Garmin Warranty, Tech Support and MSN Traffic

by Ram Suntha
(St. Louis, MO)

I bought new Garmin NUVI 680 on December 10, 2007 from PC nation.

1. I used to own NUVI 350 and around March, I noticed that the “North Arrow” was missing. I contacted Garmin Tech support and after about 6 or 7 back and forth “Try This” and “Try That,” etc. the tech person told me in April that the “North Arrow” is no longer supported! Bummer.

2. I also reported that the replay of next turn (Bottom Right Hand) was not functioning. I discovered that when I turn the unit off and turn it back on the problem is solved until I set the next destination.

3. The tech support volunteered to correct the problem and gave me an RMA number. Garmin returned it shortly. I discovered that the original unit was exchanged to a different one with a different serial number. When inquired, they said that the replacement is a refurbished unit. I had originally purchased a 3-year warranty through Mack camera and video service. I was advised that if I told Mack of this replacement via original manufacturer’s warranty, I would not have any problem. (Wait and See) (I was told that it is impossible to track my old unit! What with serial numbers, this is not possible?

4. I am now noticing that the ETA (Bottom left corner) some times does not report the ETA, but shows blanks or shows the current speed. It happened only two or three times, and I will report it if it reappears again.

5. I have also signed up with MSN Traffic service. I am not impressed with that service. On my regular travel to and from work (45 miles each way), it always shows 1 or 2 minute Traffic incident at the same spot when there are no traffic. (I am at this highway location about 5:15 am every workday!) I have set the unit for “Faster time” and it routes me via highway that is about 6 miles further and four minutes longer than the State road I take.

In general, I am disappointed with Garmin’s warranty support, MSN Traffic and the 680.