Garmin Customer Service Issues

Hello, my name is Brandon. I recently purchased 3 used Garmin devices for myself, my mother, and my wife. We have tested them and they seem to be working well. I am excited to stop using my phone for navigation due to safety concerns and inefficiency. However, I noticed that the devices show different years ([redacted], [redacted], [redacted]) and some Points of Interest and retail locations are outdated. I just found out that map updates require a paid subscription after the initial free 90-day period. I am unsure if this offer applies to us since we bought used devices. I am struggling to find clear answers on how much the updates cost and if I need to pay for each device separately. I am concerned about giving outdated navigators in a traffic-intensive area like Denver, where aggressive drivers are common. I hope to resolve this issue soon and start using these devices effectively. Thank you for your assistance.

I received an email from Garmin on 12/18/18 confirming the receipt of my device(s) and the processing of my service request. The email mentioned that I would be notified with a tracking number and a link once the item(s) are shipped. The return material authorization (RMA) number provided was [redacted]69. However, when checking the return status, it indicates that the device has not been received. I would appreciate assistance in resolving this discrepancy and obtaining clarification on the current status. Thank you.

The quick release mechanism on the band is extremely disappointing. I lost my watch on the first day of wearing it, and I wasn't even engaged in vigorous activities; just walking around a store. I checked the time inside the store, but when I looked again before dinner, it was already missing. The watch was securely fastened as I still had the marks on my wrist. This watch was a Christmas gift from my parents, and I only wore it once. It's disheartening to encounter such a flaw in the design of a watch I've wanted for so long. I wish to replace it, but given my financial constraints, I had requested it as a gift. This situation is unfortunate for me and my retired parents, who bestowed it upon me. I feel a sense of responsibility to reimburse them for a defective item. Kindly respond to my message. Thank you, S.Z.

I am experiencing an issue with my Garmin vívoactive® 3 Music watch where it only shows colored lines without any text. I have submitted a service request but have not received any follow-up. I have included a copy of the email confirmation for reference. Thank you, J. Pollard

I need assistance with changing the watch face display on my Vivofit4. On Saturday, February 23 around 3 pm, I was on Live Chat with a technician named Tyreil who provided the following instructions for resolving the issue: 1. Remove the device from Garmin Connect and your phone's Bluetooth. - Access the Connect Mobile app - Tap the 3 lines in the upper left corner (Android) or Tap More (iPhone) - Select Garmin Devices - Choose the name of your device - Tap the three dots in the top right corner - Select Remove Device - Confirm your decision - In your mobile phone's Settings, navigate to Bluetooth - Find the Garmin Device and remove or forget it - Confirm this action - Turn off your phone's Bluetooth - Restart your phone Tyreil also mentioned that after completing these steps, it's necessary to delete Garmin Connect before restarting the phone.

I received a Garmin Fenix 5 Plus as a gift on December 25, [redacted]. After a friend in their early 60s recommended it, I decided to replace my three-year-old Garmin Vivoactive Sport HR. I am an avid outdoor enthusiast, participating in various activities like trail running, road running, Nordic skiing, hiking, orienteering, and cycling. I rely on my Garmin to track my training progress. However, I am disappointed in the short battery life of the Fenix 5 Plus. Having to recharge it daily is inconvenient and not acceptable to me. My previous watch, the Vivoactive Sport HR, lasted over a week on a single charge, and I was expecting something similar with the new watch. I need assistance to resolve this issue so I can fully enjoy my activities without worrying about frequent charging.

I was gifted a Vivosmart 4 watch for Christmas. Unfortunately, I have been experiencing several issues with it. The most frustrating problem is that I have to reconnect my watch to my phone almost daily, sometimes even multiple times a day. Additionally, when I raise my arm to check the time, the screen fails to turn on 90% of the time, and tapping it doesn't resolve the issue. Another annoying aspect is that whenever I reconnect the watch to my phone app, it defaults to the wrong settings. Considering the price I paid for this watch, these frequent malfunctions are disappointing. I hope there is a solution to make this watch function properly.

I own a Garmin GPSMAP [redacted] with Livescope system. My screen shows a solid line from the top to the lake's floor, hindering my ability to see past it and impacting my fishing around the 35 to 55-foot range. Despite a previous tech suggesting a software issue, recalibration did not resolve the problem. Connecting my setup to my friend's system worked smoothly. Since everything is under 6 months old, purchased on 10/10/18, I suspect the software issue mentioned by the tech. I attempted to contact support again but faced a 2-hour wait time without an option for a callback. Can I send back my transducer and black box for warranty repair or replacement? Thank you for your help.

I have been purchasing Garmin dog E-collars for years now, and I have always been thrilled with how well they work for my two large dogs. I highly recommend Garmin to everyone because of its durability and quality. I trust Garmin products and know that I will receive great customer service when buying from you. Recently, I tried to buy the Garmin Inbounds collar and device on eBay for $[redacted].99, which was advertised as a combo deal with both items included in the picture and description. However, after waiting for days without any tracking information or shipment, I contacted the seller only to find out that it was just the collar being sold, not the complete set as advertised. I was disappointed by this misleading information. I have screenshots of the original misleading post and hope this issue can be resolved. I look forward to your response. Thank you, Domenica Valenti.

I've had my Forerunner [redacted] for over a year now, using it for cross country, track, and personal running without any issues until recently. The back button (bottom left) suddenly stopped working, so I tried restarting the watch by holding down the power button (top left). Surprisingly, a white diagnostic screen popped up displaying various information, but I couldn't get the watch back to normal mode. Pressing the start run button (top right) caused vibration, and pressing the bottom right button cycled through tests. Despite multiple restarts and charging attempts, the back button still doesn't work and the watch is unusable. Can anyone offer advice on how to resolve this?

