I’m seeing more refurbished GPS receivers advertised for sale these days. In many consumer electronics categories, such devices can be a good deal. But buying a refurbished GPS carries a special risk. Occasionally, some of these units come with outdated maps. Since there is no way to tell until you fire up the unit and look at the map version, I suggest you check the store’s restocking / return policy if you go this route.

A safer way to save, if you don’t need the latest and greatest, is to buy an older unit, such as a discontinued nuvi. Here’s why…the major manufacturers have adopted policies guaranteeing you the latest maps when you purchase a new device (never used, not refurbished, etc.), as long as you register it and claim the map update within a short period of time after purchase. Here are the details:

• Garmin nuMaps – If a newer map is available within 60 days of first using your device, you get it for free. Valid only for new nuvi and zumo models.
• TomTom latest map guarantee – If a newer map is available within 30 days from when you start using your device, you are entitled to one free map download
• Magellan 30 day map guarantee – Applies to Maestro and RoadMate devices. Follow link for restrictions.