This is a refurbished GPS. Refurbished generally means that the unit has been returned to the manufacturer, who brings the navigator back to like new conditions. Some GPS may contain cosmetic blemishes.Garmin’s nüvi 255W improvesupon its 200-series predecessors by adding top-of-the-line features such as FM traffic updates or MSN Direct content to an entry-level line. But Garmin is also introducing some significant improvements with this new series, like a predictive technology that provides faster satellite lock, a redesigned screen with more information, terrain maps, and an exciting new photo navigation feature. The 255W adds complete maps for North America and Text-to-Speech, so you get turn by turn spoken directions with the real names of streets (e.g. “turn left in 50 feet at Nebraska Way”, rather than merely “turn left in 50 feet”). The 255W also offers a wide 4.3-inch (diagonal) screen that displays 70% more of the road around you.The nüvi 2×5 models all spor (more…)
Was exactly what I was looking for. Widescreen unit that spoke the actual street name at a budget price. Was originally shopping on auction websites but Garmin’s 1 year warranty doesn’t support refurbished units sold on auction websites. Was also scared about it being a refurbished unit, but so far no issues. I’ve updated the software and downloaded the latest maps, all without issue. Doesn’t come in a fancy retail box, but does include the mount and suction cup. Based on my experience, I would recommend the unit to a friend.
Arrived as advertised. refurbished unit like new with new unit warranty. Unit had old firmware and maps, but Garmin provided downloadable updates at no charge. Works great and great Garmin Customer Service
I expected this unit to be able to help me find the best routes, points of interest, etc. It’s relatively intuitive to use, and, unlike a competing brand (which I sent back) was able to find it’s initial location immediately, with great ease. I’m having a lot of fun with it as I’m learning how to use it. Some of the reviews I had read thought the voice on the text-speech feature irritating. I LIKE it. The tone and pitch are right on for my ears. Also, it’s able to pronounce what I consider to be difficult street names with ease and precision. The nicest surprise about it is that this little navigator is able to tell you the speed limit for EVERY street or highway you’re on, as well as show you how fast you are going relative to the speed limit. That’s more valuable to me than a radar detector would be. It also tells you your anticipated arrival time, which it adjusts for traffic slow downs. The 255W has a 4.3 inch screen, which is quite easy to see from my dashboard as I’m driving. Don’t try to change menus or find points of interest while you are driving!! This is more distracting than texting while driving. You will need to pull over to find these things, unless you have a passenger who can help you with this. This limitation would disappear if it could accept voice commands. All things considered, this unit is perfect for my needs at this time. It’s also portable and can slip into my purse with ease when I am walking in an unfamiliar area. My only wish would be that it had bluetooth connectivity, but that’s an easy work-around with a bluetooth earpiece.