Ok well im really bad with directions in my own city (vegas) let alone when I drive to visit my bf in LA (omg I get lost all the time)....so I was wondering if you guys would reccomend getting an aftermarket nav or having mazda install one on my 8 (I didnt get one when I got the car). Ive heard some good and bad things about the indash nav, but I just basically think it looks nicer since it can pop up and everything...and plus it can play DVD's if u get a video in right?

Is it possible to get an aftermarket nav that can also play DVD's and have it installed in the dash like that? Or am I stupid? RaWr someone help me

 

You might want to do a search as a similar topic was just brought up--but basically its like this-- Its tremendously expensive and work extensive to get the factory nav after purchase. The only option is to go via Mazmart to get one from a parted out 8--even still you'd need to have someone that knows what they are doing to install it. If you go via Mazda it could easily be much much more than the $2000 that it cost as an option. The aftermarket options are basically for you to get a hold of the nav equipped dash piece (if you can) and retrofit an aftermarket monitor--or you can get the JDM monitor holder (however it doesn't retract and involves cutting your top dash as well). If you want something more affordable you may want to go with a Garmin or Tom Tom portable unit. i'm thinking of doing that myself but I am thinking of cleaner install options.

 

Best option would probably be TomTom... As DreRX8 said, adding GPS to stock car is very hard. I would just get the TomTom, charge it, use it.

 

it's not a whole lot of work to get an entire aftermarket flip out screen where the stock radio is. but it will be very very expensive, and it's not exactly something the guys at your local best buy could pull off.