How to Troubleshoot a Garmin C550 GPS

The Garmin C550 is part of the company's StreetPilot line of GPS units. Features include a 2.1-inch LCD display, turn-by-turn directions, traffic alerts, weather data, trip meter and anti-theft lock. Before you contact Garmin for service when you run into an issue with the Garmin C550 GPS, you can troubleshoot the unit on your own.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Step 1

Update the drivers and software for the Garmin C550 GPS. Garmin uses the software program WebUpdater to keep their GPS models up-to-date. Download this program for free through the Garmin website, then launch the application on your computer. Connect your GPS to your computer using the USB sync cable that came with your device. The program will automatically scan the GPS for new drivers and software. If updates are found, select the download button to load the programs onto the GPS unit. Disconnect the sync cable when instructed to do so by the WebUpdater software.

Step 2

Move to a different area with a clearer view of the sky. Tall buildings, tunnels and trees can block the signal of a Garmin C550 GPS.

Step 3

Reset the Garmin C550 GPS if it happens to freeze up during use. To reset the StreetPilot, pull off the faceplate of the unit. On the side of the device, you will see a reset button. Press this button and then replace the faceplate.

Step 4

Change the fuse of your Garmin C550 GPS. Another resolution for the Garmin C550 GPS is to change the adapter fuse if you lose power. Unscrew the black cap at the top of the adapter by hand to expose the current fuse. Remove the old fuse and replace with a new AGC/3AG two amp fuse. Screw back the top once finished.

Step 5

Calibrate the screen of the Garmin StreetPilot C550 GPS. At some point, the GPS screen may not respond to your touch and require recalibration. To do this, power the unit off and wait a few seconds. Then, hold down the "Power" button for one minute until the calibration menu comes on screen. Touch the screen when directed to do so, to calibrate the GPS.

Resources
Heather Wood is a freelance writer who provides content to both traditional and new media publishers. She has worked professionally for five years and has appeared in numerous publications, including Gadgetell, Outlook by the Bay and Step in Style. She holds a Bachelor's degree in English from The College of New Jersey. Heather enjoys an active lifestyle and spends her free time running and skiing.

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