How to update BMW idrive software

Here I show you how to locate the latest idrive software on the internet. Add it to a USB stick and then insert it into your USB port in your BMW and begin to update to the latest software.
Software can be located at: www.bmw.com/update

[@SpaceTurkey_33]

Thanks for taking the time to do this! Very helpful!

[@bfoddi]

This worked perfectly for me! Thank you I could have been searching web pages or calling BMW all day

[@TheGreatestBeyonder]

NOTE: Your USB memory stick MUST BE formated as either NTSF or FAT32 (It will NOT WORK if it is EX-FAT!! Most new USB sticks, especially over 64Gb come formated as EX-FAT as standard). If you need to you can easily reformat it on a laptop!

[@AmandaCardona]

I called BMW assistance , they suggested I should go to BMW tech for them to upgraded not updated , which is like $450, but you’re about to make it so easy for me 👍🏼, Thank you . Btw on your next video try to speak just a bit louder.

[@waynewaltham189]

The BMW Group allows part of the vehicle software to be updated, to enable compatibility of the latest tested Bluetooth or USB devices in the vehicle. This offer is available for selected vehicles manufactured after March 2010.

[@heavster100]

B him m mk6ytdz

[@arundigital1]

Will this update do activate Bluetooth music streaming in my car?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

No it won't add any features.

[@mikeumu603]

U can unlock that from bimmer code

[@markhannam7144]

Good video but I have no USB port in the centre consul but just an AUX , but there is one USB in the glove box.What’s your advice please. Thank you Mark

[@jayuddin9590]

Hi i tried to do this via the link you posted but do you know if they still let us do installation by ourselves because its not recognizing my VIN number and a few other people have said the same? Do you know where I can actually get the download file other than BMW site or do you still have yours on USB to share? Thanks!

[@AlmightyKingNitti]

this worked the very first time for me thanx!

[@ariaz.n]

I have got a FAT32 USB and it says that software on USB device is not suitable for this vehicle? And I have entered in the correct VIN?

[@luisfonseca6644]

Is there a possible way to add screen mirroring funcionality to any BMW model?

[@kabulafghanistan9217]

Hi Would you please help me with the my bmw connected drive keeps rebooting. What i should do

[@SyrianRiven]

Hi, did you resolve it ? :(

[@kavichannelabandoned9550]

2011 bmw 550i when i put in the vin number it goes to next page with information but don't see any download option

[@aminzenal6901]

Hi when I type my VIN online said the car is been updated it’s not give me anything else you don’t let me to download anything can you please help me and tell me what I can do I have BMW3 series 2030 I tried to download it but they don’t let me

[@BazooLippi]

Please update this DIY page, as the website you specified is not the one for updates.

[@FaithOfAMustardSeed_Q]

Tim Jones what is the website 2015 bmw

[@TalibFaqir]

i only have usb in the glovebox, is it worth to try? 2011 116D

[@yeahbuddy6852]

What are The Bennefit for The upgrade? Any new fetures?

[@MajinMocchi]

Idk you know it now?

[@mazenosama3591]

Hi .. i have a 530i 2005 is there any updates ? and it need also a CD for navigation how i get it ?

[@12shaikh]

Hi does this actually work and it won't mess up

[@tootr]

Hi - will this work for a 2011 BMW Z4? All I really want to do is play iphone 6 itunes through bluetooth - it works fine with phone calls and voice messages but not with audio :( Appreciate any help!

[@ForzaSimRacing]

This will not work I am afraid. The car is too old.

[@rebeccatialangford98]

Forza Sim Racing what about 2014 f20?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

It should do.

[@gbengaadeoti6377]

Hello pls I drive e60 model....how did u update ur stock idrive to this? Did u replace to a newer model or software update?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

The E60 is too old to update yourself. You will need to go to a dealer.

[@elliottbeltran8853]

I put my VIN in the website but nothing popped up, it just showed information, not the download options. I have a 2009 328i and a 2010 X5

[@ForzaSimRacing]

Elliott Beltran Hi, it will need to be the new idrive system. Like what is in the video. If its not, you won't have an update available. BMW use CIC onwards, it will not work with the ccc idrive. Google image and see what which one you have.

[@universaldoorrepairs]

Alex Savo I also have a 2009 335i with the idrive. It is the newer software like yours. It isn't the one with the bubble in the middle with arrows on which way to go! I thought I had the newer system! That was one of the selling points on my buying my car the updated Screen and Navi option! ALSOO! Would you know how to update the Navigation system to the current Year?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

Shawn Mills Updating maps is something very different. You will need to purchase a code and then download the latest maps for the hardware you have in your BMW. I would visit this link f10.5post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1134779

[@PickleCrick]

So put it onto the USB with VLC player?

