Looks like our GPS has decided to call it quits, just before we leave on our trip.

iana · Guru

Looks like our GPS has decided to call it quits, just before we leave on our trip.

blaze · Guru

I think you should use the old fashion system- follow your nose, its never wrong
cheers
blaze

dabbler · Guru

Don't rely on Garmin software to suit every model. I understand your reluctance but which do you use most often, the GPS or the management software. It's highly likely a new GPS of the same brand will be different.

outlaw40 · Guru

just replaced my old garmin drivesmart with a new garmin drivesmart 55 so far so good. yes garmin can be a bit convoluted when connecting to computer for updates but other than that i find them good . just my preference.

iana · Guru

I use Garmin express, and also use another program called "Base Camp". Base camp is very good, and I would be reluctant to lose that on the laptop. Its disappointing that the sales persons in various shops have very little knowledge of their product.
Oh well todays the day, have to get all the data sorted out from the net, no point in asking those commission paid goons.

Dougwe · Chief one feather

G'day Ian,

It sounds like you are set on the Garmin but for what it's worth, I had been using one of those beasts too but about four years ago, I think, I decided after it too played up to try 'Google Maps' on my phone with voice connected to car sound system via bluetooth and have not been dissapointed. No problems so far after about two years.

I also tried 'Bringo' app on the phone just before Google that connects to the Collie's 'Mylink' stystem via bluetooth but not all that happy with it after a while. I did an update on it after getting a new phone and it was never the same.

Google Maps for me at this stage.

Santa · Guru

I've used both Garmin and TomTom, much prefer TomTom, currently using a GO 620.

https://www.thegoodguys.com.au/tom-tom-go-620-6-inches-gps-3604223

iana · Guru

This program I have been using, comes from Garmin, and is free to down load if you own a Garmin GPS, is called "Base camp". I think its better than Wiki Camps, or Geo Wiki, as you can print out the itinerary, or town/city street maps. It uploads to the GPS and is still editable via the GPS.

Ideally I use Base Camp on the laptop, and the other half checks out the spots on the other programs, you can enter co-ordinates, and re-name your sites. Takes a bit of learning, but gets easier to use with use.
The map used is the same one as installed in the GPS, but its on the laptop screen so much bigger. Zoom right in or out etc.

Whenarewethere · Guru

I have a Garmin drivesmart 61 7inch, it was getting slower acquiring satellites & sometimes just would not connect at all. Bought a new 65 7inch & it connects very quickly. The old one was less than 2 years. Hopefully this one lasts longer.

Just tried side by side, 2 seconds vs 30 seconds.

iana · Guru

Ended up purchasing a Garmin Drive 61, 6 inch screen.

MikeL · Veteran Member

Just bought a 2Din, Android 8.1 all in one unit to go in the Navara - not the one I really want but at $130 inc reversing camera capability, it looks good and is a trial for a better unit later on. Can use Google Maps as well as all other Android software. Nice thing about Google maps is that you can use offline maps for when you are miles from a reception area.

This is the one I REALLY want: ebay.us/msAlnZ - I intend having a reversing camera on the tug as well as a rear view camera on the caravan. The latter will be wired up to the sidelights so all I have to do to get a rear view is turn my sidelights on. Supports multiple cameras, OBD2 and TPMS as well.

PeterX · Senior Member

Id register for news , where you supply your device at bottom of page www.garmin.com/en-AU/

To get upgrade offers...

May not be good now since I guess you want a device immediately ....

Ann Marie · Newbie

Same thing happened to me with tomtom I rang them up as it wouldn't turn on and they got me to give it a reset by holding down the on off button for 15 seconds that worked and they then told me to charge it for 2 hours on 240v

iana · Guru

Thanks Ann-Marie, just tried that, but it looks like it is completely RIP, won't come on. We have brought a new one and now we realize that the dead one was soooo slow at up dating and was doing stupid thigs, it has been sick for some time.

Aus-Kiwi · Guru

Had Tom Tom . A cheaper eBay satnav with reverse camera etc as stand by . Its worked fine the last 18 months . I use Google Maps in conjunction along with Maps 8 . Sometimes they direct you through padlocks ? But a little common sense . Keep driving in direction you think ? They get you there . Even if you go over the Sydney harbour bridge twice .. na joking .