A growing number of Garmin smartwatch users are reporting issues with real-time turn-by-turn navigation, and the problem appears to stem from a Garmin Connect app bug not the devices themselves. While Garmin has yet to respond, frustrated users across forums and Reddit are flagging the same glitch and scrambling for fixes.
Garmin smartwatch navigation broken on multiple models
The issue affects a wide range of Garmin wearables, including popular models like the Fenix 8, Fenix 7, Forerunner 955, and Enduro 3. Normally, turn-by-turn navigation delivers real-time alerts via vibration or sound with the distance to the next turn shown on-screen. These prompts rely on maps synced from the Garmin Connect app.
However, users report that the feature stopped working after syncing new courses. While some initially blamed system software version 20.19, the root cause seems to be the Connect app itself. Specifically, the app may now fail to include course_point entities the markers needed to trigger navigation instructions.
Garmin Connect sync breaks previously working routes
Interestingly, older courses already stored on a Garmin smartwatch remain functional until users sync again. After syncing, those routes also lose turn-by-turn functionality. Garmin has yet to officially acknowledge the issue, issue a patch, or provide a timeline for resolution.
A user workaround offers a temporary fix
One Garmin forum member, socorsu, shared a workaround that’s gaining traction. Users can manually build their routes using a third-party site like Plotaroute. Once complete, they export the course as a .FIT file which includes the correct navigation data and then transfer it directly to their smartwatch.
Here’s the workaround in a few quick steps:
- Create the route using Plotaroute (or similar tool)
- Export as a .FIT file
- Connect your watch to a PC
- Move the file into the Garmin/NewFiles directory
- Disconnect and let the watch process the file
No fix yet, but the community fills the gap
Until Garmin steps in with an official solution, users are leaning on each other for fixes. While the workaround isn’t ideal, it restores the missing navigation features and avoids syncing through the affected app.
For now, Garmin smartwatch owners will have to rely on third-party tools and manual file transfers to keep their navigation running smoothly.
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