[@govian1]

Update ? Never was taught how to use any electronic device that came on my BMW. So what use is updating a never used item ?

[@zaidkhan16]

Did the bmw navigation system change into bmw's professional navigation system after the update?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

sorry to say but it won't do I am afraid. whatever you have, it just installs the latest update for it.

[@zaidkhan16]

Alex Savo thanks

[@simplelangperorock]

Hi Does this work for 2011 328i ? I don’t have the ‘screen/monitor’ in the car. Please advise

[@ForzaSimRacing]

Too old I am afraid.

[@อาทิตย์สุดใจ-ญ1ฏ]

Why enter the tank and then it says, The Vehicle Identification Number you entered is not correct. Please check your entry.

[@boschsara7599]

Mine is a BMW F30 - 320d , 2013 , Audio streaming and Maps does not work. Can some one recommend how to move forward

[@DeeKay1911]

Mine is a 2012 BMW F30 with navigation business - I don't have the "Software update" part of the menu though - Is it not possible to update mine then?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+Dennis Kristensen Is yours an over the air update? My 2016 F30 is.

[@DeeKay1911]

Alex Savo It doesn't have the menu at all and no don't think so

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+Dennis Kristensen I think it's because it updates automatically via the built in sim card connected to BMW.

[@DeeKay1911]

It only has basic Bluetooth connection - not a build in sim card - seems a bit odd that it's not possible to update it

[@ForzaSimRacing]

It should still have a built in sim in order to receive traffic updates and the SOS feature.

[@juliogomez8818]

Great instruction vid. Thank you so much.

[@frostysleeps7727]

thank you very much for the quick reply

[@MrTrm4]

if my vehicle is manufactured before March 2010 is there a way to update it? If i use an 2011 VIN for example and download the update it could work? Thank you!

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+Rareş Toma It's all about the system installed and they updated for 2011. So anything before that will run on different software and hardware etc.

[@michaellawrence8340]

i have a 2013 328i. seems that they removed the usb port for it at the dealership, is it possible to update through a disk or am i screwed with no usb port?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

Needs a USB. Infact even maps update needs a USB aswell. Your pretty stuck without it.

[@michaellawrence8340]

+Alex Savo do you know if they sell a usb port and install them?

[@Pavol_P]

Hello, i know this isn't related to this video, but for some reason i am not able to play video in my car using usb. It says the usb is connected but when i want to click "more media" it does not let me. I put the car in park and turn on the e-brake but it still doesn't work. Can you help? EDIT: I have gotten into the "more media" options but there is only audio books and podcasts. No video.

[@ForzaSimRacing]

You cannot play movies using USB on idrives.

[@vincentrusso2769]

I went to the update page. I entered the last 7 digits of my vin and it keeps rejecting it as an invalid entry. I tried many, many times. There is no "Contact" option on the site. An e-mail would be nice. FAQ's do not address my situation. I guess they do not care about losing money. I see other reviews with similar problems.

[@Maxim.Teleguz]

i have the same issue

[@cucu87]

i have the same to

[@tcabill]

Don't copy and paste, type it in.

[@Maxim.Teleguz]

William Martin we tried that. I should do a screen record and post it, hope it becomes viral and BMW finally fixes it.

[@tcabill]

after typing the 7th digit try hitting the spacebar.

[@arvydasgustas]

hi i have 320d f30 2012 did work for me thnks

[@hugo_maga]

Have you've notice any differences?

[@mattm3843]

i wonder if there is a download update so a basic stereo in 2011 335i can have the equilizer since its only a hardware difference anyway

[@ForzaSimRacing]

That won't be a software update on that. BMW don't do those :)

[@GeorgeAusters]

This only works on new BMW models i'm guessing? Not the e60?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+George Austers nope sorry, believe it's a BMW dealer you need for the upgrade.

[@azimahmed7112]

Hi would this work on my Bmw 330d msport e90 2010 lci facelift model, I don’t have usb in the Centre handrest only aux but I have usb in the glove compartment..many thanks in advance

[@ForzaSimRacing]

It won't. Your vehicle is too old I'm afraid.

