Sat Nav in 2001

The AVC-LAN protocol carries commands and status between the cluster buttons, touch screen, and nav unit; the display accepts component video and a sync signal, and the left audio channel gets hooked for the voice guidance. You can see the connection details in the wiring diagram manual. The AVC-LAN protocol isn't documented all that well.

In the service manual volume 1 you can read about the AVC-LAN diagnostics available to you at the multifunction display. Perhaps you'll find out the problem is something simple.

If you decide you need to replace the nav unit, look around this forum for posts by mlibanio, who has lots of information about what nav units from what models can be drop-in replacements for the original (some with upgraded functionality compared to what came in the car).

-Chap

 

Hi there, Russel, it appears you have a faulty DVD drive. This is extremely common on Generation 3 units. Often its either the drive that goes, or the motherboard lamination that just falls apart. I have a replacement unit from a Gen 3 unit I have lying around. Not to worry that it is a North American Drive, the units are precisely the same, only the Firmware loading files are different. Otherwise, the internal parts are identical. PM me, and we can discuss pricing. I will ship to Australia no problem.

God I miss Brisbane so much. I was there for a month, and it was sensational. I stayed at the Felix Hotel, and it was quite possibly the best accommodations in all my years of travelling around the world. And at least the speed limits are flexible. I actually got a ticket from a speed camera for doing 5 km/h over the limit, and they actually mailed it to Canada while I was swooshing along the Gold Coast. My next stop, Melbourne and Perth, maybe next year.

 

Oh, and in case you are wondering where the Firmware file comes from, it is off your existing Navigation DVD. When the disc first spins up, the unit verifies the loaded DVD Firmware, with the existing Hardware Firmware. If they sync up, then the unit starts up right away. If I put an Australian Disc in my car, then it would say Wrong Disc, then I would go into the LOADING menu in the Diagnostic function and change it to AUS-BL-TY, and the system would load up perfect. But because the Drive has failed and the Motherboard is fine, the process of replacement is extremely easy, and you don't have to worry about doing any of these steps. I have done it before without issue. I look forward to answering any further questions you may have.

Your new friend,

Matthew