Sat Nav Activation Costs

O

Obvs

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hi there, I'm sure this has been covered but couldn't find a definitive answer, how much and where a outs in the U.K. Have people paid for the activation?

I know I can buy a satnav cheaper, or use the phone but like an integrated system and annoys me there's a function that's not activated.

That being said my local dealer wants £599 which seems steep, spoke to another near me and originally said £399 and now saying it would also be £599 when I rang to confirm. I was going to have it done at the same time as some warranty work but don't want to pay silly money?
 
You must go through the dealer. They are the only ones who can activate the SD card. It's been tried many times by different people without success. So if you want Sat Nav it's a trip to the dealer, sorry to say.
 
I paid £499 for the SD Nav card and activation at Audi Salisbury two years ago.

IMO, £599 is taking the pee!!
 
audi upgrades
I know I need to go to the dealer and agree with AllanG that it's taking the pee on £599, I was going to pay £399 but they have since said they cannot honour that, and just wondered what others were paying.
 
Thanks for the q&ha list, one thing I've wondered is whether I can fit a second hand unit that's been activated and it will work? Seen sets online for £350ish and think I've found one who has been activated already, would this work?
 
Not from what I've been told. Each unit is paired to a single car . . . . although it wouldn't be the first thing that an Audi dealer has misled me with.
 
Crewe Audi did me a deal in April.

They had sat nav activation advertised on their eBay page. Was told it's usually £440 but they had one they were trying to clear so did it for £380. Was worth the drive down and picked up some roof bars as well. Reason it was cheap was Crewe Audi had some free activation packs from Audi

There's three things required.
License code to register with Audi.
Sd card and code to register product against car.
Activation of sat nav through the car.
All of this is contained in the software box your effectively buying
 
Can I be rude and hi-jack?

If you already have SatNav and get hold of a genuine updated SD card which hasn't already been activated - does anyone know the cost of this being activated by the local dealership?
 
Providing the sd card pack you buy has a unused license code.
You would just need to buy the activation license pack and then the labour cost to install.
 
alexjfinch said:
Can I be rude and hi-jack?

If you already have SatNav and get hold of a genuine updated SD card which hasn't already been activated - does anyone know the cost of this being activated by the local dealership?
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I phoned the dealer this afternoon. They told me for the sd card and them activating the sat nav would cost £265 including vat.
 
Obvs said:
hi there, I'm sure this has been covered but couldn't find a definitive answer, how much and where a outs in the U.K. Have people paid for the activation?

I know I can buy a satnav cheaper, or use the phone but like an integrated system and annoys me there's a function that's not activated.

That being said my local dealer wants £599 which seems steep, spoke to another near me and originally said £399 and now saying it would also be £599 when I rang to confirm. I was going to have it done at the same time as some warranty work but don't want to pay silly money?
Click to expand...
I was quoted by the dealer £265 with the sd card.
 
kevbensam said:
I was quoted by the dealer £265 with the sd card.
Click to expand...
I was at my Dealer today asking about SD card map update for my S3 which I've had for just 3 years from new. The current SD card is the MIB-HS 2016 version. After a long delay they eventually said they would have to get back to me because they couldn't find any reference to the correct card on their system. They indicated to me that for an already-activated system there would normally be two options - just the maps ASD card, which comes with an authorisation code (sometimes apparently confused with satnav activation) or maps plus a satnav system update (specifically satnav, not the MMI firmware update). looking at online Audi stores suggests that a maps update would be around £199 and with activation around £265. The firmware update (which I'm not interested in) is subject to additional charges because they do it for you...

...Is this correct or are they just guessing?
 
globet1 said:
I was at my Dealer today asking about SD card map update for my S3 which I've had for just 3 years from new. The current SD card is the MIB-HS 2016 version. After a long delay they eventually said they would have to get back to me because they couldn't find any reference to the correct card on their system. They indicated to me that for an already-activated system there would normally be two options - just the maps ASD card, which comes with an authorisation code (sometimes apparently confused with satnav activation) or maps plus a satnav system update (specifically satnav, not the MMI firmware update). looking at online Audi stores suggests that a maps update would be around £199 and with activation around £265. The firmware update (which I'm not interested in) is subject to additional charges because they do it for you...

