1. Product Overview
The Garmin nüvi 885/885T is a portable GPS navigator designed for vehicle use, featuring a 4.3-inch widescreen display, speech recognition, and Bluetooth connectivity. It provides turn-by-turn voice directions, preloaded maps for North America, and access to real-time information services (MSN Direct, where available). The device is designed for ease of use, allowing drivers to navigate confidently while keeping their focus on the road.
Figure 1: Garmin nüvi 885/885T displaying a navigation route with lane assist.
2. Initial Setup
2.1 Charging the Device
Before first use, fully charge the device using the provided vehicle power cable or USB cable. The lithium-ion battery allows for portable use or continuous operation while charging in a vehicle.
2.2 Mounting the Device
Attach the nüvi to the vehicle suction cup mount and secure it to your windshield or use the dashboard disc for alternative mounting. Ensure the device is positioned where it does not obstruct your view of the road.
2.3 Powering On/Off
To power on or off, use the recessed slide switch located on the top, upper-left edge of the unit. A brief press typically powers on, while a longer press may offer power options.
3. Operating Instructions
3.1 Basic Navigation
The nüvi 885/885T comes preloaded with City Navigator NT street maps for North America. To begin navigation:
- To access the main menu, touch the color screen.
- Select "Where To?" to enter a destination.
- Choose from options like "Address," "Points of Interest," "Favorites," or "Recent."
- Follow the on-screen prompts to input your destination.
- The device will calculate a route and provide turn-by-turn voice directions, announcing street names and exits.
3.2 Voice-Activated Navigation
The nüvi 885/885T supports voice commands for hands-free operation. To use speech recognition:
- Press the button on the remote (which attaches to the steering wheel) to activate speech recognition.
- Speak menu options or shortcut phrases, such as "Find Address," followed by the address.
- Minimize background noise for optimal recognition.
3.3 Lane Assist and Junction View
For complex intersections and exits, the device provides visual aids:
- Lane Assist: Guides you to the correct lane for an approaching turn or exit.
- Junction View: Displays a photo-realistic image of upcoming junctions, showing road details and signs as they appear in reality.
3.4 MSN Direct Services (Trial Subscription Included)
The nüvi 885T model includes an MSN Direct receiver and a 3-month trial subscription for dynamic content. Services include:
- Traffic updates
- Flight status
- Advanced weather (including Doppler radar)
- Gas prices
- Enhanced movie listings
- Stock information
- News and local events
- "Send to GPS" feature for trip planning via Windows Live Local.
Note: MSN Direct service was available only until January 1, 2012.
3.5 Hands-Free Calling (Bluetooth)
Pair your compatible Bluetooth phone with the nüvi 885/885T for hands-free calling:
- Access the Bluetooth menu on your nüvi.
- Enable Bluetooth on your phone and search for devices.
- Select your nüvi from the list and follow pairing instructions.
- Once paired, you can make calls by speaking commands or dialing numbers using the touchscreen keypad.
3.6 "Where Am I?" Feature
Quickly find your current location and nearby essential services:
- Speak or tap "Where Am I?" to view the closest hospitals, police stations, fuel stations, nearest address, and intersection.
- Also displays your exact latitude and longitude coordinates.
3.7 "Where's My Car?" Feature
The device automatically marks your parking position when removed from the windshield mount, allowing you to navigate back to your vehicle on foot.
3.8 Photo Navigation
Utilize Garmin Connect Photos to navigate using geo-located pictures:
- Download geo-located photos from Google Panoramio via the Garmin Connect Photos website.
- Transfer photos to your nüvi device.
- Navigate to locations associated with these photos.
3.9 Sending Addresses from Google Maps or Mapquest
You can send addresses directly from Google Maps or Mapquest to your nüvi:
- Connect your Garmin device to your computer via its USB port.
- Search for a location on Google Maps or Mapquest.
- Click the "Send" link in the info window for the address.
- Select "GPS," then "Garmin," and click "Send."
- The address will transfer to your device and be saved as a favorite.
A small plugin from Garmin's website may be required. This feature supports business addresses from various countries including Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Great Britain, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States.
3.10 Other Features
- MP3 Player: Play songs stored on SD memory cards.
