Confused about Map Updates and FSC codes

[tssgery]

On my previous car, a 2007 325i, I just purchased new maps and loaded the DVD into the system. Easy as pie.

On my 2011 Z4 35i, this is what I think I need to do (current maps are circa 2010)...

• Purchase the USB fob with new maps on them
• Obtain an FSC code from BMW or a private seller
• Load the maps through the glove box USB port
• Apply the FSC code

My confusion is around the following two topics:

1. How to obtain the FSC code. Are the private sellers of these supported by BMW or have they somehow managed to pirate FSC codes in some manner? I don't want to judge but most of the private sellers I have seen are from countries with more "liberal" laws than the USA.
2. I have read some posts that say new maps may require an iDrive software upgrade as well. Is that true? Is there a way to tell if I need an upgrade? Do I have to visit the dealer for this iDrive software upgrade?

[ManiacGT]

Idrive updates are occasionally required to access features of new map data. BMW does not support the online 'cheap' FSC providers. My guess is these are bmw employees doing a bit of code generation on the sly.

[airmarc]

I was able to go online and download the map update onto a USB drive. I then purchased the code from an online seller in Europe. I then uploaded to my car and entered the code.

I now have the 2013 Map update for the Idrive, no issues so far.

[jparnes1]

Originally Posted by airmarc

I was able to go online and download the map update onto a USB drive. I then purchased the code from an online seller in Europe. I then uploaded to my car and entered the code.

I now have the 2013 Map update for the Idrive, no issues so far.

Can you provide more specific details? Is this strictly done with a thumb drive or do you need laptop too? Is the code entered with the iDrive knob? How did you know you were getting a usable product? Can the code be used for more than one car?

[airmarc]

I found the sellers info on another BMW forum site. He seems fairly reputable and TONS of people have apparently used him. Admittedly I took a risk, but it seems to have paid off.

First you need to purchase a USB stick with alot of memory, forgot exactly how much. Then he will send you to a site to download the full update. Then you save on the stick and then contact him (and pay him) for the code. Then you load the stick into the car and then it will ask you for the code. It will take a few hours to upload....

Here is his info:
*****************

[jparnes1]

Thanx!

[Z4-35i]

Originally Posted by airmarc

I found the sellers info on another BMW forum site. He seems fairly reputable and TONS of people have apparently used him. Admittedly I took a risk, but it seems to have paid off.

First you need to purchase a USB stick with alot of memory, forgot exactly how much. Then he will send you to a site to download the full update. Then you save on the stick and then contact him (and pay him) for the code. Then you load the stick into the car and then it will ask you for the code. It will take a few hours to upload....

Here is his info:
*****************

I've also used the same guy twice now for map updates. Very quick turn around with the FSC code and map download details and will usually give you an extra discount if you've purchased update codes from him before.

Currently running the latest 2013 European maps with no issues.

[ManiacGT]

I'm running 2012 maps, gets expensive updating each year so I'll wait until early 2014 for the next set of data... not that much changes.

[mikeinaustin]

When you order the update from Bmw, specify usb only, no fsc code. Then order the fsc code from the guy whose email address is listed above. You should be able to get usb update for $40 or less and the fsc code for around that.

[Lurcher]

FOB from Tischer was $45 (32 gb - nice - with logo), code from foreign individual $50

I think local dealer wanted ~$400 total....

[tssgery]

Originally Posted by airmarc

I found the sellers info on another BMW forum site. He seems fairly reputable and TONS of people have apparently used him. Admittedly I took a risk, but it seems to have paid off.

First you need to purchase a USB stick with alot of memory, forgot exactly how much. Then he will send you to a site to download the full update. Then you save on the stick and then contact him (and pay him) for the code. Then you load the stick into the car and then it will ask you for the code. It will take a few hours to upload....

Here is his info:
*****************

I went with this guy. Very responsive to email and the price could not be beat. Installing the updates did take a while, about 45 minutes.