A Noob question...

erock335i · 11-18-2009, 08:36 PM

I just bought a '08 335i with iDrive, and was wondering if how I could tell if I have the most current software installed. I've seen some posts about V.33... I'm very new to BMW, so anyone who can point me in the right direction, much thanks

I335 · 11-19-2009, 06:45 AM

From what I understand, BMW won't upgrade your software unless your car has a problem that needs an update to fix. That's what they told me when I asked. That said, I've never asked if they would do it if I paid for it - perhaps they would in that case. Might be worth asking anyhow. Let us know how you make out.

Dracon · 11-19-2009, 10:11 AM

BMW would have to hook your car up to their system to tell you what version you have installed on your car. I believe the latest version is 35.4, however just because there is a new version, it doesn't means there's something new for your car. It's the Target Data Status that acutally determines if there's a newer update for your car.

And the poster above me is correct, BMW will not update your software without a documented problem (a BMW TSB) that states a software update is required. There's a high risk that the programming could fail and render one or more of the control units in the car inoperable and would require replacement or alot of extended troubleshooting with the BMW techs back in Germany.

I had my software updated a few months back for several documented issues with the iDrive system (I was on version 19.1 of the software at the time) and their was issues with the programming which caused my DME (the engine ECU), EGS (the automatic transmission ECU) and Logic 7 Amplifier to all fail. They were able to recover everything but it took almost a week for them to do it.

If you aren't having any problems with your car and iDrive, I wouldn't mess with anything. If you are having a problem, find the TSB for the problem and if it states a software update is required, bring it to your service advisor and have them take care of it.

MB330 · 11-19-2009, 10:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dracon

If you aren't having any problems with your car and iDrive, I wouldn't mess with anything.

Excellent advice - if it ain't broke, don't fix it!
And answer to your question - only dealer can check what version of software installed on your car.
Enjoy your new ride!

erock335i · 11-19-2009, 11:34 PM

Thanks, guys! I will most definately enjoy the ride. Finally got my dream car

Thanks again!

MB330 · 11-20-2009, 10:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by erock335i

Thanks, guys! I will most definitely enjoy the ride. Finally got my dream car

Thanks again!

11-18-2009, 08:36 PM	#1
erock335i eRock335i 1 Rep 5 Posts Drives: 2008 BMW Monaco Blue 335i Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Las Vegas, NV iTrader: (0)	A Noob question... I just bought a '08 335i with iDrive, and was wondering if how I could tell if I have the most current software installed. I've seen some posts about V.33... I'm very new to BMW, so anyone who can point me in the right direction, much thanks
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11-19-2009, 06:45 AM	#2
I335 Brigadier General 123 Rep 4,249 Posts Drives: '08 335i Coupe Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: New England iTrader: (11)	From what I understand, BMW won't upgrade your software unless your car has a problem that needs an update to fix. That's what they told me when I asked. That said, I've never asked if they would do it if I paid for it - perhaps they would in that case. Might be worth asking anyhow. Let us know how you make out.
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11-19-2009, 10:11 AM	#3
Dracon Major 555 Rep 1,244 Posts Drives: 2013 F10 M5 Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Out and About iTrader: (34) Garage List 2013 BMW M5 [0.00]	BMW would have to hook your car up to their system to tell you what version you have installed on your car. I believe the latest version is 35.4, however just because there is a new version, it doesn't means there's something new for your car. It's the Target Data Status that acutally determines if there's a newer update for your car. And the poster above me is correct, BMW will not update your software without a documented problem (a BMW TSB) that states a software update is required. There's a high risk that the programming could fail and render one or more of the control units in the car inoperable and would require replacement or alot of extended troubleshooting with the BMW techs back in Germany. I had my software updated a few months back for several documented issues with the iDrive system (I was on version 19.1 of the software at the time) and their was issues with the programming which caused my DME (the engine ECU), EGS (the automatic transmission ECU) and Logic 7 Amplifier to all fail. They were able to recover everything but it took almost a week for them to do it. If you aren't having any problems with your car and iDrive, I wouldn't mess with anything. If you are having a problem, find the TSB for the problem and if it states a software update is required, bring it to your service advisor and have them take care of it. Last edited by Dracon; 11-19-2009 at 10:18 AM.. Reason: Additional Information
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11-19-2009, 11:34 PM	#5
erock335i eRock335i 1 Rep 5 Posts Drives: 2008 BMW Monaco Blue 335i Join Date: Nov 2009 Location: Las Vegas, NV iTrader: (0)	Thanks, guys! I will most definately enjoy the ride. Finally got my dream car Thanks again!
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