...Is this correct or are they just guessing?
Click to expand...

spot on prices.... use the search option on this forum or google and it will bring up hundreds of posts with the same prices, most higher.
 
Ormesome said:
spot on prices.... use the search option on this forum or google and it will bring up hundreds of posts with the same prices, most higher.
Click to expand...
I'm still confused. Audi dealer insists that even if I buy SD card with maps plus "activation document" from them at £220.00 I still have to have the dealer install the maps at an additional £116.00. I struggle with this because the user manual clearly states there are 3 ways to do this - via Audi connect, by having the dealer do the installation, or by SD card (no dealer involvement). I also see user groups saying that map can be downloaded to an SD card, accessed online if you have Audi Connect/MyAudi set up. I have both but can't find any option to download to an SD card on the websites. Anyone got a link they know works?
 
globet1 said:
I'm still confused. Audi dealer insists that even if I buy SD card with maps plus "activation document" from them at £220.00 I still have to have the dealer install the maps at an additional £116.00. I struggle with this because the user manual clearly states there are 3 ways to do this - via Audi connect, by having the dealer do the installation, or by SD card (no dealer involvement). I also see user groups saying that map can be downloaded to an SD card, accessed online if you have Audi Connect/MyAudi set up. I have both but can't find any option to download to an SD card on the websites. Anyone got a link they know works?
Click to expand...

You are referring to a map update.

From my understanding, , the MIB unit requires ODIS authentication for a licence key.

Full Audi Connect - can download through the SIM and update automatically (within three years with tech pack)

When downloading at home to SD card from the Audi Connect website (only available in the first three years of ownership if you opted for the Tech Pack, there will be no previous versions or any downloadable versions after three years), the download is prepared with an embedded licence key, and you save it to an SD card and install yourself.

Its all a big con to make sure you have to keep paying Audi over and over again.All the manufacturers do it, but most are more reasonably priced.

You could try these, I've heard good and bad things, so its a 50/50 punt.

https://satnavupgrade.com/
 
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Not heard of it being more than £250. The SD Card comes with some sort of pairing codes that the dealer then uses to pair it to your car, ie: activation code & process, so yes they are correct but the usual cost is around £250 for it all. You need to try a different dealer and see your luck. Failing this then a trip to see @DJAlix will see you get the correct info, price and what you need.

Also, your gonna have to tell us a bit more about your car and system to give you the correct advice. What MMi do you have? Audi connect? I guess it’s a PFL right?

As the reply above by @Dubjam, I think now there are just 3 way of installing the maps but 2 are the same system, Audi connect can be used in 2 ways, 1: direct download to the car, 2: download at home and then use a personal SD Card to install. Both these options involve Audi connect but at home via the internet and personal computer or via the cars Audi connect system.. The 3rd option if the option that I think all SD Card map users have to face and that’s buying a new card direct from Audi and have then activate/pair it to your car.
 
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audi upgrades
Ormesome said:
Not heard of it being more than £250. The SD Card comes with some sort of pairing codes that the dealer then uses to pair it to your car, ie: activation code & process, so yes they are correct but the usual cost is around £250 for it all. You need to try a different dealer and see your luck. Failing this then a trip to see @DJAlix will see you get the correct info, price and what you need.

Also, your gonna have to tell us a bit more about your car and system to give you the correct advice. What MMi do you have? Audi connect? I guess it’s a PFL right?

I think now there are just 3 way of installing the maps but 2 are the same system, Audi connect can be used in 2 ways, 1: direct download to the car, 2: download at home and then use a personal SD Card to install. Both these options involve Audi connect but at home via the internet and personal computer or via the cars Audi connect system.. The 3rd option if the option that I think all SD Card map users have to face and that’s buying a new card direct from Audi and have then activate/pair it to your car.
Click to expand...

See above post, I explained the process.
 
