Does Toyota use Garmin?

No, Toyota does not use Garmin for its in-vehicle navigation systems. Toyota has developed its own proprietary navigation and infotainment systems for its vehicles.

Toyota's Navigation and Infotainment Systems

Toyota's in-vehicle navigation and infotainment systems are branded as "Toyota Entune" and "Toyota Audio Multimedia". These systems are designed and developed by Toyota's own engineering teams, rather than using third-party navigation providers like Garmin.

The Toyota Entune system was first introduced in 2012 and has since been updated and expanded to include features like voice recognition, app integration, and real-time traffic updates. The newer Toyota Audio Multimedia system, launched in 2021, offers enhanced graphics, wireless smartphone integration, and cloud-based services.

Why Toyota Doesn't Use Garmin

There are a few key reasons why Toyota has opted to develop its own navigation and infotainment systems rather than partnering with Garmin or another third-party provider:

• Customization and Integration: By developing its own systems, Toyota can tightly integrate the navigation and infotainment features with the rest of the vehicle's electronics and design. This allows for a more seamless and tailored user experience.


• Branding and Control: Using proprietary systems allows Toyota to maintain full control over the branding, user interface, and feature set of its in-vehicle technology. This aligns with the company's focus on providing a distinctive Toyota driving experience.


• Data and Analytics: Owning the navigation and infotainment systems gives Toyota access to valuable user data and analytics, which can inform future product development and enhancements.

While Garmin is a leading provider of standalone navigation devices, Toyota has chosen to develop its own in-house solutions to better meet the needs and expectations of its customers.

Do Toyota cars have GPS trackers?

Yes, many newer Toyota models have GPS tracking through their Connected Services plans, such as Safety Connect and Remote Connect, which allow owners to locate their car's last parked location via the Toyota app. For stolen vehicles, the Safety Connect service can also provide a stolen vehicle locator that works with the police. The ability to track your car depends on the model, trim, and whether you have a paid subscription to these services.
 
How it works

• Last Parked Location: You can find your car's last known location in the Toyota app by using the "Find" tab or Remote Connect feature. This requires a compatible model and an active subscription. 
• Stolen Vehicle Locator: If your car is stolen, you can report it to the police and have them work with Toyota's Safety Connect service to track the vehicle's location. This service is available on select models with an LTE network and an active subscription. 
• Data Consent: You must give Toyota consent to use your vehicle's precise location through the Toyota app for these services to work. 

Important considerations

• Subscription required: Most connected features require a paid subscription to services like Safety Connect or Remote Connect. 
• Vehicle availability: The availability of these features depends on your specific Toyota model, trim, and year. Some models may require a higher trim level or have different service names. 
• Manual tracking device: Some users have found separate GPS tracking devices installed by the dealership, which are often for inventory tracking and not part of the official Toyota services, say Reddit and Facebook users. 

Does Toyota use Garmin navigation?

Subscription Questions
For Toyota vehicles with Garmin navigation, map updates are included for a certain period of time at no cost.

What navigation app does Toyota use?

Toyota uses a subscription-based navigation system called Drive Connect which includes cloud-based navigation and voice assistance. For older models or those with different systems, it may also offer the app-based Scout GPS Link or allow users to use Android Auto or Apple CarPlay to mirror smartphone navigation apps like Google Maps or Apple Maps on the car's display. 
Toyota's primary navigation system

• Drive Connect: This is Toyota's current, integrated, and subscription-based service.
  • It provides cloud-based navigation with features like real-time traffic, live agent assistance, and an intelligent virtual assistant activated by saying "Hey Toyota".
  • This service replaces the previous Dynamic Navigation platform. 

Older or alternative navigation options

• Scout GPS Link: This was a previous navigation app that used your smartphone's data to provide navigation on the car's display via Bluetooth. 
• Smartphone mirroring: If your Toyota has Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, you can connect your smartphone to use navigation apps like Google Maps or Apple Maps directly on the car's infotainment screen. 

What cars use Garmin?

Garmin Automotive OEM provides a variety of hardware and software solutions to leading automobile manufacturers such as BMW Group, Ford, Honda, Mercedes-Benz®, Nissan, Toyota, Geely, Kawasaki and Yamaha Motor.