[@Shpackz123]

Everytime i type in my car vin in the bmw site it tells me thats there is an error and wont give me the files

[@oussamahamzaoui1960]

Hi, I have a F20 116D of 2012, and when I entered my VIN in the BMW website, It gives no update to download ? Does that mean that my car is up to date ? And one more question, I don't even have the " software update " in the settings menu, what does that mean ?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+Oussama Hamzaoui do you have built in Bluetooth?

[@oussamahamzaoui1960]

Yes I can call and receive calls using bleutooth. I have also a usb entry in my car armrest.

[@ronaldocarvalho18]

Hello Alex Savo, my VIN car isn't recognized. I can't figure out why. The page says it is wrong. I use this VIN for other purposes but for this, doesn't work... Can you tell if this update doesn't work for my BMW 125i M Sports 12/14?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

What idrive system do you have?

[@ronaldocarvalho18]

+Alex Savo thanks for your reply. I don't know where to find it, rsrs. I've kept a file since I last downloaded from this link in June. I updated from it and it worked just fine! My Media and Telephone was MN-002.017.007. / TN-002.017.007. Now they upgraded to MN-002.018.070. / TN-002.018.070. My concern is a new update been released and not being able to get it anymore. What do you think?

[@AmanGhotra77]

I updated idrive software on my bmw 328i 2013 but after updated nothing changed it's like almost same as old version.

[@Bikaramjit10]

So I downloaded the software, it was 94MB, just wanted to make sure that we don't unzip the file, correct?

[@kennyRR1000]

On a windows 10 what software do you use to download

[@mufalmewww]

i have a 2009 335i, are you aware on how to update for iPhone plug in charge

[@ForzaSimRacing]

If its 2009 then your need to visit your BMW dealership as you won't be able to update software via the USB.

[@derekthaxton4548]

Worked perfectly. Thanks for the video

[@bmwsincekid]

Does this Update the look off the Idrive as after 2015 or some like that the sport display is differrnt

[@ForzaSimRacing]

No it does not.

[@platoohunt9976]

I have a 2010 bmw 535xi I have Bluetooth phonecalling but wanted to have Bluetooth audioconnect from my phone. My idrive doesn't have option to sync audio My Idrive doesn't have software update option so I can update to the version that allows me to update to the version that allows Bluetooth with audio. Is there anyway to get around this?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+Platoo Hunt could be you need to go to your dealer to pay for an upgrade.

[@platoohunt9976]

Ok thanks

[@pzorro2020]

I downloaded 2 updates formatted usb to fat32 (empty usb) and copied it .put it in the usb poort of the car went to the instelling but didnt see any soft ware updates.. can anyone help me out please

[@dkphill]

Can the idrive be updated on a 2004 E60 5 series?

[@krzysztofurban4561]

What can I do in case when there is no 'software update' in settings? :(

[@yalmaoo5014]

Same problem... Do know it now?

[@krzysztofurban4561]

@@yalmaoo5014 it's probably because our model have too old version of software, without this option

[@yalmaoo5014]

@@krzysztofurban4561 oh okay thanks

[@banalondonnewsbanalondonne1401]

HI DEAR I JUST BOUGHT A BMW 3 SERIES 318 M SPORT THE NAVIGATION NOT CONNECTING TO THE LOCATION DO YOU THINK I NEED A NEW DVD THANK YOU

[@ForzaSimRacing]

mulumba wamulumba Could be a couple of things. Either you have a faulty GPS module or the idrive is faulty in someway. I would go straight back to your dealer.

[@dingle4320]

I downloaded an update and it was a zipped file with a .bin suffix. Unzipping it reveals a .xml file and several other .bin files. Is this correct and do I need to try and install the zipped .bin file or the unzipped ones?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

If you unzip it all and leave them together, the idrive should find what it wants.

[@stevenhanna2384]

Hi Alex and all, i've just recently purchased an updated map, transferred the update to my USB stick fine using BMW's download manager. The problem i have is that the USB is not being recognize when i go to settings/system update and updated from USB, its failing to detect it. I have tried 32G, 64G, 2.0 and 3.0 USB sticks and still no joy. Any ideas please? My car is 2012 640D. Thanks

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+Are Is is the USB a fat32 format?

[@stevenhanna2384]

Alex Savo thanks for getting back to me. Only the 32G, the 64G does not have that option. I contacted BMW and they said it has to be above 64G so I bought a 124G usb stick and still didn’t work. The update is only 21.4G. Should I be doing something with the downloaded files?

[@tiennguyen6096]

You try to give the video more brightness it will be great if you do

[@adamgh8079]

ARE THIS WORKING ON BMW E60 MODEL 2007 OR NO AND WHAT ABOUT THE USB IF I DON'T HAVE IT WHAT I DO THANK YOU

[@ForzaSimRacing]

Ceasar gh I believe that you need to go to your BMW dealer to update the software?