Dubjam said:
See above post, I explained the process.
Click to expand...

see below post:

Wooow! :end of discction: because you explained it? Here is a :trophy:. Was going to give you a medal but couldn’t find it in the emojis list on this forum!!:salute:

Disclaimer: post mean in jest! Do not take offence! :icon thumright:
 
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Ormesome said:
see below post:

Wooow! :end of discction: because you explained it? Here is a :trophy:. Was going to give you a medal but couldn’t find it in the emojis list on this forum!!:salute:

Disclaimer: post mean in jest! Do not take offence! :icon thumright:
Click to expand...

It wasn't an end of conversation, you didn't understand how the license key works etc, hence referring you to the above post that explained the process more concisely. I see you've edited your original post now.

If you have VCDS you can go into your engineering menu on your MMI and see the licence keys available to you. This is what is 'generated' by Audi through either process. It can be cracked however. I've spoke to around ten people who have used the Sat Nav Upgrades people, six of which said it worked fine, two said it needed a repeat, and two said it never worked properly and they had issues getting their money back. Suppose if you make sure you pay by credit card, just open a chargeback if they dont refund you.
 
Dubjam said:
It wasn't an end of conversation, you didn't understand how the license key works etc, hence referring you to the above post that explained the process more concisely. I see you've edited your original post now.

If you have VCDS you can go into your engineering menu on your MMI and see the licence keys available to you. This is what is 'generated' by Audi through either process. It can be cracked however. I've spoke to around ten people who have used the Sat Nav Upgrades people, six of which said it worked fine, two said it needed a repeat, and two said it never worked properly and they had issues getting their money back. Suppose if you make sure you pay by credit card, just open a chargeback if they dont refund you.
Click to expand...

Fair enough, but most of that is irrelevant info at this stage. The person asking the question clearly doesn’t have VCDS or a knack for coding hence his/her question of how to update the map & if the price was correct. Info has to be directed at the person asking, we can’t go off on a tangent otherwise confusion will be made, hence why some people come here asking if an eBay card will be ok because their mate at the pub said it was working for his 2004 A3 with a removable tomtom! I know exactly how the system works thank you and your post didn’t “enlighten” me! I have had the SD Card system in the past and now have the more advanced tech pack plus so I know both procedures well.

Whilst we are talking about accuracy of info, your link to the OP had no correct info for the system in question, no A3 selection in the menu, only speed camera updates. It is still offering Black Friday discounts too so prob not the best website to post or entice people to use.
 
Dubjam said:
It wasn't an end of conversation, you didn't understand how the license key works etc, hence referring you to the above post that explained the process more concisely. I see you've edited your original post now.

If you have VCDS you can go into your engineering menu on your MMI and see the licence keys available to you. This is what is 'generated' by Audi through either process. It can be cracked however. I've spoke to around ten people who have used the Sat Nav Upgrades people, six of which said it worked fine, two said it needed a repeat, and two said it never worked properly and they had issues getting their money back. Suppose if you make sure you pay by credit card, just open a chargeback if they dont refund you.
Click to expand...
Actually you can go in and see what licence codes are activated on your MMI without VCDS or any coding tool. Access the red engineering / update menu. I don't remember what it is for facelift cars but for PFL its Back Button + Top Left Soft Button. Once in there you can navigate to your codes and see what's allowed. Trick is knowing what the numbers mean :)
 
Ormesome said:
Fair enough, but most of that is irrelevant info at this stage. The person asking the question clearly doesn’t have VCDS or a knack for coding hence his/her question of how to update the map & if the price was correct. Info has to be directed at the person asking, we can’t go off on a tangent otherwise confusion will be made, hence why some people come here asking if an eBay card will be ok because their mate at the pub said it was working for his 2004 A3 with a removable tomtom! I know exactly how the system works thank you and your post didn’t “enlighten” me! I have had the SD Card system in the past and now have the more advanced tech pack plus so I know both procedures well.

Whilst we are talking about accuracy of info, your link to the OP had no correct info for the system in question, no A3 selection in the menu, only speed camera updates. It is still offering Black Friday discounts too so prob not the best website to post or entice people to use.
Click to expand...

you've got some issues haven't you? Do you take pills for it lol you seem to be picking a fight that wasn't needed because you did'nt read the thread and just repeated already given info, albeit not concisely.