On Friday, April 5th, I attempted to update my Garmin device. During the process, an individual named Jason Henry claimed my computer was infected and required a costly lifetime maintenance package. Although I declined, he accessed my computer remotely, promising a quick resolution. Upon returning home at 5 p.m., I discovered Jason Henry browsing my personal photos with my webcam activated, despite my camera usually being covered. This breach of privacy has left me concerned and seeking an explanation for his actions hours after fixing my computer. I am awaiting a prompt response today; otherwise, I will escalate this issue.

Hello, I recently purchased a Garmin [redacted] Music less than 2 weeks ago. After using it, I noticed some issues with the GPS function. I am quite disappointed by this. I tried reaching out to Garmin Indonesia, but it has been a week, and I have not received a response yet. The problem I am facing with the GPS is that it displays my location inaccurately, showing me in a different area. Additionally, the distance measured seems to be off by more than 10%. I have updated and restarted the device, but the error persists. To confirm, I compared the distance with an Apple Watch Series 4 and physically measured the route I ran, finding significant discrepancies with the Garmin [redacted]. I would greatly appreciate assistance with resolving this matter. Thank you.

Hello, I'm seeking assistance regarding a recent purchase. On April 8th, I bought a Garmin Vivo Move HR. The sales assistant assured me that the watch could track swimming, which was my main reason for the upgrade. The box is labeled with SWIM, leading us to believe it had swim tracking capabilities. Unfortunately, upon setting it up, I discovered that it only tracks steps and does not feature a swim mode. I tried to return it to the store, but since it was already set up, they could not issue a refund even though the watch was in perfect condition. I now own an expensive watch with limited functionality. I recommend updating the packaging to clarify that while it is waterproof, it does not automatically track swimming. I would appreciate guidance on how to proceed, as I would like to return this watch and purchase one that meets my expectations. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, T. Waters

I recently reached out to Garmin for help with my GPS not being recognized by my computer. During the conversation, Mysoft Squad took control of my computer to address the issue. I am unsure if this is a legitimate practice. Can you confirm if Garmin employs Mysoft Squad to assist with computer problems? I was expecting a call back by now, but I have not received one. My initial query remains unanswered, so please do not mark this as resolved until my concerns are addressed.

I am currently using the Vivoactive 3, but I have noticed that it does not track my heart rate accurately during my HIIT boot camp sessions compared to my previous Fitbit Ionic. While I appreciate the features and accurate tracking during runs, it falls short during circuit workouts. The displayed heart rate of [redacted] during intense moments is not correct. I am looking to upgrade to another Garmin watch with better performance, even considering higher-priced models. I have received limited advice from BestBuy staff on Garmin products, but I'm interested in purchasing through them. Improved sleep tracking is also a priority for me. My previous Fitbit Ionic provided better sleep data than my current Garmin. I believe this might be related to heart rate monitoring. I'd appreciate your recommendations on the best Garmin watch for my needs. Thank you.

I previously chatted with Garmin Support about ongoing issues with my watch. I followed the steps given, but the situation worsened. I suspect water damage as stains have appeared post-swimming and the battery life has significantly decreased. Despite attempting to reconnect via chat, I have been unsuccessful for over 2 months. I rely on the watch for training and urgently need assistance with repair or replacement. Thank you for addressing this matter promptly. Looking forward to your response. Support Center Chat Craig has entered the session. ________________________________________ Bonaci Carmen: I have a Garmin fēnix® 5S watch with Carrara White Band, purchased in the US. It got water damaged during first-time use in the sea. The serial number is [redacted]99. The watch turns on but blinks continuously, indicating possible water entry. I've followed your reset instructions after charging. I will update you on the progress after trying the reset. Thank you for your help, Craig!

Hello, In October last year, I bought a black Vivomove HR from E Zee Electronics, a Garmin authorized dealer through Amazon. However, I've been facing issues with this watch. It's not accurately counting my steps, often failing to record steps even after a ten-minute walk. Since step count is essential for me, I've stopped using the watch due to this problem. Since the watch is still under warranty, I would appreciate assistance in getting it repaired or replaced. Just wanted to mention that I previously owned a white Vivomove HR, bought last spring, which works perfectly and is now my daily go-to watch. I only mention this to highlight that I'm familiar with how this model should perform. I await your response and am willing to provide any additional information needed. You can contact me by email at [redacted] or by phone at [redacted]. Thank you.

I am experiencing issues with two Garmin purchases: the [redacted] in Dubai and the recent Drivesmart 50. The staff at Garmin outlets in the UK were unable to assist me. After updating the [redacted] in Switzerland, the Middle East programs were lost despite assurances from Garmin for reinstatement which never occurred. The Drivesmart 50 has limitations for voice command and traffic control not disclosed at purchase in Switzerland. The sales staff at Inter Discount in St. Gallen were unhelpful, selling devices without providing proper guidance. The equipment has also led me on incorrect routes in the UK. My email has changed from an Emirates address to one used in the UK.

I purchased a Garmin golf watch around 15 years ago. Recently, the loop on the strap that secures the end broke off, and the strap itself broke on one side. It seems impossible to replace the strap since it is integrated with the watch. I’m wondering if there is a way to repair this type of issue or if it might be covered under warranty. Thank you.

I have been using my Garmin golf watch for around 15 years, and it has been functioning perfectly with the exception of the broken strap. The strap seems to be irreplaceable as it is all one unit with the watch. Although I understand this model is old, I am wondering if there is any possible solution or if it is still under warranty. Previously, I tried reaching out via email about 15 minutes ago and received a response containing a code ([redacted]) but I cannot seem to locate our previous correspondence in my inbox.