Technology moves quickly; every year there comes a wave of new phones and laptops packing the latest features, and dropping features that used to be commonplace. Keeping a car — which could still be in production a decade after launch — up-to-date with the shifting tech landscape doesn’t come easy.
To make sure your vehicle doesn’t slip behind everything else you’re using, BMW regularly releases new software updates, improving multimedia support and compatibility with a wide range of popular mobile devices.
The big questions are: How to update BMW software? How do you find out about them? What is the latest bmw software version? How do you know if they are for your model BMW? And more importantly, can you install the updates on your own or do you have to go to your dealer?
PLEASE NOTE: BimmerTech is not able to offer support for software updates provided by BMW or any other company. For more help updating your BMW's software, please contact your BMW dealer directly.
BimmerTech iDrive software update vs. BMW ConnectedDrive software updates
Let’s give you a quick rundown on how it works. There are basically two kinds of BMW iDrive software updates.
BimmerTech iDrive software update is an update that upgrades the software version (i-Level) of your iDrive system. It is needed when installing some new software or hardware which is only supposed to work with the latest software versions. The update is performed by BimmerTech technician via a remote coding session and takes up to 1h. We strongly advise not to do it without a justifiable reason.
BMW ConnectedDrive software update, or media software update. This may cover things like multimedia, Bluetooth, Internet connectivity, or mobile compatibility with the latest version of Apple iOS or Samsung/Android system. Any owner can install this kind of update themselves as long as their car features a Combox, which works with iDrive and enhances many technology features in your BMW. Newer NBT and later iDrive systems have Combox functionality built-in, making things even easier. But even older models can be retrofitted with iDrive (at Bimmer-Tech.net) and Combox (check out the BimmerTech Combox Retrofit Kit), adding greater multimedia capabilities.
BimmerTech iDrive software update
When it comes to updating your car's software, most people are looking at getting more from the iDrive infotainment system. At BimmerTech, we offer iDrive software updates for a range of situations. What's more, our innovative remote process means you won't even need to leave home. Just connect with our expert technician over the internet, and all the hard work will be done for you. Our BMW iDrive software updatelets you individually update the software of your iDrive, letting you solve compatibility or other issues.
Same goes for MINI Connected system, if you wish to update it our MINI software update will bring a complete overhaul to your infotainment features – greater menu customization, clearer navigation, full screen Apple CarPlay and improved digital services.
Please note that iDrive software updates of this kind are not advised unless necessary to solve specific problems, and are not required as part of routine maintenance of your vehicle. With that in mind, be sure to get in touch with us before ordering to discuss whether an iDrive software update is suitable for your needs.
How do I know if my BMW needs an iDrive software update?
Updating your iDrive software is only required in a limited range of situations. For example, if you want to activate a specific feature (like full-screen mode for Apple CarPlay), but it isn't supported by your vehicle's current software version, updating your software could be the answer. It may also be the solution when running into compatibility issues with third-party hardware that isn't designed to work with older iDrive software versions.
Without a clear goal in mind or a specific problem that needs fixing, your BMW will almost never need a software update.
How long does a BMW iDrive software update take?
Updating your BMW iDrive software only takes around an hour.
During that time, however, your vehicle will need to be connected to a 15A (minimum) battery charger, with the ignition on. Without a charger, you run the risk of having your car cut out during the session, particularly if your battery isn't already fully charged. If your BMW switches off before the update is complete, it could cause critical errors to your vehicle's electronics.
BMW ConnectedDrive software update (remote software upgrade)
Download Software update via BMW website
If your vehicle came with a newer iDrive system from the factory, or is an older vehicle with a factory-installed Combox, you can search for the latest ConnectedDrive software version for your vehicle on BMW’s software update website.
