Venting on my Nissan

[VersaMitch]

I just wanted to take the time to get something off my chest about my Versa. I don't know if I'm the only one that feels like this about it or not. Let me know if anyone else hates it. Also, post any other problems that bother you that are factory set or uncontrolable.

I HATE WHEN I GET A CALL ON MY BLUETOOTH AND THE RADIO SAYS 'TELEPHONE.' WHY CAN'T IT JUST TELL ME THE NAME OR NUMBER?MY CELL PHONE HAS CALLER ID, WHY NOT MY 2007 NISSAN!!!!!

[Jemdawg]

It doesn't operate the same way that a cell phone does, it simply reads the transmission of a signal. If your car had caller ID, it would be much more sophisticated and more expensive.

[VersaMitch]

I guess I'm just coming from my sister-in-law has a Pacifica which has caller ID. Its a damn Chrysler and they have it.

[HirosRide]

I love my V but I must admit that the bluetooth chick is a bit daft, why does she adds zeros and other digits when I am telling her a # is beyond me, I like the bluetooth over all though, I just have to eNUNciate like krazy.

Recently I have deafened myself a few times, I really like the plug n play ipod jack but if my ipod goes dead, I switch to the radio or CD and BOOM , I'm deaf since the ipod has a much lower volume than the radio or CD. I hope I don't blow my speaker out, my ears are bleeding when it happens , guess I need to be more aware of what I'm doing.

[marleyfan]

I guess I'm just coming from my sister-in-law has a Pacifica which has caller ID. Its a damn Chrysler and they have it.

Yeah and the Pacifica starts at about $26000. How much did you pay for your Versa? What exactly were you expecting?

[VersaMitch]

So my Versa isn't as expensive as a Pacifica but the caller ID is most likely a programming issue. I'm pretty sure they could get that off of my cell phone signal. If not, why couldn't the name that I store into the local hard disk display. When I call, i.e. Ted, It should show Ted.

[KimberKenobi]

... do you have the volume all the way up on your iPod? I don't ever experience that problem...

[Greek.intuit]

In order to have all the features you would expect out of a $26,000 car you have to understand 3 things:

1. Bluetooth radios are EXPENSIVE. The fact that the Versa has bluetooth at all is AMAZING! There needs to be a separate processor that works constantly to monitor variations in the bluetooth signal, and to offer the name and number means that it would have to not only check the signal, but completely interface with your phone.

2. Most Bluetooth phones have interfaces that aren't designed for anything more than basic signal transfer between the phone and a wireless headset. Most older phones aren't even useable in the manner that ANY Bluetooth car receiver could read.

3. You have a car that retails lower NEW than a crappy American car goes for USED. Most crappy little Focus' cost more than the Japanese and European engineering you got with the Versa! Do you understand that you have the top of the line Compact model for the price of a Toyota Corolla with manual windows and no extraneous features?

Is it really that hard to press the answer button and fake bad reception if you don't want to talk to that person?

[IDParrothead]

Can't you just look at your phone?

[Ever Victorious]

Furthermore, let's be clear... your Bluetooth radio does NOT have a hard drive in it. Hard drives are expensive, and would hold WAY more data than your bluetooth phone could ever hope to use. Hard drives in vehicluar systems are reserved for the most expensive head units, like the $2000 Pioneer AM/FM/MP3/Satellite/6-disc in-dash DVD/Navigation unit with a 30GB drive.

Your phone pairing and phonebook data is stored in flash memory inside the head unit. This works almost identical to a thumb drive for a computer, except it's hard wired so it can't be removed or upgraded. Flash memory is just storage, it can't think. The processing power that is built into the BT/HU is used to create a synthetic voice to talk to you, and for voice recognition. (sidenote to Hirosride: Have you gone through the voice adaptation mode yet? That might help with extraneous digits)

These kinds of technologies may be plentiful and commonplace in, say, a desktop computer, but they are software apps in those cases. Here, you have to design a hardware substitute for a software program. Much trickier, much more expensive... which is why the Pacifica, one of Chrysler's technological flagships, has it while the V doesn't.

Now... that said... the technologies are going to very shortly become much less expensive as volumes pick up. It used to be that the only aftermarket stereo you could get with INTEGRATED bluetooth (not a separate module) was the Sony MEX-BT5000, which was what... $400 or $500? Expensive for an aftermarket HU. Sony has just released the MEX-BT2500, which is a more basic, less flashy unit, but still has integrated BT. It's $180. Expect similar aftermarket units from other manufacturers once they figure out "hey, people will like this."

[Ever Victorious]

Can't you just look at your phone?

Not always a good plan. Driving in rush hour traffic, reaching for the phone on my belt was dangerous. If it was in my pocket, it wasn't even possible to retrieve. Other people may store their phones out of arm reach completely.

