Garmin nuvi 255W GPS Receiver - Answered Questions & Fixed issues

get a new device, that one is shot

To update your nuvi, all you need to do is to connect your nuvi to an internet connected computer and the updates will show on the lower left of your computers screen, click on it and it will update it with the latest software version and maps.
You can also go to your nuvis website and search for latest updates. Just click on the map link and a list will pop up under the map link, select update maps if it is maps you want to update. It will ask you to choose your device from a list, after choosing your nuvi 255w then it will show you the latest maps for your gps, but you have to install its plug ins first.
That is how to update your gps.

Have you tried doing a hard reset,try using the reset button on the bottom of the gps under the serial label.Or try holding the turn off button for about 10 seconds,good luck.

of course ! but i didn't know the reset button,i only know there is some password recovery utilities you can have a try ,
check this out : unlock word password

Please try this procedure:

http://www.sharc.net/discus/messages/6/77.html?1268019966


- Jim

https://support.garmin.com/support/manuals/manuals.faces?partNo=010-00718-20 Click on above link and download what you need. Both the owner's manual and quick start guide is available. Semper Fi, Z

junk it water and electronics do not mix

there is a fuse in the cigarette lighter plug if not that check the fuse panel for cig terminal when you were wigling you may have shorted the fuse there and possibly both. good luck

That unit does not have an MP3 player. In order to get that functionality, you would need to purchase a device that does have that functionality.

many problems it could be. Back up your files and do a factory reset. If that doesn't work, it is probably a h/w issue.

I have a Garmin 255 myself. And what I have found is, MOST of the time, the problem is that the CHARGER CABLE has an intermittent connection in it! So, when the cable moves, flexes, or stretches, the battery charge STOPS, and the (mostly discharged) battery cannot support the load, so the unit blacks out and turns off. Try S-L-O-W-L-Y moving the cable while connected with the unit on, and watch for evidence of a bad cable! Sometimes a DIRTY (trapezoid- shaped) connector will do the same thing!

Do a hard reset on the device. Download Garmin Express and install it to your PC. Connect your device to your PC. Garmin Express will identify it and allow you to install all the maps and software that the device has a subscription to. You either have a corrupt file or a space issue. If it is a space issue, insert an SD card 8gb or less and have Garmin Express install the maps and updates to it.

Download Garmin Express and install it to your PC. Connect your device to your PC. Garmin Express will identify it and allow you to install all the maps and software that the device has a subscription to.

This GPS will need to go back to Garmin for repair, they really don't repair them but give you an exchange unit, so with prices low just replace it.

as far as i remember there is no bluetooth on this unit.

If it won't start up off the cigarette lighter cord, removing the battery will not solve anything. Replacement batteries are available, even the solder in styles. Just do a google search for garmin batteries Try charging it with a 110 volt charger to see if it will come on. If not, there's something else wrong inside.

Hello,

the problem is actually a software issue and since resetting does not solve the problem,I think updating the deice should solve the problem. Update is just like reinstall the system software of the unit and it might get things fixed.

To perform update, follow the below procedures;

1. Plug one end of the USB cable into your GPS and the other end into your desktop or laptop computer. The GPS device will load the appropriate driver automatically, and a message on your GPS tells you that it is connected to your computer via USB.

2. Open your Internet browser of choice and type in the following web address: http://www8.garmin.com/support/collection.jsp?product=999-99999-27

3. Download the appropriate version of the software for your computer (Windows or Apple) and Install the WebUpdater by following the wizard (accept defaults).

4. Click "Start," "Programs," "Garmin" and " WebUpdater" to update your firmware and your maps. Periodically check and make sure your software is current.

If the computer does not recognize the Gps, you can try the below procedure;

With the unit OFF, hold your right thumb on the Upper, Left part of the screen and plug the USB plug from your computer into the back of your GPS. The unit should boot up and stop at the screen where it shows a little computer, wire, and little GPS. Your computer should now show the GPS as connected. Only now you can pull your thumb from the screen.

Then use Webupdater to upload 4.40 to your GPS.

Hopefully, the above should be helpful

Good luck.

Do you have enough space left inside the unit to finish the update?Possibly you ran out of space and may need to use a sd card to get all the info your missing or need into the unit.

Not familiar with the 255W but I am sure it will have either a standard USB mini or micro socket. Take it with you to a computer/electronics store. Any good quality mini or micro USB cable that is readily available should provide the connection for you.

Some Sat Navs can't convert, If it's bought & set to UK & Ireland maps, then you are stuck. 2nd thing , even if you can use Europe Maps on your Sat Nav, you still will be unable, to load USA maps. Sat Nav not compatable, You will have to buy a NEW ONE.