After entering your VIN, BMW will check its records to see which software is already installed in your car. If there is a newer version, you’ll be able to download the file (e.g. upd07044 or UPD11024) straight from BMW’s website, ready to transfer to a formatted USB flash drive. The proper BMW software update USB format is FAT32 and exFAT. Inserting the flash drive into the USB port will let you install the software update. You’ll then immediately be able to connect a wider variety of devices to your BMW and start enjoying more multimedia features in your car, without having to take a trip to the dealer.
If there isn’t a more recent version of the software available for your car, BMW’s software update website will tell you so. In that case, a simple software update isn’t going to be enough to add any features you’re missing.
Download Software update via My BMW App
The remote software upgrade is also available via My BMW App. Included in the BMW Connected Drive package, My BMW App is application integrating your Apple or Android smartphone with your car. You can use it for multiple functions, like programming destinations before you get into your car, setting the climate control, unlocking your doors, but also downloading a Remote Software upgrade via Wi-Fi.
Here’s how to do the software upgrade via My BMW App:
- Enter the app and find the Remote Software Upgrade menu.
- Go to Remote Software Upgrade settings and choose the ‘Wi-Fi only’ download.
- Click on ‘Start download’.
- When the download is completed connect your phone to your vehicle via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
- In your iDrive settings, check your connections in the ‘Mobile devices’ menu.
- To establish a Wi-Fi connection click on ‘new device’.
- Select ‘Internet, apps’.
- Scan the QR code with your phone.
- You’ll receive a Wi-Fi token, which you’ll have to accept to establish the connection.
- With the Wi-Fi connection established, the software upgrade will be uploaded during your journey.
BMW iDrive Coding
If your BMW still lacks important features the third option is coding.
BimmerTech offers BMW remote coding to improve connectivity with your smartphone and third-party apps, with coding options including Enhanced Bluetooth, BMW Apps and Apple CarPlay. Like updating your software, BMW coding can be as simple as plugging a flash drive into the USB port in your vehicle.
BimmerTech’s range of multimedia products for BMW also includes a hardware Apple CarPlay retrofit as well as our SmartView HD ATV4 and SmartView HD Flex, offering Apple TV and smartphone mirroring support respectively.
Want to know how to code your BMW at home? Learn all about BMW coding.
Updating a retrofit iDrive or combox
You will only be able to download and install a software update file from BMW if your Combox or compatible iDrive is factory installed. If you installed the BimmerTech Combox Retrofit Kit or BimmerTech NBT Navigation Retrofit Kit, BMW’s records will still reflect that your car doesn’t have the new hardware, and therefore, won’t show that you qualify for the software update. In that case, all you do is get in touch with us and we’ll get you the official BMW update.
Whether you get the update directly from BMW or us, installing the software update is no more complicated than updating your navigation's map. Simply put the file on a thumb drive or other USB memory stick, plug it into the armrest USB port and go to the Settings menu in iDrive. Locate the Software Update option in the menu and follow the instructions on the screen.
Pretty straight-forward. But there’s one final question: what if you add a Combox or NBT Navigation using a BimmerTech upgrade kit and BMW introduces an essential main software update sometime down the road? No worries. Just remove the Combox/NBT before taking your BMW to your dealer for the update. Then reinstall it when you get it back. If it needs recoding as sometimes happens, just contact our tech team and we’ll get it going again in no time.
Apple fans will also be excited about being able to Retrofit Carplay into an older BMW if they decide on retrofitting NBT EVO with ID5/ID6 into their BMW.
The bottom line is, iDrive and Combox Media functionality can really make driving and using your BMW infinitely more enjoyable. So if you have the chance to upgrade, we say go for it. And, of course, we’re here to help if you want to do those upgrades yourself. Have questions or still need some guidance? Just get in touch!
PLEASE NOTE: BimmerTech is not able to offer support for software updates provided by BMW or any other company. For more help updating your BMW's software, please contact your BMW dealer directly. The information contained in this post is purely advisory.
