How to Fix a Blank TomTom XL Screen

By Melissa King

A GPS unit mounted on a car dashboard
i Ron Chapple studios/Hemera/Getty Images

TomTom's GPS devices, including the XL, ONE XL, XL IQ and XL 30 series, give you turn-by-turn directions while displaying your route on an on-screen map. If your TomTom XL's screen is blank, you won’t be able to see the map, view live traffic or adjust the device's settings. If the GPS is charged but the screen still won't come on, you may need to reset your TomTom. The reset process does not erase your settings, maps or other content stored on the device.

Step 1

Charge your TomTom XL for at least two hours to ensure that the screen isn't blank from a dead battery. Connect the device to a USB cable, then connect the cable to your computer to charge. Alternatively, you can charge the device using the included car charger or an optional power adapter.

Step 2

Press the "On/Off" button after charging for two hours to turn the device on. If the screen does not turn on, proceed with the reset process.

Step 3

Remove the SD card from your TomTom, if applicable. To remove the card, locate the SD card slot on the side of the device. Press in on the SD card to eject it from the slot.

Step 4

Locate the reset hole on the bottom of the device. Insert the tip of a straightened paper clip into the hole and press the button inside. Hold the button down for at least 20 seconds.

Step 5

Press and hold the "On/Off" button for at least 30 seconds if your model doesn't have a reset hole. When you hear drum sounds and the device restarts, release the button.

Step 6

Press the "On/Off" button to turn the device on if it didn't turn back on after the reset process. The screen should no longer be blank. Reinsert the SD card, if you removed one, when the device turns on.

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