TomTom GO Navigation Map Update: A Complete Guide to Keeping Your Maps Current 

The TomTom GO Navigation app and GPS devices are trusted by millions of drivers worldwide for their accuracy, real-time traffic insights, and seamless navigation experience. But even the most advanced navigation tool can lead you astray if the maps are outdated.

Whether you're using the TomTom GO Navigation app on your smartphone or a standalone TomTom GO GPS device, keeping your maps updated ensures you’re always following the best, safest, and most efficient routes.

This guide walks you through why map updates matter, how to update your TomTom GO map, and what benefits you’ll get from staying current.

Why Updating TomTom GO Maps Matters

TomTom provides highly detailed maps across over 150 countries. These maps are continuously updated to reflect real-world changes such as:

• 🛣️ New roads, highways, and bypasses
  
  

• 🚧 Road closures, construction zones, and detours
  
  

• ⚠️ Traffic rule changes (speed limits, turn restrictions)
  
  

• 📍 Updated points of interest (POIs): gas stations, restaurants, ATMs
  
  

Outdated maps can result in inaccurate directions, longer routes, and potential traffic violations. With regular updates, you’ll always be on the most current and optimized path.

TomTom GO Navigation App vs. GO Devices

Before we dive into the update process, it’s important to understand the difference between TomTom GO devices and the TomTom GO Navigation app:

Feature                                                  TomTom GO Navigation App                                 TomTom GO GPS Devices

Platform                                                    Android & iOS smartphones                                 Standalone GPS units (e.g., GO                                                                                                                                                              Discover, GO 520)

Update method                                        In-app via internet connection                                Via Wi-Fi or MyDrive Connect on a                                                                                                                                                         PC/Mac

Subscription                                             Monthly/yearly (after free trial)                               One-time purchase with optional                                                                                                                                                            subscriptions

Map updates                                             Automatically via app settings                               Manual updates (Wi-Fi or USB)

How to Update Maps in TomTom GO Navigation App (Mobile)

If you’re using the TomTom GO Navigation app on Android or iPhone, maps are downloaded for offline use and can be updated as needed.

📱 Steps to Update Maps on the App:

1. Open the App
   
   

   • Launch the TomTom GO Navigation app on your device.
     
     

2. Go to Settings
   
   

   • Tap the Menu (☰), then select Settings > Maps.
     
     

3. Check for Updates
   
   

   • You’ll see all installed maps listed.
     
     

   • Tap Update next to any available updates.
     
     

4. Download Over Wi-Fi
   
   

   • Map updates are large, so it’s best to connect to Wi-Fi.
     
     

   • The app will install the updated map in place of the old one.
     
     

📝 Tip: Turn on automatic map updates in the settings so the app checks regularly.

How to Update Maps on TomTom GO GPS Devices

TomTom GO devices (like GO Discover, GO Essential, or GO Premium) use two methods for map updates:

✅ Option 1: Update via Wi-Fi (Recommended)

Most newer models support Wi-Fi updates without needing a computer.

Steps:

1. Connect to Wi-Fi
   
   

   • On your device, go to Settings > Wi-Fi and connect to your network.
     
     

2. Check for Updates
   
   

   • Navigate to Menu > Updates & New Items.
     
     

   • The device will check for available map or software updates.
     
     

3. Download and Install
   
   

   • Select the map updates.
     
     

   • Keep the device plugged into a power source during the update.
     
     

4. Restart if Required
   
   

   • After the update, restart your GPS for changes to take effect.
     
     

✅ Option 2: Update via MyDrive Connect (USB method)

For older models (like GO 520, GO 620) or users without Wi-Fi:

Steps:

1. Download MyDrive Connect
   
   

   • Visit https://www.tomtom.com/mydriveconnect and install it on your computer.
     
     

2. Connect Your Device
   
   

   • Use a USB cable to plug in your TomTom GO device.
     
     

3. Log In
   
   

   • Open MyDrive Connect and sign in with your TomTom account.
     
     

4. Download and Install Updates
   
   

   • The software will show available updates. Click Update to begin.
     
     

5. Eject Device and Reboot
   
   

   • Once finished, safely disconnect your device and restart it.
     
     

How to Check Your Current Map Version

On a TomTom GO device:

1. Go to Settings > System > About.
   
   

2. Note the Map Version listed.
   
   

3. Compare it with the latest version shown in MyDrive Connect or online.
   
   

On the app:

1. Open the app and go to Menu > Settings > Maps.
   
   

2. Tap a downloaded map to see its version and update status.
   
   

Common Issues and Fixes

Issue                                                                                Solution

Wi-Fi update fails                                   Switch to USB update method or try another Wi-Fi network

Not enough storage                               Delete unused maps or add a microSD card

MyDrive Connect won't detect               Restart both computer and device; use a different USB port

Update is slow                                       Ensure high-speed internet and keep device plugged in

Are Updates Free?

• ✅ TomTom GO App: Includes free map updates during your subscription period.
  
  

• ✅ GO Devices: Most come with Lifetime Maps (free for the life of the device).
  
  

• ❌ If your device doesn’t include Lifetime Maps, you can buy a map update subscription.
  
  

To check eligibility:

1. Log into your TomTom account.
   
   

2. Visit tomtom.com and enter your serial number.
   
   

Benefits of Keeping Maps Updated

• 🚘 Accurate turn-by-turn navigation
  
  

• 🚦 Updated speed limit and traffic data
  
  

• 🧭 Optimized route planning
  
  

• ⛽ New or relocated POIs
  
  

• 🛡️ Safer and more efficient journeys
  
  

Whether you're driving across town or across borders, updated maps make every trip smoother.

Conclusion

Keeping your TomTom GO Navigation app or GPS device updated is essential for accurate, safe, and efficient travel. Whether you’re a daily commuter or a long-haul driver, staying current with map updates ensures your route reflects the real world.

Thanks to TomTom’s frequent map updates and user-friendly update tools, keeping your maps fresh is simple and worth the few minutes it takes.

Update regularly—and navigate smarter.