FAQs
Find your vehicle's VIN number, and enter it into the BMW software portal to check for required updates. Download the updates, and save them to a USB drive that you can take with you to your vehicle. Plug the USB drive into any of your BMW vehicle's USB ports, and transfer the updates.
How do I update my iDrive myself? ›
Download any available updates to a USB drive. Insert the USB drive into one of your vehicle's USB ports. Navigate to the “Settings” menu on your iDrive system. Click on “Software Update” and follow the steps that appear on screen.
How much does it cost to update BMW iDrive? ›
Updating your BMW software via BMW ConnectedDrive is free of charge. The cost of BimmerTech's iDrive software update starts at $249. How do I download BMW updates?
What is the BMW iDrive 7 update 2022? ›
The latest Remote Software Upgrade expands the capability of Front Collision Warning with braking intervention on BMW iX and 2 Series Active Tourer models manufactured before July 2022. The system can now also react to oncoming vehicles, e.g. when turning, and identify the end of a queue of traffic.
Are BMW software updates free? ›
Since 2019, BMW has been offering free remote software upgrades several times a year for infotainment, driving, driver assistance, comfort and safety.
How do I know if my BMW needs an update? ›
Locate your vehicle's VIN in order to see if there are available updates for your vehicle. It is usually printed into the driver's side of the dashboard, best viewed when looking at the bottom of your windshield from outside the car. Enter the VIN here to find any updates. Download any available updates to a USB drive.
How long does BMW iDrive software update take? ›
How long does the BMW Remote Software Update take? After downloading (duration depends on your internet connection or network coverage while driving), the complete installation and update only takes about 20 minutes. During the installation, your vehicle is not ready to drive.
How do I know which iDrive version I have? ›
With your iDrive navigation open, use the settings menu to scroll to "Navigation system version", where you will see the region, version and year of your current GPS data.
Can independent garage update BMW service history? ›
Updating BMW records online is impossible as only BMW approved garages can update this for you and only if they have completed the servicing. Please note: We will need to see invoices or receipts of work carried out in order for us to update the records.
Is BMW software worth updating? ›
In general terms, upgrading your software will make sure that your BMW is always kept up-to-date. Basic functionalities might need a code review and a bug fix every now and then, and data and content will always be on par.
The BMW maintenance plan usually costs more than maintenance from independent repair shops. If you drive an average amount of miles (15,000 miles per year or less), then it might not be worth it. However, if you put a lot of miles on your car, the maintenance plan can provide more value.
Is BMW iDrive the best? ›
Verdict. Once you get used to it, BMW's latest version of iDrive remains one of the better infotainment systems on the market. The software is sharp and luxurious-looking. The screens are high-end and the touch-sensitive one responds to taps and swipes like a top-shelf consumer electronic made in 2022.
What is the difference between iDrive 6 and 7? ›
BMW iDrive 7.0 vs iDrive 6.0
The most prominent change lies in the added BMW Live co*ckpit and interactive features such as gesture control, improved personal voice assistant or the Digital Key app. However, more apps doesn't mean more clutter.
Who can update iDrive? ›
Anyone with a laptop, an OBD cable, and the right downloaded software can update the iDrive service. Most indys also do it for you when you get anything done and they can also usually update the BMW online portal.
Do BMW maps update automatically? ›
Keep your vehicle's Map up to date by receiving the most current navigation map data either via a USB update or automatically over-the-air. The service duration will end automatically. Log in now to discover all the products available in the BMW ConnectedDrive Store specific to your BMW.
Can you update BMW software with phone? ›
When a new version becomes available, you're notified on the My BMW App and Central Information Display in your BMW. Simply download the update on your mobile device, or directly to your vehicle. Then, when your vehicle is parked run the installation at a convenient time.
How do I check my BMW software? ›
You can easily find out yourself whether your vehicle is one of them. To do this, go to the vehicle menu and select: "My Vehicle" > "Settings" > "General Settings" > "Remote Software Upgrade". If "Remote Software Upgrade" is displayed, you can use this function.
