Why maps go out of date
The road network changes constantly — new motorways, altered traffic rules, new roundabouts, renamed streets. Manufacturers release new map versions roughly once a year, but most drivers never install them, because it does not happen by itself.
With imported used cars it is often worse — the system holds maps for the market the car came from, so your own region is not properly covered at all.
What gets updated
- The maps themselves — new road network, street names and house numbers.
- Infotainment software — often brings faster operation, more stable Bluetooth and bug fixes.
- Points of interest — fuel stations, chargers, car parks.
- Regional coverage — switching from one market’s maps to European ones.
Which systems
We work on VAG systems (MMI, MIB2, MIB3), BMW (CIC, NBT, NBT EVO, MGU) and Mercedes (COMAND / NTG generations). For other makes we check availability by model and year.
On some systems the update goes via SD card or USB, on others it needs service access to the car. BMW systems often also require the matching FSC code that unlocks the new map version.
How it works and how long it takes
- 01 — System check. We establish the exact infotainment generation and the current map version.
- 02 — Preparation. We source the correct version for that system and region.
- 03 — Installation. Usually takes from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the system and the size of the map.
- 04 — Verification. We test the navigation, address search and the other functions.
Can it be done remotely?
On a good number of systems — yes. If the update runs from an SD card or USB, just tell us the exact model and system version and we handle the rest with instructions and remote support.
Systems that need service access to the car have to come to us.