Quote:
Originally Posted by visionaut
I’m in the USA with a 2016 435iX. I was in fact offered a free 4G Telematics upgrade by BMWNA when 3G was phased out here (Feb 22), as were many other customers (build date range was 2015-2016 cars with a current ConnectedDrive subscription, IIRC). My car had 3G voice and 4G data when built, and it’s all 4G now with voice & data.
Here’s part of the Notification info that BMW sent out in advance in 2021. ( I had mine upgraded to 4G late summer 2021 so it was ready well before the Feb 22 3G cutoff).
“Some vehicles factory-equipped with 4G telematics devices will no longer have access to services that require a voice connection, such as BMW Assist eCall and Concierge Services, but will continue to receive certain ConnectedDrive/BMW Assist services such as Advanced Real-Time Traffic Information, Remote Services and BMW Online, depending on your BMW model.
…
Can a customer upgrade their vehicle to newer technology that would support ConnectedDrive/BMW Assist?
Not all BMW vehicles will be eligible for a technology upgrade. Customers will be notified via email or First-Class Mail about whether their vehicles are eligible for an upgrade or not.
If you received an email or postal mailing stating that your vehicle is eligible for a technology upgrade, please schedule an appointment with your local BMW Center to receive the upgrade, which will be free of charge.“
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That's exactly what should have happened in Australia. Instead, BMW chose to pretend there was no way to upgrade our cars, because they knew that would open the door to warranty claims. The SIB I mentioned is the dealer instructions for retro-fitting when an owner contacts them after receiving the letter you received. BMW Australia still insisted it was impossible.
My 2016 car was also one of the few fitted with the hybrid 3G voice/4G data TCMs, same as yours. Funny how an upgrade is possible in the USA, but impossible in Australia, right up to the point where I get BMW Germany involved.
At some point I'll see if BMW Concierge now works over 4G. I have never used it, but at least then I'll know if Emergency Call will work if the worst happens.