How does Mini update the cars system is connected to a machine or just with a dvd. also how long is this process they told me up to 5 hours is this true

 

They plug it into the BMW/Mini service computer, and it may take a while...

 

I think the key phrase is "up to". I've been told it can take that long if there are problems and I think that includes testing things out once the new software has been loaded.

 

Updates / software upgrades are processed through the factory radio, head unit.

 

They update the car with a system called ISTA/P. All modules in the car get updated the latest version of the firmware available for your particular build date generation. This ensures all of the modules are at the same level.

The connection can be made at the ODB port in the driver footwell or through the MOST bus optical diagnostic connector (usually above the fuse box) for faster transfers of the data.

 

My radio display would blank out in the heat: when replacing the radio they also updated all the software. I may be imagining things, but it feels like it pulls to the left a tad now when under strong acceleration. You'd think there would be "release notes" with these updates...

 

Yep the EPS (electric power steering) module is part of the update. And you probably have the new "reduced torque steer" program. It may take just a bit of getting used to. But if you notice your wheel or other steering related non-centered issues your SZL (steering angle sensor module) may need to be recalibrated.

 

Wow, thanks for the quick detailed knowledgeable reply! I know I previously had a version of the reduced torque steer (it's a 2011). Do you know if there was a second update after the early 2011's came out?

 

I am not certain that they updated the EPS program for your model & build date between that time frame, but most likely it has been updated. I am not sure if this works in the Cooper for sure, but the next time you are out driving turn your wheel lock-to-lock a few times as I think that can help the steering angle sensor. (It is amazingly detailed, in DIS I can see each and every degree registered, which means about every 1/16th of an inch of wheel movement is measured)