Garmin issues-The joy of computers, software and op systems

localboy

I've never been able to update my software on our 740S and as a result, I'm missing out on what the plotter can really do; all the full benefits, especially now that we have radar too.

So I finally got a hold of Garmin support after looking at (Berta's Boy) John's identical unit and what it can do. Melissa @ Garmin sent me 4 pages of instructions on doing a "boot block update"...whatever that hell that is.

Well, after work today, I just spent an hour following their instructions to a tee. Still doesn't work. Their "solution"? Send it in for "repairs". It appears the operating system may be "corrupted" which will render the device "inoperable".

Computers will save the world!!!!! Rolling Eyes

Can you tell I'm a bit frustrated? Angry

Wonder how long this will take and how much more it will cost?

thataway · Posted: Sat Aug 04, 2012 1:05 pm Post subject:

Garmin is reliable in service. Generally they are quick on turn around--and good units. Sorry that you had the problem! So far I have never had an issue with Garmin products--but that is no help here!

dotnmarty

localboy · Posted: Fri Sep 28, 2012 6:52 pm Post subject:

Finally sent the unit out today. $325 and change total charge plus $31 insured USPS to get it there. They are simply sending me a "new" unit. I imagine a factory rebuilt one, but as long as it works I'll be happy. Rolling Eyes

tsturm · Posted: Fri Sep 28, 2012 9:02 pm Post subject:

localboy · Posted: Fri Oct 12, 2012 8:18 pm Post subject:

Got the unit back. It is the same unit, but re-furbished. Everything seems to be working although anything I had in it is gone. No routes, tracks, way points, any custom settings...nothing. Oh well...it works and there are other, more pressing issues in life.

Don and Brenda · Posted: Fri Oct 12, 2012 11:41 pm Post subject:

Mark

Wow that is quite a bit of $$ to get it repaired, this was not covered under warranty? I am used to my Raymarine C90 and with the new boat it is all a Garmin system, so more stuff to learn, at least the system is all integrated.

Hope it all works correctly now.

Don

localboy · Posted: Sat Oct 13, 2012 10:46 am Post subject:

exact lee · Posted: Sun Oct 14, 2012 2:19 pm Post subject:

Sounds pretty cheap to me.

I have had problems with my Garmin starting up if it is connected to 12 volts for a short while before trying to turn it on.

From Garmin customer support: "The flat rate repair or replacement for the GPSmap 5212 is $620.00 USD plus applicable taxes." I guess this means that they have the option of returning a different unit to you.

Since mine only has a few hundred hours on it, I would prefer to get my unit back repaired instead of another unit with unknown history. And that repair cost has prevented me from getting it fixed so far.

localboy · Posted: Sun Oct 14, 2012 2:26 pm Post subject:

Originally Garmin told me they would "replace" my unit w/ another, re-furb'd one. Customer service told me once I got my "new" unit back, I would have to register it to me.

However, when I sent it in I checked on the progress and they stated they were "out of stock". I assume they meant on re-furb'd 740S units. Question

Garmin ended up sending me my exact same unit back, all clean, pretty etc; the unit looks brand new, and has the same serial number on the rear plate. Neutral