Navigation Update (Truth or Dealer BS?)

[jnkirk1974]

Okay, I really need to update my navigation software. So, I went in to BMW of Dallas to purchase the update.

However, the man in the parts department told me that I needed to schedule an appointment to have it updated. He said that the M6 requires the service department to do it.

Now, I updated my own software on my 550i (F10) with no issues at all.

So, is the dealer telling me the truth or are they just trying to get me in, in order to charge me service fees?

[M6-Coupe]

I'm not sure about navigation update, but I know not every technician in dealer is allowed to touch M cars. They have special training for M cars and specific persons (technicians) are going to those training. That's what I was told by my SA

[evanevery]

Do you need to update your Navigation SOFTWARE or just your map DATA?

[jnkirk1974]

I'm referring to updating the map data.

I cannot imagine the service department having to do this...

[evanevery]

You can update the map data yourself. There are several vendors who will sell you the update...

[vaio23]

I just updated mine a few weeks ago. Contact bmwnavcodes@gmail.com for $50 they will give you a place to download the maps and the activation code. You just need to purchase 3 large thumb drives.

[Rasputin8]

If you are handy, you can find the instructions for updating your own map data. I just did it on my coupe last week. Generate a code with a cable and E-SYS, plug in your map data on a usbdrive and enter your code. Wait for the update and you are good to go. There is no difference between the M6 and my old 650i, other than the map data. No need to go to a dealer.

[bigbrian]

I have never personally done it because I always use my iPhone for directions/GPS. I guess I have not caught on to programming the address into my car (can't be bothered lol).

I would just do it yourself though and purchase it from the guy listed a few responses above. Cheap and easy!

Brian

[Contrails]

I contacted this person to obtain the latest map update for my 2012 650i xDrive coupe that I just bought. He responded immediately, and I'm ready to send him the $50 for FSC code and thumb drive(s). Is this person legitimate and would you recommend going thru him to update my nav map? I'm brand new to BMW, and I'm hoping that the instructions that he includes are easy to follow and are thorough. Any comments that all of you here can provide about this vendor and this process would be appreciated.

Originally Posted by vaio23

I just updated mine a few weeks ago. Contact bmwnavcodes@gmail.com for $50 they will give you a place to download the maps and the activation code. You just need to purchase 3 large thumb drives.

[Rasputin8]

I have no personal experience with that vendor but as long as you obtain a valid FSC code, you are good to go. You will need to download whichever map pack corresponds to your region and iDrive version. They are large files in the several gigabyte range so you will need a large enough USB to store the files. They are usually subdivided into several "folders" that will need to be stored on the USB and plugged into the car sequentially during the upgrade process.

You can either generate the FSC yourself with a cable and software or give your VIN to an individual to generate the code. My understanding is that anyone that uses just the VIN without linking physically to your car does so by having access or knowing someone with access to BMW service software.

Originally Posted by Contrails

I contacted this person to obtain the latest map update for my 2012 650i xDrive coupe that I just bought. He responded immediately, and I'm ready to send him the $50 for FSC code and thumb drive(s). Is this person legitimate and would you recommend going thru him to update my nav map? I'm brand new to BMW, and I'm hoping that the instructions that he includes are easy to follow and are thorough. Any comments that all of you here can provide about this vendor and this process would be appreciated.

[Dracon]

Originally Posted by Contrails

I contacted this person to obtain the latest map update for my 2012 650i xDrive coupe that I just bought. He responded immediately, and I'm ready to send him the $50 for FSC code and thumb drive(s). Is this person legitimate and would you recommend going thru him to update my nav map? I'm brand new to BMW, and I'm hoping that the instructions that he includes are easy to follow and are thorough. Any comments that all of you here can provide about this vendor and this process would be appreciated.

I've had a long running thread in the E90, F30 and F10 forums for map updates for those interested in keeping their navigation systems up to date. I'm also a listed BimmerPost vendor so if you want to support vendors who support the boards.

http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=995629

You can also watch that thread to be notified when new versions are available.