Minn Kota Advanced GPS Upgrade Guide: Add Spot-Lock to Your Existing Trolling Motor

Can you upgrade your existing Minn Kota trolling motor to Advanced GPS Navigation and Spot-Lock without purchasing a new trolling motor?

For many compatible Minn Kota bow-mount trolling motors, the answer is yes.

Whether you own an older PowerDrive, Terrova, Ultrex, Ulterra, or certain Riptide saltwater models, an Advanced GPS upgrade can add modern navigation features while allowing you to keep your existing trolling motor.

Lakeside Marine & Service, a Minn Kota Authorized Service Center, offers Advanced GPS upgrade kits assembled from brand-new, genuine Minn Kota OEM components.

In this guide, we'll explain which trolling motors can be upgraded, which models cannot, the differences between Advanced GPS and older i-Pilot systems, and how to select the correct kit.

About the author: Clint Sands is the owner of Lakeside Marine & Service. He has worked in the marine industry since 1999, has over 15 years of experience repairing Minn Kota trolling motors, and is factory trained by Minn Kota.

Which Minn Kota Trolling Motors Can Be Upgraded to Advanced GPS?

Not every Minn Kota trolling motor can be upgraded. Compatibility depends on the motor's model, generation, steering system, and existing electronics.

Advanced GPS Upgrade Compatibility Chart

Minn Kota model Upgrade availability
PowerDrive V1 Yes
PowerDrive V2, 2007–2016 Yes
PowerDrive, 2017–present Yes
Terrova, 2007–2016 Yes
Terrova, 2017–2023 Yes
Ultrex, 2017–2023 Yes
Ulterra, 2015–2023 Yes
Riptide PowerDrive Yes. Choose your generation: 2007–2016 or 2017–present, then select Saltwater.
Riptide Terrova Yes. Choose your generation: 2007–2016 or 2017–2023, then select Saltwater.
Riptide Ulterra Yes, compatible 2015–2023 models. Select Saltwater.
Maxxum No
Fortrex No
Edge No
Transom-mount models No

Important: The upgrade availability shown above refers to the compatible upgrade kits offered by Lakeside Marine & Service. Model years are general application ranges, not guarantees of compatibility. Some newer motors already include Advanced GPS, and different generations may require different components. Before ordering, verify your motor's model and serial number.

Which Minn Kota Motors Cannot Be Upgraded?

Lakeside Marine & Service does not offer Advanced GPS conversion kits for manual-steering bow-mount trolling motors such as Minn Kota Maxxum, Fortrex, or Edge. These motors use manual or cable-operated steering arrangements that are not compatible with the Advanced GPS conversion kits discussed here.

No transom-mount Minn Kota trolling motors are eligible for these upgrade kits. If you own one of these motors and want Spot-Lock or Advanced GPS functionality, you will generally need to consider a compatible GPS-equipped trolling motor rather than an upgrade kit.

What Is Minn Kota Advanced GPS Navigation?

Advanced GPS Navigation is Minn Kota's newer GPS-based trolling motor control platform, replacing older i-Pilot and i-Pilot Link technology on applicable models. It offers enhanced navigation capabilities and improved integration with compatible electronics.

Advanced GPS Features

Spot-Lock GPS Anchoring

Spot-Lock uses GPS to help hold your boat near a selected position by automatically controlling the trolling motor. This is useful for fishing structure, maintaining position in current, and reducing the need to manually reposition the boat.

Advanced AutoPilot

Automatically steers your trolling motor along a selected heading using GPS-assisted navigation.

Drift Mode

Helps maintain a controlled drift speed and direction, particularly useful for drift fishing.

Dodge Mode

Allows supported systems to temporarily maneuver around an obstacle while using compatible navigation features.

iTracks

Record and retrace trolling paths so you can return to productive fishing areas.

Routes and Saved Locations

Create and follow supported routes and navigate to stored locations using compatible controls and electronics.

Minn Kota App and Humminbird/Minn Kota Integration

Control supported functions through the Minn Kota App and compatible Humminbird/Minn Kota depth finders. Some features require additional accessories, a compatible fish finder, mapping, or a particular remote. Explore Advanced GPS kits and networking accessories.

Advanced GPS vs. i-Pilot vs. i-Pilot Link

If your trolling motor already has i-Pilot or i-Pilot Link, you may wonder whether upgrading is worthwhile.

