Do you notice that your vehicle shows the message – Drive Carefully Systems Initializing?
This may leave you confused, especially if you have never encountered this problem before. Plus, you may be wondering how you can continue driving – or if it is even safe to do so.
With that being said, let’s dive into what this message means, what’s the best way to deal with it, and a few other important tips you should know.
Drive Carefully Systems Initializing
Perhaps your vehicle’s navigation system has suddenly lost power. This usually happens when you had your battery disconnected. Therefore, an initialization to the navigation system is required. When the initialization is complete, you should be able to use your vehicle’s system once more.
During the initialization process, certain things are required such as entering the anti-theft security code, which comprises of 4 digits that help to unlock your navigation system.
Then, you will have to wait for the GPS initialization. However, there are instances when this may not be required. It all depends on how long your system has no power.
Afterwards, a map matching is needed. This aims to align your GPS coordinates to a certain location on your map. What this does is it displays your current location right at the bottom portion of the map.
Now, when your battery is disconnected or perhaps it loses power, you need to enter the security code. This code must be entered into your navigation system, otherwise, you will not be able to use it.
The code is usually provided by the dealership where you have purchased your car. There are two cards with the navigation and audio system’s codes, as well as serial numbers. Make it a point to keep these cards safe, since there are instances when you will need access to the codes – such as when the system has shut down.
Otherwise, if you no longer have these codes, you will have to go to your dealer to request a copy.
Once you have the codes ready, enter these and choose the “done” option. Entering the wrong code will show you the disclaimer on the screen. Then, you will receive the message that you have entered the wrong pin.
Keep in mind that you are only given ten chances for you to enter your right code. In case you still make a mistake, then you need to turn your ignition off and wait a minute before turning it back on. This way, you can refresh those ten chances for entering the right code.
Check your owner’s manual and be sure to follow the directions in entering the 5-digit code for your audio systems. Remember – your navigation system’s voice will not function unless you have entered the correct audio code.
Next thing to do is to initiate GPS initialization. This, however, depends on how long you have your battery disconnected. When this is not required, you will be taken to the disclaimer screen. Then, your navigation system will search for GPS satellites that are available and get the right orbital information.
As this process occurs, it is important to have your vehicle parked in an area where it is open. This way, your navigation system will be able to locate satellites correctly. But if you have been waiting for 10 minutes and the navigation system is still unable to find the required number of satellites, you need to try again.
How Long Does Initialization Take Place
On average, it should take about 10 minutes for the initialization process to run. However, there are instances when it can take up to 45 minutes. In case it only takes 10 minutes, you will see the confirmation screen on your screen.
But if it is taking longer, you will have to restart your engine to check if the initialization process is finished. Additionally, you may see the initialization screen show up after you have disconnected the audio-navigation’s battery voltage for over 5 minutes.
In the event that you still cannot obtain GPS initialization, perform a search in your service information with the keyword GPS. From your home screen, choose “info”, then “system/ device information”, and finally confirm that you have performed a successful update by choosing “system info”.
Additional Points To Consider
We have heard from some people who dealt with an issue concerning the drive carefully systems initializing that take too long. The worst part about it is that it is a new vehicle and the alarm turns on and off randomly every 20 minutes. Even with the attempts of using the key to turn the sound off, it still fails to work.
In fact, it can also be difficult to unlock the door unless it is done manually. To make things worse, there are people who experience starting issues with their vehicle. The car is completely dead – no audio, lights, nothing. This may be thought of as a battery issue, which is why some folks try to jumpstart their car.
But after jumpstarting, a couple of error messages show up – and one of them is the drive carefully systems initializing. The system has lost its power, and this can be quite a confusing ordeal to work around with.
If you experience this problem, it is easy to assume that the issue is with the battery. Perhaps there is a loose connection somewhere or the battery is being drained by something in your vehicle.
For people who have this issue with their vehicle, start by checking if your car is still within the warranty period. The body control module may need to be replaced, and usually this solves the problem.
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Wrap Up
The drive carefully systems initializing message can be concerning since it causes starting issues with your vehicle. This is why we highly recommend checking the battery to make sure it is not the problem or wait for a few minutes until the vehicle starts once more. Otherwise, a trip to a specialist or to your dealership proves to be helpful in addressing this concern.