Thousands of TomTom satellite navigation units have been plagued by an issue whereby a GPS signal cannot be obtained, with some users experiencing the issue for days on end.
The problem started on March 31st and has continued until now, affecting a range of different models including the recent Start 25 and Go Live 820. TomTom has thankfully gotten to the bottom of the problem and developed a fix, which we’ll walk you through.
According to TomTom the problem has been caused by a Leap Year Bug found within the software used for the GPS receiver chip, which is provided by a third party, on a limited number of devices. At Gadget Helpline we’ve received calls from over 100 customers experiencing the issue, although thankfully a few simple steps have fixed the issue.
Firstly we advise to simply reboot your TomTom by pressing and holding the power button for 20 seconds when the device is on, until you see the initial startup screen. TomTom says this should work as a quick and temporary fix, but to ensure the problem doesn’t come back you should update your device with a new software update the company has compiled.
The devices likely to be affected by this ‘no GPS’ issue are: Start 20/25, Via 120/125, Via LIVE 120/125, GO LIVE 820/825, GO LIVE 1000/1005/1005 World
How to update
1. Install MyTomTom.
If you haven’t already installed MyTomTom on your computer, go to tomtom.com/getstarted and download the software for PC or Mac.
2. Connect your navigation device to your computer and switch it on.
MyTomTom opens and should show in the bottom right corner of your PC screen that an update is available.
3. Download the update.
If MyTomTom doesn’t automatically check for updates, click Check for new items.
A window opens showing the updates available for download. You will need to log in. If you don’t have a MyTomTom account you will need to create one.
Click Start downloading. Do not disconnect your device until it has finished the installation and has rebooted.
4. Reset your navigation device.
Press and hold the On/Off button until you hear the drum sounds and the device restarts. This takes at least 20 seconds.
Once you’ve done the update the issue should be rectified for good. Happy driving!
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