How To Fix Lowrance GPS Not Working Problem?

8 min readAug 8, 2024

Lowrance GPS devices are trusted by anglers, boaters, and outdoor enthusiasts for their reliability and advanced features. However, like any technology, they can occasionally encounter issues. If your Lowrance GPS is not working correctly, it can be frustrating, especially when you’re relying on it for navigation. This guide will help you troubleshoot and fix common problems with Lowrance GPS devices, ensuring that you’re back on track as quickly as possible. If you need further assistance, you can contact Lowrance customer support at +1 (845) 207 6604.

Introduction to Lowrance GPS Devices

Lowrance is a leading brand in marine and outdoor GPS navigation, offering a range of devices that cater to various needs. These devices are known for their precision, durability, and user-friendly interfaces, making them essential tools for navigating both water and land. However, like any electronic device, Lowrance GPS units can sometimes experience issues that affect their performance. This guide is designed to help you identify and resolve these issues effectively.

Common Problems with Lowrance GPS

Before diving into specific fixes, it’s important to understand some of the most common problems users face with Lowrance GPS devices:

Power Issues: The device won’t turn on or keeps shutting off unexpectedly.
GPS Signal Problems: Difficulty in acquiring or maintaining a GPS signal.
Software/Firmware Issues: The device is slow, unresponsive, or behaving erratically.
Display Problems: The screen is blank, frozen, or has distorted graphics.
Waypoint/Map Issues: Inaccurate maps or problems with saving/loading waypoints.
Network Connectivity Issues: Problems connecting to other devices or networks.

Initial Troubleshooting Steps

Before diving into specific solutions, it’s often helpful to perform some basic troubleshooting steps that can resolve many common issues:

Restart the Device: Turn off the GPS, wait a few seconds, and then turn it back on.
Check Power Connections: Ensure that the device is properly connected to a power source and that the battery is charged.
Inspect Cables and Connectors: Look for any signs of damage or wear on the cables and connectors.
Update Software/Firmware: Ensure that your device is running the latest software or firmware version.

Fixing Power Issues on Lowrance GPS Devices

Problem: The Device Won’t Turn On

If your Lowrance GPS device won’t turn on, the issue could be related to power. Here’s how to troubleshoot:

Check the Battery: Ensure the battery is fully charged. If it’s an internal battery, connect the device to a power source and try turning it on again.
Inspect Power Cables: If you’re using external power, check the cables for any signs of damage. Replace them if necessary.
Check the Power Button: Sometimes the power button itself may be stuck or not functioning correctly. Gently press it to ensure it’s not jammed.

Problem: The Device Shuts Off Unexpectedly

If your device keeps shutting off unexpectedly, it could be due to power supply issues or a software glitch:

Check Battery Connections: Ensure that the battery is securely connected and that there’s no corrosion on the terminals.
Reset the Device: Perform a soft reset by holding down the power button until the device restarts.
Update Firmware: If the problem persists, update the device’s firmware as outdated software can sometimes cause power-related issues.

Resolving GPS Signal Problems

Problem: Weak or No GPS Signal

If your Lowrance GPS is having trouble acquiring or maintaining a signal, try the following steps:

Ensure Clear Line of Sight: GPS signals require a clear line of sight to the sky. Ensure there are no obstructions such as trees, buildings, or heavy cloud cover.
Check the GPS Antenna: If your device uses an external GPS antenna, ensure it is properly connected and not damaged.
Move to a Different Location: Sometimes, the current location may have poor GPS reception. Moving to an open area can help.
Reset GPS Data: In the settings menu, find the option to reset GPS data. This can help the device re-acquire satellite signals.

Problem: Inaccurate Positioning

If your GPS is showing inaccurate positioning, it could be due to outdated map data or interference:

Update Maps: Ensure that your maps are up to date. Outdated maps can lead to inaccuracies in positioning.
Reduce Interference: Other electronic devices can interfere with GPS signals. Keep your Lowrance GPS away from devices like radios, smartphones, or other GPS units.

Addressing Software and Firmware Issues

Problem: The Device Is Slow or Unresponsive

If your Lowrance GPS is slow or unresponsive, the issue could be related to software:

Clear Cache: Over time, the device’s cache can become cluttered, slowing down performance. In the settings menu, look for an option to clear the cache or reset temporary files.
Update Firmware: Make sure your device is running the latest firmware. Firmware updates often include performance improvements and bug fixes.
Perform a Factory Reset: If the device continues to be slow, consider performing a factory reset. This will erase all data and restore the device to its original settings, which can resolve software issues.

Problem: The Device Freezes During Use

If your device freezes or locks up during use, it may be due to a software conflict or glitch:

Soft Reset: Hold down the power button until the device restarts.
Remove SD Card: If you’re using an SD card, remove it and see if the problem persists. Sometimes, a corrupt SD card can cause the device to freeze.
Check for Software Updates: Install any available updates that may address known issues.

