Why update your navigation maps for 2026?

Part of the reason is the fact that roads are always changing. New roads are being built, old roads are being closed or rerouted, two-way streets are being turned into one-way streets. In some areas, up to 40% of the road network can change from one year to the next.

What is the BMW interactive map?

Points of interest make it easy to navigate using the BMW interactive map. Instead of entering the exact address of your destination, the interactive map lets you point to an area and quickly find nearby points of interest. It's ideal if you don't quite remember where that restaurant is, or want to find somewhere to stop off in an area you don't know well.

How to update your BMW maps?

In vehicles that require manually updating your navigation's map data, the process is simple. The map data is loaded to a USB stick which can be plugged into the USB port in your BMW's glove compartment. The system will automatically detect that there is a new map available to install on the iDrive. You may be prompted to enter a BMW-issued FSC activation code with your iDrive controller to begin installation.

How to install a BMW map update?

In vehicles that require manually updating your navigation's map data, the process is simple and no BMW coding software or programming is required. The map data is loaded to a USB stick which can be plugged into the USB port in your BMW's glove compartment (in older vehicles with the CIC iDrive system) or arm rest (in newer vehicles). The system will automatically detect that there is a new map available to install on the iDrive. You'll be prompted to enter a BMW-issued FSC activation code with your iDrive controller to begin installation. Everything is done through the USB port, meaning you won't need to use any BMW iDrive coding software.

How to clear old maps in BMW?

If your BMW stores outdated destinations you no longer need in your menu and want to create more space for the new ones, do this to delete them: go to Navigation > Last destinations > highlight the chosen address > press the option button on your iDrive controller > select Delete entry.