Troubleshooting Lowrance GPS Update Not Working: A Complete GuideUpdated 3 months ago

Lowrance GPS units are widely popular for their reliability and performance, especially among boating enthusiasts, fishermen, and outdoor explorers. However, like any piece of technology, issues can arise, one of the most common being problems with GPS updates. If you are experiencing issues with Lowrance GPS updates not working, you're not alone. This guide will help you troubleshoot and resolve the issue, so you can get back on track and enjoy the features that your Lowrance GPS offers.

Why GPS Updates Are Important for Lowrance Devices

Before diving into the troubleshooting steps, it's important to understand why updating your Lowrance GPS is essential. GPS updates typically involve map updates, software improvements, and bug fixes that help improve the accuracy, speed, and functionality of your device. Updated maps provide more accurate locations, new points of interest, and better route planning. Software updates can fix errors and improve the overall performance of your GPS unit.

Now, let’s explore some common reasons why the GPS update might not be working and how you can fix them.

Common Reasons for Lowrance GPS Update Issues

1. Outdated or Corrupted Software
   One of the primary reasons updates might fail is if your Lowrance GPS device is running outdated or corrupted software. In some cases, the system may not be able to recognize the new update, or it may cause the device to malfunction.

2. Connection Problems
   If you're using a PC or Mac to download and transfer updates to your GPS, poor connectivity or incompatible cables can interrupt the update process. Lowrance units typically use a USB connection, so ensure the cable is in good condition and that your computer is recognizing the GPS unit.

3. Insufficient Storage Space
   Lowrance GPS units require sufficient free space to download and install updates. If the storage on your device is full, the update may fail. This can happen if there are too many maps, waypoints, or other files stored on the GPS device.

4. Software Compatibility Issues
   Some updates may not be compatible with older Lowrance models. This issue is more common when attempting to update older GPS units, as the manufacturer may discontinue support for older models. It's important to check if your GPS unit is still supported for updates.

5. Connection Issues with the Update Server
   Sometimes, the issue may not be with your device but with the update server itself. Lowrance may experience outages or maintenance that temporarily prevents the update from being completed.

6. Faulty SD Cards or Memory Issues
   For units that use SD cards for map storage, a faulty or corrupted SD card can cause update failures. Ensure that your card is properly formatted and not damaged.

How to Troubleshoot and Fix Lowrance GPS Update Problems

Step 1: Check for Software and Map Updates

Before trying anything else, make sure your GPS device is up to date with the latest software and maps. For Lowrance devices, this can be done through the Lowrance website or the "GoFree" app.

1. Visit the Lowrance website and check for any software updates specific to your model.
2. Follow the provided instructions to download the latest updates to your computer or SD card.
3. Ensure that your GPS unit is properly connected before starting the update process.

Step 2: Verify Your GPS Unit’s Software Version

If you're experiencing problems updating your Lowrance GPS, the software on your device might not be up to date. Check the current version of your GPS software by following these steps:

1. Turn on your Lowrance device and navigate to the "Settings" or "About" section.
2. Look for the software version listed in the menu.
3. Compare the version shown on your device with the latest version available on the Lowrance website.
4. If there's a discrepancy, download and install the latest version.

Step 3: Ensure a Stable Internet Connection

If you’re downloading updates directly to your computer, you need a reliable internet connection. A slow or interrupted internet connection can prevent the update from downloading or transferring successfully.

1. Use a stable Wi-Fi connection or an Ethernet cable if you're updating on a computer.
2. If possible, try updating at a different time when network traffic may be lower.

Step 4: Free Up Space on Your GPS Device

Lowrance GPS devices require a certain amount of storage space to perform updates. If your device is full, it may not have enough room to download and install updates. To resolve this:

1. Delete any unnecessary waypoints, routes, or saved files from your device.
2. Remove any old or unused maps from your GPS.
3. Transfer files that you want to keep onto a computer or external storage device.

Once you’ve freed up enough space, try updating your GPS again.

Step 5: Use the Correct USB Cable and Port

A faulty USB cable or connection port can cause update issues. Ensure that the cable you are using is in good condition and that it’s properly connected to both the GPS unit and the computer.

1. Try using a different USB cable if the current one appears worn or damaged.
2. Test different USB ports on your computer, especially if you’re using a USB hub.

If the connection is stable, your device should be able to recognize and download updates without issue.

Step 6: Reformat the SD Card

If your Lowrance GPS uses an SD card to store maps or software updates, the card could be corrupted, leading to update failures. Reformatting the SD card may help resolve the issue.

1. Back up any important files on the SD card to your computer.
2. Use a computer to format the SD card (ensure it’s formatted in FAT32).
3. Reinsert the card into your GPS and try the update again.

Note that you may need to download and install new maps to the SD card after reformatting.

Step 7: Check for Server Issues

If your GPS still refuses to update, the issue may lie with the Lowrance update servers. The servers could be temporarily down for maintenance or experiencing issues. In this case, there's little you can do but wait for the servers to become operational.

To check for server issues:

1. Visit the Lowrance website or official social media channels to see if there are any notifications about outages or maintenance.
2. Try updating your device at a later time.

Step 8: Perform a Hard Reset

If you’ve tried all other troubleshooting steps without success, performing a hard reset on your GPS unit may help. A reset can clear any software glitches or settings that may be preventing updates from being installed.

To reset your Lowrance GPS:

1. Turn off the device.
2. Press and hold the reset button (usually located on the back or side of the unit) for a few seconds.
3. Release the button and power on the device.
4. Check if the update can be installed after the reset.

Step 9: Contact Lowrance Support

If all else fails, it might be time to reach out to Lowrance customer support. They can guide you through more advanced troubleshooting steps, or there may be a known issue with your particular model that requires a solution.

You can contact Lowrance via email or their support phone line for assistance. Be ready to provide the model of your GPS unit, its serial number, and details of the update issue you're encountering.

Preventing Future Update Issues

To avoid future issues with Lowrance GPS updates, here are some tips:

• Regularly check for updates to ensure your GPS device is always up to date.
• Keep your GPS device in good working condition by cleaning the screen, ports, and connectors.
• Store and back up important files on a computer or external storage device.
• Ensure that your internet connection is stable before starting any update.

Conclusion

While it can be frustrating when Lowrance GPS updates aren’t working, most issues can be resolved with a little troubleshooting. Whether it’s a connection problem, a lack of storage, or an outdated software version, following the steps outlined in this guide should help you get your updates up and running smoothly. If the issue persists, don't hesitate to contact Lowrance support for more specialized assistance. With the right approach, you’ll be back to navigating with your Lowrance GPS in no time!