Due to the nature of the GPS system, you will need to get a GPS fix the first time you use your unit, after more than two weeks, anytime you change your batteries and anytime you travel more than 600 miles (965 km). It is strongly recommended that you do this at the start of each usage session. It can take up to 20 minutes to obtain a GPS fix. The easy way to accomplish this is to turn your SPOT Satellite GPS Messenger "ON", wait 2 seconds, and then press "OK" and wait until the LED above the "OK" button goes out – this allows the unit time to acquire the GPS fix. While unlikely, it is possible that a GPS fix won’t be acquired if you only use other functions (Track Progress, HELP and 9-1-1) due to the transmission burst cycle.

SPOT Assist Roadside Service is currently available only in the United States and Canada.