This discussion has been locked.
You can no longer post new replies to this discussion. If you have a question you can start a new discussion

Nuvi 1490 won't start up, connect to computer, or hard reset.

Former Member
Former Member
I have no idea which subforum this goes in, hopefully this is right or a mod can move it.

I was trying to update my Nuvi 1490 through Garmin Express, but the process froze for a long time (application was not responding under Windows). I had to end the process midway through. After that, my Nuvi won't boot at all, it just gets to the Garmin screen, not even terms and conditions or anything. Seeing as it can't boot, it also won't connect with any computer. I get "failed to install usb device" on multiple computers. I can't even hard reset, I tried both the top left and bottom right (after seeing both debated in forums) while turning it on and holding for over 30 seconds, nothing. Still just the Garmin screen. I then tried copying the backed up system files to a microUSB drive and putting that in, still nothing.

While I'm at it, we've had this for what, 3 years, and Garmin never fixed the bug about having full storage and adding a new map. It should just wipe the old maps and install the new one, but no, it jsut throws up an error and leaves it, while if you manually delete the old map the new one installs just fine. Tremendously bad software, but that's nothing to do with my current predicament.

Halp?
  • We have some support articles that you can try to fix your device.
    Why is my Nuvi 1400 series locked up on the Garmin log when I power on the device?

    You mentioned the lack of space on your Garmin; are you using an SD card for the mapping updates? The mapping update should delete the oldest to apply the newest. Your device does not have enough space after the latest maps to fit the entire region. The micro SD card slot (located on the left hand side) allows you to install the rest of the mapping as it expands your memory on the device. You can find these cards at any local electronic store and you want to purchase anything between 4GB and 8GB as the 8GB is the limit.

    Also if you are still having issues and this is with the device we suggest contacting our support team over the phone:
    Garmin Support

    Edward
  • No, the system files need to be on the device itself. If it won't master reset then I suspect what Garmin Support told you is correct. Incidentally I have a 1490 and I've never had an issue with old maps remaining on the unit like you describe, so your 1490 could have been going bad for a while.
  • SINGHFAMILY

    If the device is not booting up properly it may need to be serviced as previously indicated. However prior to having the unit serviced we may be able to have the unit put into what is called a pre-boot mode. In this mode we can try and force a reload of the system software which may correct your issue. I would recommend contact support once again to see if this can be done.

    By Phone

    U.S.: 913-397-8200
    U.S. Toll-free: 800-800-1020
    Canada: 866-429-9296
    Support Hours

    Mon–Thurs: 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
    Fri: 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
    Central Time (Closed Holidays)

    Mike
  • good luck with trying to contact garmin support via email or phone
  • As suggested, try contacting Product Support

    This has nothing to do with Express though so this really is the wrong forum for this discussion.