GPS Batteries

Why Your GPS Battery Wears Out

GPS batteries are rechargeable lithium cells, and like all lithium batteries, they degrade with use and time. Most GPS devices rely on Li-Ion or Li-Poly batteries that go through charge cycles year after year. A few things tend to speed that wear along:

• Heat is the biggest factor. GPS devices left in cars all summer absorb a lot of heat through the windshield, which shortens battery life significantly faster than normal use alone would.
• Charge cycles add up. Even with moderate use, GPS batteries often start showing real capacity loss around the two- to three-year mark. You may notice it first as a shorter unplugged runtime that keeps getting worse.
• A dead battery can stop your device from turning on at all. Many GPS units won't boot without a functioning battery in place, even when plugged in. If your GPS only works connected to a charger, the battery has likely failed.

The fix is usually straightforward. A replacement battery costs a fraction of a new GPS device and gets your unit working like new again.

Finding the Right Replacement GPS Battery

GPS batteries are model-specific. The same brand can use several different battery shapes and connectors across product lines, so matching the replacement to your exact model matters. Here's how to find yours:

• Start with your model number. You'll find it printed on the back of the device or listed in the settings menu. Search that number here and you'll be matched to a compatible replacement directly.
• Check the voltage and capacity. Most portable GPS batteries run at 3.7V. Capacity, measured in mAh, tells you how long the battery lasts per charge. You can use a higher-mAh replacement for a longer runtime, as long as the voltage matches and the battery fits the device physically.
• Browse by brand. Battery Mart carries replacements for Garmin (Nuvi, Edge, Montana, Forerunner, Zumo, StreetPilot, GPSMAP, and more), TomTom (Go, One, Via, Start, Pro), Magellan (RoadMate, Maestro, Crossover), Mio, Navman, Rand McNally, and golf GPS brands including Golf Buddy, SkyGolf SkyCaddie, Callaway, and Bushnell.

If you're having trouble finding your battery, our team can help. Contact us and we'll point you in the right direction.

Frequently Asked Questions

My GPS only works when it's plugged in. Is the battery dead?

A: That's one of the most common signs of a failed GPS battery. When a lithium battery reaches the end of its life, it can no longer hold enough charge to power the device on its own. Some GPS units also won't turn on at all without a battery installed, even when connected to a charger. Replacing the battery typically resolves both issues.

How do I know which replacement battery fits my GPS model?

A: The best starting point is your device's model number, which is usually printed on the back label or listed under the device settings. Search that number in our catalog and you'll be matched to a compatible option. If you're unsure, our customer service team is glad to help you identify the right fit.

Will an aftermarket GPS battery damage my device?

A: A quality replacement battery built to match your device's voltage, capacity, and connector specifications will not damage your GPS. Battery Mart works with trusted replacement manufacturers, and each battery we carry is sourced to meet the original specs for your device. When in doubt, our 60-day return policy means you can order with confidence.

Can I use a GPS battery with a higher mAh than my original?

A: In most cases, yes. A higher mAh rating simply means more capacity, which translates to longer battery life between charges. As long as the voltage matches your original (most portable GPS batteries are 3.7V) and the replacement physically fits inside your device, a higher-capacity option is a straightforward upgrade.

Do you carry batteries for golf GPS devices?

A: Yes. Battery Mart carries replacement batteries for a range of golf GPS devices and rangefinders, including Golf Buddy, SkyGolf SkyCaddie, Callaway, and Bushnell Pro models. Search by brand or model number to find the right match for your device.