Free Shipping on Domestic Orders $75+

Introduction

When the device experiences power issues, freezes, or completely fails to start, the Motherboard is most likely the cause. It is the main circuit board that controls the GPS's functions, so any damage to it can cause the device to stop working entirely.

The motherboard, being the main control component, is connected to all other parts in the device. This means it requires disconnecting or removing these connection points from the motherboard. In this guide, soldering will be required to remove all the wires connecting the various components to the motherboard. It is essential to follow the first few steps to remove power from the device. If you are unfamiliar with soldering or need a refresher, refer to the How to Solder and Desolder Connections guide.

This repair guide will safely walk you through replacing the motherboard of your Garmin Drivesmart 55 EX device.

Before you begin, make sure the device is powered off and unplugged from the charger.

What you need

Step 1 Motherboard

Garmin DriveSmart 55 EX Motherboard Replacement, Motherboard: step 1, image 1 of 3

Garmin DriveSmart 55 EX Motherboard Replacement, Motherboard: step 1, image 2 of 3

Garmin DriveSmart 55 EX Motherboard Replacement, Motherboard: step 1, image 3 of 3

Use a T5 Torx screwdriver to remove the four 4.2 mm black screws from the back case.
Insert the plastic opening tool into the gap between the screen and case, and release the clips along the edges of the device.
Use opening picks along the perimeter to keep them separated until you can remove the screen.

Edit

Ask FixBot

Step 2

Garmin DriveSmart 55 EX Motherboard Replacement: step 2, image 3 of 3

Gently separate the screen from the case and place the device flat on the surface.
Avoid pulling on the screen too forcefully, as the display ribbon cable is still connected to the motherboard.
Use a T5 Torx screwdriver to remove the four 3.8 mm silver screws from the motherboard.
Avoid scratching the motherboard when using the screwdriver, as this can damage the device.
Gently pry the motherboard up using the plastic opening tool.

Edit

Ask FixBot

Step 3

Use your fingers or tweezers to disconnect the battery connector on the underside of the motherboard.
Avoid pulling on the cables.

Edit

Ask FixBot

Step 4

Desolder the three solder points with a soldering iron to disconnect the wires from the motherboard.
Be careful when using the soldering iron, the tip is hot to the touch and can damage the motherboard or other surfaces when held or placed on them.

Edit

Ask FixBot

Step 5

Garmin DriveSmart 55 EX Motherboard Replacement: step 5, image 3 of 3

Use a spudger or a clean fingernail to flip up the locking flap on the ZIF connector.
Use the widest tool possible to avoid damaging the delicate hinge pins.
Use tweezers to gently pull the gold ribbon cable from the socket on the motherboard.
Be careful when removing the ribbon cable because it is thin and can tear easily.
Remove the screen.