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How to Update Garmin GPS: A Complete Guide

March 12, 2021 Ethan Dolan
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How to Update Garmin GPS: A Complete Guide

When you trust your Garmin GPS for guidance while driving, hiking, or just for being out and about, it is important to ensure the device is updated. Whether you have a Garmin Nuvi or another form of Garmin GPS, you need to do regular map updates if you want your Garmin navigation device to guide you to the newest roads, routes, and points of interest. This blog will provide you with to on how to update Garmin GPS devices, map updates, and software updates, as well as tips to make this as simple as possible.

Why Update Garmin GPS Devices?

Garmin updates give you a better opportunity to utilize the full functionality of your device so you can trust its turn-by-turn directions. There are often updates to roads and speed limits, and traffic patterns are reviewed regularly. Without the update, you could get redirected with old directions, which could potentially lead to some delay or re-routing.

Tools You’ll Need Before Updating Garmin GPS

To update Garmin GPS, you will need:

  • Garmin Device (Nuvi, Drive, Dezl, etc.).
  • Reliable internet connection.
  • USB cable to connect your GPS to your computer.
  • Computer with Garmin Express part 1 installed (it is compatible with Windows and Mac).

Step-by-Step: How to Update Garmin GPS

1. Download Garmin Express: Garmin Express is the official software to manage Garmin devices. It manages everything from Garmin map updates to device software updates.

  • Go to the official website of Garmin.
  • Download and install Garmin Express program on your computer.
  • After it is installed, open the program.

2. Connect Your Device: Use the USB cable to connect your Garmin GPS device to your computer.

  • Garmin Express will automatically recognize your device.
  • If it’s your first time, you’ll have to register the device by completing the on-screen steps.

3. Check for Updates: Once the device is recognized, Garmin Express will check for:

  • Garmin updates map for its GPS device.
  • Garmin software updates.
  • Traffic, content, and other updates

If the updates are available, you will have the option to install updates.

4. Install Garmin Map Update: To install Garmin map update, click on “Install All” or select individual updates like:

  • Garmin Nuvi GPS map update.
  • Garmin navigation map update.
  • Garmin updates maps for newer models.

Garmin Express will download the updates and automatically install them. The installation process may take some time depending on the size of the update and the internet speeds.

Free vs. Paid Garmin Map Updates

Some Garmin devices offer Lifetime Maps which allows you to download Garmin map updates free of charge. Other Garmin devices may require a one-time charge or subscription in order to get updates.

If you would like to check if you have lifetime map updates or to see what updates are available to you:

  • Go to Garmin’s map update site.
  • Enter the serial number of your device.
  • Check the Garmin Nuvi map updates available or other updates available.

Tips for a Successful Update

  • Keep your device charged or plugged in throughout the process to prevent interruption. 
  • Do not unplug the GPS while updates are in process.
  • Use a high-speed internet connection to download updates more quickly.
  • Please back up your data before you begin.
Common Garmin GPS Update Issues and Solutions

Issue 1: Garmin Express cannot find the device

  • Try a new USB port or cable.
  • Try restarting Garmin Express and reconnecting your device.

Issues 2: Not enough space to perform map updates 

  • Garmin may suggest installing map updates to an SD card.rd
  • Utilize a compatible SD card that has enough room (usually 8GB or greater)

Issue 3: Slow download speeds

  • Do not try to update during peak times.
  • Make sure no other heavy downloads are occurring on your network.

Conclusion

Knowing how to update Garmin GPS can make the difference in finding your way safely and quickly. Whether you are doing a Garmin Nuvi map update or any Garmin navigation system update, it’s fair to say updating with Garmin Express is simple. Getting regular Garmin map updates can guarantee you are always on the right path, in an attempt to avoid inaccurate directions and, in turn, wasting time. Take a few minutes every few months to ensure you are keeping your Garmin GPS updated maps—you will thank yourself next time you go on a road trip or commute!