Does Garmin include free map updates with their GPS's?

[Trooperdan]

  I mainly use GPS's for geocaching but I'm thinking about a car unit, maybe not the latest and greatest, maybe a re-furb or last years model.  Does Garmin supply any map updates when you buy one of their units?  I've been on their web-site and it appears to me that you might get program updates free but the maps always cost, it that correct?

[Graybeard]

Yes you get a one time update when you buy. I don't think you get to just keep on updating for free tho.

[Siskiyou]

From Garmin:
Question:  Why is there a mapping update charge?
Answer:
Garmin® does not compile the map data; we pay royalties on this data and therefore only license it, we do not own it.  The routable data is provided by the company NAVTEQ, a respected map data vendor, often regarded as the best in the business.

Last modified on:  07/09/2008



Depending on the device you can purchase a map update subscription.  If in doubt call Garmin direct.  Depending on the software, device, and subscription there can be a number of answers.  Garmin direct will be your best source.

Question:  How many devices are covered under the nuMaps Lifetime subscription map update?
Answer:
A nüMaps Lifetime subscription is a map update package that is tied to a single compatible device.
Each nüMaps Lifetime subscription is only for a single user/single Garmin compatible device. One map update package must be purchased for each compatible device that wants to use the nüMaps Lifetime subscription.

Last modified on:  01/16/2009



Get the newest maps available and navigate with confidence with Garmin's nüMaps Guarantee. Simply register your new Garmin nüvi or zumo at my.garmin.com (click here) within 60 days of first using your device, and if there is a new map version available, you'll be able to download it for free! Or if you prefer, you can have a map DVD mailed to you for $10. With the Garmin nuMaps Guarantee, you'll be up-to-date when you hit the road.

 Go for the DVD.

[Glanceblamm]

Did a couple of them recently as you know Siskiyou...the registration that is.
Seemed like the unit belonging to the D-I-L (won at a christmas party last dec) grabbed a map update while the new one the S-I-L just went through the registration alone. I wonder if he, the sil, will be elgible for one update?...guess that it wouldnt hurt to hook it back up to the PC around Dec to see what happens.

[Siskiyou]

Make sure you make the update requested in the 60-day period.

City Navigator North America 2009 is the current version on this date 6/29/2009.

To determined which version is installed on your Garmin automotive gps on the page after the “I Agree Page", there is a tool bar across the bottom of the screen, touch the wrench, and select Map Info at the bottom of the next page.  You will get a screen showing you what version of City Navigator North America is installed.