Garmin Gps Update...have to Pay??

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses the costs associated with updating maps for Garmin GPS devices, with participants sharing their experiences and opinions on the necessity and pricing of these updates.

Discussion Character

  • Opinion-based, Anecdotal, Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant mentions receiving an email about a $69.99 map update for Garmin GPS units, questioning if this is the only way to get updates.
  • Another participant compares the map update to software upgrades in other applications, suggesting that not purchasing the update could lead to navigation issues.
  • Several participants express frustration about the need to pay for updates, with one noting that the cost seems steep compared to the initial purchase price.
  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, reflects on the expectation that companies charge for updates, likening it to how Pampered Chef operates.
  • Another participant shares their view that while updates should be charged, the pricing feels excessive and suggests clearer communication about potential costs upfront.
  • Some participants mention alternatives like TomTom, which they claim offers free map updates, although skepticism about the longevity of such offers is expressed.
  • One participant shares their experience of purchasing a GPS that reportedly includes free updates, highlighting the trade-off between initial cost and long-term expenses.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the fairness of the update costs, with some participants agreeing that updates should be charged while others feel the pricing is excessive. No clear consensus emerges regarding the necessity of paying for updates.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and opinions regarding GPS updates, with some referencing their own purchasing decisions and expectations based on their experiences with other products.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to members of the consultant community considering GPS options or those curious about the costs associated with map updates for navigation devices.

KellyTheChef
KellyTheChef
Gold Member
Messages
7,533
Here is a portion of an email I received the other day. Does anyone know if this is the only way to get the maps updated? DH and I were under the impression that the company updated via satelittes about every two years, and that you didn't have to PAY unless you were getting an "upgrade" on services....

Garmin is pleased to announce the new Map Update 2009 for North America. For the most up-to-date maps and navigation on your portable Garmin GPS unit, this is the software you want. This $69.99 update offers full coverage for the U.S, Canada and Puerto Rico - making it easy and convenient to update the detailed maps and latest points of interest into your compatible Garmin unit.

The update includes:

Over 8 million miles of road coverage
Updated, fully routable, detailed maps for the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico
Nearly 6 million points of interest
Postal code support for Canada
Purchase the Map Update 2009 today!



Thanks if you can help!!

 
It's essentially a software update, not unlike moving from Acrobat 5 to Acrobat 6, or upgrading to a new version of Word. They all charge for map updates.You don't have to buy it, but you might be sailing along a road one day while your Garmin shows you doing a baja across a field, complaining about returning to the road. Not buying the upgrade will, eventually, be like driving cross country with a gas station map from 1956.
 
Yep, you have to pay.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #4
GGGrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr....

Neither of us knew about that. Makes sense, though...they want to keep making $$ off of you!

Almost 1/3 of the purchase price seems steep to me, though!
 
we were aware of that as well.

Sorry Kelly!!! Does anyone know if they do the updates annually?
 
KellyTheChef said:
GGGrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr....

Neither of us knew about that. Makes sense, though...they want to keep making $$ off of you!

Almost 1/3 of the purchase price seems steep to me, though!
Click to expand...
Once you sign your consultant agreement and get your kit, you don't expect TPC to just send you new products, it's the same with any company. They have a staff that works on improving the products and building new maps, those people aren't volunteering their time.

Software maintenance has been an issue as long as there has been software - so this is really nothing new.

Actually, upgrading for about 1/3 of the purchase price isn't bad. Software is the most expensive part of any system because it's the most labor intensive.
 
Well, TPC does not send us new products for free but they do send us the updated software for free.

Kelly, if I had a GPS I would be aggravated about having to spend that to updates the maps too when it is navigated by satelite I would think they would just update their satelites and that they make enough from sales to cover the updates.
 
jrstephens said:
Well, TPC does not send us new products for free but they do send us the updated software for free.

Kelly, if I had a GPS I would be aggravated about having to spend that to updates the maps too when it is navigated by satelite I would think they would just update their satelites and that they make enough from sales to cover the updates.
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I agree, mostly.

And TPC DOES send us new products for free too! It's the bonus for sales at certain times but it's still free.

This is why we don't yet have a GPS - looks like a money pit to me. I understand that they should be able to charge something to pay for the technology but 1/3 of the purchase price it way too much IMHO. Personally I think they should GIVE purchasers upgrades for at least a couple of years or at least tell them up CLEARLY upfront what the additional costs are estimated to be.
 
Yes, you have to pay. You should've gotten a TomTom. Map upgrades are free :D
 
bsaxman said:
Yes, you have to pay. You should've gotten a TomTom. Map upgrades are free :D
Click to expand...

That is good to know, we were considering getting a GPS, but didn't know which ones are the best.
 
BethCooks4U said:
I agree, mostly.

And TPC DOES send us new products for free too! It's the bonus for sales at certain times but it's still free.

This is why we don't yet have a GPS - looks like a money pit to me. I understand that they should be able to charge something to pay for the technology but 1/3 of the purchase price it way too much IMHO. Personally I think they should GIVE purchasers upgrades for at least a couple of years or at least tell them up CLEARLY upfront what the additional costs are estimated to be.
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Always remember TANSTAAFL - There Ain't No Such Thing As A Free Lunch.

TPC products are not exactly free because you have to earn them. The cost involved is not monetary but it is still a cost.

I don't believe that Tom Tom offers free maps forever. Maybe you get free upgrades for X months after you purchase, but a quick visit to their site shows they're offering a 30% discount on purchasing maps - so I'm a little skeptical about free maps from them.
 
Some GPS can have free updates, as the Tom Tom, but they are also more expensive up front, but offers less hassle and in the long run are cheaper than the ones that need to be updated by software.

From what I'm told, they recommend updating the GPS systems every two years.
 
twinkie10 said:
Some GPS can have free updates, as the Tom Tom, but they are also more expensive up front, but offers less hassle and in the long run are cheaper than the ones that need to be updated by software.

From what I'm told, they recommend updating the GPS systems every two years.
Click to expand...

We just got one for both mine and DH's parents, on sale at bestbuy for $229.00, and it was the text-to-speech verson. As far as I know the upgrades are free forever (at least thats what we were told!)
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay for Garmin GPS updates?

It depends on the model of your Garmin GPS device. Some devices come with free lifetime map updates, while others may require a one-time purchase or subscription for updates.

How can I check if my Garmin GPS has free updates?

You can check the Garmin website or the user manual for your specific model to see if it includes free lifetime map updates. Additionally, you can connect your device to Garmin Express, which will inform you about available updates and any associated costs.

What is Garmin Express and how does it relate to GPS updates?

Garmin Express is a software application that allows you to manage your Garmin devices, including updating maps and software. It helps you check for updates and can also inform you if there are any fees associated with them.

If my Garmin GPS requires payment for updates, how much will it cost?

The cost of Garmin GPS updates can vary based on the type of update and the specific device. Typically, map updates can range from $30 to $100, but you should check the Garmin website for the most accurate pricing for your model.

Can I avoid paying for Garmin GPS updates?

While you can avoid paying for updates by using your GPS without the latest maps, it's generally not recommended as it may affect navigation accuracy. Some users also explore third-party map options, but this can void warranties or lead to compatibility issues.

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