Garmin GPS Model 2597 Manual

The Garmin GPS Model 2597 is a high-performance automotive navigation device featuring a large touchscreen display, preloaded maps with lifetime updates, voice-activated navigation, real-time traffic and weather alerts, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and smartphone notifications, lane assist with junction view, speed limit and school zone warnings, and driver alerts for sharp curves and speed changes. Powered via vehicle USB or 12V adapter. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Navigation Features 8. Smartphone Integration 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Large capacitive touchscreen, Vehicle power adapter, USB cable, Dashboard mount, Remote Control (if included), MicroSD card slot, Speaker, Microphone.

FeatureDescription
Preloaded MapsDetailed street maps with lifetime updates for North America
Voice-Activated NavigationHands-free destination entry and control
Real-Time Traffic & WeatherLive alerts via built-in receiver or smartphone link
Bluetooth ConnectivityFor hands-free calls and smartphone notifications
Lane Assist with Junction ViewVisual guidance for complex interchanges
Driver AlertsWarnings for sharp curves, speed changes, and school zones
MicroSD Card SlotFor additional map storage or media
USB PortFor data transfer and charging
Power ButtonTurns device on/off
Volume ControlsAdjusts speaker output

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Install in vehicle safely.

  1. Mount device: Attach suction cup mount to windshield or dashboard; secure GPS unit.
  2. Connect power: Plug vehicle power adapter into 12V outlet; connect to GPS USB port.
  3. Position device: Ensure clear view of screen and sky for GPS signal.
  4. Pair smartphone: Enable Bluetooth on phone and follow on-screen pairing instructions.

WARNING! Do not mount in a location that obstructs driver's view. Secure cables to avoid entanglement.

First-Time Setup

Power on device; follow initial setup wizard.

  1. Select language: Choose preferred language for menus and voice guidance.
  2. Agree to terms: Read and accept terms of service and privacy policy.
  3. Set time and units: Configure time zone, clock format, and distance units (miles/kilometers).
  4. Update maps: Connect to Wi-Fi or computer via Garmin Express to install latest maps.
  5. Pair smartphone: For traffic, weather, and hands-free features.

CAUTION! Complete setup while vehicle is parked. Do not operate while driving.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via touchscreen. Physical Buttons: POWER, Volume Up/Down.

Touchscreen Interface: Where To? (search), View Map, Speed, Trip Data, Settings.

Navigation Settings: Route preferences (Fastest, Shortest, Avoidances), Voice guidance volume and style, Map detail, Vehicle icon. System Settings: Language, Units, Time, Bluetooth, Display brightness, Sound profiles. Traffic & Services: Subscription status, Alert types. Tools: Trip Planner, Saved Locations, Recent Destinations.

Connecting Devices

Smartphone: Bluetooth for calls and smart notifications. Computer: USB for updates via Garmin Express.

  1. Ensure device and smartphone Bluetooth are enabled.
  2. On GPS, go to Settings > Bluetooth > Add Phone.
  3. Select your phone from list and confirm pairing code.
  4. For computer updates, install Garmin Express, connect via USB, and follow prompts.

Tip: Keep smartphone within range for continuous connectivity.

Navigation Features

Provides turn-by-turn guidance with real-time information.

  1. Enter destination: Tap "Where To?" > Address, Point of Interest, or Saved.
  2. Start navigation: Tap "Go!" after selecting destination.
  3. View route: Map shows turn instructions, ETA, and lane guidance.
  4. Detour: Tap detour icon to recalculate route around traffic or road closures.
  5. Trip data: View current speed, altitude, trip time, and distance to destination.
  6. Voice commands: Say "OK Garmin" followed by command (e.g., "Find gas station").
  7. Avoidances: Set in route options to avoid tolls, highways, etc.
  8. Simulation mode: Practice routes without GPS signal.

WARNING! Always pay attention to road conditions. Navigation is an aid, not a replacement for driver awareness.

Smartphone Integration

Live Services: Requires paired smartphone with Garmin Drive app installed. Features: Real-time traffic, weather forecasts, fuel prices, parking info. Smart Notifications: Display calls, texts, and app alerts on GPS screen. Hands-free Calling: Make and receive calls through GPS speaker/microphone.

Care & Maintenance

Use soft, dry cloth to clean screen and casing. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.

CAUTION! Avoid extreme temperatures. Store in cool, dry place when not in use. Update software regularly via Garmin Express.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Contains transmitter module FCC ID: XXXX. For support, visit www.garmin.com/support or contact 1-800-800-1020. © Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. Garmin and the Garmin logo are trademarks of Garmin Ltd.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No GPS signalObstructed view, indoorsMove to open area; ensure device has clear sky view.
Device won't turn onPower connection, batteryCheck power cable and outlet; charge battery fully.
Touchscreen unresponsiveScreen protector, calibrationRemove screen protector; clean screen; restart device.
Bluetooth not connectingPairing mode, distanceEnsure phone Bluetooth is on and discoverable; re-pair devices.
Maps not updatingInternet connection, softwareConnect to Wi-Fi or computer with Garmin Express; check subscription.
Voice guidance silentVolume settings, muteIncrease volume in settings; check mute status.

Reset: Hold power button 15 seconds for soft reset. For factory reset, go to Settings > System > Reset.

Service: 1-800-800-1020; www.garmin.com/support

Garmin GPS Model 2597 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025