Garmin c530 - Beware Extra Costs!

by Inspector Gadget
(Michigan)

Have a Garmin c530. Travel a lot..many new places.

Relied on Garmin c530 to provide the best route. Unit provides route to destination, but not always best or quickest route.

Unit I purchased in June does not have road/map in Michigan that I know have been there for many years. I have run into this problem many times.

Decided to call Garmin and talk with tech support. Able to speak with tech quickly...I like short wait time customer service, but his solution to the problem...I was not enthused...pay $75 to upgrade map to 2008 version.

Is it reasonable to expect that map included with new unit should have to be upgraded six months after purchase to the tune of $75 for roads/streets that have been in existence since before Mickey Mouse? I think not, but as he stated I have no choice. Reminds me of computer printers...sell them low to get the flow...the flow of after market products such as upgrades...I mean after all I already paid $300 for the unit, what's another $75??? So beware prospective buyers: "Subway Marketing" of after market products can drive up your "Real Costs."