Question

Is there a way of updating my 2011 328I factory navigation system without having to go to the dealer? Yes, I do have free navigation aids from my phone, but the onscreen display of the built in navigation is so much easier. But to update each year at the dealer is far too costly. Thanks

Answer

Hello Paul, you can buy the update from BMW and install it yourself.

Here is where you can get the update USB drive: https://www.shopbmwusa.com/PRODUCT/4765/BMW-NAVIGATION-SYSTEM-2015-UPDATE/?Year=2011&Series=3%20Series

The installation is fairly easy, here is a how to video for it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdqFhmiWK_s

The only note I have for you is the update takes about an hour, you will have to have the car running or a battery charger connected to the car, if you choose to have the battery charger connected you have to know what kind of battery you have. If it is a lead acid battery a regular charger set to 10 amps will work, if you have an AGM (absorbed glass mat) battery you will have to have an AGM specific battery charger as the regular battery charger will kill an AGM battery by overcharging it.

Let me know if you need any further assistance. Thank you and good luck.

Gil Neves

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdqFhmiWK_s?rel=0