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Garmin Express Not Detecting Devices on Newer macOS

For users of macOS Catalina 10.15 and higher, permission is required to allow devices to connect with the Garmin Express™ application. You may see a message Garmin Express would like to access files on a removable volume.  An example is shown below.

Selecting OK will allow Garmin Express to recognize the device.

Example of Prompt to Request Access to Removable Volumes

Selecting Don't Allow prevents Garmin Express from recognizing the device. This can be adjusted in the Security and Privacy settings on the computer if Don't Allow was accidentally selected.

NOTE: Some newer Mac computers may only have USB-C or Thunderbolt ports, which would require an adapter. Apple has a helpful support article that explains different USB types, how to identify them, and what adapters can be used: Identify the ports on your Mac.

If the Security and Privacy settings are set to allow Garmin Express to access files on a removable volume and the device is still not being recognized, refer to the articles below for additional troubleshooting suggestions.


Adjusting the Security and Privacy Settings on macOS Catalina 10.15, macOS Big Sur 11, and macOS Monterey 12

  1. Select the Apple icon.

  2. Select System Preferences.

    Example of System Preferences in the Apple Menu

  3. Select Security & Privacy.

    System Preferences page with a red border around Security and Privacy  

  4. Select the Privacy tab.

    Example of Privacy Tab  

  5. Select Files and Folders.

    Example of Files and Folder Option

  6. Select the box next to Removable Volumes for Garmin Express to add a checkmark.

    • If Garmin Express is not listed in the privacy tab under Files and Folders, try creating a new Admin user on the Mac or try using another computer.

    • If this option does not appear after creating the new Admin user, the Mac may need to be serviced.

      Security and Privacy menu with a red border around removable volumes

  7. Select Quit Now. This message will only appear if Garmin Express is open or running in the background.

    Example of Quit Garmin Express Prompt

NOTE: The computer may need to be restarted after completing these steps for Garmin Express to detect the device. 


Adjusting the Security and Privacy Settings on macOS Ventura 13, macOS Sonoma 14, and macOS Sequoia 15

NOTE: You may have to restart the computer after completing these steps for Garmin Express to detect the device.   

  1. Select the Apple icon in the top-left corner of the desktop.

  2. Select System Settings.

    System Settings  

  3. Select Privacy & Security.

    Privacy and Security  

  4. Select Files and Folders.

     Files and Folders

  5. Select the arrow next to Garmin Express to expand it.

    Select Program  

  6. Enable Removable Volumes.

    Removeable Volumes

  7. Select Quit & Reopen if prompted.

    Quit and Reopen

NOTE: You may have to restart the computer after completing these steps for Garmin Express to detect the device.


Allow Accessories to Connect on Mac Computers With Apple Silicon

Newer Mac computers that use Apple Silicon will give an alert when a new or unknown USB accessory is first connected. You must allow the accessory to connect in order for it to be recognized by Garmin Express. If you do not get an alert or your device will not connect, refer to Apple support for further assistance.