Troubleshooting Wireless Updates on an Automotive Device

If you are unable to successfully complete a wireless map or software update via your home Wi-Fi network or receive the message, "Unable to connect to the update server", there are a few troubleshooting steps that may resolve the problem.

Minimum Password Requirements

See null for more information.

Wi-Fi Specifications

NOTE: Hidden Networks are not compatible.

Below are the Wi-Fi-related specifications for Garmin automotive devices with Wi-Fi capability.  A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can be used as long as it meets the following requirements.

Supported Frequency: 2.4 GHz only

Security: Unencrypted, WEP, WPA, and WPA2

Acquire a Satellite Signal

In order to properly communicate with our update services, the time displayed on your device must be accurate. This time is automatically set when you receive a satellite signal.

If the device is new out of the box and has yet to be used for navigation, it is important to get a satellite signal before attempting a Wi-Fi update. To acquire a signal, take the device outside in clear view of the sky until it obtains a signal. The signal bars in the upper left corner of the Where To? and View Map screen indicate satellite signal strength.

If the time is displayed accurately on the device, a satellite signal should not be necessary on subsequent use. However, should the time become inaccurate, obtaining a signal again should correct this problem.

If your device is unable to acquire a satellite signal, see null.

Latest System Software

It is important to ensure the latest system software is installed to ensure the best device performance. If you are unable to successfully complete these updates via Wi-Fi, they can be installed with Garmin Express.

High-Speed Internet Connection

To successfully complete a Wi-Fi update, a wireless connection to home high-speed internet (Fiber, Cable, DSL, etc.) is required.  

Due to the size of a map update, connections with data caps or restrictions should not be used. Slower connections (satellite, fixed wireless, dial-up, etc.) and mobile broadband (MiFi, AirCard, cell phone tethering, etc.) should not be used.

External Power

External power is required in order to perform a Wi-Fi update. Details on the available external power options can be found in the following FAQ:   External Power Options for Wireless Updates

Remove and Reconnect to the Wi-Fi network

To forget the Wi-Fi network:

1. 1. Touch Settings
   2. Touch Wireless Networks
   3. Touch Wi-Fi
   4. Touch the desired network
   5. Touch FORGET

To add a Wi-Fi Network:

1. 1. Touch Settings
   2. Touch Wireless Networks
   3. Touch Wi-Fi
   4. Touch the desired network
   5. Enter the password to the Wi-Fi network if prompted

After reconnecting to the network, attempt the update again.

Reset the Wi-Fi Router

If the update is stopped, slow, or disconnecting this may indicate a problem with your internet connection. A common troubleshooting tool is to reset your Wi-Fi router. This can generally be done by unplugging the router for 30 seconds and then reconnecting.

If your wireless router continues to encounter network connectivity issues, additional troubleshooting can be done with your Internet Service Provider (ISP).

If these steps do not correct the wireless updates, contact Product Support.