Feature Legacy i-Pilot Legacy i-Pilot Link Advanced GPS
Spot-Lock Yes, on supported systems Yes Yes
GPS AutoPilot Yes Yes Yes
Recorded trolling paths Supported Supported Supported
Humminbird/Minn Kota integration No Yes, compatible equipment Yes, compatible equipment
Drift Mode No No Yes, supported configurations
Dodge Mode No No Yes, supported configurations
Minn Kota App control No No Yes

Advanced GPS offers newer navigation features and updated control options.

Important remote compatibility note: Older i-Pilot and i-Pilot Link full-size remotes, including older Bluetooth full-size remotes, are not compatible with Advanced GPS controllers. The compatible Bluetooth Micro Remote is an exception. Upgrading the GPS controller does not automatically make all existing remotes or accessories compatible.

1. Minn Kota PowerDrive Advanced GPS Upgrades

PowerDrive owners have several upgrade options depending on their motor's generation.

Important, PowerDrive models only: Upgrading a PowerDrive or Riptide PowerDrive to Advanced GPS Navigation means you will lose foot-pedal functionality. Your existing PowerDrive foot pedal will no longer operate the motor. Use the Minn Kota App, a compatible Advanced GPS remote, or a compatible connected fish finder instead. This foot-pedal loss applies only to the PowerDrive models covered here, not the Terrova, Ultrex, or Ulterra upgrades discussed in this guide.

Older PowerDrive V1 Motors

Certain older PowerDrive V1 motors can be upgraded through a conversion to newer V2-style control components. Depending on the selected configuration, owners may be able to add Advanced GPS Navigation rather than replacing the entire trolling motor. The original V1 foot pedal will not work with the newer V2-style control board.

Shop PowerDrive V1 Upgrade Kits. Select the configuration appropriate for your motor and desired controls.

PowerDrive V2, 2007–2016

Compatible PowerDrive V2 motors can be upgraded using a dedicated Advanced GPS kit. This upgrade requires both installation of the Advanced GPS head controller and replacement of the control board, with quick-connect electrical connections. Available options include freshwater and saltwater configurations, with selectable remote options.

Shop 2007–2016 PowerDrive Advanced GPS Upgrade Kits.

PowerDrive, 2017–Present

Compatible newer PowerDrive motors can also receive Advanced GPS Navigation. These upgrades provide Spot-Lock, supported GPS navigation features, and optional Humminbird/Minn Kota integration.

Shop 2017–Present PowerDrive Advanced GPS Upgrade Kits.

For more information about PowerDrive conversions, see our complete Minn Kota PowerDrive Upgrade Guide.

2. Minn Kota Terrova Advanced GPS Upgrades

The Minn Kota Terrova is another popular candidate for Advanced GPS upgrades.

Terrova, 2007–2016

Compatible 2007–2016 Terrova motors can be upgraded using a kit that includes the required Advanced GPS head controller and other generation-specific control components. These upgrades are particularly useful when older electronics have become discontinued or customers want newer navigation capabilities. The kit includes a new control box and appropriate control components for the selected configuration.

Shop 2007–2016 Terrova Advanced GPS Upgrade Kits.

Terrova, 2017 and Newer Eligible Models

Compatible newer Terrova motors use a different Advanced GPS upgrade configuration. The available Terrova/Ultrex kit is listed for 2017–2023 motors, with additional eligible applications requiring model-specific verification.

Shop Terrova/Ultrex Advanced GPS Upgrade Kits.

Not every newer Terrova requires or supports this conversion. Verify the existing motor generation and electronics before purchasing.

3. Minn Kota Ultrex Advanced GPS Upgrades

Owners of compatible Ultrex trolling motors can upgrade to Advanced GPS Navigation using the Terrova/Ultrex upgrade kit. This provides access to newer GPS navigation functions while retaining the compatible motor platform.

Available features depend on the motor generation, connected equipment, and selected controls.

Important: Do not assume all Ultrex generations, including newer QUEST models, use the same upgrade components. Confirm compatibility using the exact model and serial number.

4. Minn Kota Ulterra Advanced GPS Upgrades

The Ulterra offers automatic stow/deploy and power trim capabilities, making control-system compatibility especially important. Lakeside Marine & Service offers Advanced GPS upgrade kits for compatible 2015–2023 Ulterra motors. The available kits provide updated GPS navigation and selectable control options.

Shop 2015–2023 Ulterra Advanced GPS Upgrade Kits.

Important Ulterra Remote Considerations

The Bluetooth Micro Remote can control essential navigation functions, but it cannot operate Ulterra's automatic stow/deploy or trim functions. Customers selecting the Micro Remote option must use another compatible control method, such as the Minn Kota App, for those functions. Choose your remote option carefully before ordering.

