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A few years ago, my Garmin GPS units started displaying speed limits in a sign just like the typical speed limit sign. After a while, they modified the display of actual speed to turn red when you were above the displayed limit. So far the only locations that do not display ar RI and Canada -- also local roads.

I am considering new cars and test driving several. I seems to me that there is some value in a built in GPS. The loss is that you cannot move them to other cars. I even bring mine when I travel -- it is the first order of business when I get into my car rental. I will have already programmed important points into my unit at the location I am traveling to -- hotel, airport, car rental return, etc. But, I digress . . .

When testing cars I have noticed that -- so far -- none display the speed limit.

Built in units seem to cost around $2,000 and competent portables average $200 -- a 10 to 1 factor!

Is that hard to do?

I find it more valuable than a radar detector.

Your thoughts on this please.

Bill Gargan

My only thought on the built-ins is how do you update the maps? You can't exactly connect your car to the net to download updates?

If the built-in breaks, you're up for a huge repair bill. If the standalone breaks you buy a new one.

There are lots of ways they can be updated. Older systems use DVDs -- so you just put in new DVDs and the maps are updated. Newer systems can be accessed by the technicians using standard or proprietary ways of connecting. I suppose it is just like having a USB connections.

The built in ones don't "break" -- but, like any computer, the operating system or software might need to be reloaded. They reboot every time you start the car.

Bill

Have you test driven any Chrysler or Dodge vehicles yet? I test drove a Dodge several months back. They started giving me the pitch about built in navigation. I told them that I prefer Garmin. They then told me that their built in system IS Garmin!

http://www8.garmin.com/pressroom/mobile/012805.html

http://www.dodge.com/en/2011/durango/interior/sound/

Thanks! I am looking at convertibles. The 200 is just a rework of the Sebring -- which was pretty crappy. Consumer Reports has an unfavorable opinion . . .

Bill

Dig out the 76 and set the Trip Computer page to Big Numbers. All three lines can be set to Speed, so you can't miss it even at a fast glance. Ideal for a main unit, or a backup when you find what you want.
I still like my older Garmin 60's and Magellans better than the newer units.