[@zdenekkremen6469]

Hello I have 320i 2012 and my one says no need to update is it possible? version in car is 008.011.00 version I did download is 8.5.5. How does it know that its up to date? thx

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+Zdenek Kremen It will only know if an update is available based on the year of the car. IE any firmware updates after the manufacturer of your car. It does depend on what I drive you have etc.

[@saif.n6165]

What does the update do, is there something new ?

[@MrTD123]

You car has to be running to identify the usb. Also make sure the bin file is in the root directory.

[@actuallyidc]

What's the root directory? I'm having an issue where my car says there is no usb with the software connected. Could what you mentioned be the issue?

[@ftlaudmom]

Will this work on my 2011 535i?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

I have a 2011 520d and it worked on that.

[@Smithers9]

Great vid, worked like a charm. Cheers

[@hihello6353]

Good video, i will try it on my f20 m135i 2013 and hope it will work lol

[@zhussain8544]

HiHello did it work mate ?? And what’s the difference ?

[@MrCharlesHickman]

I can't find the USB port in my 2011 528i. All I see is a aux port. Does my year and model have a port?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+Charles Hickman Have you got an F10?

[@codysok9141]

Will this fix the rough idles I get when. I start my bmw

[@ForzaSimRacing]

Sorry, it won't.

[@elijahfrancis2520]

What worked for me was first after the file is downloaded remove the number and parentheses, back it up so there's no space between the period, bin and file name, Extract the files on the USB then proceed with updating.

[@waqasazam7727]

what if I don't have a USB in my car ? can it be done through CD I have a 5 series ..2006

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+Waqas Azam Too old, that's the old idrive system so it would have to be done at a dealer.

[@Omar-kw5ui]

hey alex, would you lose your included satnav if you update the software?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+Omar M Khalil no nothing like that happens.

[@Jjlaur11]

I put my VIN into the website and it came back with an update to UPD05073. But when I go to install it, it says the update is not the right one for my car. Anyone have any thoughts?

[@johnohm2951]

+Jjlaur11 I have the same issue

[@DonkeyFly007]

+John Ohm maybe a mistake when was download , check if you copy the right vin#... Also make sure that you car is not a transformer..

[@walmirfranceschi6745]

I have a 2010 320XD with iDrive, but my iDrive has not to Update option. How to I have to proceed?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

It's going to be an old idrive I am afraid.

[@walmirfranceschi6745]

@@ForzaSimRacing I'm afraid it is something in between, because I found solutions for the old systems and new systems, but not for mine.

[@bryanbruijns1800]

@@walmirfranceschi6745 Have you found a solution? I have the same problem.

[@devinoverley6143]

what software do you need to use to save the bin file to a flash drive?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

No software required. Just drag and drop.

[@turo_no_bull]

I have a 2009 535i and I cannot find the usb port. In the center I have what looks like something that should have a port but it's just blank. Nothing in the glove. I've read that I probably don't have one but then how do update my software, with a disk?? I need help!!

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+Arturo Zavala have you got an E60 or F10 5 series? If it's an E60 then you won't have a usb.

[@turo_no_bull]

Alex Savo yeah mine's an E60. Guess I'll have to figure something else out. Thanks

[@ForzaSimRacing]

The dealer would be able to assist you with any update.

[@thebestsoccer2063]

My bmw is old 2005. Unfortunately no have update

[@mariaselvam7305]

i have a 525i year 2009 but the radio station FM is limited to 90Mhz only because Japanese import.anyway to update on this

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+Maria Selvam best talk to a BMW dealer.

[@luckycazz7732]

I don't even get that page to load for entry of a VIN. Please help.

[@anohsh]

Will this work for a BMW X5 2009? There’s no USB for it.

[@ForzaSimRacing]

Too old I'm afraid. You would need to visit a dealer.

[@augustebationo4372]

Hi, Will it work on a 2012 - 2014 X6M

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+Auguste Bationo yeh it should work ok.

[@kahuna2000]

How does the usb stock need to be formatted?

[@LIBAN1307]

Hi , would this work for a BMW 520d f10 from end 2010? thanks

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+LIBAN1307 should do, yes.

[@gingy5006]

worked for me great thanks.

[@MegaSimbar]

My 13 plate 1 series is not reading the usb stick for some reason

[@qifanshe3116]

hi I have a 2015 bmw x3 and when I typed my vin, no updates showed up

[@branbear24]

+Eric She Qifan You're already up to date...