You don't know what the procedure means, I enlightened to understand how license keys work.

Also, the same company albeit alternative website

https://navigationupdate.co.uk/coll...018-navigation-map-update-package-8v0051884dd

No ones enticing anyone, its giving information based on research, people have their own choice who to use based on options given forth.
 
DJAlix said:
Actually you can go in and see what licence codes are activated on your MMI without VCDS or any coding tool. Access the red engineering / update menu. I don't remember what it is for facelift cars but for PFL its Back Button + Top Left Soft Button. Once in there you can navigate to your codes and see what's allowed. Trick is knowing what the numbers mean :)
Click to expand...

This is true, and yes if you don't know what the licence keys relate to then yes you'd be a little lost.

How is the reply to my email I sent you two weeks coming along? :)
 
Dubjam said:
you've got some issues haven't you? Do you take pills for it lol you seem to be picking a fight that wasn't needed because you did'nt read the thread and just repeated already given info, albeit not concisely.

You don't know what the procedure means, I enlightened to understand how license keys work.

Also, the same company albeit alternative website

https://navigationupdate.co.uk/coll...018-navigation-map-update-package-8v0051884dd

No ones enticing anyone, its giving information based on research, people have their own choice who to use based on options given forth.
Click to expand...

Well done. Valid source perhaps for the OP to use. No problems here, didn’t like your flippant post that all. Yes I repeated some of what you said, didn’t see your post as the OP had quoted my original post. Only saw it after reading your reply that was a little flippant...
Anyway, lets move on. I’m off to take my pills:yahoo:
 
Dubjam said:
You are referring to a map update.

From my understanding, , the MIB unit requires ODIS authentication for a licence key.

Full Audi Connect - can download through the SIM and update automatically (within three years with tech pack)

When downloading at home to SD card from the Audi Connect website (only available in the first three years of ownership if you opted for the Tech Pack, there will be no previous versions or any downloadable versions after three years), the download is prepared with an embedded licence key, and you save it to an SD card and install yourself.

Its all a big con to make sure you have to keep paying Audi over and over again.All the manufacturers do it, but most are more reasonably priced.

You could try these, I've heard good and bad things, so its a 50/50 punt.

https://satnavupgrade.com/
Click to expand...
That's what I understood. I don't mind paying f0r the update (this vehicle is just over 3 years old; I bought it after I'd had it from new on a 3-year lease), and I wasn't expecting a free upgrade.
Dubjam said:
This is true, and yes if you don't know what the licence keys relate to then yes you'd be a little lost.

How is the reply to my email I sent you two weeks coming along? :)
Click to expand...
Thanks for all the assists on this. However as the car is just over 3 years old I know I'll have to pay for an upgrade, I just don't see why, if I pay £220 for an Audi map update SD and "activation document" it needs an Audi dealer to install it at over £100. My MMI is MIB-HS with Map SD card version 2016, and as I understand it the replacement is the 2019-2020 version. Most of the 3rd party sites I've looked at don't list the A3/S3 updates. My user manual clearly identifies 3 ways of updating - either via Audi Connect/MyAudi, or by the dealer (clearly stating the dealer MAY charge for this service) or by SD card (no reference to Audi Connect/MyAudi or dealers to download to SD card). I have signed up to MyAudi and have also linked to Audi Connect, and I can't find any map download option. I had a suspicion the dealer is referring to what's required to update the navigation system firmware as opposed to just installing a map SD card but as I have the car primarily as something to drive rather than to add to the lifetime of technical knowledge I already have on other subjects I'll rely on you guys to point me in the right direction...
 
globet1 said:
That's what I understood. I don't mind paying f0r the update (this vehicle is just over 3 years old; I bought it after I'd had it from new on a 3-year lease), and I wasn't expecting a free upgrade.

