Disappointed with 680 traffic info

I got c550, and live in NYC, I get the same problem, it will only provide you traffic on major roadways, and most of the times you know about the traffic way before the unit does. Hopefully will improve

Be sure to look at the "Traffic Receiver reception" thread for more information

From my research all the vendors work from the same source data so outside of the interface - they have all the same qualities and faults.

It doesn't matter if we use the TMC version or the MSN version of traffic... It's what is reported (or not), then transmitted (or not) to our receivers. That's what we are disappointed with. It isn't the "unit".   If nothing is reported then there is nothing to receive. That goes for traffic in progress or if we are alerted to a problem, then when we get there, the road is clear... Again, it's the information that is transmitted for us to receive. It's not actually the Garmin unit.

It's like "on star" not working in your GM vehicle. It's not the vehicles fault.

I have the 530 and use my Garmin daily in long island and Brookln. I update my TMC frequently and it gets better each time. I find it is fairly accurate and well in advance of the problem.

I am actually happy with mine in Atlanta. The reception is good, and the gas station information is reasonably accurate. From what I can tell, when a gas price says it was updated 2 days ago, that could mean the last time the price changed. So far, the price has been correct at the stations I have checked.

I have the Streetsmart c580. The MSN direct seems to pick up the primary route for traffic. I do get some on the secondaries as well, depending on the situation. I have noticed if I plug my cable in and turn my device on 15 to 20 minutes before I leave somewhere, the traffic seems to be uploaded and I do not have to wait for accurate information when I turn it on and just start driving. Maybe I am imagining this, but it seems to have work this way for me. I do notice that the update reports are very accurate.

My understanding is that there is a battery in the power cable that keeps the MSN receiver going. So, If you turn off the GPS or remove it from your car, leaving the powercord, the data is stored in the receiver until the GPS is turned back on. The information should be ready without waiting.

I have noticed it takes a few minutes to upload the fuel prices and weather. I do not know if it is the same for traffic. Overall I have been pleased with the service.