What's involved in upgrading a non-nav optioned 997 with the stock Porsche Nav system on the PCM? Am I correct to assume it's only a matter of purchasing and connecting the Nav module/DVD player and corresponding DVD? Approx $3K? Installation requirements?

 

Yes, $3K is about right.

Do a search, someone asked about this not long ago.

 

I seem to recall figures around $2500 in other posts.

They retrofitted it to my sister's 997 Targa w/o trouble after it arrived without nav. There was no additional charge in her case.

 

I asked about this a couple of years ago and I was told it was a simple install. But the module costs a fortune, and if you ask around, you'll hear most people tell you it isn't worth it. I ended up buying a 300 dollar Garmin system that I keep in the center console. It works great, and I can use it on business trips with rentals too.

 

Very true and I already have a Nuvi from my 996, just hated putting it up/taking it down and having to deal with extra "parts". The Garmin certainly is a cost effective and versitile little a option.

 

I agree 100% with using a Garmin. I take mine with me if I need Nav, because the factory Nav in my 2005 C2S is such a pain to use. I don't like the data input, and I don't like the map display as much as the Garmin (Nuvi 350 is great). I have it mounted on my C55 right beside A-pillar so it won't block view, and just route the power wire under trim so there is only about 3" visible. Save the money on a Porsche Nav system and buy a PSE or something more useful.

 

It also just dawned on me that it is rumored that the next PCM will be a touch screen system that will possibly be out later this year. I suppose retrofitting the new system will also be possible.

 

I started typing that as well, and then I realized that at the very least you would need a new pcm screen. I'm assuming that won't be a cheap retrofit. It's definitely worth waiting to find out, though, particularly if you already have a Nuvi in the meantime.

 

I opted out of the nav as well, as I generally only use nav less than 5% of the time I'm in the car, I'm gonna get the garmin. The new ones come w/ bluetooth also, so maybe I can even save on the tooki!

 

I had a similar set up in my 996. Like the left pillar position you've set up, but tough for a "righty" to input/navigate... Hope your a south paw!

 

Nope, I'm a righty. But for major input functions, I simply unsnap it from the bracket, do my thing, then snap it back in again (usually before I hit the road). With addresses etc. saved, it is easy to access them with a few screen touches. Simple navigation of the menus is not difficult with my left hand.