Question: How do I install the VW infotainment system update?
Answer: According to Volkswagen, you should be able to download software updates for your car’s infotainment system.
To receive these Over-the-Air updates, make sure your Volkswagen is set up to receive them. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
- Network compatible hardware and cellular connectivity
- An active GPS signal from your vehicle
- A VW ID, the myVW app, and a myVW account. Be sure that you have accepted the terms of service for myVW and, if applicable, Car-Net (a subscription-based program for some VW models that includes services such as roadside assistance, satellite navigation, and more)
You’ll also need to turn on data sharing. To do that, first make sure your car is online by going to your start screen and selecting “Online mode.” Then, go back to the home screen and navigate to “Private Settings” > “Vehicle/Usage data.”
If that’s all set up properly, you should receive a notice any time a software update is available.
How to install a Volkswagen system update
Once you get the notification that your Volkswagen system update is available, follow these steps to install it.
- Park somewhere with a stable internet connection.
- Close all of your car windows and turn off the ignition.
- If you drive an EV, ensure your battery is charged to at least 50% and remove the charging plug.
- On the initial screen, select “Update Available.” Make sure that Online mode is activated.
- On the System Update screen, you can select “More Information” to view the Release Notes – it’s always a good idea to read these before installing the update.
- Press “Install.” (If you’re sent further information, click “OK” after reading.)
- Get out and lock the vehicle to begin the installation.
- Don’t open your car doors for at least two minutes after locking it. If you unlock the doors too soon, the installation will be canceled, and you’ll have to start over.
Note that the infotainment display will indicate when the installation is complete. You can then set up a main user.
Note: Early versions of VW’s software automatically collected data about your car’s location and usage, but with the 3.0 update and onwards, you can choose which data is shared, except for legally required functions such as eCall.
If you have any trouble with software updates, see VW’s online help center, or contact your local Volkswagen dealer.
Deirdra Funcheon is a journalist with a master\\\’s degree from Boston University and more than 20 years of experience covering a broad range of topics. She has worked at Univision (on the investigative team at Fusion), Axios (where she covered Miami-area news) and Bisnow (covering the commercial real estate industry). At Jerry, she aims to empower drivers with knowledge about how their vehicles work and how best to handle repairs, insurance and other complications of car ownership.