5. Advanced GPS Upgrades for Saltwater Minn Kota Motors

Owners of compatible Riptide saltwater trolling motors may also be able to add Advanced GPS Navigation. Lakeside Marine & Service offers saltwater-specific upgrade options for eligible Riptide PowerDrive, Riptide Terrova, and Riptide Ulterra models.

Saltwater versions may require different controllers or other components than freshwater models. Do not order a freshwater upgrade kit for a saltwater motor solely because the motor generation or appearance seems similar. Select the correct water-type option and verify compatibility using the motor's serial number.

Shop Advanced GPS Upgrade Kits, Freshwater and Saltwater.

6. Choosing the Right Advanced GPS Remote

Lakeside Marine & Service offers different remote configurations with eligible Advanced GPS upgrade kits.

Option Best for
No remote Customers who plan to use the Minn Kota App or another supported control method
Bluetooth Micro Remote Customers wanting a compact remote for essential steering and navigation functions
Full-size Wireless Remote Customers wanting additional navigation and saved-location controls

The Micro Remote supports essential features such as steering, propeller control, Spot-Lock, Advanced AutoPilot, and high-speed bypass. The full-size remote provides additional supported features, including Legacy AutoPilot, boat-scale settings, and recording tracks or saved locations. Multiple compatible remotes can be paired with an Advanced GPS system.

7. Do You Need a Heading Sensor?

The Minn Kota Bluetooth heading sensor supplies the trolling motor with the direction the boat is pointing. This boat-heading information is different from the GPS position used to hold a Spot-Lock location. The sensor does not add basic Spot-Lock; the compatible Advanced GPS system already provides GPS anchoring.

Spot-Lock Jog and Boat-Relative Direction

On compatible non-QUEST Advanced GPS installations, a paired and calibrated heading sensor enables Spot-Lock Jog. Jog moves your existing Spot-Lock location in five-foot increments forward, backward, left, or right. The boat-heading information lets the system interpret those directions relative to the boat rather than requiring you to steer manually to a new anchoring position.

Heading Sensor Calibration and Heading Offset

The sensor also has its own heading calibration and offset setup, accessible through compatible full-size remote or Minn Kota App controls. Heading Sensor Calibration is performed on the water after installation and pairing, with the boat driven through two complete circles as directed by the instructions.

Heading Offset compensates for the difference between the sensor's mounted direction and the boat's keel or forward direction. Complete calibration first, then set the offset with the trolling motor pointed forward and parallel to the keel, following the instructions for your system. This aligns the sensor's heading reference correctly; it is not a substitute for changing navigation headings with the steering controls.

Installation and Compatibility

The external sensor must be mounted away from magnetic interference, connected to power, paired with the trolling motor, and calibrated before use. Review Minn Kota's heading sensor installation, pairing, calibration, and offset instructions for the complete procedure.

Some motors already have a compatible sensor, so check before buying another. An external sensor is optional for basic Spot-Lock and is not automatically included with every upgrade kit. The heading sensor does not improve Spot-Lock accuracy and is not required for Spot-Lock to work.

Shop Minn Kota Heading Sensor. Not sure whether you need one? Text us your motor model and serial number.

8. Connecting Advanced GPS to Humminbird/Minn Kota Depth Finders

Compatible Advanced GPS systems can connect to supported Humminbird/Minn Kota depth finders through the appropriate Ethernet networking equipment.

Depending on your fish finder and existing network, you may need an Ethernet cable of the correct length, an AS EC QDE adapter for applicable HELIX models, an Ethernet switch for certain multi-device installations, and compatible mapping for selected navigation functions.

The necessary cables are generally sold separately. Confirm your fish finder model and existing network before ordering.

Shop Advanced GPS Cables and Accessories.

9. Which Advanced GPS Upgrade Kit Should You Buy?

Before selecting an upgrade, identify these details:

  • Your exact Minn Kota trolling motor model.
  • The motor's serial number.
  • The motor's approximate model year or generation.
  • Whether it is a freshwater or Riptide saltwater model.
  • Whether it already has i-Pilot, i-Pilot Link, or another GPS system.
  • Which remote and networking features you want.

The serial number is particularly important because motors with similar names can use different electronics. If you are unsure, text Lakeside Marine & Service or email our team before purchasing.

Advanced GPS Installation Instructions

Review the instructions for your exact motor generation and selected kit before beginning. Head-controller replacement instructions do not cover every additional component required for older conversions.

