Software update via USB: does this ever work?

[SpokenHands]

Has anyone had success updating software via their USB?

I just input my VIN number and was asked to download a 90mb <.Bin> file to USB in the main folder

But as soon as I put the USB into the USB in centre console, and tried to <Update Software>, it says it is not compatible with the vehicle!

How can I get this thing to work??

[Walt White Coupe]

I know for a fact that you can only update the NAV software thru the USB port in the top right side of the glove compartment. 2013 car. I suggest you try that one.

[bravo261]

i bought my car in October 2014, and have also never been able to update it. My warranty expires in 400 miles/two weeks so i took it to the dealer to get it updated. They called home to Bavaria and did some "i-wrap" session and simply said that the car already has the newest software. i have checked the version, but i'm throwing in the towel at this point

[Sonny Crockett]

SpokenHands - I have the exact same experience so I´m curious about this. Did you try WWC´s suggestion?

[elvisisdog]

There was something posted a while ago about using a small usb stick. If you've got an old free one with 128mb that would be perfect. Post was from a couple of years ago.

My 2013 only had one usb port the other one isn't there, just an empty home in the glove box. Others have reported the same thing.

[Giggs11]

Hi I have a late 13 with Functional USB port in glove box

[Qsilver7]

The owners manual mentions the USB location for data transfer is in the glove box. If you don't have an owners manual...you can google/internet search for BMW f06 6 series owners manual PDF...and download a version to your CPU or other device.

The USB port in the center armrest is for audio interface/mobile phone audio interface.

The USB port in the glove box is for data transfer.

[Sonny Crockett]

Qsilver7 - there is nothing I can say, you are completely right. I´m ashamed of myself that I didn´t put more effort into my investigation...

Now to my question, I can put my whole finger into that whole. There is nothing there, has anybody else experienced this?

[Walt White Coupe]

Shouldn't be able to do that.

[elvisisdog]

Same on mine, UK 640D on a 63 plate. Nothing in the glove box but a hole. This had been confirmed by other UK others well on other posts. Assume it's a diesel thing.

[Qsilver7]

Originally Posted by Sonny Crockett

...Now to my question, I can put my whole finger into that whole. There is nothing there, has anybody else experienced this?

Hmmm...I don't know what to say other than to "fish-around" up inside the hole to see if it has been pushed or inadvertently moved from its position. You don't have any info posted that indicates if you have a coupe, convertible, or grand coupe...or a model year/build date. Perhaps there's some differences in early coupes/verts built before 2013? I'm using my 2013 as the model to look up information.

Here's more info from the TIS on the USB located in the glove box.

USB connection, glove box
The USB connection in the glove box is available for performing an import/export (data copy or data backup).

Data import/export only possible via glove box USB connection

Data for the Car Information Computer (CIC) can only be imported/exported via the USB connection in the glove box. An import/export via the USB audio interface (optional equipment SA 6FL with interface box) in the centre console is not possible. This interface is still only intended for playback of external audio sources.

Functional description

The data on a USB sticks (music files in the formats MP3, WMA or AAC) can be imported into the Car Information Computer (CIC) via the USB connection in the glove box. As well, music data stored on the hard disk of the Car Information Computer can be stored on a USB stick (e.g. for data backup when replacing the CIC).

The data are transferred on a bidirectional data line. The USB connection in the glove box supplies the USB stick with a maximum of 500 mA.

USB hard disks, USB hubs and USB memory card readers with a number of bays cannot be read at the USB interface in the glove box.

In general, it is discouraged to connect an external device with the vehicle via two lines since this may result in damage. For example, the simultaneous connection of an external device to a USB interface in the glove box (import/export) and another interface (e.g. 12 V socket, USB audio interface) leads to voltage differences. The resulting equalising currents can destroy the external device and the connected control units.


#1-USB connection, glove box
#2-4‐pin plug connection

*******************************
*******************************

No import via the USB interface

An import via the USB interface on the AUX-IN connection with a USB port is not possible. This USB interface is only intended for playback of external audio sources. To import/export data (data copy or data backup), a USB interface is available in the vehicle glove box.

