Garmin on the Left

[JimD]

BMW sells an installation kit to put a Garmin on the right side of the instrument cluster on the dash. I've used it for several years and posted about my installation in the DIY section. I decided I wanted my nuvi on the left side instead so I made my own bracket. What do you think?

[Sylon]

I think it'll be easier for a thief to reach in and snag it. Just remember to lock it away all the time.

[GaryS]

That's nice. I think it's easier to see and use in that position. Mine sits there on a Garmin beanbag mount when I'm using it.

[Errowen]

I bought a new 2012 135I in October. Most of the inventory of the lot did not have the Navigation package -- surprised me, both that it was an option and that so many vehicles would have been ordered without it.

I test drove a non-Nav 135is with the BMW Garmin installation kit on the right of the binnacle, done by dealer for an employee. Garmin tended to vibrate quite a bit on idle and at low speed, making reading impossible. I suspect mounting on the left of binnacle would improve rigidity -- less flex at edges of dash.

[RoundelM3]

I put the Garmin in the same location on both of my cars - had the power cable/traffic antenna run down through the edge of the dashboard and connected to a lighter plug extension cable under the dash that was then connected to the fusebox - preferred not to cut the plug off. I like it here because it's behind the registration/inspection stickers and doesn't block outward vision. Also, no dangling cables and so forth. No problems with theivery because I always put the windows up when leaving the car.

[Dackelone]

Jim can you post some pics on How to remove the instrument hood/cover? I see that come up time and time again when they want to R&R the instrument gauges. Maybe make a DIY IF you still have some pics on your install. ?


Thanks,
Dackel

[JimD]

I had some pictures in this thread on my previous installation on the right:

http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showt...ht=garmin+nuvi

The last picture shows me pulling out one of the two screws that holds the gauge cluster in place. You still have to pry a bit with a plastic prybar after you pull the screws. Then there are 4 screws, 2 of which are visible in the next to last picture above to pull the hood off. All are torx.

Also if you are interested, there are several more pictures in the pdf in my first post as well as some potentially useful commentary. My pictures through the windshield didn't come out this time but some of the interior pictures may help a bit too.

Jim