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Map Not Found

Garmin Chartplotter

Severity: Minor

Source: OnlyErrorCodes.com — Every error code. One place.

Garmin Chartplotter Map Not Found — Fix Guide

What Does This Error Mean?

'Map Not Found' means the chartplotter can't read the chart data — either the SD card is missing, corrupted, or the unit's preloaded maps have failed.
Power off the unit, check that the SD card is fully seated, and power back on.
If the card slot is empty and you expected preloaded maps, the internal storage may have failed.
Try a different SD card if you have one.

Affected Models

  • Garmin echoMAP UHD
  • Garmin GPSMAP 8000 series
  • Garmin echoMAP CHIRP
  • Garmin Striker
  • Garmin GPSMAP 1000/1200

Common Causes

  • Chart SD card not fully seated in the slot
  • SD card corrupted from improper removal
  • Preloaded maps in internal storage failed
  • Card lock switch enabled (read-only mode)
  • Card formatted incorrectly (not FAT32 or compatible)

How to Fix It

  1. Power off the chartplotter.

    Always power off before removing or inserting SD cards.
    Hot-swapping cards can corrupt them.
    Hold the power button until the unit shuts down.
    Wait 10 seconds before opening the card slot.

  2. Open the card slot and check the card.

    Garmin units typically have a small door over the SD card slot.
    Open it carefully.
    The card should be present and seated flush.
    If it's loose or partially out, that's your issue.
    Push it firmly until it clicks into the slot.

  3. Check the card lock switch.

    On the SD card, there's a small slider (lock).
    If it's in the LOCKED position, the chartplotter can read the card but the card is in read-only mode.
    Slide the lock to UNLOCKED.
    Reinsert into the chartplotter.

  4. Try the card in another device.

    Insert the chart card into a computer to confirm it reads.
    If the computer can't read it, the card is corrupted.
    If the computer reads it fine, the chartplotter's card slot may be the issue.
    Use a different known-good card to isolate.

  5. Check internal preloaded maps.

    If your chartplotter came with preloaded maps and now shows Map Not Found with no card inserted, the internal storage has failed.
    This is an in-warranty repair if the unit is under 2 years old; otherwise, replacement of the unit may be more economical than repair.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any SD card with Garmin chartplotters?

For chart data: only Garmin's preloaded chart cards (BlueChart g3, BlueChart g3 Vision, etc.).
For waypoints, routes, and screenshots: most standard SD cards work — formatted FAT32, up to the size your chartplotter supports.
Don't try to put unofficial chart data on a card; it won't work.

Why did my SD card become corrupted?

Most often: pulling the card with the chartplotter still on, or sudden power loss while writing to the card.
Always power off the unit before removing cards.
If your boat has frequent power dips, use a card with reliable controllers (SanDisk, Samsung) — cheap cards are more vulnerable to corruption.