Garmin issues patch to exorcise brick from 7x5 series GPS

It didn't take long for Garmin to get into gear, once it acknowledged the firmware update had ultimately brought ruin to its nüvi 7x5 series GPS units. The company's released a new software update that should provide a fix -- it should be available now via its WebUpdater. If you're one of those whose device won't even turn on anymore, there's also a support section online for requesting a return authorization to have it repaired under warranty. Garmin acknowledged a few other devices that may be affected, including 800 series, 8x5 series, zūmo 660, and GPSMAP 620 / 640. Those will all be getting updates "in the near future."

Today, Garmin released a free, mandatory GPS software update to correct a software issue that has been discovered to cause select GPS devices to repeatedly attempt to update GPS firmware, and then either shut down or no longer acquire GPS satellite signals. The products affected are the nüvi 7x5 series, nüvi 800 series, nüvi 8x5 series, zūmo 660, GPSMAP 620 and GPSMAP 640.

Garmin nüvi 7x5 series products that are no longer able to acquire a GPS satellite signal may download a firmware update immediately that will correct the software issue. This firmware update may be downloaded using Garmin's WebUpdater program at http://www8.garmin.com/products/webupdater/howtoinstall.jsp.

Firmware updates for other affected products will be available online through Garmin's WebUpdater in the near future. Affected customers who have registered their GPS device will be notified about these updates through email.

Garmin nüvi 7x5 customers who are no longer able to power on their GPS device will need to visit www.garmin.com/support, and select the first FAQ titled "My nüvi 755T, 765T, 775T or 785T is giving me the message 'Updating GPS Firmware' or will no longer power on..." Customers will then need to follow the instructions to request a return authorization so that the device may be repaired under warranty.

We know our customers rely upon their Garmin GPS device(s), especially during the summer travel season, and we regret any inconvenience this situation may have caused. We are committed to developing products that are known for their quality and reliability and will continue to work diligently to earn the trust of our customers.

[y3k.nik @ Jun 24th 2009 10:26PM]

The power of Christ compels you!!! The power of Christ compels you!!

Unbrick thee and go back to hell!!!

The power of Christ is still compelling you....

[chinawholesale @ Jun 24th 2009 10:38PM]

ss

[va jj @ Jun 24th 2009 10:59PM]

very accurate. tells the user to switch lane via solid white lines.

[PhotoFre@k @ Jun 25th 2009 12:52AM]

Last min turn by turn suk, it causes more harm than it help. There's a thing call a map ya know? GPS also kinda distracting while driving. I can't really enjoy my road trips because I keep looking and hearing a GPS and missing out of what's around me. Do you need to route your way home from your neighbor house? Also the company didn't tell you the monthly fees you'll be paying after a few months of service it you want to keep it.

[MacBandit @ Jun 25th 2009 1:08AM]

What the heck are you talking about? Last minute turn? They give you a heads up on your turn well ahead and then they give you a final notice. Also you can enjoy what's around you much more when you don't have to worry about where your next turn is. No I don't use it to get home in my neighborhood more like when I'm in a foreign town. Also I've been using GPS units for years and have never had to pay a monthly charge or any charge whatsoever besides buying the unit and map updates if I choose to buy them.

[Zane @ Jun 25th 2009 4:56AM]

I think you're better off without a GPS.

[SKI @ Jun 25th 2009 1:38AM]

My friend has one of the affected "Bricked" units. He just sent me a text. Cracked the case unplugged the battery and voila. Rebooted and updated. Now fixed. No shipping the unit back.!!!

[TimmyRaa @ Jun 25th 2009 4:28AM]

Void warranty.

[freddyb @ Jun 25th 2009 9:59AM]

This worked on my 765. Very easy to do, you just need a small tool (T5 torx or suitable replacement) to pull the two screws out. No warranty stickers or anything so there's no way to tell it has been opened.

[tekdroid @ Jun 25th 2009 5:37AM]

As far as I'm aware only a select few GPS units come with user-replaceable batteries. It seems like faulty firmware would be another great reason for them, after reading this.

[xanium4332 @ Jun 25th 2009 5:55AM]

Just fixed my bricked 765T by taking the back off, unplugging the battery, and plugging it back in. Device turned back on, then updated it using Garmin's WebUpdater.

Exact same procedure as what SKI friend did - IT WORKED!

Method to disassemble:
1. Remove the two small torx screws on the back of the unit (this is where you need your toolbox of everything!)
2. Run finger round edge, pulling the back off as you can. Try not to pull too hard (don't want to break it) and be aware that the battery and speaker are attached to the back (so don't yank it away when it finally comes off
3. Unplug battery
4. Leave for a second or two
5. Plug battery back in
6. Push back cover on
7. Replaces screws
8. ???
9. Update!

