If you own a Garmin Nuvi GPS or sat nav device then you will be aware of the message that will appear on the screen from time to time, telling you that it is time to update your maps. There is a huge collection of maps for different-different countries, and there are a separate group of maps for each type of Garmin product. Map updates bring newly build roads, highways, restaurants, and shops which make easier to visit new places. It also comes with language updates and voice command updates for a particular device.
If you’ve reached my independent advice website then you are probably the owner of a Nuvi GPS sat nav device and are asking yourself whether you can update Garmin maps for free. The answer to that common question is yes, you can.
Garmin offer a program for free software downloads called the nuMaps Guarantee – which offers free Garmin map updates to their customers.In order to find out whether you can download free maps for Garmin click on the button below and this will take you to their online map section which will show you the different options available and tell you whether or not you are eligible for. Who Should Download Free Garmin Map Updates?Anyone who owns a Nuvi GPS or Zumo (the motorcycle GPS model) should aim to check for free Garmin GPS maps. Having the latest mapping and routing is essential because each and every day there are new roads being built, new junctions appearing, business are changing addresses, and many other changes on the nation’s roads; all of which necessitate you having the latest routes and directions available.Due to the Garmin maps being physically stored on the memory of the Nuvi GPS it is possible that as soon as you buy your Nuvi and put it in your vehicle for the maps to already be out of date. Because of this Garmin offer something called the nuMaps Guarantee which is their quality commitment to all of their new customers.
Can I Update Garmin Maps for Free?Yes you can get Garmin updates free. Typically though they will only be offered to GPS owners who have registered the Nuvi or Zumo GPS within the first three months of ownership.
Garmin state that their nuMaps Guarantee must be accessed within 90 days of the device first receiving a satellite signal.In order to check if you are eligible all you need to do is visit the Garmin website using the button and link below. By clicking that you will be transferred to their online map update tool which shows you all the different Garmin Nuvi map updates, including free Garmin GPS maps plus all of the paid options – all of which represent great value for money.The Garmin Map Install ProcessIf you do decide to download free Garmin map updates or any other form of new GPS maps then you will need to know how to install them correctly. The Garmin user experience is a very good one, but if you do need any help or assistance with installing your new maps then please read my handy online guide on learning. If you would rather have a very quick overview then please refer to the official manufacturer video below: How to Update Garmin Nuvi Maps – Official VideoWhy You Should Download Free Maps for Garmin GPSThere’s nothing worse than being in a strange town or city and getting lost, then needing to ask someone for directions – this is one reason why downloading free Garmin map updates is so essential. You could be a person who relies on the Nuvi GPS for their living – for example cab and truck drivers, delivery staff, or the emergency services.Or perhaps you are planning on a driving vacation and holiday this year? Since the economic downturn more and more people are switching instead to inbound vacations rather than travelling abroad with their Garmin Nuvi. By having the latest mapping, routing, and directions on the GPS you can ensure that you not only save money and time, but also reduce the risk of stress associated with getting lost.
Maps for Travelling Abroad with your GarminThis doesn’t just apply to driving in your own country though? If you are planning on a trip abroad then having the latest maps on your Garmin Nuvi is even more essential. Many countries drive on the opposite side of the road and have different rules and regulations including speeding cameras – so knowing that you have the most up to date Garmin GPS updates on your device will give you the peace of mind that you can drive in a foreign country with confidence and the help from your Nuvi.
The Different Options Available for Garmin Map UpdatesGarmin offer three different map update options all of which are described below including how much they cost – in my opinion all three options offer cheap map update options and are very cost effective considering how much use you should get from your Nuvi GPS over the lifetime of the product. NuMaps Guarantee – Update Garmin Maps for FreeThis is the main option outlined on this website and is available to customers who have been using their GPS for less than 90 days of it receiving a satellite signal. You will need to register your details online with the company and then associate your Nuvi device to your account. At this point the online tool will give you all the options available to you for.
![Map Map](/uploads/1/2/5/6/125627032/788042390.jpg)
NuMaps Onetime – Costs $49.99The Garmin Onetime update gives the user a one-off download of the latest version of City Navigator NT North America or City Navigator NT for Europe meaning that all their routes are as up to date as Garmin’s latest map database release. You will have access to millions of POIs as well – which are Points of Interest files giving you access to items such as ATM locations, tourist attractions, shopping malls, and many other useful points near your location that you can navigate to. NuMaps Lifetime – Costs $89.99Despite the name don’t be confused into thinking that you will be getting Garmin map updates for life. In fact what this refers to is the lifetime of the Nuvi GPS whilst it is in your possession and registered to your myGarmin account.