Garmin 255W updates? Or buy a new unit?

You can, and now is a good time, purchase a lifetime map update for the 255W for as little as $60 through Amazon. That would extend the useful life of the 255W until it dies. If you want a new unit, a 1350 with map updates will set you back about $180.

You might want to go to Garmin's website and do a feature comparison based on what you want to get out of the device, rather than relying on subjective input from us.

I have a 255w and a 755t. the 755t has most of the new features and I prefer it but the 255w is still a very good dependable unit. For me the difference is lane assist in the 755t. Being deaf in one ear and losses in the other its difficult for me to rely on the voice prompts. The lane assist gives me plenty of time to be in the right lane without have to stare constantly at the unit. If you don't need the added features stay with the 255w and save the money or if you like having the new stuff then upgrade. Best of luck.

You seem to be thinking of buying a 1-time map update. Most folks that post here feel that at an Amazon price of $42 per update, this is the last option they'd consider. Lifetime map updates are now $70 (both prices are current Amazon with free S&H prices, BTW).

My suggestion is therefore for you to compare adding lifetime map updates to your current GPS--good if you plan to keep and use it for maybe 2+ more years --or-- to buy a newer, more full-featured GPS (with things like Lane Assist and Junction View) that is purchased with lifetime maps. If considering a new purchase, check out the thread on nuvis' internal memory:

http://www.poi-factory.com/node/33586

I'd only consider buying a 4GB (or bigger) model since the 2GB ones may run into future map update issues that could be undesirable.

I've had my 255W for going on 3yrs now. I installed the first map update about 6 months ago. I'm not one to go and install the newested map update each time one comes out. I waited a little over 2yrs to update the map. If it's still working a year and a half from now, I might update it again then. The 255W does everything "I" need it to do.

i agree that this is a great product.

It's been almost another year and my 255W is still ticking right along. Still working great. I've been kicking around the idea of getting a newer model but I can't see spending more $ right now when my unit is still working like new. I think I'll wait until it gives up the ghost (in the machine).

I would recommend updating the maps, and keep the unit. I'm still using my c340, with 2013.10 on it. Unless you see something that you would really like to upgrade to, it wouldn't be worth it. From what I've seen on this forum, there have been a number of complaints with software upgrades on the different units, I see no need to take the chance.

I have an old Nuvi 200 that has lifetime map updates. It was my wife's but is now with my daughter since the wife's car has factory nav. It may be old but it still can get you where you want to go if you don't care about a lot of bells and whistles.

I had a 255W too.

If I were you, I would just spend $30 more and get a nuvi 40 with lifetime maps (Nuvi 40LM). While the 255w is a good unit, having lane assist AND the ability to update the maps whenever you want will be worth the extra money.

read this:
http://www.poi-factory.com/node/36598

I loaded this map on my 4 gig SD card. you'll loose the speed limit but it's up to date

definetly buy a new one save yourself lot of trouble

I still use my Garmin 265W (same as the 255w with traffic receiver added). I bought the lifetime map update for it 3 years ago and keep it current. It’s a great little unit with the basic features I still find useful. I have to admit, I've become spoiled by the bigger screens on the 5 and 7" models though.

As CraigW pointed out, if you do decide to update your 255, skip the one time option and spend the extra $30 for the lifetime update. If nothing else, it will increase the value should you decide to sell the unit.

Should you opt for a newer model, consider a manufacturer refurbished unit with a one year warranty. Amazon has a good selection to offer. For example, a Nuvi 52LM for $99.99
http://www.amazon.com/Garmin-5-Inch-Portable-Vehicle-Lifetim...

Or add the lifetime traffic feature of the 2595LMT for $142
http://www.amazon.com/Garmin-Portable-Bluetooth-Navigator-Li...

The GPS Store is also offering the 2597LMT for $140
http://www.thegpsstore.com/Garmin-Nuvi-2597LMT-Refurbished-w...

It's amazing how these threads that have not been posted to for years suddenly get resurrected.

But at the same time, it seems as if we were just in 2012 (the date of the last post was before the thread was resurrected). Time flies when you're having fun...and even when you're not.

I still remember not too long ago my older son told us, "(Dad and Mom,) you guys have a combined age of more than a century old". Or is it a long time ago...

Part of the problem is the date stamp for the post is in light gray, which

a) doesn't stand out, and

b) may get sort of washed out on certain monitors.