Garmin GPS Map Update

[blackbr]

So, the GPS in our 2011 300 Limited flashed that the map was a year old and should be updated by visiting www.garmin.com/chrysler.

How is it that I can buy a lifetime update for my portable GPS for <$100 yet a single update for the 300 is $149?

Not that I want to pay this much every year, but how is the update performed and installed? Is there a cheaper means of doing this?

[zach2011]

I don't have the N model but I think you either update it with a DVD or USB drive. My family's GM vehicles are updated via DVD's. These prices are insanely high because of the contracts auto manufacturers have with these digital map suppliers.

As I used to participate in Tahoe/Escalade forums, I noticed this led many GM owners with navigation systems to download torrents, which are illegal copies of the DVD and burn them to disc therefore giving themselves a free update.

However, I also know that calling the suppliers help. I called ours and received a free disc update for our Escalade valued at $200. So trying that may help.

I want an 8.4N

[blackbr]

Originally Posted by zach2011

However, I also know that calling the suppliers help. I called ours and received a free disc update for our Escalade valued at $200. So trying that may help.

Thanks for the info! But who do you mean by "suppliers?"

[zach2011]

Well, since I have a regular 8.4 and not an N model I'm not sure who supplies the updates for Chrysler, but most likely it will be Garmin themselves. For the GM DVD's I went to gmnavdisc.com and called their phone number. Do some searching around on Google and you should be able to find who Chrysler gets the updates from.

[developerx]

I have the same issue, but I bought my 2011 one month ago. It doesn't seem right to me that I have to pay for an update now. Also, on my 2005 300C, the first update was free. Any thoughts? Call Garmin or go to the dealer? Thanks in advance.

[ChryslerCares]

GARMIN Customer Support: 1-800-800-1020
Email: Through GARMIN’s website at Garmin | United States | Home

Garmin International
1200 E. 151st Street
Olathe, KS 66062 USA

[Ksport]

Got message this morning and the colors in the bars on GPS changed too since the message appeared in the screen..... I think Chrysler OR Garmin one or the other should provide this update for free.

[blackbr]

Did a search on this topic and was surprised to see that I myself brought it up way back in February. Reviving for fresh discussion. "Official" pricing is still absurd, not about to pay $149 for an annual update.

[Randster]

For for 2012, my dealer recommended updating every 2 years because it takes them that long to update the entire country.

[0ts300C]

I have had my 2011 just over a year now and noticed a couple months after purchase that some of the route information was incorrect. From pass experience with my 2006 knowing that an update was close to $200 each time, I contacted the dealer thinking they could flash it or something being that the vehicle was brand new. I was directed to the parts department or website where the update is $149, let's say to this date I have yet to purchase the update and learning to deal with the incorrect route information. I feel that with the amount of money we have paid for these vehicles it would be nice to at least get some updates free. Now every once in awhile I also get the message letting me know the maps are out of date. My 2006 Navigation is still running on the original DVD and manages very well on the road, actually sometimes has better routes than Mapquest.