TomTom VIA 1505TM Customer Reviews

Real Reviews Submitted by Real Users!

TomTom XL users will be familiar with the freshened interface and large, bright screen of the TomTom VIA 1505TM.  So far, navigation has been flawless and there's a large lane-assistance database.  One of the features I like best is how the unit shows almost everything I might want by default, including miles until arrival, time until arrival, arrival time, the speed limit, the vehicle's speed and the current time.  My Garmin only let me choose four of these things for it to display.  If you're looking for a new GPS, you can stop looking here, although the VIA isn't necessarily that much better than the XL (unless you don't have the lifetime map updates with your XL) because the interface is basically the same except for an updated appearance.

I didn't get the lifetime traffic version because I don't think it's accurate enough yet, but it does have the significant advantage of having NO ADS.  I think this is a big deal, because all the Garmins with lifetime traffic have on-screen ads that are displayed when the unit loses the GPS signal (when you're in a tunnel, for instance) or the vehicle is stopped.  Unfortunately, the safest time to look at your GPS is while you're sitting at a stop sign or red light.  The TomTom doesn't obscure the maps with ads while you're stopped, but Garmins do.

The only complaint I have relates to the fact that the My TomTom software doesn't yet include lifetime map updates.  The six-month guarantee includes one map update, but lifetime map updates should be added to the software at some point in the future.  Make sure you save the promo code on the box so you can use it when this happens.  Once you've updated, you'll have access to free camera warnings.

Naturally, this GPS gives you directions, but it also lets you change your route on the fly.  You can enter construction detours, and if you're in heavy traffic and other drivers are using TomToms, they communicate with each other, so your unit can not only tell you about an upcoming traffic jam, but re-route you!  And, with one click, you can get reverse directions back to your home!

The TomTom displays how far it is to your next turn and whether it will be a right or left turn, your current speed, and how long it will be until you arrive at your destination.  It even tells you if you start driving erratically in your lane.  Out of all the car accessories I own, the TomTom is one of the most useful.

The TomTom VIA 1505M is the first GPS I've ever owned.

Advantages:

    * It's extremely accurate and never made a mistake routing us to our destinations. Remember, if your destination is in a strip mall, you'll need to pull into the parking lot and locate the specific business.
    * Its directions are clear and concise, but if you somehow miss a turn it will give you the directions you need to get back on the right track.

Drawbacks:

    * The manual could use more detail, especially about the mounting system. It wasn't terribly clear that you just pull the small clear tab to take the unit out of the dash mount.
    * The touchscreen is a bit sensitive when you're entering an address.
    * I'd love to be able to plan a complete trip with way points (points of interest) without needing to add those locations into the favorites menu.
    * The website can be confusing and updates are sometimes slow.

Overall, though, we're pleased and recommend the TomTom.