I'm getting a runtime error when I try to update my Garmin to the 2009 maps and I erased my 2008 maps.

If you deleted it from the GPS unit and don't have a backup on your computer, then you will need to call Garmin for assistance.

One thing ive learned when working with stuff like a gps, psp, etc... ALWAYS BACK UP THE ORIGINAL BEFORE DELETING OR OVERWRITTING ANYTHING....

Do you know if it will update without that previous version? Also thanks for the response.

Oh no. not good. I'm not sure what is causing the runtime error, but you SHOULD have left the 2008 maps on the GPS, the 2009 maps will overwrite them when it updates, so really, you gave yourself a pile of grief for nothing.

Try installing the maps with Mapsource, and write them that way, it MAY let you add them, even though your old maps are gone, and no maps remain.

Good luck! Sounds like you need some.

The very first thing that I did with my new nuvi, even before acquiring any satellites, was connect it to the computer and back up all of the files that I could see. I don't expect that this is a "complete" backup, there is likely information in the flash memory that I don't have easy direct access to, like the serial number and model number. I'm sure I couldn't just copy such a "back-up" of a newer or higher firmware model into my hardware and get more features like TTS or mp3 capability, even though I'm pretty sure that the hardware platform is exactly the same. But at least this protects me from anything that I may accidentally or foolishly delete through the "disk drive under Windows" interface.

But is it possible to reinstall the 2008 Maps with the original disk? I am assuming that a map disk came with the receiver when purchased. I guess the 2009 Map is looking for a 2008 version to update. I hope you do find a way around this. It is such a pain.

Unfortunately, there was no disk. It came preloaded and only had the unit, car cable, and the window mount. Its been under a year since I bought it. Does the warranty apply to this situation?

Yes, it's under warranty. There was no need to delete the 2008 map first, the upgrade process automatically overwrites it after first verifying that it's there.

Call Garmin, they will probably make you send it in for exchange.

Today I was getting getting a Runtime Error while trying to delete files to make room for the map update as recommended by Garmin. I then tried deleting the files on my wife's computer with no problems.

Typically, user deleted data is not covered by warranty. However, Garmin has EXCELLENT customer service and will definitely help you with this.

They will likely either send you a disk with instructions on how to reload the maps or (as noted above) have you send the unit in for them to reload them.