2010 FJ Cruiser Strange Dash Connection?

Velocity · 11-04-2009, 10:44 PM

Hello, I am new to the forum and it is wonderful to have access to theis wealth of resources. I have a question that I hope someone may be able to answer. I have a new 2010 FJ and on the top of the dash on the driver's side is a pop-up lid that has a small interface connector in it.

Could someone please tell me what that recessed box and connection is for? I assume is may be for some aftermarket accessories such as GPS etc but I would like to know what accessories it is designed for and if there is a special cable and plug for it. Thanks very much for any help!

**RoverGGM** · 11-04-2009, 10:47 PM

Did your options listing include a GPS?

Velocity · 11-04-2009, 10:54 PM

Hello, no, it had all of the special packages including back-up camera but no built-in GPS. Do you have to order a specific GPS kit or can you adapt others such as Garmin? Thank you much.

RLG · 11-04-2009, 11:12 PM

Quote:

RoverGGM previously said:

Did your options listing include a GPS?

I just ordered one of these kits and have not recived yet. Has anyone installed this unit yet?

Sh!tyThePirate · 11-04-2009, 11:52 PM

Quote:

RLG previously said:

I just ordered one of these kits and have not recived yet. Has anyone installed this unit yet?

I'm surprised people can stand it to be honest, the FJ's windshield isn't that tall to begin with, with that compartment open, it's pretty friggin' distracting, even without a GPS system there. For the price alone, your almost better off buying a headunit w\ GPS built in.

**RoverGGM** · 11-05-2009, 07:07 AM

Quote:

Velocity previously said:

Hello, no, it had all of the special packages including back-up camera but no built-in GPS. Do you have to order a specific GPS kit or can you adapt others such as Garmin? Thank you much.

It only works with the Garmin Quest II

sp0811 · 11-05-2009, 07:43 AM

If you have already purchased the Toyota GPS (Toyota version of Garmin Quest II), I'm sorry. You will be very disappointed. The Toyota version is very limited by the firmware Toyota supplies and refuses to provide updates. Don't bother trying to update through Garmin, I exhausted all possible resources.

If you paid Toyota prices for this unit, I am really sorry. You can get the same Toyota boxed units (same as from the dealer) for less than $200 on eBay. These include the dash insert, GPS unit and wiring harness.

If you are determined to use the dash box, I would suggest buying the insert/GPS on eBay. Then give the Toyota GPS to you kid and buy the real Garmin GPS Quest II (again, much cheaper on eBay). This is a very simple install. Should not take more than one hour. Directions are good. Do a thread search for some member suggestions and tips.

As mentioned by ThePirate, your best option is to install a better GPS unit in a different location. I installed the dash unit before doing the research and while the real Quest II is sufficient and the dash install is not distracting in any way, I quickly realized that I had made a rookie mistake.