Does anyone know if I can retrofit a factory nav into my 05,1SA(2LT)?
If so what do I need to do, extra parts etc?
Any help would be greatly appreciated!

 

Question has been asked many times but I don't recall somebody posting a "I did it" thread.

From what I've gathered, if you have Bose then you are supposed to have everything you need in the harness. If you have non-Bose apparently that doesn't have VSS so that would have to be connected. Then you have to put in a GPS antenna and hook that in because they do not install that in every car. Then you have to get Tech II programming done by your dealer to enable it in the computer system.

And then after you have done all that? You get a really mediocre NAV system. I have an '06 with factory NAV on a 3LT vert. The only reason it's still there (and there in the first place) is because of HUD integration. Some day I will likely get over that "wow" feature and move to an aftermarket head. The NAV ain't bad from the factory, but for the money you'd spend to do what I described above you could have a REALLY nice aftermarket setup and get options you flat out can't get from the factory setup without jumping through more hoops. iPod interface (I know, it's coming at some point from GM), Bluetooth integration, DVD playback, reverse camera, etc.

I just bought a new Avalanche and having learned my lesson with the Vette I got the lowest level stereo I could get for the trim package I wanted and I will do aftermarket all the way.

My 2 cents.

 

I have the GM base unit, it does not have the 6 disc changer built in and from what I gather so far that means it is not Bose. I do not have Bose speakers.
I have also heard that the 6 disc head is not Bose, just the speakers are.
The jury is still out on this for me, maybe you can enlighten me further on this?
VSS?????
TIA



I just noticed your in Blue Bell! I grew up in Upper Dublin. My companies Philadelphia HQ is in Blue Bell

 

None of the C6 head units are Bose. I believe the base radio and possibly the 6 disc changer are built by Siemens, the NAV unit is built by Denso. The amplifier and speakers are Bose branded. If it's Bose there will be a Bose logo on the bottom pf the door speaker grilles.

VSS = Vehicle Speed Signal. This signal helps the NAV determine the car's location more precisely. Without that signal the NAV location can be way off.

I really do strongly recommend an aftermarket unit. The aggravation and expense of a factory unit isn't worth it. Since you're local once the salt clears you're welcome to come down some time and check out the factory NAV in my vert. By then I may even have an aftermarket installed in my truck so you can get a comparison, or at least check out the Garmin portable that we share amongst our family and is in my truck for now.

With the correct prep work, installing an aftermarket head is probably no more than a couple of hours work and will look great. Check out the double din units from Eclipse and Pioneer, and I know there are a few folks here that have Kenwoods they're pleased with. I'm trying to wait for the new Alpine IVA-W205 that's due in May for my truck.