Troubleshooting Screen and Display Problems

Problem: The Screen Is Blank or Black

If your Lowrance GPS screen is blank or black, try the following steps:

Check Brightness Settings: Ensure that the brightness is not set too low. Adjust the brightness settings in the display menu.
Restart the Device: A simple restart may resolve the issue.
Inspect the Display: Look for any physical damage to the screen. If the screen is cracked or damaged, it may need to be replaced.

Problem: Distorted or Frozen Display

If the display is frozen or showing distorted graphics, it may be due to a software issue:

Soft Reset: Hold down the power button until the device restarts.
Update Firmware: Ensure that your device’s firmware is up to date.
Check Connections: If you’re using an external monitor or display, check the connections to ensure they are secure.

Fixing Issues with Waypoints and Maps

Problem: Waypoints Are Not Saving

If your Lowrance GPS is not saving waypoints, the issue could be related to storage or software:

Check Storage Space: Ensure there is enough storage space available on your device or SD card to save new waypoints.
Update Software: Make sure your device is running the latest software version.
Reset Waypoints: In some cases, resetting the waypoint data can resolve issues with saving new waypoints.

Problem: Maps Are Not Displaying Correctly

If maps are not displaying correctly on your Lowrance GPS, try these steps:

Check Map Compatibility: Ensure that the maps you are using are compatible with your device.
Update Maps: Download the latest map updates from the Lowrance website or authorized providers.
Reinstall Maps: If the maps are corrupted, try reinstalling them on your device.

Resolving Network Connectivity Problems

Problem: The Device Won’t Connect to Wi-Fi

If your Lowrance GPS is having trouble connecting to a Wi-Fi network:

Check Wi-Fi Settings: Ensure that Wi-Fi is enabled on your device and that you are connecting to the correct network.
Restart the Router: Sometimes, the issue may be with your Wi-Fi network. Restart the router and try connecting again.
Reset Network Settings: In the settings menu, reset the network settings and re-enter the Wi-Fi password.

Problem: The Device Won’t Connect to Other Devices

If your Lowrance GPS is having trouble connecting to other devices, such as a smartphone or computer:

Check Bluetooth Settings: Ensure that Bluetooth is enabled on both devices and that they are in pairing mode.
Restart Both Devices: Restart both your Lowrance GPS and the other device to refresh the connection.
Update Firmware: Make sure both devices are running the latest firmware or software versions.

What to Do When Your Lowrance GPS Freezes

If your Lowrance GPS freezes and becomes unresponsive, follow these steps to unfreeze it:

Soft Reset: Hold down the power button until the device restarts. This is usually enough to unfreeze the device.
Check for Corrupt Files: Sometimes, corrupt files on the device or SD card can cause it to freeze. Remove the SD card and try restarting the device.
Update Firmware: If the freezing issue persists, updating the firmware may resolve the problem.
Factory Reset: As a last resort, perform a factory reset to erase all data and restore the device to its original settings.

Restoring Factory Settings to Resolve Persistent Issues

If you’ve tried all the above steps and your Lowrance GPS is still not working correctly, you may need to restore factory settings:

Backup Your Data: Before performing a factory reset, back up any important data, such as waypoints, maps, and settings.
Perform Factory Reset: In the settings menu, look for the option to restore factory settings. This will erase all data and return the device to its original state.
Reinstall Maps and Data: After the reset, reinstall your maps and any other data you need.

Updating Firmware and Software for Better Performance

Regular firmware and software updates are crucial for maintaining the performance and reliability of your Lowrance GPS device:

Check for Updates: Visit the Lowrance website or use the device’s software to check for the latest updates.
Install Updates: Follow the instructions provided by Lowrance to install updates. Make sure the device is fully charged or connected to a power source during the update process.
Verify Installation: After updating, verify that the update was successful and that the device is functioning properly.

How to Contact Lowrance Customer Support

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your Lowrance GPS is still not working, it may be time to contact customer support for further assistance:

Phone Support: Call Lowrance customer support at +1 (845) 207 6604. The support team can help diagnose and resolve issues over the phone.
Online Support: Visit the Lowrance website for access to online resources, including user manuals, FAQs, and troubleshooting guides.
Warranty and Repairs: If your device is still under warranty, Lowrance may offer repair or replacement services.

Preventive Maintenance Tips for Lowrance GPS Devices

To prevent future issues with your Lowrance GPS device, follow these maintenance tips:

Regularly Update Software and Firmware: Keeping your device’s software and firmware up to date will help prevent many common issues.
Clean the Device: Regularly clean the device, especially the screen and connectors, to prevent dirt and debris from causing problems.
Protect from Extreme Temperatures: Avoid exposing the device to extreme heat or cold, as this can damage the internal components.
Store Properly: When not in use, store the device in a safe, dry place to protect it from damage.

Conclusion

A well-functioning Lowrance GPS is essential for safe and accurate navigation. By following the troubleshooting steps and maintenance tips outlined in this guide, you can resolve most common issues and keep your device in top condition. If you encounter any problems that you can’t fix on your own, don’t hesitate to reach out to Lowrance customer support at +1 (845) 207 6604 for expert assistance. With proper care and regular updates, your Lowrance GPS will continue to serve you reliably on all your adventures.