How much does my BMW subscription cost? ›
BMW's Traffic Camera feature cannot be purchased outright and is only available through a $25 annual subscription. It warns drivers about fixed and mobile speed cameras.
Does the car need to be running for an update? ›
They can be as short as 20 minutes and up to 3 hours. Do I need to keep the car running while updating? Yes the engine should be running during the update in order to keep the vehicle battery from dying.
Why does my car need a software update? ›
Software updates not just enhance your car's performance but greatly improve the driving experience by introducing advanced technologies. For instance, the software now can analyze road conditions, control high speed and have better controls for driver safety.
Prior to the BMW iDrive8 system, most BMW drivers are familiar with BMW iDrive7, which has been available on most new BMW models since 2018.
How long should you wait to drive BMW hard? ›
Doing an engine break-in used to be a standard procedure with new cars. And it's still the case that you should avoid running the engine at high RPM for the first 1,300 miles. Experts recommend a maximum 3,500 rpm and 90 mph in diesel models and 4,500 rpm and 100 mph in gas models.
How often does BMW refresh? ›
LCI (or Mid-life Refresh, Mid-Life Kicker as I've heard it more commonly called outside of BMW) is always just a round of changes thrown in at the middle of the development cycle by all automakers. So usually that's 3 years into a model since most models are around 5/6 years.
How long does it take to reprogram a BMW? ›
DME ECU Programming: This is the same as when you install the the Windows Operating System in your desktop computer. This process tells the DME to which car it will installed in and how it should manage the engine performance while the car is working. The reprogramming process takes an average of 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Which iDrive version has CarPlay? ›
Available on all BMW models with the iDrive 7 system, Apple CarPlay is the best way to connect your Apple iPhone to your new BMW.
Which BMW software version do I have? ›
Almost all vehicles with BMW Operating System 7 and 8 are capable of this. You can easily find out yourself whether your vehicle is one of them. To do this, go to the vehicle menu and select: "My Vehicle" > "Settings" > "General Settings" > "Remote Software Upgrade".
Do I have to get my BMW serviced at a BMW garage? ›
Well, the short answer is: yes, you can take your BMW to any mechanic you want for service and oil changes.
What happens if you don't service your BMW? ›
In summary, old oil will reduce your engine's performance, lower its horsepower, reduce its mileage and will, in the long run, shorten its life so changing the oil in your BMW will improve its performance.
Does a BMW need to be serviced every year? ›
Despite popular belief, not every BMW needs to be serviced at the same mileage milestone. However, BMW does recommend that you get a service every year or if you drive your car a lot, every 10,000 miles.
How often does a BMW need a tune up? ›
As a rule of thumb, plan on a tune-up every 30,000 miles or three years, whichever comes first. Some newer vehicles can travel up to 100,000 miles before needing a tune-up!
Almost any BMW has the potential to run for up to 200,000 or even 250,000 miles with proper maintenance–and there are always going to be outliers that go further. Since every new BMW includes complimentary factory-recommended maintenance through BMW Ultimate Care, it's easy to start off on the right foot.
Does oil change void BMW warranty? ›
An oil change is covered under the BMW warranty thanks to three years/36,000 miles of no-cost scheduled maintenance—whichever comes first. Here's what you have to do to get your oil changed! Just call or visit your local BMW dealership's website to set up an appointment for your scheduled maintenance.
How much does BMW annual maintenance cost? ›
Let's rip off the Band-Aid. On average, BMW owners can expect to pay between $150 to $400 per service every 10,000 miles. A major service can cost $1,000 to $3,000 or more. At the end of the day, owners pay about $1,000 to $1,700 per year for maintenance and repairs – this is higher than most brands.
Does changing your own oil void warranty BMW? ›
The service intervals are long so no harm in doing a mid change and there is no way it will void unless you put the wrong oil in. Tp be extra careful you may want to keep documentation on the type of oil utilized.
