Just left for our trip to Canada and realized our Garmin 52LM only has the lower 49 states

[Krzysztopher]

Is there a way I can download a map file onto my microSD card using my phone and then use it in my GPS device? Where can I download a map of Canada and how do I install it without using the Garmin Express Software? We do not have a laptop with us.

[Butters]

Yes, unfortunately 52 was only sold in USA with lower states loaded, nuvi 54 was the same hardware with both US and Canada as OEM. Weather you buy a map online from Garmin or you find an unlocked one you'll still need a PC. This forum now bans posting of unlocked maps but you maybe would get lucky searching other sites.

You could add a Canada-only map or even a full North America map to a microSD, either purchased or unlocked. If you're unable to get access to a PC, maybe easiest is to buy a map on a microSD card from a Garmin dealer in Canada seeing that you're already there. A map purchased that way is locked to the media card (using the S/No of its CID) so it can be used in any compatible device. Details on Canada map and dealer finder:

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The other possibility is to buy a North America LM subscription (I realize you have lower US as Lifetime, but Garmin doesn't sell Canada only as an add-on Sub). I know that works with a device with non-LM US as OEM, to successfully add both Canada and Mexico but you might strike a problem when the device already has an LM entitlement and regardless you'll need GarminExpress. You could contact Garmin support about the possibility but be prepared to get jerked around depending on who you get on the other end of the phone or email, a lowly support drone or someone who actually knows what they're doing as Garmin support is a huge lottery and mileage varies considerably . NA LM info:

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Could be simpler to just go buy the cheapest GPS available from a local discount chain or a second hand one from a pawnshop.


Good luck.