $400.00 on a new head unit?
joseph  Aug 18, 2016
1 answer
A
I'm not sure what you mean. The AVH-X2600BT is listed as a compatible model for the AVIC-U280. "2014: AVH-4000NEX, AVH-X5600BHS, AVH-X4600BT, AVH-X3600BHS, AVH-X2600BT, and AVH-X1600DVD" You can view the compatibility list by clicking the "Details" tab on the AVIC-280's main webpage. I hope that helps. My Bio: http://www.crutchfield.com/Support/Bio.aspx?bio=5
ryan  Aug 20, 2016 (Staff)
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