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TomTom withdraws 'lifetime' maps for certain sat nav models
Sat nav manufacturer TomTom is to stop offering map updates and software support on selected models, some of which were originally offered with 'lifetime' updates.
In a statement on its website, the brand states that owners of a number of devices manufactured before 2013 will no longer be eligible to receive the periodic updates.
The company said: 'It has become clear that some of our older-generation navigation devices do not have sufficient resources to run the newest maps and software available.
'Your device will continue to function as it does now, but your map will become out of date and as such navigation will be less accurate.'
TomTom goes on to explain its definition of lifetime updates, saying: 'Lifetime means the useful life of the device, i.e. the period of time TomTom supports your device with updates, services, content or accessories. A device will have reached the end of its life when none of these are available anymore.'
Newer devices offered with lifetime updates are not currently affected. Owners of devices that are no longer being supported will lose access to subscription services when their plan runs out.
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What can you do if you own an affected device?
TomTom is contacting affected device owners to inform them that they will no longer be able to buy updated maps or new services. However, the brand has also published a full list of devices it is no longer supporting.
Despite the brand's claim that affected models are older, less sophisticated devices, some are still available online. The BBC has also reported instances of customers recently purchasing new sat nav devices, only to find they are soon to be obsolete.
These sales may in certain circumstances have resulted in a breach of the Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations and also the Consumer Rights Act, particularly for device owners who have owned their devices for shorter periods of time.
Depending on the length of time they've owned their TomTom, owners should either be able to return their device, as with any faulty goods, for a full refund or seek a repair or replacement. For more information on your rights, head over to our consumer rights guide to faulty products.
