Garmin Forerunner 970 not showing running power: Diagnosis

SAFETY WARNING / FIRE RISK: This device contains lithium batteries. Improper puncturing or bending during disassembly can cause explosions or flames. The intervention requires precision and the assistance of a specialized technician is recommended. ReeFix provides this diagnosis EXCLUSIVELY for educational and informational purposes.

TECHNICAL ANALYSIS

The Garmin Forerunner 970 does not display running power, an estimated metric that depends on accurate data processing from multiple sensors. If the data is missing, the acquisition or calculation chain is interrupted.

Causes and Probabilities:

1. Software configuration error or feature deactivation (45%)

   • Why: Running power requires the feature to be enabled in activity settings (e.g., Run) and the user profile on Garmin Connect (specifically body weight) to be correctly set and synchronized. An incorrect or missing weight value blocks the algorithm.
   • Key signals: The power data field shows dashes or is empty, but altimeter and GPS work regularly.

   Quick Check Checklist (Do it yourself):

   • Activity Settings: On your Forerunner 970, go to "Activity Settings" and ensure "Running Power" is set to "On".
   • Garmin Connect (Body Weight): Log in to Garmin Connect (via app or web) and verify that your body weight is entered and updated correctly. An incorrect or missing value can block the calculation.
   • Activity Data Fields: During run activity setup, ensure the "Power" data field has been added to the displayed screens.
   • Common error: Forgetting to enable the feature after an update or reset, or never having set the weight correctly.

2. Obstruction or failure of the internal barometric sensor (30%)

   • Why: The barometric sensor detects pressure changes to calculate gradient, a crucial data point for running power. If the small barometer hole is obstructed by sweat, dirt, or salts, the sensor does not receive correct data.
   • Key signals: The watch shows anomalous altitude data (e.g., negative altitude, sudden peaks) or does not detect changes in gradient during an activity.

   Quick Check Checklist (Do it yourself with caution):

   • Visual Inspection: Locate the small hole of the barometric sensor (usually on the side or back of the watch) and inspect it for visible obstructions.
   • Gentle Cleaning: Gently clean the hole using lukewarm water and a soft cloth. Strictly avoid using sharp objects that could damage the sensor. For deeper cleaning, you can consider an electronic contact cleaning kit, applying it with utmost caution.
   • Limit condition: Prolonged use in humid environments or with heavy sweating can lead to obstruction.

If you notice that your Garmin's altimeter is erratic or stuck at implausible altitudes, the problem almost certainly lies in accumulated residues inside the sampling hole. Targeted cleaning or a manual diagnostic test can restore correct atmospheric pressure readings.

3. Firmware corruption or operating system bug (15%)
   • Why: Software updates or crashes can corrupt system files or modules that manage power calculation.
   • Key signals: The problem appeared suddenly after a software update or an unexpected device restart.

   Quick Check Checklist (Do it yourself):

   • Garmin Express and Firmware: Connect your Forerunner 970 to Garmin Express (using a Garmin Forerunner charging and data sync cable). Check for available firmware updates or the possibility to reinstall the current firmware.
   • Soft Reset: Perform a "Soft Reset" by holding down the Light/Power button for about 15 seconds until it turns off. Restart and check.
   • Hard Reset (Last Resort): If the Soft Reset does not resolve the issue, consider a "Hard Reset" (factory data reset). Caution: This operation will erase all unsynced data on the device. Back up before proceeding.

SECONDARY FACTORS

• External sensor conflict or failure (Low probability): If you have external sensors (e.g., a Garmin HRM-Pro Plus heart rate monitor or a Garmin Running Dynamics Pod) paired, their malfunction or ANT+/Bluetooth conflict could in rare cases block the display. Try temporarily unpairing them.
• Generic hardware failure (Very Low probability): Less likely than software causes or the barometer, but an internal accelerometer or gyroscope failure could prevent calculation. This would require specialized technical intervention.

Output for technician: "The Garmin Forerunner 970 does not display 'Running Power'. Verification of the barometric sensor (Test Mode), integrity of anthropometric data on Garmin Connect, and activity settings is required. In the absence of obvious hardware faults, consider a clean firmware flash."

WHAT TO DO

1. REPAIR IT YOURSELF (HIGH PROBABILITY):

Follow these steps in decreasing order of probability:

• First check (45%): Check activity settings on your Forerunner 970 and your weight on Garmin Connect. This is the most common problem and often solvable in a few seconds.
• Second check (30%): Gently clean the barometric sensor hole. If altimetric data is anomalous, this is the most likely cause.
• Third check (15%): If the problem arose after an update, try a Soft Reset and, if necessary, a firmware update/reinstallation via Garmin Express.

2. CONSULT A TECHNICIAN (MEDIUM PROBABILITY):

• If DIY checks do not resolve the problem and you suspect a hardware fault (e.g., persistently incorrect altimetric data even after cleaning and a Hard Reset), or if you are not comfortable performing a Hard Reset or firmware reinstallation. A specialized technician will be able to access advanced hardware diagnostic modes.

3. REPLACE THE DEVICE (LOW PROBABILITY):

• Consider replacement only if a technician confirms a serious hardware fault (e.g., faulty barometric or internal inertial sensor) and the cost of repair is comparable to that of a new device, or if the device is very old and out of warranty.

Remember: If settings are correct and barometer cleaning does not resolve the issue, proceed with a Soft Reset and check the firmware; if the problem persists, consult a specialized technician.