Garmin Force Trolling Motor Problems [Issues+Fixes]

ByJustin C Updated On:

The Garmin Force Trolling Motor is generally accepted as being a superior device. For example, it can reach 3.8 mph on the water, as opposed to the Lowrance Ghost, which can only reach 3.25 mph.

It is the quietest model available while still being much bigger than a Minn Kota Ultrex. And tied in with Garmin’s renowned GPS technology, it also provides accurate positioning with superior power levels.

As with any mechanical device, components wear over time, electrical connections corrode, and some fault issues arise.

While many of the issues can be resolved by the owner, the good news is that Garmin customer service in the States is responsive and will help resolve any of these common problems as quickly as possible.

In this article, I identify the most frequent issues (listed below) and what the possible fixes are:

Anchor Spot-Lock Issues

The ability to keep station without physically dropping an anchor is a brilliant feature of the Garmin Force Trolling Motor.

Many anglers are impressed with the general accuracy of the system.

But, when this feature malfunctions, it is the issue that produces the most complaints.

Four problems feature the most:

  • The motor keeps making adjustments and powers past the chosen spot.
  • The boat does not reach the desired spot.
  • The spot lock is engaged at the desired spot, and the boat reverses for approximately 10 feet before it finally settles and starts to hold its position.
  • When at anchor, the motor suddenly speeds up and starts moving the boat in circles around the spot.

The five most common fixes to try are:

Garmin is constantly improving the system’s software, and in most instances, upgrading to the latest software version will improve the accuracy of the spot lock function. Use the active captain app on a compatible IOS or Android device to update the software.

The gain is set at five as the default value. Test reducing the gain and see if this makes a difference.

After reducing the gain, you may need to recalibrate the trolling motor. To do this, follow the steps issued in the manual.

  • Choose a day when there is no wind, and the water is calm
  • Maneuver the boat to a wide-open area and stop (The boat needs to be stationary for the calibration procedure.)
  • Deploy the trolling motor (Move it from the stowed to the deployed position.)
  • Use the remote control and select the following items in sequence.
  • Select the setting mode on the menu.
  • Select the trolling motor icon.
  • Select “Calibrate”.
  • Select “Compass”.
  • Follow the on-screen screen instructions to steer with the foot pedal.

Check that all of the mounting brackets are secure. At the same time, check that the trolling motor is set at the correct depth. If it is set too deep, the coiled cable may be compressed and then damaged by friction as the motor steers.

Garmin is reputed for its excellent customer service, and if you cannot resolve the problem by yourself, they will willingly assist.

📞 Garmin Support Center

Foot Pedal Malfunction

Another common complaint is that the food pedal malfunctions or fails completely.

Most errors are diagnosed by the system as follows.

The LED lights on the pedal may turn to solid green after the pedal is moved, but the Garmin Force doesn’t respond)