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Garmin Express not Working for Updates and Downloads
Garmin Express™ software connects to the Internet to download software, map updates, and downloadable content for Garmin devices. Internet connectivity, network connection issues, and computer power save features making the computer go to sleep can prevent Garmin Express from downloading this content.
Symptoms of These Issues Include:
There was an error installing the update error message.
There was an error installing the content error message.
Map changes failed error message.
No visible progress over time (Update stuck, frozen, or progress bar reversing).
This FAQ is for failures occurring during the download phase (example below).
If issues occur while "copying files," see Garmin Express Fails to Complete the "Copying Files" Stage.
If you get an error while downloading Cyclops Red Light and Speed Cameras, try again later or the next day after removing your device from Garmin Express and re-adding it.
The Following Steps Will Resolve Most Issues:
Ensure You Have the Latest Version of Garmin Express:
To check for updates to Express, see Updating the Garmin Express Application.
Current Version of Garmin Express for Windows: 7.25.0 as of March 25, 2025.
- Current Version of Garmin Express for Mac: 7.25.0 as of March 25, 2025.
Ensure Your Internet Connection Meets the System Requirements for Garmin Express:
A home high-speed Internet connection such as DSL or cable is required to use Garmin Express.
Using a public Wi-Fi, work computer, or work network can introduce obstacles.
Garmin Express is not intended to be used with mobile broadband (such as a 4G/LTE or 5G MiFi, AirCard, or cell phone tethering), satellite, fixed wireless, or dial-up Internet connections.
When using Wi-Fi, ensure you have a strong signal. You may need to move the computer closer to the Wi-Fi router, or try using a computer connected to an Ethernet cable instead.
For more information, see Internet Connection Restrictions that can Prevent the Successful Download of Maps.
Try Restarting the Computer:
NOTE: Shutting down, pressing the power button, or closing the lid on a computer may not effectively restart the computer. Follow the steps below to ensure the computer is completely restarted.
Windows 10 and Higher
Right-click the Start button.
Click Shut down or sign out.
Click Restart.
MacOS/OS X
Click the Apple icon in the menu bar.
Click Restart...
Click Restart to confirm.
Windows Only: Run Garmin Express as an Administrator:
The error may be caused by permissions issues for Garmin Express. Running as an administrator may resolve this: 
Uninstall Garmin Express, Restart the Computer, and Reinstall Garmin Express:
To uninstall Garmin Express, see Full Uninstall of Garmin Express.
To reinstall Garmin Express, see How Do I Install Garmin Express Software?
Ensure the Date, Time, and Time Zone Settings are Correct on Your Computer:
- Even if the time and date appear to be correct on your computer, if the time zone setting is set incorrectly, Garmin Express will not be able to communicate properly with the Garmin servers.
- If you need help checking these settings, see Verify the Date, Time, and Time Zone Settings on a Computer
Ensure Your MicroSD/SD Card or USB Flash Drive Meets Requirements:
If you are downloading a map to a microSD/SD card or USB flash drive, ensure the memory size of the card or drive falls within the recommended guidelines.
Outdoor and Marine Handhelds: See Memory Card Size Requirements for Garmin Outdoor Handhelds.
Automotive Devices: See SD Memory Card Sizes for Automotive Devices.
Automotive Portable OEM Devices: See SD Card Sizes for Garmin OEM Devices.
Acura and Honda in-dash Devices: Ensure the flash drive is 16GB only.
Kenwood in-dash Devices: See Limitations for SD Card or USB Stick for the Kenwood Devices.
Reset the Network Hardware:
Shut down the computer and reset the network hardware by unplugging the router and/or modem.
Bypass the router by connecting the modem directly to the computer.
After a minute, plug the modem back in to restart it and turn the computer back on and try the update again.
Check the Proxy Settings on the Computer:
Incorrectly configured proxy and/or LAN settings may affect the connection between the Internet and Garmin Express.
Disable Virtual Private Network:
If applicable, disable any VPN (Virtual Private Network) that is in use.
If this is not possible, use a different computer and/or network connection.
Close Other Applications That Might be Actively Reading or Writing to the Garmin Device:
Devices can only be actively read by or written to one application at a time.
For example, if Garmin BaseCamp™ is currently reading and caching the pre-installed map from your device, Garmin Express will not be able to write to your device.
These steps should resolve the issues preventing content from downloading in Garmin Express.