2006 Avalon Navigation Update

[mmlcrx]

I have an early 2006 model Avalon with a 5.1 DVD in the navigation system.

A couple of questions:
. How do I find out what "generation" navigation system I have. (this is not the touch screen type"
. Where is the DVD located? I can't find a slot to remove it on the dash.
. Is the update DVD the same for all generations in the Toyota/Lexus familly? or do I need a specific one matched to this unit.

Thanks

[LifeTech]

Check inside trunk and under front seats for the Nav. ECU Map DVD loader.
I have the same version Map DVD. (06 Highlander) Mine is loaded under the Driver Seat. Accessible by moving seat forward and ejecting it like a PC DVD rom. Get a flashlight and look closely.
Yu must pop off a plastic cover then press the eject button.

LT

[mmlcrx]

Thanks - I found it in the trunk.
Is there a single MAP DVD that works with all of them - or is the map DVD specific to the model unit? I noticed that some Toyota / Lexus cars have a touch screen and mine has the swing out button panel.

ALso - do the new MAP DVD's also provide enhanced voice recognition? I found a whole list of "commands" for 2007 / 2008 Toyotas beyond those available on the system I have.

It's amazing that the garmin, TomTom units are pocket sized with multi-gigabyte smart cards and this thing is the size of a VCR recorder with less features.

[kbouter]

Another way is to access the GPS service menu:

Accept the initial warning first, then you follow the steps below.

1. Press "Menu" button
2. Select "DVD", this will show you the version of the DVD.
3. In the joystick, press the arrows in this sequence.
a. Up
b. Down
c. Up
d. Down
e. Left
f. Right
4. You should now have the "Service" menu on the screen.
5. Go to the Version button & read the info there.
6. Go to the Disc Info button & read the info there.
7. By the way, if you go to override and HOLD the select button down until it changes color, you can use the GPS while driving.
6. Press the "Back" button

This will allow you to enter addresses while driving and all other options normally grayed out. The procedure must be repeated every time you start the car, but it only takes a few seconds.

[jimhuey]

I have a 2008 Avalon with the nav system. It does have a long list of voice commands.
I wish some of them would work. The voice recognition system is USELESS.

[amaury]

I speak English with a heavy foreing accent, yet I have no complaints about the voice recognition software albeit it misses my commands every once in a while (I blame it to my accent, I think). And I use it a lot both for guidance and phone calls.

Amaury Garcia
'08 Limited