TMC Final

[robert997]

PGB are not going to upgrade the PCM. There is a standard comment now, see below. Got some members taking legal action, and some getting free upgrade by complaining to their supplying OPC, and there is still the discounted offer at Solihull OPC. Needless to say I don't agree with their story or comment or conclusion. I can't say what I really think but I am disappointed to put it lightly... Rob
From PGB:

Porsche has made the Traffic Messaging Channel (TMC) service an integral
part of the satellite navigation system within the Porsche Communication
Management (PCM) offer on the whole model range from model year 2006. This
means that any vehicle sold within this model year, which includes the PCM
system will incorporate this additional functionality as standard. For
vehicles built and sold within Model year 2005, a navigation update is now
available , incorporating a number of enhancements, including;

- A detailed system and map update to provide even more accurate navigation
- Coverage of Additional Countries
-The Additional facility of destination input using partial postcode entry
-TMC functionality

The Update is available through Porsche Tequipment at a total cost of
£492.16

The update includes two disks which operate as a software upgrade, enabling
each of these enhancements. In terms of the TMC option, the software
providers have a license from the Government for the UK to provide this
service and retail licences on a "per Application" basis. The cost of the
update therefore includes this license which enables TMC functionality.

On the basis that TMC did not form part of the product offering in Model
Year 2005 in the UK, Porsche Cars Great Britain have no legal obligation to
supply this functionality free of charge. No customers contracted to buy
PCM incorporating TMC functionality during this model year.

For Pan European literature, there is a clear statement to indicate that
specifications relate to the German market and country specifications
should be confirmed at that point of order.

TMC is a public service in some European countries and will therefore be
operational in Model year 2005 vehicles where PCM is specified with
satellite navigation, in those countries.

Whilst I appreciate that this response may be met with a certain degree of
disappointment, I hope that you are able to appreciate our position in this
matter.

 

[Michael Downing]

This is disappointing, obviously.

But let's not forget the root cause - that Gordon Brown wants money here for something that is free in other countries.[]

 

[Geoff_Fields]

Well, no surprises there then!
When dealing with PGB it's best to expect nothing because that's what you get.

 

[Guest]

Reflects pretty badly on Porsche Club too - its basically saying that the club has less effect than the indivual making a fuss. Where Porsche have implemented the absolute letter rather than the spirit of their sales brochure, the club should be able to lobby for logic. It has clearly failed in this respect - though this is down to Porsche not caring and not respecting the club, I believe, not lack of effort by indivuals who have worked hard to try and get a good outcome.

 

[Rob Edwards]

I agree - this is a very sad outcome, and not even a whiff of compromise from Porsche AG, which might have been acceptable to many.

At least Porsche Club GB have tried their best, and I for one would like to thank Rob Prince and all those who have lobbied so hard for their efforts. Also good to see individual dealerships like OPC Solihull offering discounted rate for upgrade - at least they understand what customer service (not disservice) is about.

This may be rather short-sighted of Porsche, as many 997 owners will, I am sure, not take kindly to this and this could well be reflected in their choice of brand when their next car purchase is made.

Rob

 

[bladeboy]

Been following the TMC story with interest.

Its a bit like the rmc farce with the 996. Why the hell can't Porsche who are not exactly short of cash and charge for many of the extras that you get as standard on other marques treat their customers with a bit more respect.

Perhaps that why they have so much cash in the bank.

Be interesting to know how they treat the Customers in other parts of the world.

M3 V8 anyone?

 

[GuyR]

Mmmm....... £492 for two discs seems very expensive. I just bought a new software disc to update the routes for the Blaupunkt TrafficPro SatNav I fitted into my GT2 (it's the same as the Porsche Tequipment TrafficPro but has a different badge and is half the price) and it cost just over £100.

Also slightly relevent is that my BMW dealer has just upgraded the Satnav software for free without asking when my 545i went in for it's last service. It never had TMC when it went in and had it when it came back, without any mention at all..............

Guy