2011.20 maps VS 2011.31 maps?? any difference?

It's impossible to give a definite answer to that question. It's not like Garmin comes out with a list of the changes made from each update to the next. Plus, 2011.4 should be released within the next week or two, so just wait and download that one. It never hurts to have the latest map update.

No one can answer your question unless Garmin with general improved blah blah...

As already said here - it is a crap shoot to determine what has changed from version to version. You need to determine what is important to you and periodically monitor these areas of interest to your needs. Many times there will be internal POI updates, added streets, corrected street names, etc. If you are interested in taking the next steps, you can sign up on Navteq's website to be a Map Reporter and report errors, additions, deletions, etc. If you do this, do not be frustrated, as there process is slow and they may not get back to you or give you any status updates. However, you will get a reference number that you can look up the status on and it is exciting to see that a change you reported actually does get implemented.

The only changes that I can determine are the ones, that I had submitted to Navteq or Garmin. I check for these and in 90% of the cases, i've seen these added within about a year.

If you are in a newer area with new streets and construction or planning on driving in areas like that, you may see differences. The main difference I see are usually in the POI's.
I always update anyway since I opted for the lifetime maps just to ensure I am using the latest data Garmin/Navteq has to offer.

If you have lifetime map updates, I don't know why you wouldn't download the most current maps, regardless of what may have changed. If you don't, I think it's well worth the money to purchase the lifetime updates as opposed to paying for them each time you want to update.

Supposedly more junction views.

I agree with the others, however. Score a cheap lifetime update and quick worrying about whether it's worth updating the map.

Lifetime updates will give you something to look forward to, four times a year ...

There really is no practical way for any one person to identify the changes that have been made in a map update.

If you live in a new subdivision of Asheville NC and its STILL not properly identified in the current update, it doesn't matter that all kinds of improvements have been made around San Diego, or Chicago or anywhere else you don't live or drive in! It is understandable that each of us feels that changes in our own areas should be added on the next update. But we don't always get what we want...

I got a cheap price for lifetime updates now I download whatever is the latest. Next time I go to Austin I will try the new streets around one of our offices.

2 scenarios before and after the map update. My neighborhood has been around for 30 years but the latest map update takes me a different way home. Besides the new POI's that is the only difference I saw.BTW all the avoidances have always been turned off.

I've noticed the same thing, coming home from work varies between two routes depending on the map version I'm using. The cause for this isn't neither because of my avoidances which are always the same nor because there are new roads or changed speed limits.

OK Here are some questions about the map deals.

1) How and where does one get the best deal on lifetime maps?

2) Since I have multiple garmin's - Does a single lifetime map update give me the ability to to use that on both units? or would I have to purchase lifetime maps on each unit?

1--If you're patient, wait for Amazon or Buy.com to do a special pricing. You'll almost certainly hear about it here. You may see a price with free S&H for under $70 if you wait long enough. Folks at the POI Factory are pretty good about reporting other internet sites with great deals.

2--No. Yes.

I see that Buy.com has it for $72.46 with free S&H today.

the only significant difference would be a new freeway or highway that was recently built within that time frame.

agree more. It seems like they take forever adding new areas! It gives me, as you so well put, "something to look forward to." I have to do seven of the little buggers whenever a new map arrives. I must say, updating has become much easier and much faster...hurray for Garmin!

I've reported a few mistakes and did get a reply they would change it and they did. Also had my sisters subdivision in Charlotte NC show up less than 1 year between versions and its brand new subdivision still being built. That said a couple of local POIs were not corrected. These were business that went out of business. Anyone know where business listings come from?

I'm sure that the new map updates most definately have changes. New streets & construction and POI's.

But maybe they are not in the area you are interested in.

I think the lifetime map updates are a worthwhile investment.. especially if you get it at a good price.

Before Christmas, Amazon had them for around $60.

The maps are a data set of millions of records. It's impossible from our perspective to know what changes are included in each revision, or even if a revision will have let's say mapping for that new road construction in the neighborhood. But there is also the database of businesses that is very valuable.

I finally bought the lifetime deal and I'm glad I did. Having regularly updated maps and data is great. It was getting pretty bad with the 2008 edition and all the outdated data such as businesses that weren't there anymore.