Buying used Garmin GPS (such as iQue 3600)

Be careful buying a used Garmin GPS from eBay or any other private seller. If it does not have the maps loaded already, it could be difficult to get the maps unlocked so another owner can use them. Buying a unit that has never been registered with Garmin is preferred, but not likely. Very often the impression is given that you can just download the maps from Garmin. Not so fast! You need the ownership of the unit transferred to you which can only be done by the previous owner. After they have your money, it might be difficult to get them to do anything. Also you need the unlock codes for the map software. Having the Garmin map DVD will not get you anywhere without the codes. You can always BUY the maps/codes, but these are not cheap at $80-$100. Contacting Garmin about a non-working GPS you bought from an auction will get you nowhere. If you are the official registered owner, they become friendly!