How long is a GPS supposed to last? I am not talking about when it becomes obsolete to the point you can no longer download new maps. My five-year-old Nuvi is to that point, but I still hope to get at least one more year out of it. But electronics do go on the blitz after a while. If you have had a Garmin or TomTom GPS quit on you, how old was it and how much had you used it during that time? If you have replaced a still-working unit, why?
Posted by
Tilburg, Netherlands
2829 posts
My father has a GPS unit dated from 2007 (Garmin Nuvii). Still working and still updatable. I replaced mine because I wanted a newer one with the latest features, larger screen etc.
Posted by
Gaston, Oregon, USA
931 posts
I've had my TOM TOM since DEC of 2007, and have had no problems, except my battery is dead also. I just updated maps a couple of years ago, and plan on using it until it dies. We are taking it to England and Ireland this May/June.
Posted by
Centennial, CO, USA
1883 posts
My Garmin is over 5 years old. Will not hold a charge to the battery, only works when plugged in to my car cig lighter. However, I plug it in in the car and that works just fine. I don't know if there is a point where you cannot download new maps...that's in interesting thought. I'm hanging on to my Garmin until it's totally dead. I paid for unlimited s a few years back (now it's included in new units) so I want to get my money's worth. I can't see dumping working electronics into the environment, and since I paid for s, no one could use this unit without my information (unless one of my kids wants it, I'm not giving it to anyone) While I'd love to get a new one (and now they are cheaper than the $400 I paid) I'll wait until it's totally dead.
Posted by
Florida, USA
12172 posts
I had one TomTom that quit. My wife was delivering mail for awhile - both my GPS and Razr phone died during that stint. I think the GPS burned up being in the car window on very hot days. It was probably five years old and worked fine until then. The directions say to not let them get really hot or cold. I think you replace a GPS when it doesn't work anymore, won't take an update or shows other signs of age. The only other time I might replace it is when you see a new model that has features you like or need - then the old one can be a backup.