Independent Lowrance & Simrad service

Why Russian can disappear after a Lowrance update

The usual reason is not a failed update: firmware and a separately installed language package can have different lifecycles.

By AlexanderUpdated 2026-07-15Independent technical guide
Short answer: a firmware update replaces system software. If Russian was supplied by a separate language package, the update may remove or deactivate that package.

Firmware and language are different layers

Firmware controls the device operating system, hardware support and core functions. A language package adds interface resources for a specific software environment. One can change without the other.

What to record before updating

  • Exact model and hardware generation
  • Current and target software versions
  • How Russian was originally installed
  • Backup of waypoints, routes and settings

What not to do

Do not immediately downgrade, factory-reset repeatedly or install a package for a similar model. Each action can remove useful evidence or introduce another fault.

Best next step

Send the model, old and new versions, and a photo of the language menu for a compatibility check.

Check the device before changing software

Send the exact model, current software version and the change you need. You will receive a model-specific answer.

Check my device