GPS / Navigation Options On 2023 4Runner SR5?

I have a new (to me) 4Runner SR5 that has no navigation app installed, but clearly must have GPS in it. Can someone point me to a concise (like I was 5 years old) explanation of what my options are to get something in place? I'm seeing a lot of marketing fluff that points to seemingly nowhere. Any help would be appreciated!

 

Same truck here. I have an iPhone and use CarPlay (despite the wired connection,) and then whatever app tickles the fancy in the moment. Google Maps, Apple Maps, TrailsOffroad, Onx, etc...

It would be Android Auto for an Android phone.

Your truck should have navigation though, even if it's not a selectable app. But it's been a while since I used it...

 

You could try any of three routes:

1. Plug your smartphone into the usb port on the dash and use Car Play or android auto with the navigation on your phone.

2. You could get a stand alone GPS and mount it on your dash. Garmin is my favorite brand. They can be had with a built in dash cam, traffic info, and lifetime map updates.

3. You could investigate with the dealer the possibility of having the navigation app installed. Don’t take no for an answer because the service manager is more likely to say “it can’t be done” than “we don’t know how.”

 

I like that option 3. I've bought four cars from these guys, he had better say yes.

Thanks for the feedback!

 

Does the SR5 come with the same head unit as the other trims and just doesn't have everything installed and enabled? If so, Option 3 should be viable.
Also, does it have the hard "Map" button? Using Nav would be a bit less convenient without it.

 

Yep, that is exactly the situation. I'm leaning on the sales manager now, he's a pretty good guy to work with. Our wives work for the same organization too, hoping that helps. Fingers crossed!

 

My daughter had an SR5 and when the map button was pressed a message came up that said “App not installed.”

 

That's exactly what happens on mine.

 

Does it have the "shark fin" antenna?

 

Yes, it does. I assume that's the GPS antenna?

 

I believe the navigation has its own antenna under the dashboard.

 

My bad. That's not the GPS antenna. Sorry for the confusion.


Maybe this link will help:

https://www.jdpower.com/cars/shopping-guides/how-do-you-install-the-navigation-app-on-a-toyota

 

So, in going to that link (thank you for that, by the way), the first thing I noticed is that the Entune app is no longer in the Apple Store. That kinda halts the process, as it seems to be the backbone of the whole shebang. Does anybody know where one could get the Entune app, or whether installing navigation will even work on a 2023 4Runner? Thanks.

 

I really liked having a GPS unit near a-pillar and let family take over the headunit fighting over what music to play.






Even on my new 4Runner I use the phone on a-pillar and let family play with the headunit for music. I don't use Android Auto or Apple Car play as I have faced some glitches. I have both on daily basis, Android is my personal choice where managing gps and other stuff are much easy. Anyways I was thinking of a used Garmin Overlander GPS for my new 4Runner. Haven't decided yet. If my phone can have all USA offline map I don't need a GPS unit.

 

Entune is gone (partially subsumed into the Toyota App) I don't think the '23 head unit SW is compatible with previous Entune capabilities in any case. I'm pretty sure a dealer is the easiest way forward.

 

Yes, this is going to be your most productive path.

 

So after talking to the manager in Service at my dealership (a guy I trust -- been working there 20+ years and really knows his chit), it's pretty clear that the head unit in my truck will not accept the navigation app that's in the higher trim levels. My options are upgrading the whole sound system, or using CarPlay to get navigation help through apps on my phone. So, it is what it is. That's what I'm gonna do.

So for now I'm just adding accessories to make it mine... Husky mats all around, WeatherTech wind deflectors, and a raft of small upgrades like stereo and climate control knobs, etc. Might even put the front grille lights in too. Oh -- and better headlight bulbs! Thanks for all the helpful comments, I appreciate it!

 

I'm sorry to hear that. You're not missing much. The only thing I think the Toyota nav does better Google Maps is display services for the next couple exits on the highway.

 

I believe you had to purchase the Premium trim for either the SR5 or Off-Road to get the GPS receiver and magnometer (compass).

 

You just need the “premium audio” package (I think that’s the name). My SR5 has it and it includes 3 years of a Nav subscription. Package costs $1500 which sucks but it is what it is. I dont even use mine since I prefer Waze through apple CarPlay.

 

I've seen people sell their factory JBL head unit before because they were audiophiles and wanted better. That's another possible option.

 

That what it is supposed to do. The map button selects the nav feature once you connect to your phone. Most vehicles don't have internal nav installed any more. It would get expensive for the DVD to update mams every year. AA and Carplay give you the latest internet updated maps. You can convert your phone connection to wireless to avoid the cords. We have this in our 2020 and never had an issue with it.

https://www.bestbuy.com/site/motoro...Vs69aBR3HugaOEAQYAiABEgLNNfD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

 

The 4Runner does.

 

So after using CarPlay for a few days, I'm pretty satisfied with it. Does the things I need so far. I'm working now on how to (or if I can) add more apps to the screen menus on it, or if it's capped at some number, etc. Not a Siri fan but it's helpful when I'm driving.

Thanks for all the suggestions here, I'm looking for the wireless option now and I think I'm pretty good without the Toyota nav package.

 

This has worked beautifully for me in my Tacoma and 4Runner.

Wireless CarPlay - Wired CarPlay Convert Cars Wireless CarPlay，Wireless CarPlay Adapter，Apple CarPlay Wireless Adapter，Wireless Fast and Easy Use Fit for Cars from 2016&iPhone iOS 10+(Black)

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0BR3JBNQB?ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title

 

Ah, interesting. And how is the latency? Any lag or gaps in the service?

 

when you first turn on the vehicle it takes about 15 seconds to connect and show up on the screen. I can count on one hand the number of times in the last 18 months that I’ve had to unplug the adapter because it wouldn’t connect. It’s really been great. I also got a 90° usb adapter so it’s tucked away and you don’t even really see it.