[Qsilver7]

Originally Posted by elvisisdog

Same on mine, UK 640D on a 63 plate. Nothing in the glove box but a hole. This had been confirmed by other UK others well on other posts. Assume it's a diesel thing.

Interesting...do you ever recall if it was mentioned how to import data etc when there's no USB connection in the glovebox? I wonder if it requires hooking up to dedicated diagnostic equipment? I hope we find a resolution so that when diesel owners pose this question to the forum...we'll have an answer or direction to point them.

[Flying Ace]

Originally Posted by Qsilver7

The owners manual mentions the USB location for data transfer is in the glove box. If you don't have an owners manual...you can google/internet search for BMW f06 6 series owners manual PDF...and download a version to your CPU or other device.

The USB port in the center armrest is for audio interface/mobile phone audio interface.

The USB port in the glove box is for data transfer.

I recall, the other thing you can do via the USB upload is updating Bluetooth software. https://www.bmw.com/en/footer/software-updates.html

Not sure if it applies to the NBT systems, but I was able to do an update via usb in my CIC X5.

[Sonny Crockett]

I did some more searching, first I tried with a type of mirrors that the dentists use but could see nothing. Then I tried to look with the help of a flashlight but it is impossible to see anything.

With the finger I was able to feel a thin cable but I´m quite sure that was just "passing by" and connected to something. There was no USB-port that had been pushed out, I think I would have felt that. So there seems to be nothing..

I have a 640D x-drive, built in late August 2013. I have the digital tacho and the "new" steering wheel. Maybe they were optional back then..

[Vorpel]

I checked yesterday on my '15 650i GC and just a hole in the glove box in the top right. Could not feel anything in there.

[Walt White Coupe]

For all those that just have a hole where the USB port is in my 2013 650ix, what does your owners manual say in comparison to what is shown in Post #7? That post reflects what I have.

[poiboy]

2015 640 GC- just a hole in my glove box as well.
Current software version - MN-003.013.001 -

Getting the firmware not compatible as well, my car still has the maintenance. Might drop by the dealer to see what they say to doing an upgrade.

[Sonny Crockett]

Ok, I have checked my car and I have some updates. In the owner´s manual it is stated that cars equipped with Professional Navi and/or TV the software update should be made through the USB port in the armrest. Cars without Professional Navi and no TV should do the update through the glovebox. So there we might have an answer to that. Again, my car is a diesel built in late August 2013.

In the owner´s manual it is also stated that it can be done through BMW TeleServices, but that option did not pop up when I tried according to the instructions. Maybe the car has to be in motion?

I will take my car for service tomorrow before it is time for its winter sleep - will ask the dealer then. I also checked which version I have and was MN-003.011.002 and TN followed by the same number.

[Qsilver7]

Thanks for the update...and as you said...kind of answers why some glove boxes have the USB and some don't. Gotta add this tidbit to my mental Rolodex in that there are multiple set-ups...all F06/F12/F13 are not optioned the same.

[SpokenHands]

So no USB port in the globe box of my 640d (recall i had this in my 530d GT several years ago) and so a bit surprised to see it missing but this effectively rules out USB data updates.


Car has been in for a £220 software update - apparently there are several updates that improve gear box, map graphics and driving aids including HUD since last done in 2016. Dont seem to notice anything at the moment but will report back.

(software updates during warranty period are free only if you report a software related problem - this takes about 4 hours and BMW AG gets billed so dealers are quite careful to ensure they get paid as BMW scrutinises all claims. My 640d is out of warranty.

[Vorpel]

Originally Posted by SpokenHands

Car in for a £220 software update - apparently there are several updates that improve gear box, map graphics and driving aids including HUD since last done in 2016.

I'm new to the BMW world so please excuse my ignorance.
Is your vehicle under warranty? If it is, is it normal to get charged for updates?

Thanks!

[FBMWWINS]

I just checked my car and there is NO USB port inside or around the glove box. Mine is equipped with SA609 (Navi pro). Thus it makes sense according to what is stated above in post #18.