this be my third gp and my first Magellan . it be calculate risk purchase on my part because of the way rating spread from best to worse . and after own if for few month I could see why as I have experience the best and not so best of this gp . the first hurdle be register you gp . how you go about obtain free map update be not clearly explain . there be simplify one page instruction paper include that tell what you must do to get access to you free map update . you be to download and install the free content manager software -lrb- pc only . sorry , no mac -rrb- -lrb- the website be print on the paper -rrb- . Register you product with content manager . note : important to have you pn # ready . on mine , the PN # be locate in a very small font , on the lower right corner of Lifetime Map Updates include paper . you will follow the prompt of Content Manager and register you Magellan . after that you right click the Content Manager icon -lrb- not the shortcut -rrb- and click check for Update now and if go well , the content manager software should show what latest map and firmware update you can download . if any other reviewer see error on my part then do please post correction . I find the GPS easy to use and intuitive . when I first start use it I do notice the position lag that other reviewer have post . however , the latest firmware update eliminate that issue completely . once , the GPS freeze on I . if that happen move the power button from on position to reset position and keep it there until the GPS turn off . I live in San Francisco Bay Area and unlike other reviewer I have be pretty satisfy with how it perform . one feature I be not aware of but it be there be when you hit traffic jam a icon will pop up which if you press it will give alternative direction away from the jam . I be use to GPS announce `` recalculate '' whenever I miss a turn but after a while I get use to Magellan just calculate revise direction without the announcement . I guess buy gp be almost a gamble when you think about it . you rely on other reviewer 's experience to help you make the best possible choice but you may still end up with a dud . I be very happy with this purchase .