Garmin Streetpilot getting fewer satellites

addisonl wrote:
I know the general answer to this will be "just buy a new one" in todays throw away environment.

I have a Garmin StreetPilot, 7 inch model that I have owned and loved since 2007. I have tried new ones and even the big RV specific units but always go back to this one as being my favorite on the road. Works easily, big screen and doesn't fall down or create a flying hazard.

Since last summer and even more now, it has a hard time finding satellites and getting my location. Seems to only get them from driving in one direction. So my guess would be that old satellites die off and new ones are not replacing them so my hardware can't find much any more? So the unit just eventually stops working, you have to buy a new one to feed the company and put a good device in the landfill? Kind of sad.

I know, my iPhone works great with maps and Waze, or the GPS model iPad works great all the time but I still like having the StreetPilot there.

Wondering if anyone has similar experience or thoughts.

From your description it sounds like you have the StreetPilot 7200 gps. I have the same gps and it still works well. Sitting here indoors, it "sees" 11 satellites and acquires 4 strong enough to get a 3D lock. I have Lifetime maps for it and my maps are current but that has nothing to do with satellite acquisition.

Your issue has nothing to do with old satellites dropping off. I'm afraid that if your gps is having problems then it's probably a hardware issue.

Have you tried a reset? It's worth a try.

From Garmin support:

Question: How do I perform a master reset on my StreetPilot 7000 series?
Answer:

To perform a master reset* on your StreetPilot 7000 please follow instructions below:

1. Switch the device off
2. Press and hold the power button for 10 seconds until the 'Do you really want to erase all user data?' message appears
3. Touch Yes

The device will now be reset. Place your device in an area with a clear view of the sky until it acquires satellites.

*Note: The master reset will erase all user data including saved favorites. This resets the unit back to factory settings.