M3 Software Update

[TeamMunichAuto]

Re: M3 Software Update

Would actually prefer MA to update this, anyhow their stance is if you send in your M for service and the system prompts for an update/upgrade in software, it would be complimentary, otherwise its chargeable. For my case, I have requested my car to have that update and hence chargeable. This also means that the upgrade is not necessary in all M3 cars.

However, what disturbed me was there was no mention to me at that time that by upgrading the software it may lead to malfunction of some parts (conveyed to me over the phone after I upgraded). But so far all is good for me. I still dont quite get it. The software is called "new 1 stage". Misleading if the upgrade is not necessary for all. To me, seems lk a tweaked ECU map of some sort.

In any case, MA offered goodwill voucher. More clarity will be good. Cos the service guy mentioned that some guys after the update felt the car "quicker" in response.

Dear All,

Yes, vehicle updates differ from the occasional updates you received on your Iphone or your PC. If the system at the Authorized BMW Premium Service Centre does not prompt the technician that an update is available for the particular chassis number than it is not recommended to proceed.

 

[frankcos]

Re: M3 Software Update

Dear All,

Yes, vehicle updates differ from the occasional updates you received on your Iphone or your PC. If the system at the Authorized BMW Premium Service Centre does not prompt the technician that an update is available for the particular chassis number than it is not recommended to proceed.

Would you be able to elaborate more on why it is not recommended to proceed if there's a new software available? Then what would be the purpose in releasing a new software, and why would it be made available?

Similarly, occasional software updates on iPhone or Android devices is is made available to enhance the performance of the device. Of course, users have the choice of not upgrading if the device is functioning properly.

 

[frankcos]

Re: M3 Software Update

erm.. i had no issues.. i requested for software update.. it was done without charge.. i cannot understand why they would charge u since its a munich unit.

I concur, you shouldn't be charged for an software upgrade if a newer version is available and yet the previous software is creating jerk to your transmission.

 

[T6]

Re: M3 Software Update

I am curious how the computer assesses if an update is required. There must be some transparent indicators like date of production of the car etc. M cars are not exactly hand made with each being uniquely different. Munich should proactively and not reactively provide update. The update was indeed very good for my car. It is alot more responsive and nicer to drive.

 

[frankcos]

Re: M3 Software Update

I am curious how the computer assesses if an update is required. There must be some transparent indicators like date of production of the car etc. M cars are exactly hand made with each being uniquely different. Munich should proactively and not reactively provide update. The update was indeed very good for my car. It is alot more responsive and nicer to drive.

I'm equally curious to know the same. It might be a State secret though. LOL...

 

[TeamMunichAuto]

Re: M3 Software Update

Would you be able to elaborate more on why it is not recommended to proceed if there's a new software available? Then what would be the purpose in releasing a new software, and why would it be made available?

Similarly, occasional software updates on iPhone or Android devices is is made available to enhance the performance of the device. Of course, users have the choice of not upgrading if the device is functioning properly.

Dear All,

Apologies for the delay in replying.

One must first differentiate between a New Software Version (NSV) and a Software Update (SU).

A NSV, is when your vehicle has been connected to our systems and the systems prompts us, this prompt is basically informing us that a new version is available and installing this NSV is recommended. It is recommeded as there are firmware upgrades that would are required.

A SU, differs, it is an update. This differs as it would directly reset your vehicle's systems to factory default settings. All settings such as radio stations, owner driving styles would be rebooted back. That is why it is highly unrecommended to install, as it is unnecessary and may not actually improve current settings.

Therefore, it is only recommended to proceed when the systems prompts it.

 

[Niva]

Re: M3 Software Update

Dear All,

Apologies for the delay in replying.

One must first differentiate between a New Software Version (NSV) and a Software Update (SU).

A NSV, is when your vehicle has been connected to our systems and the systems prompts us, this prompt is basically informing us that a new version is available and installing this NSV is recommended. It is recommeded as there are firmware upgrades that would are required.

A SU, differs, it is an update. This differs as it would directly reset your vehicle's systems to factory default settings. All settings such as radio stations, owner driving styles would be rebooted back. That is why it is highly unrecommended to install, as it is unnecessary and may not actually improve current settings.

Therefore, it is only recommended to proceed when the systems prompts it.

so from which manufaturer year are cars affected for such updates? Why no active notification to M owners of such updates if they are recommended?

So I assume that the update my car underwent is under SU by your definition?

 

[frankcos]

Re: M3 Software Update

so from which manufaturer year are cars affected for such updates? Why no active notification to M owners of such updates if they are recommended?

So I assume that the update my car underwent is under SU by your definition?

So assuming it is a software update (SU), the software version code / number would remain the same as the previous software that was loaded in the vehicle, correct?

If there is a NEW SOFTWARE VERSION the version release code / number would be different from the previous version, correct? If so, are you able to share what is the latest NEW SOFTWARE VERSION code / number, so that M owners would know whether their vehicle has the latest NEW SOFTWARE VERSION installed in their vehicle.

Thanks.

 

[TeamMunichAuto]

Re: M3 Software Update

So assuming it is a software update (SU), the software version code / number would remain the same as the previous software that was loaded in the vehicle, correct?

If there is a NEW SOFTWARE VERSION the version release code / number would be different from the previous version, correct? If so, are you able to share what is the latest NEW SOFTWARE VERSION code / number, so that M owners would know whether their vehicle has the latest NEW SOFTWARE VERSION installed in their vehicle.

Thanks.

Dear All,

For reasons of confidentiality, we cannot divulge the version information on a public forum. We however can share on an individual basis the next time you come by to MA for your servicing. Thank you.