MSN Direct service ending 1/1/2012

[Maryw164]

MSN Direct service for GPS units ending 1/1/2012

I just came across this info when searching for a new GPS unit. My old one, a Garmin nuvi 680, without reason had the touchscreen stop responding. Tried software updates, but it did not help. It would even let me do the "master reset" to restore to "factory default" settings. So off I go on a new hunt for the best unit to buy when I came across this news.

https://www.msndirect.com/MSNDirectS...ouncement.aspx

Any new units purchased with this service that say they have "lifetime" MSN Direct traffic service will only have about 3 years of actual service.

FYI: Anyone who bought theirs at Costco you can return your unit as per their great return policy (satisfaction guaranteed at any time). Even if you lost your receipt they can look the purchase up for you on their computer system. Some stores might try & tell you you can't return the item after say 6 months, but technically other than their stated "computer, TV, ipods, cameras, etc" policy everything else is guaranteed at any time. You just might have to stand strong and insist, then they will give in (usually after a manager approves it).

Good luck and happy shopping for a new unit. I'm looking at the Garmin 1390T @ Costco.com for $299.99, including shipping. It's on sale until 1/24/10. It is a bundle deal which includes lifetime "Navteq" FM traffic and lifetime maps.

http://www.costco.com/Browse/Product.aspx?Prodid=11502032&whse=BC&Ne=4000000&eC at=BC|79|4843|74790&N=4040230&Mo=12&No=0&Nr=P_Cata logName:BC&cat=74790&Ns=P_Price|1||P_SignDesc1〈=en-US&Sp=C&hierPath=79*4843*74790*&topnav=

See you on the road!

Mary