Garmin Reviews

Updated the maps using their web site. Put the unit back in the car. The unit now says "Will Not Charge Battery. Use supplied power cable." I cleaned all the contacts and I'm still using "The supplied power cable." The update renders your unit non chargeable. I would NOT recommend this unit.

I own a Nuvi 550 and the map in the device is now out of date. Several rebuilt expressways are not on the map and other road inaccuracies are evident. Further, in trying to overcome the memory deficiencies of the system it is evident that it does not recognize more than a 32 GB micro SD and that the updater software cannot write to expanded memory. The map of the US cannot be updated and only regions fit on the native memory of the device. Even were the SD accessible there is no direct way to update the lower 48 states. The unit is now useless for general navigation.

I bought a Garmin Approach S3 at a cost of $369. I wear it 1 day a week for golf. The strap broke as it is a very poor design with a pin going through a very weak thin plastic projection of the strap. When I came to replace the strap I was told by Garmin that they don't sell the strap in Australia (it and an alternative is freely available in the US). Because of the design one cannot use anything but the original. My option was to import one from the States at a cost of about $60. Garmin Australia then said that they would assess whether they would give me a replacement refurbished watch at a cost of $80. It took them a week to decide that they would.

Just updated my Garmin GPS. It was fairly accurate before the latest update (5.0). Once updated the GPS didn't recognize an exit ramp on I-85 when before the update it did. Also it tried to redirect me from a common direct route. Before the update worked as it should. It seems they must be rushing the updates to get them out and being a little sloppy. That's my impression anyway.

I bought this unit (OREGON 300) in 2010, was to use it when I go ATVing. Original 300 was faulty and got it replaced under warranty. Shortly after, my ATV was stolen.. Unit has sat for 4 years, turning it on now and then to make sure it still worked. Finally, got an ATV this year. Been using the unit since Feb of this year. When plugged into the acc outlet on the ATV, the unit would turn off now and then. I found if I pulled out the power cord and blew compressed air in the port and wire, that would get thing working again. But now, the unit has died for good. No signs of life whatsoever. This thing has barely been used!!! I don't get it! Anyone have any ideas??!!!

Had my Garmin for over a year and have had issues with the screen going blank when syncing activities to computer, but believe I've figured out the solution. The latest issue is that I cannot sync to see any activities. I plugged in as usual. The Garmin is no longer accessible. Garmin Connect no longer works with Chrome and my XP is apparently too outdated. Worked until "updated". It will not work with Internet Explorer. Called customer service and was told to download Safari, which just added too much junk I spent hours deleting. Garmin's website suggests buying a new computer!

I have a Garmin Nuvi 52 LM and have had it for probably about 24 months. I know I have had it for some time but I have had the same problem since purchase. I do not have my receipt. I should have reported this problem before now but didn't. If nothing can be done and I doubt it will be after reading the complaints listed but I plan to report it anyway. I am 76 years old and need a trustworthy GPS. This machine (if you can call it that) is very untrustworthy. If I am going to a certain address, it tells me that my location is on the left or right. I do not see the location. However if I proceed for two or three blocks, there is my location. This is very discouraging. Like I said - if nothing can be done, I can live with it but I will never buy a Garmin product again.

I tried to update my Nuvi 52 with a set of Canadian maps. Downloading the map turned into a nightmare. They do not support Chrome, I switched to Safari. Now it required a plug in. I tried to download the plug in, it would not download. After 6 attempts I called customer service. It is Friday at 1:00 EST. They are closed! I cannot even cancel my order. In this day and age when a simple download is supposed to take a few minutes, to have to wait hours to download a purchased software is inadmissible. Such a company is neither competitive nor should be in the business.

Preparing for a trip I attempted to update maps for the Garmin Nuvi 260. After an hour of attempting to create an account, follow the most confusing instructions I've encountered (and this was with a customer service person on the phone), paying for the update, processing my credit card, I find out at the very end that the update will not work with my Mac OS system. All that would have been needed to save over an hour of frustration would have been a simple "System Requirements." The CS told me my credit had been processed. 10 days later there is no sign. Now I have to spend even MORE time getting a credit. I have told everyone I know about this VERY NEGATIVE experience.

