Low Memory
Garmin GPS Navigation Device
Severity: MinorWhat Does This Error Mean?
Your Garmin device is running low on internal storage. This usually happens after installing multiple large map regions or saving many routes, tracks, and favourites. You need to delete unused maps or data to free up space.
Affected Models
- Garmin DriveSmart 55
- Garmin DriveSmart 65
- Garmin Drive 52
- Garmin Nuvi 2797
- All Garmin GPS devices
Common Causes
- Multiple large map regions installed
- Many saved routes, tracks, or waypoints
- Cached traffic and trip history data
- Custom POI (Points of Interest) files
- Leftover files from failed updates
How to Fix It
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Go to Settings > Map & Vehicle > myMaps and disable regions you do not use.
If you only drive in one country, disable maps for other continents. This is the fastest way to free up large amounts of space.
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Delete saved trips and tracks: go to Apps > Trip Planner and remove old trips.
Saved routes and track logs accumulate over time. Clear ones you no longer need.
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Clear the Favourites list of old or unused saved locations.
Each saved favourite takes a small amount of space. Clearing dozens of old ones adds up.
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Connect to Garmin Express and reinstall only the maps you need.
A clean reinstall of maps removes temporary and leftover files that waste space.
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Factory reset the device if memory is critically low (Settings > System > Reset).
A factory reset removes all saved data and restores the device to like-new storage levels. Back up your favourites first.
When to Call a Professional
Low memory is almost always fixed by deleting unused data — professional help is rarely needed. If the device shows low memory immediately after a factory reset, contact Garmin support as internal storage may be failing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add a memory card to my Garmin GPS?
Some Garmin models support a microSD card for extra storage. Check your model's specifications — not all models have a card slot. If yours does, adding a card lets you store additional maps without using internal memory.
Will deleting maps delete my saved places?
No — your saved favourites, routes, and home/work addresses are stored separately from maps. Deleting a map region only removes the road data for that area, not your personal saved locations.