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My Garmin Watch is Not Syncing or Staying Connected to the Garmin Explore App

If you are experiencing issues with a compatible Garmin watch not syncing or staying connected with the Garmin Explore™ app, this article goes over common items to check and troubleshooting steps, if needed.

Items to Check for Bluetooth and Sync Issues in the Garmin Explore App

When it comes to Bluetooth connections, there are many variables to consider and items to check before determining that troubleshooting is necessary.

Ensure the Data Type Syncs Through the Garmin Explore App

Not all types of data sync between a Garmin watch and the Garmin Explore app. For more information on what syncs, see - Items that Sync Through the Garmin Explore App for Garmin Watches.

Check the Bluetooth Connection

An active Bluetooth connection is required to sync user data between the Garmin watch and the Garmin Explore app. User data consists of activities, courses. and saved locations. If Bluetooth has been disabled, or a connection disruption is experienced, user data will fail to sync.

Bluetooth Status on the Garmin Watch

For most watches, the Bluetooth status can be found in Settings > Bluetooth/Phone > Status. For specific instructions, refer to your owner's manual.

Bluetooth Status on Phone

Bluetooth should remain enabled on the paired phone to stay connected with the Garmin watch.

Check in the settings of the phone to confirm Bluetooth is on.
- For assistance, consult the phone manufacturer.
Ensure Bluetooth is enabled if using Airplane mode.
Confirm the Garmin product appears on the phone's list of connected devices and is Connected.

Check Connection Status in the Garmin Explore App

Open the Garmin Explore app.
Select Devices.
Select your device.
View the connection status.

Check The Phone's Internet Connection

A data connection on the phone (Wi-Fi or mobile data) is required to sync the Garmin Explore app with the Garmin Explore website and account. If the connection is unavailable or has been disrupted, you may see a "Sync Failed" message on the Account tab in the Garmin Explore app.

Ensure Wi-Fi or mobile data is enabled on the phone.
Turn off Airplane mode.
- NOTE: Airplane mode can be used on the mobile device to sync user data with the handheld as long as Bluetooth remains enabled on the phone. The Garmin Explore app will not sync to the Garmin Explore website in Airplane mode.
Try switching from Wi-Fi to mobile data.
Try switching from mobile data to Wi-Fi.
Use a different Wi-Fi network.

Confirm All Software Is Up to Date

To sync and stay connected, it is important that all software is current on the watch, the Garmin Explore app, and the phone.

Garmin Watch Software

Use the Garmin Express™ program from a personal computer which will automatically check for and install available software updates

Garmin Apps

Check for updates in the app store for your phone.

Garmin Explore App

Garmin Connect App (If Applicable)

Phone Software Updates

Most mobile devices install updates automatically but it is best to confirm you have the latest operating system and install any missing updates. Consult your phone manufacturer for assistance, if needed.

Troubleshooting Bluetooth and Sync Issues

If none of the above helps the resolve the issue, proceed with the troubleshooting steps below.

1. Forget the Garmin Watch From the Bluetooth Menu of the Phone

Consult the phone manufacturer for steps if needed

2. Remove the Garmin Watch From the Garmin Explore App

Open the Garmin Explore app.
Select Devices.
Select your Garmin device.
Select the three dots in the top right, then Remove Device.

3. Remove the Garmin Watch From the Garmin Connect App (If Applicable)

For steps, see

4. Restart the Garmin Watch and Phone

Power off the Garmin watch, then power it back on.
Power off the phone, then power it back on.

5. Pair the Garmin Watch to the Phone Again

For steps, see - Pairing a Garmin Watch With the Garmin Explore App.

6. Uninstall and Reinstall the Garmin Explore App

Uninstall the Garmin Explore app from your mobile device.
- Select your operating system below for instructions on how to uninstall an app. For further assistance, refer to your mobile device's user manual.
  - Android
  - iOS
Reinstall the Garmin Explore app from your mobile device's app store.