I have a 2008 535i (LCI)

I have never changed or updated the maps since 2008. Never felt the need to.

I received a mailer on a sale price of $199 for the new 2012 update discs.

Is this something worthwhile?

Will I get any new functionality with the update?

If it just updates roads and POI, I'd probably pass. If it would include something like aerial maps, I'd probably bite.

Thanks!

 

Unless they jacked up the price, $199 is the normal cost (at least that is what I paid at the dealer).

I doubt its anything more than road and POI updates.

 

The DVD does not cause any system updates but includes road updates, POIs, etc. Remember, it takes probably a year to collect and compile map data before they produce an update. So, if you travel in, around, or through areas with lots and lots of route, exit ramp, or similar changes it may help you out a little. For example, I'm running a 2010 map in my car but some new construction in and around the Washington DC area aren't up to date. So, I often rely on my Droid and Google Maps/Navigation to cover all bets!

 

Yeah, not a lot of changes in the areas I frequent. I use my phone too if I can't locate the address through voice prompts in the car. I guess I'll pass.

 

Just download the 2011 version and burn it to dvd. At least you'll have updated to 2011 for FREE.

 

Agreed, not that I condone or suggest it any way*.... but the OEM dvd map is available on torrent web sites for download. Just burn it at slow speed on high quality dvdr's and you're good. Again, I don't suggest or condone this behavior*

*disclaimer

 

I believe the 08 map is one disc and the 2010 and up are two disc due to the additional data. I'm not sure if you can find out which areas were updated before you buy it though. My 2010 version did have my streets where as the 08 version always said I was traveling on unmarked territory... Another point I went to Charlotte a few days ago and the address was about 10 years old according to the supplier but the building/street number did not exist on the disc. I just put the first set of numbers that was a close and still off by at least 1000 and it still took me right to it. A little strange I thought.

 

GIGO (Garbage in Garbage out) ...

NavTec used to supply the DVD maps for BMW and they probably contracted with Google and Yahoo for data to build their maps. I think Teleatlas (TomTom) supplies them now.

Some addresses are faulty. I seem to recall there is a "report an error" to Google Maps ... for the longest time my home address was almost 1/4 mile off ...so I reported it 5-6 times ... these days I's spot on. It's unfortunate that (business) addresses aren't QA'ed better on a navigation product.

 

Where can i download this

 

If you can find the free download for 2011 or 2012, go head use it, otherwise it is not worth paying $199. I have just purchased the 2012 map but the only differences I am seeing compare to 2011 map, has more POI at least in my area.