So I wanna install an in-dash nav into my 2011 HHR. Not sure if I wanna go with the Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD or the JVC KW-NT810HDT. I wanna know, how difficult is it to install? My knowledge of electrical work is pretty basic, it looks easy enough.

 

Sounds cool but WOW 1200$,, I use my Garmin. advantage I can update anytime I want Take it out of the car anytime , and use it in any car I want,, Not sure how you update the maps on the built ins.. As for the install it should be fairly basic, You need a HHR wiring adapter for the Radio/GPS I assume like other units, 1 side is the radio the other has the socket for the HHR , power , speakers etc,, Then a dash adapter that fit radio to HHR dash
If you go that route post pics and instructions,Im sure other wpuld be interested. Good luck

Rich

 

Why a nav only device? For a lot less an Android smart phone with Google Maps & Nav (free) does the job. Personally I have 2 Android phones (work Android 2.1, personal Android 4.0) a laptop mounted on a stand in the passenger area with M$ Streets & Trips, Delorme Street Atlas, and can tether to either of the Androids to get a nice big map of my choice off the internet.

I have way more technology than I want, but I can't imagine installing a "does one thing" device. The price of tablets that can tether to a smart phone is really low. There are apps to make tethering work on almost all carriers, even the ones that don't allow it.

Use it for manifests, logs, maps, nav, sounds (I load audio books onto the harddrive), email, text and the occasional movie (while parked).

 

The new head units really do it all, nav, backup camera, tv, bluetooth, music, any flavor. I like using my portable 7" nav better. With it up on top you can see the map and keep an eye on the road.

 

I installed a Pioneer X950BH unit that has GPS, plays videos and MP3s and interacts with my iPhone very well such as internet radio or traffic on the GPS map. I had to get an integration module, antenna adapter and also an additional Pioneer cable so I could use my on-star and steering wheel controls and such. The ability to load up a thumb drive with a couple of thousand songs and a hundred or more music videos is great! With the integration module it was plug and play and the hardest part is cutting the back of the box the stereo sits in so the cables are not squished but since the adapter bolts to the front like a stock unit does, all was well.

 

go with a Pioneer!

 

I want to make a new dashboard.
throw out an old box, instead insert 7 "android navigator + bluetooth + WiFi
Paint in the color of the main panel. Today, even bought some stuff :)
Now it remains to find the time period to make plans.

 

I looked at Best Buy today, I see the units run from 500/700$ Way better then I thought they would be! Now you have me thinking lol