My complaint is my Garmin Nuvi 40, just about 1 year old, maybe just over a year, will not hold a charge. I question why they are allowed to sell a product with short life for battery. I researched online and this is a common complaint for the devices and trying to change the battery is a very tricky endeavor. With the cost of the Garmin I expected a better product.

It took 6 hours and 3 calls to customer services regarding this problem, after which the problem was not resolved. I spent 26 on a safety camera and POI, which I could not download. From other reviews, I now realise many other customers have had similar problems. Customers services asked me to update and change various internet and PC options to no avail. At one point, after following detailed advice of what to do (which was far from obvious), I was informed the software had been downloaded to the Sat Nav. I mistakenly finished the call but could find no evidence of the download.

I have been trying to add my garmin auto GPS a nuvi 2757, an etrex 30 and a vivosmart to Garmin Express, and it cannot be done. Have a case number but Garmin fail to call back. When I phone I am told that Garmin Express is not working and will be fixed by the end of the month. Still not working, now telling me I have a virus effecting Garmin and either need to completely reset my computer or use a friend's computer. I am SO ANGRY. I have spent hours on the phone to them - GGGRRRR.

Garmin navigator nuvi 205w - On 25th I had upgraded my Garmin navigator device software from UK Garmin site. After upgrading I found my original map washed away. Instead of my UAE map some European map appearing. As per Garmin, they don't touch the original map. Now I sent mail to Garmin support, no reply. I bought this in 2008. Model is nuvi 205w and sr no is 1ca090637.

I bought my first Garmin Nuvi 250 in 2009. Bought the lifetime maps sometime in 2010 for $120 and did 1 update. On New Year's day 2011, my car was broken into and the Garmin was stolen. I found a new Garmin Nuvi 1250 on sale for about $120 and asked for the lifetime maps to be transferred. Denied. I asked if the thief would be able to enjoy my lifetime maps and they said "The person who took your device will not be able to register it or update any maps unless they are able to log in to your myGarmin account."

The hardware used to work great, but the new update software called Garmin Express does not work. It crashes Windows 8.1. The internet abounds with complaints about Garmin's online update software, but now they came out with an even worse update software with Garmin Express. I paid for Lifetime Maps, but now have no way to update them and the complaints about Garmin support are numerous on the internet.

Nuvi 50LM - The original unit would not power up (under Garmin Warranty). Got first refurbished unit, but the database had multiple entries of the same items (Memory problem). The second refurbished unit power up for a second and shuts down. I tried both the USB cable and the car charger with the same results. The serial number on the 2nd unit is the same as the original unit. I suspect that Garmin sent back my DEFECTIVE original unit.

Had a Nuvi 1310 for four years - no problems. Ordered a Nuvi 2595 (refurbished). It arrived and I put in the SD card I had used in the Nuvi 1310 and simulated a journey using city navigator - Southeast Asia from Garmin everything fine. Took the car on the road and put in destination. Heard from speakers go to highlighted route and drove off, then drove 12 kilometers to destination. Nothing from speakers until the message “you have reached your destination” but details of all turns shown on the screen. Spoke to Garmin support and did everything they suggested. Tried for another day and then returned the unit for refund.

After updating my gps map, driving directions became totally incorrect for reaching my destination. I emailed Garmin about this. After a considerable period of time, Garmin responded by telling me to change my settings. I have not tried all three setting options for reaching my destination. They all have the same problem. My Garmin GPS is no longer functional.

I have been a faithful Garmin customer for many years. I am at a loss to understand why they are screwing up a good product. My experience started with the great handheld "GPS III Plus". The power source was either plugged in or standard AA batteries. In spite of the small about 2 x 3 inch screen, it gave the information I needed in a clear, readable form. It had different, easily accessed screens, called Pages showing map, satellites in range, next waypoint, and list of next waypoint on a route.

I updated my Garmin Nuvi before traveling from Texas to Illinois. It was fine until the Mississippi and then lost everything, I guess. Can't put in any city in Illinois so got lost trying to get out of St. Louis at night. When I did the update, the website told me it was fully updated. I expected to be able to go anywhere in the country with it. Don't know what they think you should do after crossing the Mississippi!

