GPS update question?

Question

Do you have to update a GPS system such as Garmin? If so how much does it cost? How much better is it? (new roads etc?) Is it hard to do? Are there any systems that update free?

Answer 1

you may wanna shop around and find out which brand gives you free updates thru the web later on. Tom tom may be one of those.

GM's OnStar Turn-by-turn doesn't require any updates, for instance, as all the map info resides on their server where it gets updated constantly. You always get the latest.

Answer 2

Any GPS you buy, you will incur a cost to update to an updated version. I have Garmin, Microsoft Streets and Trips and Delorme Street Atlas. I would say that the easiest to use is Microsoft streets and trips, but the Delorme Street Atlas to me is the ultimate. Garmin sucks. The Delorme Street Atlas comes with a bluetooth capable receiver which eliminates the need for a wire connected to your laptop. Hope this helps

Answer 3

If you live or drive in an area where there's lots of new construction, getting occasional updates is advisable so that new roadways can be used in calculating driving directions.  Older, established areas don't need frequent updates, since there isn't much changing there.

Garmin offers hardware updates online that are free.  The software upgrades (mapping system) do cost money, but I doubt you'd have a reason to update them more than every 2-3 years.  The current cost runs about 60-70 dollars.  Onstar does have a monthly charge, so while updates are free and constant, you're paying every month.

I have heard complaints in the past about updating the Garmins, but I believe they've addressed this issue for consumers.  I recommend doing some research, online and in print, to determine what works best for you.  

The 350's have been coming down in price, I've seen them at $300 recently, when they were $400+ just a few months ago.  This likely indicates a replacement, but with the older version and an update, you're still ahead of the game.

Answer 4

The system itself i.e .the operating system won't need updateing- are you talking about the maps? If your area has new roads being built you may want to update/change your maps but otherwise there really are no ongoing costs with a GPS

GPS reviews here http://lissiearticles.com/gps-receiver-t...