I have the original map data in my 2011. I actually like the factory GPS and use it a lot, but has anyone updated from the original maps and was it worth it? (I know that changes will vary by area...).

 

Dropped my 2013 R59 off Thursday morning at the dealer for a map update.

Picked it up again in the evening with no update.

Apparently they had a problem getting the code required in order to install the upload.

No word from the dealer today.

I know I can buy the update online, but I've heard some are having problems with the 2014 map update in general.

Apparently BMW switched vendors for the nav data. Wondering if that might be the source of any problems or delays.

...Mike

 

Finally got the update.

The dealer just needed to understand how to get the activation code that goes along with the USB thumb drive.

I could have installed this myself, but the dealer wanted to make sure they got it right since this was the first one they've sold/done this year.

I drove it home with the USB drive still in the glovebox and the install in progress. I started and stopped the ignition a few times and the process picked up where it left off.

After finishing the install I found map redraw speeds are noticeable faster, but also that some of the points of interest are a few years out of date. The maps themselves seem to reflect recent road changes as I expected.

...Mike

 

My wife and I did the 2013 map update on her FX35 ourselves.
It took about 2 hours, and consisted of 4 DVDs.
Pretty much updated the firmware for the infotainment system as well.


As for the Mini, it should be a lot quicker with a USB key.
I usually run updates every 2 years.
The Mini updates for the OS were pretty easy. Took about 10 minutes.


The heck to paying these guys to do the map update. If something goes wrong, it is under warranty. Although bricking the h/w would not be a lot of fun.

 

I made it clear to the dealer I was not going to pay an additional service fee to install a user serviceable update.

I originally requested to just purchase the USB update.

Because this update was new, the dealer insisted they install it, though at no additional cost.

To be fair, this was the first map update for MINI since BMW changed map data providers (now Tom Tom).

...Mike

 

It may be just a rebranding. BMW was using TeleAtlas. TomTom acquired TeleAtlas in 2007.

 

Also have a 2011 and did the 2013 map updates last January (2013) when they first became available.
Purchased the usb and then was emailed a release /vin specific code from BMW.
I too use the onboard GPS regularly and was hoping for a few more improvements, perhaps additional quickness. A bit expensive $262. for minimal updates that are not even really noticeable....
But your free to use the cute little Lexar 16GB with the mini logo etched in to use as you wish after the updates.