I cannot believe you spend over a $163.00 at Costco for a Garmin NUVI56LMT and the company, Garmin, is too damn cheap to include a user’s guide. I have been working for over an hour and a half to try to get a GD copy of a user’s guide. I have downloaded all sorts of stuff I do not want on my computer all in an attempt to get this guide. Now I have to pay $4.99 to get a PDF file which is so large I cannot get it to print in a timely manner.

My NUVI 855 during use came up with "can't unlock maps" screen with OK button as only recourse that in turn had a message about routing, etc, etc. Long story short, no user recourse on unit. Went to web and instructions seemed intentionally confusing. Called customer service and was asked to give them control of my computer to try and remedy (I live in the bush with satellite internet). After 4 hours of various downloads, the tech left me hanging with a unit that was no longer recognized by the computer and in a do loop of updating and verifying.

I brought a Garmin 1 day before leaving on holiday to Europe.... I purchased European maps online only to find out it would take 1 -3 (it took 3) days to register/conclude the purchase. I then could not load the map on my device. It would not accept the additional map, despite it showing as an available map to download... The software is showing as "all maps are up to date"... I sent a message to Garmin off the site but no reply nearly 2 weeks later? Is this the service they give?? Terrible!!

I bought my NUVI 855 several years ago and when I bought it, it featured MSN capability. A year or two ago I tried to renew my MSN subscription through Garmin. The Garmin website informed me they no longer allowed MSN. Recently a pop-up has been occurring saying "Check MSN Receiver". Every few minutes this pop-up occurs, which is extremely irritating. When I contacted Garmin, I was told that in order to make the pop-up to go away, I would need a new power cord which did not have the MSN 'pin' and was told that even though it was not my fault for this occurrence, I would have to PAY for another power cord. This is my second and last Garmin. I'm now looking for a competitor's GPS.

I have a Garmin StreetPilot C330 that cost over $750. Recently the battery died, so I sent it in for a repair. The repair was about $79 (I'm going by memory here) and they encouraged me to buy "Life Time" map upgrades for another $119. I tried to update the maps but their website sent me in circles. The website kept telling me to download GarminExpress and when I did, GarminExpress said that it was incompatible with my device and to use the web updater. The web updater said to download GarminExpress. I called Garmin and spent 45 minutes on hold before being told that they no longer support my device and will give me a discount towards a new device.

Garmin products do not work longer than about 9 months. I have to resend my Garmin in again for the same issue. Customer service is the absolute worse. If you try to call, the wait is 20-30 mins. If you try to submit an email, the update button returns with a server error and it's almost impossible to get them to respond.

I just purchased a new Garmin Model 2597. I have been using it around town and it seems to work fine. I just tried to register my Garmin and was told at Garmin Express that there were updates to be installed. After clicking on "update", I found out it will take THREE HOURS to install the updates. I don't have three hours to wait for updates to install. I figured I would leave the Garmin plugged in and hope the updates would take less time. Well, I encountered another problem. I keep getting an error message that the Map updates will not install. Why, I have no idea? I emailed Garmin and found it will take up to THREE DAYS to get a reply, so hopefully I will be able to contact someone by phone.

I bought my Garmin 1450 2 years ago, and now the screen froze up, and Garmin will not stand behind their product, they said I could return it and receive 50 percent off of another product. Bull!!! Just fix my product or give a new one, I paid 185 dollars for something to last, not oh you're beat and we can't help you. I will never buy any Garmin Product again!!

The Garmin Nuvi 52LM itself is great easy to use - once on the road it could be simpler navigating the thing to get started like entering an address. Downloading GarminExpress at first did not even open. Re-installing the 4th time from a 3rd party website I was able to open GarminExpress but it could not find the device so I found the Garmin Communicator Plugin on their site and downloaded it and finally found the Nuvi 52 but now under Extras. It's blank, nothing under Bundles, Vehicles, or Voices... Called tech support. First called they were closed, to call back during open hours (they were still open). I called back right after twice and the automated system had me keep pressing 2 for support and then just repeating the options, so I called back right after the 4th time. Finally got someone on the phone after waiting about 15 mins (while the recording is telling me I can find all support online).

