900mAh Extended 361-00056-08 Battery Replacement Compatible with Garmin DriveSmart 5, DriveSmart 55, DriveSmart 61, DriveSmart 65 and DriveSmart 71 GPS Navigator
Quick take
This 3.7V, 900mAh extended lithium-ion battery replacement is designed for Garmin DriveSmart GPS units that use the 361-00056-08 battery model/part number. It’s a good fit if you want to restore charge-holding and potentially improve battery runtime, but plan to take your time during installation because the included tools and the device ribbon/wiring are the main “watch-outs.”
Pros and cons
Pros
- Targeted compatibility for Garmin DriveSmart 5, 55, 61, 65, and 71 (361-00056-08 battery model/part number).
- Extended capacity battery spec (3.7V, 900mAh) aimed at longer runtime versus aging OEM packs.
- Buyers report a generally snug fit and straightforward swap process when opened carefully.
- Includes free installation tools, plus support material like replacement and installation guidance from the community (videos are often referenced).
Cons
- Included removal tools can be low-quality for some installs, and may fail if you rush or need a stronger fit.
- Installation requires opening the unit carefully, with specific care needed around internal ribbon connections.
- Battery life expectations vary, and some buyers only confirm fit/build without measuring runtime.
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is generally positive for compatibility and usability. Multiple shoppers describe the battery as fitting correctly in their DriveSmart units and highlight that installation is manageable if you go slowly. Several reviews connect the change to improved charge-holding compared with an older, failing OEM battery. The most repeated friction point is the included removal tools, with at least one report indicating a stripped bit on first use. A separate theme is caution during disassembly, especially around internal connections like the ribbon between the screen and the unit.
Key specs and compatibility (so you don’t buy the wrong battery)
- Battery model/part number: 361-00056-08 (this matters more than the device name alone).
- Compatibility: Garmin DriveSmart 5, DriveSmart 55, DriveSmart 61, DriveSmart 65, and DriveSmart 71.
- Capacity and power: 3.7V, 900mAh (3.3Wh) extended lithium-ion rechargeable battery pack.
- Battery type: Lithium-ion rechargeable.
- What’s included: installation tools, plus it’s intended as a single-battery replacement.
How it performs in real-world use
Reviews suggest this battery replacement can help when your DriveSmart’s original pack no longer holds a charge. Shoppers often frame it as a “restore runtime” purchase, especially for older units where battery behavior has degraded. That said, battery-life improvement is hard to guarantee because usage patterns (in-car power versus handheld use), screen activity, and battery age at the time of replacement all affect results. The best expectation is to use this as a way to replace a tired battery with a higher-capacity extended pack for your exact model.
Installation experience and the biggest tradeoff
This is not a drop-in, external swap. Expect to open the Garmin housing and handle internal parts. Reviews commonly emphasize taking your time around connectors, including ribbon connections, to avoid damaging the device while replacing the battery. One recurring downside is that the included tool quality may not be as strong as you’d want, especially if you apply too much pressure or if the screw engagement is tight. If you already own a good T5 Torx tool (or can borrow one), it may reduce the risk of tool-related issues.
Pros and cons recap
- Buy it if: you have a Garmin DriveSmart 5/55/61/65/71 that uses the 361-00056-08 battery model/part number, and you’re comfortable doing careful device opening to replace the pack.
- Avoid it if: you want an easy external battery replacement, or you’re not comfortable working around internal wiring/ribbon connections.
- Value angle: when you’re replacing an aging OEM battery, the extended 900mAh spec can make the handheld experience more reliable, and buyers frequently mention it being cheaper than buying a replacement via the original route.
Verdict: is the 900mAh extended 361-00056-08 battery worth it?
It’s worth considering when your DriveSmart’s battery has lost charge capacity and you want a properly matched replacement for the 361-00056-08 part. The recurring installation caveats are mainly about tool quality and careful disassembly, not about the battery fit. If you can follow careful teardown steps and take your time, this is a practical way to bring your DriveSmart back to usable handheld runtime.
FAQs
Will this battery work with my Garmin DriveSmart?
It’s intended for Garmin DriveSmart 5, 55, 61, 65, and 71 models that use the 361-00056-08 battery model/part number. Confirm your current battery’s model/part number if you want to ensure compatibility.
What are the battery specs?
It’s a 3.7V, 900mAh (3.3Wh) extended lithium-ion rechargeable battery pack.
Does it come with installation tools?
Yes, it includes free installation tools for the replacement process.
How hard is the installation?
Installation involves opening the unit and handling internal connections carefully. Reviews commonly advise going slowly and paying attention to ribbon connections and other internal wiring. Some buyers also recommend using better tools than what’s included if you have them available.
Is the battery life actually longer?
Buyers frequently describe improved charge-holding versus older, failing OEM batteries. Exact runtime can vary depending on how you use the device and the condition of the unit at the time you replace the battery.
Is it a good choice if I mostly use the GPS in a car with power?
If you primarily run the unit while plugged into power, the battery may not be the limiting factor. This replacement is most helpful if you want the GPS to hold charge for handheld or unplugged use.
Specifications
| Product Title | 900mAh Extended 361-00056-08 Battery Replacement Compatible with Garmin DriveSmart 5, DriveSmart 55, DriveSmart 61, DriveSmart 65 and DriveSmart 71 GPS Navigator |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > GPS, Finders & Accessories > GPS System Accessories > Batteries |
| Brand | MPF Products |
| Manufacturer | MPF Products® |
| Model Number | 361-00056-08 |
| Item Weight | 0.6 Ounces |
| Number of Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. |
| UPC | 651357780369 |
| Battery Cell Type | Lithium Ion |
| Battery Capacity | 900 Milliamp Hours |
| Voltage | 3.7 Volts |
| Reusability | Rechargeable |
| Unit Count | 1 Count |
| Battery Weight | 17 Grams |
| Antenna Location | GPS |
| Battery Cell Composition | Lithium Ion |
| Recommended Uses For Product | GPS |
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