Automotive Device Showing a Computer Icon in the Car

Your device may show an icon of a GPS device connected to a computer tower when plugged into the vehicle. This icon means the device is in file transfer mode. This is used specifically for connecting to a computer.

This May be Due to the Following Reasons:

• A USB Cable is Plugged into the Device Instead of the Garmin-Provided Vehicle Power Cable

  • This is the most common cause of this issue.
  • This causes the device to think it is plugged into a computer.
    • The device enters file transfer mode when connected to a USB port or cable since they provide less power to the device.
    • The amount of power it receives from the connected cable determines which mode it uses.
  • The USB cable is used for plugging the device into a computer for updates.
  • The Garmin vehicle power cable plugs into a 12V outlet (cigarette lighter outlet) in most vehicles.
  • A High-speed Multi-charger can be used to charge other electronics at the same time you're using your device.

• A Third-Party Cable is Being Used to Plug the Device into the Vehicle (Examples Below)

  • A mobile phone charger or adapter.

  • A "hard-wired" cable.

  • A 12V USB adapter manufactured by a different company.

See Using Third-Party AC Chargers, Cables, and Other Accessories with Garmin Automotive Devices.

• In More Rare Cases, the Vehicle Power Cable or the USB Port on the Device May be Damaged

  • A replacement cable can be purchased from a Garmin dealer or the Garmin Online Store.

    • See Buying Automotive Accessories Directly from Garmin.

  • Contact Product Support if a replacement cable does not resolve the issue and/or any damage is visible on the device's mini-USB port.