- Audio Book Player: (Subscription to Audible.com required).
- JPEG Picture Viewer: View images on the device.
- Currency and Measurement Converters: Useful travel tools.
- Garmin Games: Entertainment options.
- Alarm Clock: Standard alarm functionality.
- Wireless FM Transmitter: Hear audio (voice prompts, MP3s, audio books) through your vehicle's stereo.
- Garmin Lock: An anti-theft feature.
- Custom Vehicle Icons: Download personalized icons from www.garmingarage.com.
- Auto Time Zone: Automatically adjusts time zone during navigation.
- DEM Maps: Show shaded terrain contours at various zoom levels.
- Trip Computer: Records mileage, max speed, total time, and more.
- High-speed PC Connectivity: Via USB 2.0 mass storage.
- microSD Card Slot: For optional mapping and data storage.
- Standard Headphone and Microphone Jacks: For audio input/output.
4. Maintenance
4.1 Firmware Updates
To ensure your nüvi 885/885T performs at its best and has the latest features, regularly check for and install firmware updates. Visit Garmin.com for the latest updates and instructions.
4.2 Map Updates
Map data can become outdated. While some updates may require purchase, keeping your maps current ensures accurate navigation. Refer to Garmin's website for information on map update availability and pricing.
5. Troubleshooting
5.1 Device Not Responding / Freezing
If the device becomes unresponsive, perform a soft reset by removing the battery for a few seconds and then reinserting it. If the issue persists, ensure the device has the latest firmware.
5.2 Inaccurate Traffic Information
For nüvi 885T users, MSN Direct traffic updates rely on external signals. Ensure the MSN Direct receiver is properly connected and has a clear line of sight. Note that MSN Direct service has been discontinued as of January 1, 2012, so real-time traffic updates may no longer be available through this service.
5.3 Voice Recognition Issues
If voice commands are not recognized, ensure you are speaking clearly and directly into the device's microphone. Minimize ambient noise in the vehicle (e.g., turn down the radio or fan). Practice common commands to improve recognition accuracy.
5.4 Map Discrepancies
If you encounter outdated or incorrect map data, consider purchasing and installing the latest map updates from Garmin. Map data is periodically revised to reflect changes in road networks and points of interest.
6. Technical Specifications
| Product Dimensions | 6.4 x 6.4 x 3.3 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.3 pounds |
| Model Number | 010-00577-30 |
| Brand | Garmin |
| Model Name | nüvi |
| Vehicle Service Type | Car |
| Screen Size | 4.3 Inches |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, USB |
| Map Type | North America |
| Audio Output Mode | Stereo |
| Battery Life | Up to 4 Hours |
| Mounting Type | Dashboard Mount |
| Special Features | Alarm, Calculator, Games, Clock, Speed limit warning, Built-in FM transmitter, Emergency Help, Garmin Locate, Garmin HotFix, Garmin Lock, JPEG photo playback, TMC (Traffic Message Channel) ready, Built-in microphone, Built-in stereo speakers, Hands-free calling via Bluetooth, Garmin Garage, Preinstalled POIs, Currency converter, Photo viewer, Measurement converter, Custom POIs, Downloadable POIs, Automatic routing, Optional external GPS antenna connection. |
7. What's in the Box
The Garmin nüvi 885t package includes the following components:
- nüvi 885t device
- Preloaded City Navigator North America NT maps
- Remote for voice activation (with battery)
- Vehicle suction cup mount
- MSN Direct receiver/vehicle power cable
- Lithium-ion battery
- USB cable
- Dashboard disc
- Quick start manual
Note: The model number on the box is 885T because the traffic receiver is included; however, the model number on the device itself is 885 as the "T" in 885T refers to the additional component.
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, and additional resources, please visit the official Garmin website or refer to the quick start manual included with your device. Regular firmware updates are available on Garmin.com to ensure optimal performance.
9. Product Video
Video: "Durable And Reliable GPS!" by Top Tier Reviews. This video provides an overview of the Garmin nüvi 885, discussing its reliability as a standalone GPS, especially when phone service is unavailable. It highlights the device's screen size and charging capabilities, while also noting the absence of real-time traffic updates and the requirement for paid map updates.





