How do you figure out / decide if you need new maps?

When you start running into a lot of streets that are not on your GPS, it's time to update.

If all the roads are updated in the areas in which you travel and if you are satisfied with the POIs you have, then there's no need to update the map data.

Typically, it takes a while for the data to make it into the map data so roads that were changed in the last couple of years likely will not be in any map update.

Typically for Garmin maps, you will be able to preview the map products using the MapViewer tool on their website. It may take a little while after the maps are officially released for them to show up on the MapViewer.

Note that it's always advisable to preview the maps before you make any purchase.

Yup, when you notice it's out of date. Probably not a problem if you're in an already developed area.

Thanks, didn't know about the MapViewer tool. Will have to look into that.

The other difficult decision is, since my C320 is discontinued, do I spend the $75 or more to get new maps, or pay a bit more and get a new GPS altogether?

You can look to see if they have been added at the garmin site by looking at the map...

https://buy.garmin.com/shop/shop.do?pID=1456&pvID=2743#cover...

Thanks for the link aophiuchus. I may be doing something wrong but when I click on the map to zoom in I get a red x for the picture.

It's probably my computer so I'll try again later.

As the prices have dropped considerably

Yeah, personally, I wouldn't spend money to update a C320. A new unit will not only come with new maps but also with newer/better technology and features.

Select "reload"?

In my case I bought a Black Friday nuvi. New maps were available free within the 60 day window, so I "needed" them and needed them fast before the 60 days ran out.

Beyond that I paid too little for my BF deal to justify one-time map purchases, when the GPS with a new battery and new warranty didn't cost much more. If I had bought a much more expensive unit (and expected to still be using it many years from now) then I would consider map updates. Then the choice becomes one time updates or lifetime subscription. Garmin is pretty cautious about not really guaranteeing much in the way of what you are buying on a lifetime map, so you can't even know how long that purchase will last, but it does look like it should be a better deal for those who intend to ever buy maps. If I went that way I would want to take every update that was offered, and to buy into the program soon after my 60 day map window expired (although I would spend a little time shopping for a good price on the lifetime package).

Thanks it works, sort of.

Every time I zoom in or move the view it keeps popping red x's and I have to reload. Very annoying. I gave up after the 20th time reloading.

I'm using IE 8, but I'm running compatibility view so it should work. I'll install another browser later and try it again and hopefully it will be less aggravating.

It's just an annoying map setup....

I had the same experiences and finally gave up trying.