How to Select a GPS for Your Car

There are many GPS systems out there and the choice of selecting one that will perform well for you will involve some research. There are some key factors to consider in a GPS unit and if these features do not perform well, renders the GPS useless. Below I have outlined some helpful steps that I have used in selecting a GPS unit for myself.

Step 1

Select a price range that you are willing to spend on a GPS unit. There is no need to spend more than $250.00 for a decent GPS system for your car.

Step 2:

Read user reviews starting with 1 and 2 star ratings. This is the most important part of your research. Make a list of the common negative comments about the GPS unit. Read 3, 4, and 5 star comments and write down all the common good things about the unit.

Step 3:

Important comments you need to consider are: GPS acquired satellite signal fairly quickly and recalculated route was quick. These are two of the most important factors of a GPS unit. If you are on the highway and you missed your exit you want a GPS unit that will recalculate your route quickly so that you can take action. This also holds true for loosing satellite signal. If a GPS system does not perform well in these two areas you should not purchase the unit.

Step 4:

If you are considering a GPS unit with live traffic updates make sure that you don't have to pay for the subscription. There are GPS units out there that come with free live traffic updates for life. Read the features of the GPS unit concerning live traffic updates and user comments on how well it performs.

Step 5:

Make sure the GPS unit you buy has the most up-to-date maps loaded or that you can download the first update for free. You should find this information in the GPS features and user reviews.

Step 6:

You should also check user reviews for customer service satisfaction and return policy.