What is the best setting for iDrive? ›
Ultimate mode
Choose level 9 and grip the steering wheel tight or hit level 1 for a gentle smooth acceleration.
Is iDrive better than Carplay? ›
iDrive also doesn't require connecting your cell phone, perhaps making it a little more usable in some situations. What CarPlay and Android Auto may lack in convenience, though, they make up for in versatility. For many, being able to use the same apps across your smartphone and car makes all the difference.
Does an iDrive make your car faster? ›
The iDrive brings the throttle in earlier in the pedal stroke and reduces throttle lag in the pedal. It doesn't recalibrate the ECU or increase power or torque; it just brings it on quicker.
What is the latest version of IDrive? ›
BMW unveiled the 8th generation of iDrive in 2021 with BMW Curved Display. iDrive 8.0 is available on the following BMW models: BMW 2 Series Active Tourer (U06) BMW 2 Series Coupé (G42) (after summer 2022)
Can you upgrade IDrive 5 to 6? ›
The NBTEvo systems made in 2016/17 have iDrive 5 running on them but they can be upgraded to look like the newer iDrive 6. This is just a theme change as the features/functions in iDrive 5 and 6 are the same. All your current features, functions, settings etc will stay the same and you will not lose anything.
Do I really need IDrive? ›
IDrive is an Editors' Choice winner for good reason. It's a complete backup service that uploads files quickly and offers a staggering amount of value. You won't find a better deal for backup software. Still, other applications may also be worth looking into, depending on your needs.
Over-the-air map updates are a cost-free way for you to automatically update the maps in your BMW via the on-board sim card so you no longer have to do this yourself.
Can you upgrade from iDrive 6 to iDrive 7? ›
Can you update iDrive 6 to 7? Changing from iDrive 6.0 to iDrive 7.0 is for the time being not possible, as it would cause too much interference with the vehicle structure. So, if you'd like to use the latest system your only solution is to switch to a BMW already supporting it.
How do I upgrade my iDrive 5 to 6? ›
"We regret to confirm that the iDrive 5.0 system in your vehicle cannot be updated to the iDrive 6.0.
Can I update iDrive 4 to 5? ›
If you really want iDrive 5 in your idrive 4.2 car, I would advise against upgrading your existing unit. you will experience reboots since it has lower RAM than the stock iDrive 5 Units. If you upgrade your unit to iDrive 5 you will also lose navigation.
How do I know which iDrive my BMW has? ›
With your iDrive navigation open, use the settings menu to scroll to "Navigation system version", where you will see the region, version and year of your current GPS data.
What is the latest version of iDrive? ›
BMW unveiled the 8th generation of iDrive in 2021 with BMW Curved Display. iDrive 8.0 is available on the following BMW models: BMW 2 Series Active Tourer (U06) BMW 2 Series Coupé (G42) (after summer 2022)
What is the difference between iDrive 6 and lite? ›
6 lite is essentially just a software update, kind of like updating your Windows. "iDrive 6" for our 2018 M3/M4 has touchscreen but no gesture control. There is a hardware and software difference between the two that are generally hidden. Touchscreen-able things generally do that.
Can I upgrade from iDrive 4 to 6? ›
We are able to flash these NBTevo ID4 units to the newer iDrive 6 software which allows you to have Fullscreen Carplay, Android Mirroring and much more. This is just a software update and does not require changing the full headunit. For Carplay, you will need to install WiFi antenna.
Can you upgrade iDrive controller? ›
Retrofitting iDrive touch
We remove some of the trim surrounding the center console with just a screwdriver and simply swap out the original iDrive controller with the replacement iDrive Touch retrofit.
What is the difference between BMW ID5 and ID6? ›
The only difference is in the layout - ID6 has bigger tiles and from the start menu you can see only three of them, while ID5 has all the main menu options on one screen. All the features and functionalities are exactly the same, it's just a matter of look and feel which can be changed with a simple USB coding.