[Greek.intuit]

Though I may have used the wrong term "Hard Drive" instead of "Flash memory" it does NOT mean that the processors are any different! Just because a stereo has an "integrated" bluetooth technology just means that you don't have to buy a separate attachment! There is still a great amount of work a stereo has to go through in order to fully utilize the memory in the actual phone itself. Think of it this way:

Under a fully modifiable memory system, you can change around the parameters of a saved file, modify sound, delete characteristics or transfer types, but, say, under a piece of saved information like a CD with different compression types (WMA, Mp3, WAV, WM Lossless, etc.) it takes a certain kind of processor just to READ the information.

Each cell phone is specialized based on level of quality, price bracket and manufacturer, but they are NOW being standardized.

Isn't it kind of stating the obvious by stating that the price of the technology WILL go down. It's not there YET.

[Deke40]

I love my V but I must admit that the bluetooth chick is a bit daft, why does she adds zeros and other digits when I am telling her a # is beyond me, I like the bluetooth over all though, I just have to eNUNciate like krazy.

You should try the procedure I mentioned in the following thread.

zerothread?id=238312

[Ever Victorious]

Under a fully modifiable memory system, you can change around the parameters of a saved file, modify sound, delete characteristics or transfer types, but, say, under a piece of saved information like a CD with different compression types (WMA, Mp3, WAV, WM Lossless, etc.) it takes a certain kind of processor just to READ the information.

Yup, and for each specialized task, there is a cost involved.

Quote »Isn't it kind of stating the obvious by stating that the price of the technology WILL go down. It's not there YET. [/quote]Just as obvious as using cost as an argument to begin with. Cost is always time-dependent with technology. At this point we are in the earlier stages of the practical application of the technology.

[VersaMitch]

Well, I wanted to start a thread to just have a place to complain, not get ridiculed.

Hey Ever Victorious, I'm in Renton. We should get some Versa meets started!

[GoodbyeCavalier]

I can tell by the ringer if its someone I want to talk to, even if I make a mistake and answer a call I dont want, I make it a short call and go about my business. Frankly I'm happy that it just has bluetooth, thats why I went a NEW Versa as opposed to a used focus, or some other entry level vehicle. Granted theres been a bump or too, but its a brand new model line. Someone has to break these suckers in.

[7speed]

I wonder what we all did before having a phone in the car was an everyday occurence. Are we really that dependent on being available at every single moment? Why not just turn your phone off when you get in the car, or ignore it if you're driving. If your phone has ID, call the person back at a red light, or even better, when you get to where you're going.

Just my opinion.

[Flame suit on]

[Slither]

I have not noticed this problem as I do not have a cell match for the tech pkg.And I was wary of component cost when out of warranty on the 60 month lease.

[KimberKenobi]

I wonder what we all did before having a phone in the car was an everyday occurence. Are we really that dependent on being available at every single moment? Why not just turn your phone off when you get in the car, or ignore it if you're driving. If your phone has ID, call the person back at a red light, or even better, when you get to where you're going.

Just my opinion.

[Flame suit on]

Ha! Here's my philosophy (and it really eats at my friends and family who expect that if you have a cell, you're always available...)

I have a cell so that *I* can contact others (if I'm late, if I've got a flat, if I need to pick up groceries and want to check on something... etc) I ignore and reject calls all the time... ;oD why? because if I don't feel like it, I don't have to respond to it.

But I love my SK (I had an original color SK) and it got me through college, told me when I had class, a meeting, work, etc. and without it? I would have forgotten or missed several things! I agree with 7 speed, we should not all be controlled by our phones but I don't care what you do as long as you don't hit somebody (esp. me) because you weren't paying attention ;oD

[Ever Victorious]

I wonder what we all did before having a phone in the car was an everyday occurence. Are we really that dependent on being available at every single moment? Why not just turn your phone off when you get in the car, or ignore it if you're driving. If your phone has ID, call the person back at a red light, or even better, when you get to where you're going.

Just my opinion.

[Flame suit on]

Well, for me, I may get re-routed mid-day, and it can make the difference between having a perfectly efficient route and wasting 50 or so miles that I won't get reimbursed for as a result.

[snwbrdraw]

Complaining about a Nissan on a Nissan Enthusiast forum probably won't get you much sympathy. It has been said that Nissan at least reads these posts but I suspect their are more than a few "official representatives" posting as well. Maybe it's just my inner conspiracy theorist mentality coming out but who knows.

In any case, I have to agree with your Bluetooth struggles. My V seemed to work great when I first got it but I think I made the bimbo inside my radio mad as she is ignoring what I say more and more. For instance recently I said, "Call, The Wife Mobile" and she responded, "Call, 1643#" or something like that. I've also noticed that sometimes when I try to make a call it will ring once or twice through the car then disconnect even though the phone itself keeps the line going. Seems to be when my phone displays, "3G" instead of the normal signal bars.

Anyone know WTF 3G means? You think it's my phone more than my V?

PS - Would it have killed Nissan to give us a couple voices to choose from?! I hate having to feel like I'm on some Phone Sex Line whenever I need to program a new number....

[Ever Victorious]

Would you really want your Nissan speaking back to you in a Borg voice?

