My Garmin GPS has a 2008 map in it and it is time to update it. Do I have to buy a map from Garmin or can I find a free download somewhere? Thanks

 

check out garmin website and forum..think its going to be tough to use someone elses copy?

 

You can buy a nuMaps Lifetime download from Garmin for around 120 bucks. The update can only be installed on one compatible unit. Not a bad price for lifetime updates.

 

Some Garmins come with lifetime map updates, some do not. My Zumo 660 came with a one time map update that had to be used within 60 days of it first acquiring a satellite signal. After the free download you have to buy the update. It will just depend on the model you have. As said before check the Garmin web site for more info.

 

Had to update my '08 Zumo 550.Couldn't find any free updates.Garmin gives you 2 options a onetime update and updates for the life of your unit.can't remember the exact price the one time somewhere around 70.00 the lifetime around 100.00.Downloading the map was a pain,at least for me(I'm no genius) plus not enough internal memory had to use a memory card to finish.Also downloaded the Harley Davidson Dealership map,that one was free.Love the Zumo other than the downloads.

 

Downloading can be a pain. Check out "The ZumoForums" for lots of good info. Based on info on the forum, I deleted vehicle icons I don't use and foreign language voices and had enough memory to do the download along with a "My Favorites" program that provides a list of HD dealerships, directions to them and a little icon that pops up on the map when I'm in the vicinity of a dealership.

 

Thanx Woodchuck,wished we would have had this conversation before I downloaded my map.Oh well it works.I'm one of those guys who builds a sailboat in the basement and can't get it up the stairs.

 

Did you register it with Garmin?
They allow one free upgrade but there may be a time limit. Give it a try.

 

You can get the lifetime map subscription cheaper than from Garmin. I had the website bookmarked on my old laptop and don't have it now. Just do a search and you'll find it.

 

I have updated mine twice from Garmin without having to pay any charges. Try to upgrade and see what happens.