A scam in that they promise a lifetime update, then make it impossible to download updated maps to my Garmin device. I bought my Nuvi 215W in 2009 and then I bought lifetime updates two years back, it was working good in the beginning. I can say it worked for two updates only (2 years). I went to the Garmin site, downloaded the Lifetime Updater software and then tried to download the new map info (2014.3) for the MIDDLE EAST and it goes into Error message is "There was a problem installing the maps to your computer please try again. if you continue to experience such problems call customer service.” But never gets past that, and then you need to contact customer service. More than two months I sending more than 5 emails and reminders, but they don't want to solve the problem.

I purchased a lifetime of map updates for my Garmin GPS last year only to find out that my Garmin device does not have the room to hold additional maps. I spent 4 hours trying to resolve this with their tech support. Garmin refuses to refund the $100 I spent to update it.

My Garmin Nuvi 650 cost quite a bit when I bought it brand new. All of a sudden, the touch screen stops working even though I had only used it maybe a handful of times since it was purchased. Garmin tech support said the warranty is out and the product is no longer a model they make so they will not support it. The lifetime maps I bought are way too big to fit on it and I can't use it unless I want to pay them hundreds of dollars more. So, I bought it for $375.00, paid $130.00 for lifetime maps (which is only good for that device and not transferable even though the device is defective) and now they want several hundred dollars to see if maybe they can fix this defective device? No way. I'm buying a competitor's device and saying ** you Garmin - I will never buy from them again! When the touch screen stopped the first time, I had to find how to fix it myself on the internet and now that it has stopped for a second time, it won't start again at all!

This is to follow up my earlier complaint about ****. They make GPS maps for places that are not otherwise covered by Garmin. Their product is incredibly difficult to download and to get transferred to your GPS device. Their technical support is abysmal! However, having said all that, having spent hours and hours struggling with the **** thing, the map itself of Antigua in the Caribbean is actually quite good. Is it worth the frustration however? Regrettably, no.

I have a Navigon 2100 that stopped working. Garmin now owns Navigon. Garmin says that there is no repair service for Navigon. They offered to sell me a Garmin for $99 in exchange for my old Navigon. I have over $300 in lifetime traffic, maps and Zaggat service. The Garmin they want to exchange does not have all of these lifetime maps, traffic and Zaggat. I am having to pay $99 to Garmin to send them a Navigon that has over $300 in lifetime services. That seems wrong that the Navigon cannot be fixed and that I have to pay Garmin $99 to loose over $300. How can I get the lifetime services if I send them my Navigon?

I have a Garmin GPS. "GPS Travel Maps" makes maps for some of the areas of the world for which Garmin doesn't offer maps. I purchased and downloaded the map of Antigua from them. I cannot get it to transfer onto my GPS. The instructions they give are abysmal. They make reference to buttons and display options that simply don't exist in the software.

We have used a Garmin Nuvi 360 GPS for many years with no significant problems. But today, as we drove down Arizona Highway 67 to the north rim of Grand Canyon National Park, we encountered problems with the GPS routing that make us wonder how much to trust Garmin. For about 46 miles, we got at least 20 route misdirections, some to the left, some to the right, that tried to put onto unpaved National Forest roads, such as NF 610, leading from the highway. If we didn't make the turns, we received several "make a U-turn" instructions. It was as if a competitor of Garmin put in a bogus programming to make Garmin look bad! Our Garmin Nuvi has the latest software (CN North America NT 2011.40) and was set to avoid unpaved roads.

the "GPS 18" I was told with my purchase I would get a free update. The update disk, which I have has stopped the whole system from working. Calling Garmin and talking with Jeff (tech-support), I was told that my problem was the "unlock code" which costs 75.00. Explaining that my update is free. Jeff said maybe we'll let you have it for half price. I asked for his supervisor and was told he was out. After calling the supervisor and leaving name and number on machine. Two hours later I receive a call from Mr West saying the best he could do was half-price. The Problem is I am entitle to the "update" there was no time limit discussed.

Now the problem is that my warranty has not ended yet and Garmin will NOT fix my item. I had called them twice and e-mailed them once regarding the item is not working due to the screen being out. It just went out one day. They said that the item is discontinued and they no longer have the parts for this item. But it is still under warranty. Later they said that they need a receipt for this item. But they work on this twice with out the receipt. They just changed there rules. What should I do? I had paid $600 for this item and had not even used it for a year. Please help me with this. Thank you for your attention.

Garmin is the manufacturer of Global Positioning (GPS) units for in flight navigation of aircraft.