[Best_Shot]

Hey guys, sorry to interrupt, but just to give some clarification on what you call Bluetooth radio in the Versa:The radio in the Versa has no Bluetooth in it. There is a separate control module for Bluetooth, and this control module has the voice recognition technology as well as the phone book. The radio is just a mere interface to show what mode you are listening to ("TELEPHONE") so you can use the audio speakers in the vehicle.To console some of the Versa owners, the Bluetooth control module in the Versa is same as the module in the the Quest, QX56, Maxima, Armada(?), at least the first few of these vehicles that have Bluetooth. And these vehicles cannot show phone numbers, too because of the Bluetooth module doesn't have that capabiltiy. But the next generation of Bluetooth will have that capability. I am not sure though if newer Versa will get this next generation. But look at the new Altima, it shows phone numbers :-)

[marleyfan]

Well, I wanted to start a thread to just have a place to complain, not get ridiculed.

We have no problem with complaints about the Versa if the complaints are reasonable. We could complain that it doesnt have HID's or heated seats or electric adjustable seats with memory or a thousand other things. You bought an entry level car. Be amazed that Bluetooth is even offered rather than complain that it doesnt have the same Blootooth as a car costing $10,000 more.

[geoliquid]

It's not amazing that the pig sings well. It's amazing that the pig sings at all.

[Clipsed]

We have no problem with complaints about the Versa if the complaints are reasonable. We could complain that it doesnt have HID's or heated seats or electric adjustable seats with memory or a thousand other things. You bought an entry level car. Be amazed that Bluetooth is even offered rather than complain that it doesnt have the same Blootooth as a car costing $10,000 more.

Complaining!!??? Especially about HID's!??? Bump that, that is why I have no complaint and am putting them in myself!!!

[calebu2]

You'd think they'd be able to do everything you asked for and still keep the costs low:

Jabra sells the following headset for under $150: http://www.jabra.com/JabraCMS/...T8010

It features:* Caller ID on an OLED screen* HSP/HFP profile* Optional stereo attachment for A2DP and AVRCP.

For under $250, Scosche sell a complete car solution: http://www.scosche.com/scosche...UBCKH

And Parrot are about to release a new in car option: http://www.engadget.com/2007/0...r-kit/

Given that the N02 intelligent key package on the Sentra is $250 MSRP and the convenience package on the versa is $700, either they are using italian leather on the steering wheel or they are seriously overpricing the bluetooth option vs the valid components.

Does anyone seriously believe that a $700 bluetooth option on a $15000 car should be any different from a $700 bluetooth option on a $26000 car? It's not as if the auto execs sit around saying "Hey, this car is is worth $20000 but we'd like to sell it for $26000. Lets blow $6000 on a state of the art bluetooth solution"

Anyway, we can't complain. Just ask any 2004 or earlier GM owner who found out that GM was stupid enough to put an Analog cell radio in their OnStar system. I thought people stopped making analog only cellphones shortly after the turn of the millenium. Wonder which auto manufacturer will be putting an 8 track into their latest model (Final aside: Why did it take me until 2007 to get my first car with a 6 CD changer - right at the point when I am trying to get rid of all my CDs?!)

[kc5f]

Does anyone seriously believe that a $700 bluetooth option on a $15000 car should be any different from a $700 bluetooth option on a $26000 car?

Well, yes, when our $700 "bluetooth option" also includes Intelligent Key, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, satellite radio pre-wiring and a leather-wrapped steering wheel!

[calebu2]

Well, yes, when our $700 "bluetooth option" also includes Intelligent Key, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, satellite radio pre-wiring and a leather-wrapped steering wheel!

Expanding on what I mentioned above:

Intelligent Key package: MSRP $295 in SentraSteering wheel mounted audio controls: Can't imagine they cost that much to add if you are creating the whole system in bulk. Lets assume they use "Monster Cables" and can get away with valuing the whole thing at $100. We'll ignore the fact that the steering wheel is already pre-wired for cruise control and can probably use much of the same wiring conduit.Satellite radio pre-wiring: If I were XM/Sirius, I would PAY Nissan to install the wiring and recoup the cost in the sales of the radio units or the subscription fees. Regardless, they did a good job of standardizing the interface on the stereo system, so what you are really paying for is a whole bunch of connector cables. I'm going to say you could charge $50 for that (You don't see any of it so you can use cheap radioshack parts from front to rear).Leather steering wheel cover: $45 from ShopSar

That still leaves me with $200 to play with and I've already factored in my retail markups on everything. If I can get an aftermarket mod that does more for the same price, why wouldn't Nissan be able to do the same think bulk?

Besides, I'm sure that you don't pay $700 for just the bluetooth on the $26,000 car either. I'm sure it's Bluetooth plus floor mats and rear bumper appliques (A $500 value).

[audtatious]

I'm sure they could in some aspects. There are a lot of things to be considered that have not been mentioned in this thread. Product availability in a large-scale to meet production requirements. Additional wiring and design on a vehicle that has been for sale for a number of years overseas. Further manufacturing changes within the plant. Additional tracking and option codes for dealers to work through. Warranty/maintenance of said products. Longevity of said products. And the big one: Percentage of people who are buying a entry-level economy car that wants full technology packages as seen in higher-end cars.