Over-the-Air Software Updates From Volkswagen

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A close-up, over the shoulder shot of an ID.4 dashboard, focusing on the center display as the passenger reaches out to the touchscreen. Over-the-Air Updates 
  1. Home
  2. Over-the-Air Software Updates

What is an Over-the-Air (OTA) Update?

Illustrated picture of a VW with a wireless icon over the vehicle, highlighting Over-the-Air updates.

Like your computer or smartphone, your vehicle has embedded software fully integrated within the vehicle. Over-the-Air Updates ensure that your vehicle software remains up-to-date through the use of vehicle network connectivity. Updates are designed to improve the operation and performance of your vehicle, and may include new features or functionality.

 

Why should I update my software?Maintaining your vehicle’s software is important. By offering these updates remotely or “over-the-air,” these software updates can be quick, convenient and save you time.

How will I know when an OTA software update is available?

Similar to your computer or smartphone, any newly available software upgrade will be announced through an in-vehicle notification on your infotainment screen. For Car-Net subscribers, you will also receive an in-app notification when a software upgrade is available. You may also receive a mailer notifying you of the specific software update available for your vehicle.

If you’re unsure if your vehicle qualifies for a software update or have not received a notification because you are not registered for Car-Net, we have a look-up tool available. Simply enter your vehicle identification number (VIN) to view any open campaigns, including software updates available, and contact your dealer for next steps.

Illustration of a woman sitting in a chair wirelessly connecting with her VW using her cellphone.

How does it work?

1Software Download

For electric vehicles, the download will occur automatically, in the background, while the vehicle is in operation.

For all other vehicles, you will need to initiate the download by tapping “Download” when prompted. You may safely drive the vehicle while the download takes place in the background. Turning off the ignition will automatically pause the download, but the download will continue automatically the next time you start your vehicle. Therefore, it may take several vehicle trips for the download to finish.

To postpone the download, you can simply tap “Cancel.” You will be prompted again to tap “Download” each time you start your vehicle. You can also visit your dealership for an in-person software update.

Close up shot of a VW center console display demonstrating how Over-the-Air functionality works. 2Software Installation

IMPORTANT: Please do not drive the vehicle during installation as VW Car-Net services and emergency response systems will be inactive.

Once the software download completes, your vehicle is ready for the installation to begin. As soon as you turn your ignition off, your infotainment screen will prompt you to tap "Install” to begin installation. You need to lock your car with the key fob to start the installation. Installation time will vary based on the size of the update. Once the installation is complete, you will receive an in-vehicle prompt next time you start your vehicle.

To postpone the installation to a more convenient time, tap “Cancel.”

NOTE: Your vehicle needs to meet certain conditions for the update to work. The green light on the 3-button module in your overhead console must be on and your vehicle needs to be in a location with sufficient network connectivity. If your software update cannot run over the air, please visit your local Volkswagen Dealer who can update the software in person.

A close-up shot of a VW center console display showcasing a system software upgrade.

FAQs

  • How can I confirm I qualify for an Over-the-Air Update?

    If you didn’t receive a mailer or in-vehicle notification, you can visit our available look-up tool. Simply enter your VIN to view any open campaigns on your vehicle, including software updates.

  • What’s necessary for a successful Over-the-Air Update?

    1 Green Light On – With your vehicle running, verify the 3-button module in your overhead console has a green light. When illuminated, your vehicle is “online” and able to communicate with Volkswagen servers.

    2 Network Coverage – Over-the-Air Updates are delivered to your vehicle using cellular connectivity, so cellular network coverage is critical to a successful update. Once the process starts, if network connectivity becomes limited, the update will automatically resume if network connectivity becomes available. 

  • Can I opt out of Over-the-Air Update?

    At this time, there is only the option to postpone an update. To postpone, simply tap "Cancel" on your infotainment screen when prompted to install the software update. If you change your mind, you can always visit your local VW dealer for an in-person software update.

  • How is my data used during an Over-the-Air Update?

    To complete an Over-the-Air Update, VW must collect the unique vehicle identification number (VIN), vehicle connectivity and software status, and the in-vehicle consent to download and install the software. No other personal information is collected or stored by VW for this process.

    VW uses this information: a) to ensure the correct software is downloaded, that the installation is successful, and to maintain a record of the installed software associated with that VIN; and b) for documentation of the owner/registered user's consent to conduct the Over-the-Air Update. VW uses this data in accordance with our privacy statement at vw.com/privacy. 

  • How do I know which software version is currently installed in my vehicle?

    In your infotainment menu, select “Setup” then navigate to “System Information.” Your current software version will be listed there.

  • Which features do I get from the latest Over-the-Air Update?

    For electric vehicles, “Release Notes” will be available in your infotainment screen after the update is complete.

    For all vehicles, a description of the software update is provided in the mailer as well as described in the VIN look-up tool.

  • Do I incur any additional cost for an Over-the-Air Update?

    No, all Over-the-Air Updates are available at no additional charge to our customers.

  • Will the vehicle warranty be forfeited if I do not install updates?

    No, the vehicle warranty will remain intact. 

  • Why haven’t I received a notification about the update yet?

    Updates are rolled out in batches across all vehicles in operation. You will receive a notification in your vehicle once the update is available.

    If you're unsure if your vehicle qualifies for an Over-the-Air Update or have not received notification, we have a look-up tool available. Simply enter your VIN to view any open campaigns, including software updates available for your vehicle, and contact your dealer for next steps.

  • My update installation failed. Now what?

    If the Over-the-Air Update is still available, you will receive a prompt in your vehicle to begin the installation process again. Otherwise, please contact your VW Dealer for next steps. 

  • Can I install the update without a data connection?

    No, even after the download is completed, you’ll need an adequate signal for the installation. For example, if you primarily park your vehicle in an underground parking garage, the installation may not work. A data connection is required. 

  • Will my personal preferences be reset after installing the update?

    No, your personal settings are retained. 

  • Why are there no visible changes after my update?

    Sometimes, Over-the-Air Updates only improve background functionality or systems.

  • I accidentally removed the notification that the update is ready to install. How do I navigate back?

    Turn off your vehicle to see the notification listed in the “Goodbye Screen.” 

  • For electric vehicles, is there a minimum state-of-charge required for the Over-the-Air Update?

    The high-voltage battery must be at least 50% charged at the start of the installation. 

  • Can I charge my electric vehicle during the software installation?

    No, the vehicle cannot be charged during installation. Please stop charging (if doing so) and then start the installation of the update. In order to successfully complete the Over-the-Air Update, please ensure a minimum charging status of 50%.

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