How to update courses on a Garmin Approach golf watch


how to update courses on garmin gps golf watch

Adding new software and golf courses

Do you have a Garmin golf watch and are wondering how to update the courses and program the software? It’s actually not that complicated!

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll take you through the process of updating the watch. You will need your Garmin Approach, it’s compatible USB charging cable and a computer or laptop (Windows PC or Mac OS).

update your garmin golf watch using garmin express

Updating the Garmin Approach courses and software instructions:

  1. Start with connecting the Garmin Approach into your computer via the USB cable that it came with (note these vary between devices).
  2. Next, you will need to download Garmin Express from the garmin.com/express website. Garmin Express is the free computer application which allows you to manage your device by syncing it.
  3. Once the application download is complete click ‘Add a Device’. As the Approach is connected Garmin Express will find it.
  4. You will now need to register your device by creating an account. It’s important to use the same email that you signed up to Garmin with originally. If you don’t have an existing Garmin account create a new one.
  5. Give your Approach a name, this can be a nickname or product name (Approach S6 for example).
  6. Select your data collection preferences which is a legal requirement.
  7. The next window will show if any updates are available. Click on ‘Install All’ to proceed with installing updates.
  8. Keep your Approach connected during the update process which can take several minutes depending on how many updates need to be installed.
  9. Updates completed! Eject the device from your computer and hit the golf course!

Official Garmin support video for updating golf courses:

How to reset your Garmin golf watch

If you are experiencing issues with your Garmin golf watch you can perform a factory reset. This is only recommended if the watch is unresponsive, frozen, not receiving a satellite signal and will not turn on/power up. Make sure you have attempted to charge your golf watch beforehand and it’s not suffering from a flat battery. Performing a factory reset will usually clear all data from the device so expect to lose your data if not previously synced with Garmin Express.

The factory reset of each model does sometimes vary but generally involves pressing and holding a combination of the main power button and a secondary button such as ‘Score’.

Performing a Garmin Approach Factory Reset:

  1. Power off device
  2. Press and hold the ‘Score’ button
  3. Press and hold main power/off/on button
  4. Select the ‘Yes’ option when prompted to clear your data
  5. Restart the watch

For more tips and information you can visit GPSnation.com who have instructions for each Garmin model. Simply use their search function to find instructions. Remember you can also visit official Garmin Support for more technical advice.

How to charge your Garmin golf watch

Is your Garmin watch not charging properly? You may have an issue with the charging clip and connection to the watch. Garmin golf watches come with a charging cable which clips to the back of the watch. You will need to make sure a proper connection is being made if you are experiencing battery charging problems.

  1. On the back of the watch are charging contacts. Gently clean these with a non-abrasive cleaning substance and a cotton bud.
  2. Make sure the charging clip is attaching to the watch properly by inspecting the charging pins. Verify that the pins line up with the back of the watch.
  3. Place the watch into the charging clip and connect to your computer or power source.
  4. You should notice that the battery charging icon appears on the screen of the watch if you are successful
  5. Charge the watch for at least an hour before using again

How to replace an old Garmin golf watch battery

Garmin watch batteries are not easily replaced and we always recommend going through the steps above before determining that the battery is actually failing. Garmin watches use rechargeable, lithium-ion batteries which can be purchased online.

Each Approach model is different so you will need to make sure you are purchasing the correct battery for your model. If you’re not confident about replacing the battery yourself you can use the Garmin Repair center to send back your watch for repair or replacement.

Replacing the Garmin Approach watch battery (soldering required to connect wires)

  1. Remove the watch bands/straps (you will need tools to undo the screws each side of the strap)
  2. Carefully remove the watch cover
  3. Be careful not to disturb the rubber/seal o-ring around the watch which helps to keep it waterproof
  4. Disconnect the white pin connector
  5. To remove the battery pull off the label on the back of the battery to expose the wires (keep the label for reuse)
  6. Solder off the connecting wires (red and black)
  7. Prise the battery out of the watch, be careful not to damage the speaker or any other components
  8. Remove the charging circuit if you have purchased a battery with its own charging circuit (recommended)
  9. Place the new battery in place
  10. Tin the leads using a soldering iron
  11. Reconnect the wires and use shrink tubing over the connections
  12. Use the old battery label to keep the wires in place
  13. Reconnect the pin connector
  14. Replace the screws and watch bands

You can also visit fixyourgps.com for a reliable battery replacement service by Dan Wilson as demonstrated in his video below:

[amazon fields=”B01M6YCWRT” image_size=”large” image_alt=”replacement garmin golf watch battery” value=”thumb”]

Recommended replacement batteries:

Recommended Best Garmin Approach Golf Watches

GPS technology changes rapidly so if you are experiencing problems with an older watch it may be time to upgrade. Garmin has a wide choice of watches which are the best in the business, helping you to speed up and improve your game. Each watch includes precise distances and features for thousands of preloaded golf courses throughout the world including Europe.

In order from best to basic golf features:

[amazon fields=”B07237NH19″ image_size=”large” image_alt=”garmin approach s60 golf watch” value=”thumb”]

Garmin Approach S60

This stunning watch looks just as good on the course as it does off. The Approach S60 has a large sunlight readable color touchscreen display and advanced features including swing training and Autoshot game tracking.


[amazon fields=”B01AX4450S” image_size=”large” image_alt=”garmin approach s20 golf watch” value=”thumb”]

Garmin Approach S20

A sporty design available in black, white and blue, the Approach S20 also includes Autoshot game tracking and detailed game analysis on the Garmin Connect golf app. Pair with your smartphone for notifications on the course so you can stay connected (or turn off for some downtime)


[amazon fields=”B07C2QHTTZ” image_size=”large” image_alt=”garmin approach s10 golf watch” value=”thumb”]

Garmin Approach S10

The Approach S10 resembles the Forerunner 30 (without heart rate monitor) and is sleek and lightweight on the wrist. It has accurate yardages to the front, back and middle of the green and well as hazards and doglegs. The large digits are easy to read in all light conditions.


[amazon fields=”B01DPYO5JE” image_size=”large” image_alt=”garmin approach x40 golf band” value=”thumb”]

Garmin Approach X40

New for 2017 these ‘golf bands’ also serve as fitness trackers with steps, distance, calories burned and heart rate on the course and off it. The X40 displays distances to the front, back and middle, including hazards.


[amazon fields=”B078SZVHKT” image_size=”large” image_alt=”garmin approach x10 golf band” value=”thumb”]

Garmin Approach X10

The focus is on the golf in this golf band. The X10 does not include the activity tracking that the X40 has but does include the precise distances, hazards, yardages, green view and a digital scorecard.

Best GPS Tech

At Best GPS Tech we found it frustrating that there were limited websites available, willing to provide an honest opinion on the latest GPS technology to aid our interests. We enjoy creating content around GPS products from the industry leaders such as Garmin, FitBit and more. We hope you find the site informative in helping you make the right buying decisions.

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