Magellan Explorist XL, Great GPS, Terrible Customer Support

[oldtrucks]

I got a new Magellan Explorist XL GPS, MapSend Topo 3D Software, and a mount for the quad for Christmas. The GPS itself is pretty nice. Great big screen and very easy to operate. That's where the story goes downhill.

When I went to load the Topo 3D I found that the first disc of 3 didn't work. I emailed Magellan and was told their software had something wrong and they were working to fix the problem. That was on December 28th. Since then I've been on hold 6 times, for a total of 2 hours and never spoke to a human. It's always the same thing, "we're experiencing a high volume of calls". So when I get fed up I leave my phone number on their automated system and told that my call will be returned by the next available support person. 3 times I've left my number and never had a call back. Additionally I've gone through their support web page and filled out the form, only to get an email that states my message has been forwarded to the support for my problem and will receive an email, nothing since the 28th.

So, what I have is a really nice GPS with no basemap or software for it. It's like being thirsty, having a nice cold beer, and no way to open it. Magellan Sucks!

[ontherks]

I got one too, preordered waited forever for it and then I could not get any accsories for it. They said it would be 2 months for them. Where did you get your mount? Also did you get a DC power cord?

[oldtrucks]

The mount I got was supposed to fit all the Explorists, not the XL though. I'm still working that out. I noticed that RAM advertises one for it, http://www.ram-mount.com/gps_mounts/ramb309ma6.htm. Nothing else yet, nothing is available. I'm in no hurry to get it mounted, doesn't do anything until I can get the Topo 3D for it.

[ontherks]

Sorry to see your having problems too. I think they released it too soon and told them theyt should not release a product if you can't get stuff for it. I also told them its useless to me until they have some accesories for it. I wanted mine for sledding but, it looks like i may hopefully have it set up for this summer riding.

[Mr. Miyagi]

doesn't do anything until I can get the Topo 3D for it.

or..... Actually use it when Quadding.....

Unless your gonna just map yourself to the nearest 7-11 (arm chair quadder).

[oldtrucks]

Unless your gonna just map yourself to the nearest 7-11 (arm chair quadder).

Terry the problem with it is the standard base map is so bad that doesn't even show Hwy 49 from Auburn North. I track and all I see is a line on a white screen, looks like a screwed up "Pong" game

[clampnpolaris]

thanks for the info i have an eterx legend that i want to up grade to something new. i'm looking at explorist xl and the lowrance ifind hunt color plus. both about the same brice..

[oldtrucks]

Take a look at the Garmin 76CSX, they are adding an SD slot so memory won't be as costly or restrictive. Going on 7 days since I last email, called and left a message, and faxed a request. No word from Magellan

[Ken]

I have to say Larry...I'm quite stunned.

I've had great CS from Magellan. Example. I rode my ATV in the rain one trip....



Sideways rain. My unit was trashed...water got inside of my waterproof floating.

I sent my GPS back in.....and 2 weeks later...a brand new arrived...along with an bonus belt holder.


Then recently, I my screw clip on the battery came off...so I had to pull the batteries out with needle nose. I emailed them, and they sent me a new battery insert.

I think I have a name and email from that one....let me look and I'll send it to you.

[oldtrucks]

Ken I remeber reading your experience with Magellan and the Topo 3D, and that was a contributing factor on the Magellan purchase. I don't undestand what the problem is , I took into account the Holidays and factor that into the delay. When I call I sit on hold for 30 mnutes and all I get is the same thing over and over, "we're experiencing a heavy volume of calls". Emails don't get answered.

[Mr. Miyagi]

Boy do I remember that day..... Great ride. But standing there trying to eat was a real bitch. lol......

Sorry to hear about your GPS issues.....

[Ken]

Boy do I remember that day..... Great ride. But standing there trying to eat was a real bitch. lol......

We were such dumbasses, for not eating in that cabin near the entrance to Richardson Lake.

[Mr. Miyagi]

We were such dumbasses, for not eating in that cabin near the entrance to Richardson Lake.

You mean the one Scott was standing in......roflmao.

[Ken]

Larry got some good news today....new CD's coming....

[oldtrucks]

Yep, I finally got an email from them. Funny deal, I've been emailing and calling, last time I had any respnse was in December....today....3 emails before 9 am. They have the cd's in and are supposed to be sending them out.

I also found out that RAM lists the mount but the aren't actually making it yet. Guess if I get the software I can use velcro and zip ties to hold it on