You can also download a pdf of the In-Dash Navigation Installation Guide. Note: To view this file, you will need the Adobe Acrobat PDF reader (free download).

There are several different types of navigation systems available, including in-dash DVD receivers with built-in monitors and navigation capability, remote-mount (or component) DVD-ROM systems, and portable plug-and-play navigation pieces. This installation guide focuses specifically on installing in-dash and remote-mount navigation systems, and the special wiring connections need to be made.

Plug-and-play portables require minimal installation — most come with suction-cup mounts that attach to the windshield and a cigarette lighter adapter for power. Simply follow the few simple instructions in the owner's manual and you'll be set.

In-dash, remote-mount, and certain plug-and-play navigation systems require mounting a GPS antenna. It can be placed in the car, on the rear deck, for example. However, for optimum performance, it should be mounted outside the vehicle. In this regard, it installs just like satellite radio antennas. Please see our satellite radio installation guide and our satellite radio antenna installation video for help.

For our purposes, you'll need to be able to do four things: find and make a connection to the vehicle's speed sensor, find and make a connection to the reverse light, install the DVD-ROM drive, and make all the power and audio/video connections. (If you're not connecting the DVD-ROM drive to an in-dash receiver with a monitor, you'll need an external monitor. Front-seat external monitors usually come with adjustable mounting brackets; their owner's manuals feature mounting details.)