[@javadabdi5463]

hi Alex i dont know why i can not download the the software can yo help me more plz

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+Javad Abdi what's your car?

[@jackwang8923]

hi Alex, my 2014 BMW 428i says: Unable to recognize USB. Any ideas? Thanks

[@ForzaSimRacing]

Chances are that as its the new 4series, that it is upto date and does not require an update?

Sucks it can't be done through CD on old iDrive system.

[@MichaelNNguyen]

CD is outdated my friend. lol

[@theroyalmemes8611]

Michael Nguyen it's not. But usb is better.

[@DutchRaiting]

Does this have any damage for the car or the engine of the car?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+xEmperor No it does not. It's an official patch.

[@DutchRaiting]

Alex Savo I have one more question. I updated the BMW idrive but i am still not able to connect my phone to media so i cant listen to music using my phone.

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+xEmperor What car do you have, like year etc

[@DutchRaiting]

Alex Savo bmw 320 2012

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+xEmperor does it have pro nav?

[@shnnkbnsl]

Hey there, I have a 2013 320d, and the idrive system is pretty good, looks similar to the one in your car. But recently i saw another bmw that has a bit of refreshed animations and a refined look to it, i think that's the latest update. can you please tell me if i can install that update in my car?

[@shnnkbnsl]

Shank Bansal I tried to update my system around 2 months ago, i downloaded the latest file, transferred to a usb and plugged in the car, but the system said the update is not required. i thought i had the latest version therefore, but apparently they have a newer version now and i'd really like to update.

[@ForzaSimRacing]

My video upgrades Bluetooth etc. To get a full software update, you won't find that on the BMW website and is far more complex I'm afraid.

[@DevanEvie]

Does the USB have to be in a specific format?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

Needs to be a FAT32 I believe.

[@SlickRick135]

Worked perfectly!!

[@kayah9994]

You

[@t1000eg]

Many thanks, tho i needed to unzip first as it was a rar file, but all good.......loving the desktop screen savers too

[@ForzaSimRacing]

Glad it all worked OK....oh and the screensaver :)

[@bnc723]

It doesn't work with my F10 523i. I was just trying to get the patch from the website. After i entered my VIN, nothing showed up.

[@ForzaSimRacing]

bnc723 Is the vin valid? A letter then 6 numbers? What year is your vehicle?

[@chrisbell618]

does work for a 2008 bmw x5 3.0si

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+Chris Bell too old I'm afraid.

[@catcookcode]

from 2011

[@sinnedawesome8157]

what to do if my BMW e91 is from 2009?? :/

[@JT-tp7on]

Mine is a e60 from 2005 I need that too

[@vincebarnett5381]

hi i have a bmw x5 se 2012 ive got no tel/ or nave listed and i have no usb points just the audio jack in the center can any one help me out with more info as to up date this

[@sneakerfanatic2339]

+vincent barnett if your car is not a 2013 or newer you have to go into BMW and get it upgraded and it is very expensive because if it is not 13 or newer the nav system is a built in hard drive.

[@mplatinum3080]

What is the oldest model this will work on? 2011??

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+MPlatinum yeh should be fine on a 2011.

[@SGames_1]

Alex Savo what about 2007

[@woj1712]

Please can someone help - the download shows as a bin file but has the icon of a piece of paper, it doesn't look like the cone one the video, then when I put into car it says no USB found - 2013 3 series

[@ForzaSimRacing]

Do not worry about what the file looks like. Its my laptop that changed the file picture to a cone. If your car does not recognise the USB, you will need to format it.

[@woj1712]

I formatted it to what was described in the below feed (32somehting), still didn't work. I will try and hunt another one out and try that. thanks for replying.

[@Taser1-1]

I wonder if this would work with 09 535i xdrive.

[@ForzaSimRacing]

Its too old I am afraid.

[@Azeon91]

Hi. Will this work on a BMW 530GT 2011 ?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

Should do, mine was a 2011 520d.

[@visker81]

is there anything else one can update yourself?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+tf2cheats Do not believe so. You could take up coding?

[@jpshawn9144]

Will the update add navigation on the i drive?

[@ForzaSimRacing]

+Jp Shawn No, it won't I'm afraid.

[@jpshawn9144]

Alex Savo Thank you.

[@LA-st6dq]

As far as I know cars with navigation have gps hardware installed inside. If it would be only a software thing it wouldn't cost more :D