I can't see any warranty stickers, and the build quality is solid (nicely designed as well). So if you don't wanna wait 2 weeks for a warranty replacement (they're gonna do EXACTLY the same thing after shipping it to them), just try the method above. Try not to damage the case, but it *SHOULD* resurrect your device.

Note that this was on a 765T, although I think almost all the affected models are designed/built the same way

[Aaron Oefinger @ Jun 25th 2009 8:13AM]

All I can think of as a Dallas resident is "Jesus Christ, I hate that exit. I'm going to be late for work."

[Bum Wesley @ Jun 25th 2009 12:06PM]

My 765WT was working fine. I get an email to update it. I plug it into my computer and it gets bricked. Ain't life grand?

[Chris BAzzie @ Jun 25th 2009 12:56PM]

Wow. The company breaks its own hardware, that many folks paid $400+ for, and then treats their customers like crap. All I have to say is Hello Magellan! My next GPS wont be a Garmin after they've done this to me and thousands of others.

[Chucula @ Jun 25th 2009 5:41PM]

I'm going to buy a Garmin to cancel out your choice.

[neil @ Jun 25th 2009 6:05PM]

Thanks Engadget! I had a problem with my 755 - it would only stay locked for a few seconds - then I remembered reading something about it here... came back, saw the fix, and am doing the update now!
You guy rock!
Neil

[jwright @ Jun 25th 2009 7:38PM]

Perfect fix,

775T Working again,

The catch is finding the little torx driver to open the case.

Thanks

[donnyb @ Jun 25th 2009 11:13PM]

Thanks Ski. Unplugging the battery will do the trick, up and running as I type.

[shawnmos @ Jun 26th 2009 2:21AM]

oops

[Donald Rull @ Jun 26th 2009 7:43AM]

Above fix worked fo rme on my 775t. I thought I had a complete set of torx screwdrivers...but no...not one this small! After buying one...BAD GARMIN!

[psxp @ Jun 27th 2009 12:35AM]

thanks for the unplugging tip - saved me from having to return the unit.. I just installed a screen protector on it too!

[Billy @ Jun 27th 2009 5:04PM]

Garmin just launched a new web form where you can request an RMA online. It will actually give you an RMA number immediately where you can send the faulty device in right away. This will be quicker than calling since so many people are calling them now. It's only for the devices listed below and for US customers.

nüvi® 755T, 765T, 775T and 785T RMA Request for U.S. Customers - https://my.garmin.com/mygarmin/nuvi7x5RMA.faces

[ecurbw @ Jul 3rd 2009 11:09AM]

Has anyone, who sent their unit in, received it back from Garmin? I sent mine (755t) in on June 24, and they received it on June 26. They stated in the recall email it would take 8-10 days to get it back. I drive a taxi and I use it everyday. Please hurry Garmin! Wish I was aware of the unplugging the battery and plugging it back in scenario :-(

[ecurbw @ Jul 6th 2009 11:13AM]

Just received my repaired 755t from Garmin today (7.6.2009). Per Garmin's original email instructions (concerning returning the unit for repair), I was instructed to send all of the unit's accessories as well, which I did. Guess what? Garmin returned only the unit itself - none of the accessories were returned. I'm missing the FM traffic receiver/vehicle power cable; the vehicle suction cup mount; the USB cable and the dashboard disc :-( Just emailed them about this issue :-(

[GregS @ Jul 8th 2009 11:58AM]

I sent mine in on 6/29 and just received it back on 7/7 - all working fine. And I did recieve the serial number that I sent (did not get someone else's back). All my data and saved items were still on the unit.

I sent in only the unit (My instructions said to only send in the unit NOT all the accessories)

All in all - I think they were pretty quick. (Not I was going to dry and reset the battery myself, but could not get one of the two screws out - so had to send it in)

[Jluis @ Jul 27th 2009 8:06AM]

After updating my 765T I was on my way on a 3500 km 10 day trip. 200 km in and I was hit by this plague and bricked the unit. Now what? Fortunately I had with me a hacked version of TomTom Navigator on my cell phone and did much of the driving in foreign cities with it. Today I had just sent my unit in the mail when I read these posts. I went back to the post office and got my package back (did lose the 2,50 euros though). Fortunately I had the little special screwdriver and in 5 minutes I had the got damn thing working. Next time I'm buying a TomTom that's for sure! Now I am installing a hacked 2010 Garmin map.