Garmin Dezl 560LMT and 560LT Widescreen GPS Trucking Navigators Review

Garmin’s new dezl series, 560LMT and 560LT, are its second generation of specialist GPS trucking navigators which have moved from under the nuvi umbrella. The dezl has the essential large (five inch) display and built-in loudspeaker for a large and noisy cabin. Also included are a video input for backup cameras and valuable free lifetime Map and/or Traffic Updates depending on the version. Software features include; truck-specific points of interest (POIs) with The National Truck & Trailer Services (NTTS) Breakdown Directory, hours, fuel and mileage logging, truck speed limits and advanced navigation and route planning and calculation utilizing Garmin’s nüRoute technology. RV drivers also benefit from the ability to setup an RV profile so routes can be calculated based on height, weight and length restrictions.

Garmin dezl 560LMT/LT Advanced Routing and Guidance

The Garmin dezl 560LMT/LT will create advanced routes taking into account truck-related road restrictions such as height, width, length, weight and hazardous materials. Routes are computed based on user entered truck profiles which include truck dimensions, hazardous materials and load restrictions. Multiple profiles can be stored so the 560LMT/LT can be moved from one truck to another.

Some other advanced routing tools available with the Garmin dezl 560 versions include:

Lane Assist to guide drivers to the correct lane at the right time for easier navigation of highway intersections
Routing Preferences to avoid tolls or highways.
Specialized Routing to comply with truck-related restrictions in both the U.S. and Canada (customizable by height, weight, length, width and hazardous materials)
Multiple-stop Routing to calculate the most efficient route between multiple stops.
Trip Planner stores future trips
Automatic time zone transition to set the correct time zone
Ability to switch between trucking and automobile navigation modes.

Safe Driving Assistance

The dezl 560LMT keeps the driver informed of upcoming road conditions, such as sharp curves and high winds, and restrictions, including no trailer or hazardous materials. To enable drivers to anticipate descents and ascents and shift accordingly a grade data field that appears on the map. Any trucking speed limits lower than the automotive limit are displayed on the navigation interface. One can even correct the speed limits to ensure accurate data at all times.

Garmin’s nuRoute Technology with trafficTrends and myTrends

Garmin’s dezl 560LMT includes nuRoute technology which encompasses trafficTrends historical traffic and myTrends predictive routing. TrafficTrends automatically learns daytime traffic flow trends and utilizes the data to improve routes and more accurately predict estimated times of arrival. This feature can be expected to become more accurate as historical data accumulates from the data updates which piggyback software updates.

Garmin myTrends uses clues such as the time of day and location you turn on the GPS as well as the initial direction taken to predict what the intended destination may be from stored frequent destinations. If you are a creature of habit this functionality could save a lot of time.

Tracking and Reporting Trips

To make complying with reporting requirements easier, the dezl 560LMT’s logs and retains trip. It automatically records state mileage for IFTA fuel logging. Hours of service and driving status are also logged and it will automatically warn of HOS violations. Logs can be exported for improved report formatting.

National Truck and Trailer Services (NTTS) Breakdown Directory

An attractive feature of the dezl 560LMT/LT for the trucking faternity is inclusion of the National Truck and Trailer Services (NTTS) Breakdown Directory . The NTTS Breakdown Directory is a comprehensive, nationwide guide to semi-truck repair facilities. Truck drivers should appreciate having this huge database of trucking-specific POI (points of interest) including truck repair, towing and recovery, truck scales, tire sales and repair, glass repair, truck stops (including services available at them) and fuels stops to name some.

Traffic Alerts

Traffic delays can be a significant cost for heavy trucks. The dezel is capable of plotting routes around traffic delays using traffic alerts. Both the dezl 560LMT and 560LT versions come with subscription-free lifetime traffic alerts in most major metro areas nationwide from NAVTEQ Traffic.

Lifetime Maps

With free Lifetime Map updates (560LMT version) drivers are assured of always having the most current maps, points of interest and navigation information available. Map updates are available for download up to 4 times a year. There is no subscription or update fees and no expiration dates for free map updates.

Bluetooth Hands-free Calls

The dezl 560LMT has Bluetooth wireless technology for hands-free calling using the built-in microphone and speaker. All you need to do is pair it with a compatible Bluetooth phone. Calls can be made using the dezl’s touchscreen keypad and received by just tapping the screen.One-touch dialing is available for contacts and points of interest.

Included Accessories for Garmin dezl 560LMT / 560LT

Preloaded City Navigator NT for North America or Europe (full coverage)
Lifetime maps and traffic or lifetime traffic (indicated by LMT or LT in version purchased)
FM traffic receiver with 12/24 volt power cable
Portable friction mount
Micro-USB cable
Quick start manual
Preloaded National Truck and Trailer Services (NTTS) Breakdown Directory