How to Create Your Own GM Navigation Disc: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you tired of shelling out hundreds or even thousands of dollars for an original navigation disc from General Motors (GM) every time your current one becomes damaged or simply reaches the end of its lifespan? Well, fret no more! With a little know-how and some basic tools, creating your own GM navigation disc is easier than ever.

In this article, we'll walk you through each step required to create an exact replica of your factory-installed navigation system. Whether you're looking for cost savings or simply want the satisfaction of taking matters into yourself, follow along as we show you how!

Materials Needed:

- A working GM vehicle with a navigation system

Step 1: Extracting Your Navigation Data

To begin the process of creating your own navigation disc, you'll need to extract all necessary data from your existing factory-installed unit. For this step, we recommend disconnecting both battery terminals as a precautionary measure.

Using an assortment wrench or Torx screwdriver (depending on make and model), carefully remove any plastic trim pieces covering the dashboard console beneath your steering column. Look for two large screws securing the navigation head assembly in place; use a Phillips head driver to loosen these completely before gently pulling it away from its mounting bracket.

Once you've gained access inside, locate the black rectangular housing containing both the hard drive and memory card slots (usually located on top or right-hand side). Carefully pry this housing open using a plastic spudger or credit card while being mindful not to damage any surrounding components. Remove all cables connecting these devices together before pulling them out of their respective sockets.

Step 2: Copying Your Navigation Data

Now that you've successfully extracted your navigation data, it's time to copy everything onto an external storage device (such as a USB drive or SD card). This step is crucial since losing any part of the information could render your new disc unusable. Use specialized software specifically designed for this purpose – such as Navitel Map Reader or iGO MyDrive – to transfer all relevant data from your original navigation hard drive onto an empty flash memory device.

Step 3: Formatting Your New Navigation Disc

With your copied data safely stored on a separate storage medium, it's now time to format the new blank disc ready for installation into your vehicle. Use the same software used in Step 2 (such as Navitel Map Reader or iGO MyDrive) but this time select 'Format Device' instead of 'Transfer Data.' Follow any prompts displayed during formatting until completion is indicated by a green LED light on both the computer and navigation unit.

Step 4: Installing Your New Navigation Disc

With your new, factory-identical navigation disc now ready to go, it's simply a matter of reversing the steps taken earlier. Reinsert all cables into their respective sockets while ensuring that each cable is properly seated before gently pushing them back together until they click securely in place.

Finally, reverse the process used in Step 1 by reattaching everything you removed along with any plastic trim pieces or coverings using a Phillips head driver for screws and Torx or Allen wrenches depending on your specific vehicle's requirements. Start up your engine and enjoy driving around town knowing that you've just saved yourself hundreds of dollars compared to buying an authentic GM navigation disc!

In conclusion, creating your own GM navigation disc may seem like an intimidating task at first glance; however, with patience, attention to detail, and the right tools (which can be easily sourced online), anyone can achieve this impressive feat. By following these simple steps outlined above – from extracting data through installation – you'll not only have saved yourself a pretty penny but also gained valuable hands-on experience working beneath your vehicle's dashboard console.

So next time you find yourself in need of replacing an old or damaged navigation disc, don't reach for the wallet just yet! Instead, roll up those sleeves and give this DIY project a try – your pocketbook (and sense of accomplishment) will thank you!

References:

- GM Navigation System Owners Manual

- Available online through official General Motors websites

Create gm navigation disc