do I need to download current maps? I just now ordered the Garmin Nuvi 255W from Amazon....my question can I just use the unit out of the box?....or do i needto download more current maps through the computer?Willie....04/01/2010 do I need to download current maps? I just now ordered the Garmin Nuvi 255W from Amazon....my question can I just use the unit out of the box?....or do i needto download more current... » Read More do I need to download current maps? I just now ordered the Garmin Nuvi 255W from Amazon....my question can I just use the unit out of the box?....or do i needto download more current maps through the computer?Willie....04/01/2010 « Show Less
1722182
I just bought the Garmin 255 and found out it has no maps downloaded.I thought it would be ready to go out of the box.It was a re-furbished unit,but I was under the impression it had everything ready for business.Was I wrong in my assumption?silverado_03
1722183
It does work in Europe, according to Garmin service techs, but you have to buy either a European map ($99) or shop country-by-country (Italy and Greece, for example, are $70). Also note that the 255W doesn't come with USB cable, so that's another expense associated with purchasing it (I've read elsewhere that Amazon sells the cable for $10).
1722184
I have a 255, 255w's smaller brother with identical features, and have been using it for over a year. I love it, but once you get your free map update online, you have to buy future updates fron Garmin at hefty prices. It is cheaper to buy a new unit than pay for lifetime updates($119). A onetime update is @ $60. Though I love my 255, it's a pretty stiff toll. I'm thinking of trying something different, because there has been some new road construction near me, and my current maps don't always suit.
1722185
Can you use the Nuvi 255W in Europe? The product description implies you can, but I can't find anything that says how to do it.
1722186
It should have come with a North American map installed. Perhaps you can download it, but I would contact Garmin. I've had very good responses from email inquiries.
508689
What you need to do is register your Garmin and the only way to do that is online via a USB cable from your Nuvi to your computer. You have 60 days from date of purchase (or first satellite acquisition) to download a later map for no charge (if one is available). The Nuvi is ready to go out of the box.
1722187
You get one free update on the Garmin Nuvi 255W and you must do that update within a certain amount of time after your purchase. After that, you have to pay for any updates to the map.
1722188
I would suggest you do the system update right away. I used mine for a trip from Baltimore to Toronto, and I definitely should have done the update (because there are now roadways which weren't there a few years ago when this model released). Do the updates and your Garmin will work better than ever.
517087
useful linkhttp://gpstracklog.com/2010/08/five-tips-for-nuvi-newbies.htmlhttp://home.comcast.net/~ghayman3/garmin.gps/index.html
491628
In case this helps anyone, I was facing the same issue, and after endless research found out that after updating the maps, you have to sign into your myGarmin account, go to the Garmin unlock maps page and unlock/ activate the new maps. The maps that initially come with the unit are already unlocked, but apparently the update doesn't do this automatically - and doesn't explicitly tell you that you need to (thanks Garmin!). I also ended up reinstalling the new maps again - not sure if this helped, but it doesn't hurt to try! Now the maps are working correctly and I no longer get the "no data available" error. In case this helps anyone, I was facing the same issue, and after endless research found out that after updating the maps, you have to sign into your myGarmin account, go to the Garmin unlock maps page and unlock/ activate the new maps. The maps that initially come with the unit are already unlocked, but apparently the update doesn't do this automatically - and doesn't explicitly tell you that you need to (thanks Garmin!). I also ended up reinstalling the new maps again - not sure if this helped, but it doesn't hurt to try! Now the maps are working correctly and I no longer get the "no... » Read More In case this helps anyone, I was facing the same issue, and after endless research found out that after updating the maps, you have to sign into your myGarmin account, go to the Garmin unlock maps page and unlock/ activate the new maps. The maps that initially come with the unit are already unlocked, but apparently the update doesn't do this automatically - and doesn't explicitly tell you that you need to (thanks Garmin!). I also ended up reinstalling the new maps again - not sure if this helped, but it doesn't hurt to try! Now the maps are working correctly and I no longer get the "no data available" error. « Show Less
2243302
If you don't know your end point (usually your home is the starting and ending point), guess. You can always edit it later and have Garmin re-order it later. AFAIK the Garmin doesn't check off the stops you have made, it just tells you when you arrive by saying "make a U-turn". Odd, but that is the way it is. To see if there is a firmware update, plug your Garmin into your computer and use WebUpdater, but that really isn't going to change how Garmin uses multi-point routing. As far as map updates, there are up to 4 updates per year that one can download, but that isn't the reason (or main reason) Garmin routes you oddly at times. Garmin has been made aware of the problem and stated they are looking into it (which means absolutely nothing at the moment). If you go to gpsmagazine.com and look up the review for the 760 (not the 765) it gives a bit of detail on multi-point routing which may help you.
984063
I think most stores will have the older version in stock. You might get the newer version by ordering it directly from Garmin (more expensive). I've been corresponding with Garmin, trying to get a commitment for a free upgrade if I buy it today. NO ANSWER YET!!You should hit them with the same exact request:techsupp@garmin.com
376614
Thanks, Valdvogel...you gave me just the info I needed. Of course, the first inclination is to purchase an expensive NUVI, but it's good to know that an earlier hand-held works even better! We already have a GPS (Staples brand) that works great for road directions, but it uses wrong coordinates for geo-caching. It's just too difficult to"translate" the coordinates for every cache! Thanks again!
851730
Bob. Because Garmin updates maps 4 times per year, any Garmin model may or may not have the latest map. You are allowed 60 days after purchase to update your map (if needed) for free. I've owned and used several Garmins (one well over 4 years old) and have never updated a map yet (many people don't bother because the vast majority of the time a new map will have little or no effect on a person). However, if you must have the latest and greatest, Garmin offers a NuMap program for about 100 bucks, where you can download up to 4 map updates per year for the lifetime of your Nuvi.