Need help identifying the right instructions? Text your motor model and serial number to 815-246-2535 or email support@lakesidemarineandservice.com.

Frequently Asked Questions About Minn Kota Advanced GPS Upgrades

Can I add Spot-Lock to my older Minn Kota trolling motor?

Yes, certain older PowerDrive, Terrova, Ultrex, Ulterra, and compatible Riptide motors can be upgraded using the appropriate Advanced GPS kit. Compatibility depends on the exact motor model and generation.

Will I lose foot-pedal functionality when upgrading to Advanced GPS?

Only the PowerDrive models covered in this guide, including Riptide PowerDrive, lose foot-pedal functionality with these Advanced GPS upgrades. Your existing PowerDrive foot pedal will no longer operate the motor. Use the Minn Kota App, a compatible Advanced GPS remote, or a compatible connected fish finder instead. Choose your control option on the 2007–2016 PowerDrive kit or 2017–present PowerDrive kit. This warning does not apply to the Terrova, Ultrex, or Ulterra upgrades discussed here; any replacement-pedal requirements still depend on the motor generation and selected kit.

Can I upgrade a Minn Kota Maxxum, Fortrex, or Edge to Advanced GPS?

No. Lakeside Marine & Service does not offer Advanced GPS upgrade kits for manual-steering bow-mount models such as Maxxum, Fortrex, or Edge. These motors are not compatible with the conversion kits discussed in this guide.

Can I add Advanced GPS to a transom-mount Minn Kota motor?

No. The Advanced GPS upgrade kits offered by Lakeside Marine & Service are not designed for transom-mount trolling motors.

Can I replace my old i-Pilot system with Advanced GPS?

Yes, on eligible motors. The appropriate upgrade depends on the motor's generation and existing control system. Older full-size i-Pilot and i-Pilot Link remotes generally cannot be reused with the Advanced GPS controller. Review the Micro Remote and full-size wireless remote options when choosing your kit.

Do I need a Humminbird/Minn Kota fish finder to use Advanced GPS?

No. Advanced GPS can operate using compatible wireless controls or the Minn Kota App. A compatible Humminbird/Minn Kota fish finder is optional and enables additional integrated features when correctly networked. Browse networking accessories and upgrade kits.

Does Advanced GPS include Spot-Lock?

Yes. Spot-Lock is a core Advanced GPS Navigation feature and does not require the optional external heading sensor for basic GPS anchoring. On compatible non-QUEST systems, a paired and calibrated heading sensor adds the boat-heading information used for Spot-Lock Jog and supports heading calibration and offset setup through compatible controls. QUEST Advanced GPS motors do not require this external accessory for Jog.

Can I control Advanced GPS with my phone?

Yes. The Minn Kota App supports compatible Advanced GPS systems. Available controls depend on the motor and installed equipment. See the Minn Kota App pairing and operating instructions.

Are Advanced GPS upgrade kits factory-packaged by Minn Kota?

The kits offered by Lakeside Marine & Service are assembled by Lakeside using brand-new, genuine Minn Kota OEM components. They are not sold as complete factory-packaged Minn Kota upgrade kits.

Are freshwater and saltwater Advanced GPS controllers interchangeable?

Freshwater and Riptide saltwater Advanced GPS upgrade components should not be assumed interchangeable. Select the upgrade kit designed for your trolling motor's specific model, generation, and freshwater or saltwater configuration. Verify compatibility using the motor model and serial number before ordering.

Can I install an Advanced GPS upgrade myself?

Many kits are fairly straightforward DIY projects for mechanically inclined owners, with quick-connect electrical connections. Installation difficulty varies by motor generation and upgrade kit. Some involve replacing a head controller, while others require additional control-system components and setup. For example, the 2007–2016 PowerDrive upgrade requires both the head controller and control board to be replaced. Follow the appropriate installation instructions, and consider professional service if you are unfamiliar with trolling motor electronics.

Shop Minn Kota Advanced GPS Upgrade Kits

Lakeside Marine & Service is a Minn Kota Authorized Service Center offering Advanced GPS upgrade kits, genuine OEM components, wireless remotes, heading sensors, and networking accessories.

Whether you're upgrading an older PowerDrive, adding Spot-Lock to a Terrova or Ultrex, modernizing an Ulterra, or upgrading an eligible Riptide saltwater motor, we can help you select the correct configuration.

Have your trolling motor serial number ready and text 815-246-2535, or email support@lakesidemarineandservice.com for compatibility assistance.

Shop All Minn Kota Advanced GPS Upgrade Kits

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November 05, 2026 — Clint Sands
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