1444449
Thanks guys for the update. I ended up in buying nuvi 2460LMT and I liked voice command, bluetooth connection with my iphone4. I didn't like Jill's terrible voice and missing map details.When I cross speed limit then I see a blinking red notification on screen. Does you nuvi2460 LMT gives an audible warning when you cross speed limit?Thx
21955
Thanks for the reply, Craig!Do we need to buy the topo software directly from Garmin, or does Amazon carry it? (I couldn't find it here.) Will we need an extra memory card to hold the topo data for a region? I'm trying to figure out what the total expense will be for all the add-ons we'll want/need before we choose a unit.If you were choosing between an eTrex and a GPSMAP unit today, which would you choose?Thanks again!
1377800
To take the 5 answers so far, and chime in with my own answer. I am also looking at possibly buying this unit, and I did some searching around.Firmware updates for the radio (not including maps) are free from the JVC website. When a map update becomes available (there isn't one for this unit, yet) they will include it on the support page and forward you to Navteq (navigation com).http://www3.jvckenwood.com/english/car/support/navi/nt500hdt/index.htmlUpdates for Similar (older models of JVC in-dash nav units) are $139. Looks like the updates come out about every 18 to 24 months. One example:http://www3.jvckenwood.com/english/car/support/navi/nt1/us/index.html To take the 5 answers so far, and chime in with my own answer. I am also looking at possibly buying this unit, and I did some searching around.Firmware updates for the radio (not including maps) are free from the JVC website. When a map update becomes available (there isn't one for this unit, yet) they will include it on the support page and forward you to Navteq (navigation com).http://www3.jvckenwood.com/english/car/support/navi/nt500hdt/index.htmlUpdates for Similar (older models of JVC in-dash nav units) are $139. Looks like the updates come out about every... » Read More To take the 5 answers so far, and chime in with my own answer. I am also looking at possibly buying this unit, and I did some searching around.Firmware updates for the radio (not including maps) are free from the JVC website. When a map update becomes available (there isn't one for this unit, yet) they will include it on the support page and forward you to Navteq (navigation com).http://www3.jvckenwood.com/english/car/support/navi/nt500hdt/index.htmlUpdates for Similar (older models of JVC in-dash nav units) are $139. Looks like the updates come out about every 18 to 24 months. One example:http://www3.jvckenwood.com/english/car/support/navi/nt1/us/index.html « Show Less
1974510
If you have purchased the Nuvi with lifetime updates you will need to log into Garmin and connect your Nuvi to the site to update all maps which will have road changes it does not automatically update. You can purchase an HD live traffic & automatic updater from Garmin. The new Garmin line of GPS does offer it and updates automatically.
2001142
Well, the one I bought has only North America and Europe Maps preloaded on it, and these can be updated regularly. You should contact Garmin directly through their website to inquire if you can upload maps from other regions onto the unit. Good luck.
661431
As mentioned above, i did ask the Amazon representative about v.5 being mentioned in the technical details and got a response that the description needs to be updated. The 350 is presently being shipped with 2008 maps. Registering the product with garmin should provide a free 2009 map update. I am not sure whether Garmin would really provide this service for free or not, but for $200, i think the 350 with 2008 maps is a very good buy.
1248114
I just ordered the Nuvi 1490LMT and received it last week. When I registered it on line I also went through the directions to update maps. The entire process took nearly 3 hours but other than that, easy to follow directions and no problems at all, and it didn't cost anything. I haven't had a chance to actually use the device yet.
268455
The garmin maps are no good. Pretty outdated and are not life time. You need to download the latest maps if updates are available.
342291
I called Garmin on July 13, 2007 (yesterday) regarding the updates for my then Garmin Nuvi 680. (I have since returned the unit to Amazon)---Anyway, I was told the updates would be available in a few weeks and would not be free. The cost was available, but I assume it will be the $75. Evidently there are mixed responses either from Garmin, or from Garmin Owners as to what will be "free" and what will be available for a fee due to Garmin Customer Service not having a standard anwer to this question when you finally get a hold of someone there (30 min. wait on the phone).So, until it happens no one will know for sure. I called Garmin on July 13, 2007 (yesterday) regarding the updates for my then Garmin Nuvi 680. (I have since returned the unit to Amazon)---Anyway, I was told the updates would be available in a few weeks and would not be free. The cost was available, but I assume it will be the $75. Evidently there are mixed responses either from Garmin, or from Garmin Owners as to what will be "free" and what will be available for a fee due to Garmin Customer Service not having a standard anwer to this question when you finally get a hold of someone there (30 min. wait on the phone).So,... » Read More I called Garmin on July 13, 2007 (yesterday) regarding the updates for my then Garmin Nuvi 680. (I have since returned the unit to Amazon)---Anyway, I was told the updates would be available in a few weeks and would not be free. The cost was available, but I assume it will be the $75. Evidently there are mixed responses either from Garmin, or from Garmin Owners as to what will be "free" and what will be available for a fee due to Garmin Customer Service not having a standard anwer to this question when you finally get a hold of someone there (30 min. wait on the phone).So, until it happens no one will know for sure. « Show Less
568707
I called Garmin on July 13, 2007 (yesterday) regarding the updates for my then Garmin Nuvi 680. (I have since returned the unit to Amazon)---Anyway, I was told the updates would be available in a few weeks and would not be free. The cost was available, but I assume it will be the $75. Evidently there are mixed responses either from Garmin, or from Garmin Owners as to what will be "free" and what will be available for a fee due to Garmin Customer Service not having a standard anwer to this question when you finally get a hold of someone there (30 min. wait on the phone). So, until it happens no one will know for sure.