Thanks for all the assists on this. However as the car is just over 3 years old I know I'll have to pay for an upgrade, I just don't see why, if I pay £220 for an Audi map update SD and "activation document" it needs an Audi dealer to install it at over £100. My MMI is MIB-HS with Map SD card version 2016, and as I understand it the replacement is the 2019-2020 version. Most of the 3rd party sites I've looked at don't list the A3/S3 updates. My user manual clearly identifies 3 ways of updating - either via Audi Connect/MyAudi, or by the dealer (clearly stating the dealer MAY charge for this service) or by SD card (no reference to Audi Connect/MyAudi or dealers to download to SD card). I have signed up to MyAudi and have also linked to Audi Connect, and I can't find any map download option. I had a suspicion the dealer is referring to what's required to update the navigation system firmware as opposed to just installing a map SD card but as I have the car primarily as something to drive rather than to add to the lifetime of technical knowledge I already have on other subjects I'll rely on you guys to point me in the right direction...
Click to expand...

Yes its ridiculous, they have designed it so you must pay for half an hours labour to install...basically for the license key to be generated with ODIS.

Map downloads wont show on Audi Connect or My Audi, they literally 'turn off' on the three year mark.

You can purchase the SD card you need , Doncaster Audi or similar sell it on eBay for £220, but if you don't have the licence key, it won't install.

There is a Polish (or something similarly European) site that a few users can generate you the licence key or crack the unit etc etc, but its a lot of faff.

Audi's marketing info is often contradictory.
 
Dubjam said:
This is true, and yes if you don't know what the licence keys relate to then yes you'd be a little lost.

How is the reply to my email I sent you two weeks coming along? :)
Click to expand...
No idea, not had a chance to make a dent in the 100’s of emails, sms, Facebook messages, forum messages, Instagram DMs and what’s app messages I get every day. Might be an idea to call.
 
Dubjam said:
Yes its ridiculous, they have designed it so you must pay for half an hours labour to install...basically for the license key to be generated with ODIS.

Map downloads wont show on Audi Connect or My Audi, they literally 'turn off' on the three year mark.

You can purchase the SD card you need , Doncaster Audi or similar sell it on eBay for £220, but if you don't have the licence key, it won't install.

There is a Polish (or something similarly European) site that a few users can generate you the licence key or crack the unit etc etc, but its a lot of faff.

Audi's marketing info is often contradictory.
Click to expand...

I'm talking to an independent VW/Audi specialist near me; he should have the kit to install, and his labour charges'll be more reasonable. If he can I I'll just buy the card from the nearest Audi dealer.
 
globet1 said:
I'm talking to an independent VW/Audi specialist near me; he should have the kit to install, and his labour charges'll be more reasonable. If he can I I'll just buy the card from the nearest Audi dealer.
Click to expand...

Its only a half hour labour they charge...although I imagine a more reasonable garage would just do FOC while your car is in for a service if they have an ODIS connection
 
globet1 said:
That's what I understood. I don't mind paying f0r the update (this vehicle is just over 3 years old; I bought it after I'd had it from new on a 3-year lease), and I wasn't expecting a free upgrade.

Thanks for all the assists on this. However as the car is just over 3 years old I know I'll have to pay for an upgrade, I just don't see why, if I pay £220 for an Audi map update SD and "activation document" it needs an Audi dealer to install it at over £100. My MMI is MIB-HS with Map SD card version 2016, and as I understand it the replacement is the 2019-2020 version. Most of the 3rd party sites I've looked at don't list the A3/S3 updates. My user manual clearly identifies 3 ways of updating - either via Audi Connect/MyAudi, or by the dealer (clearly stating the dealer MAY charge for this service) or by SD card (no reference to Audi Connect/MyAudi or dealers to download to SD card). I have signed up to MyAudi and have also linked to Audi Connect, and I can't find any map download option. I had a suspicion the dealer is referring to what's required to update the navigation system firmware as opposed to just installing a map SD card but as I have the car primarily as something to drive rather than to add to the lifetime of technical knowledge I already have on other subjects I'll rely on you guys to point me in the right direction...
Click to expand...

You have the SD card version, the updates won’t show on Myaudi. I might be wrong but I doubt you ever had the option to download the maps from in car or the myaudi website, hence why you can’t see them. The maps don’t turn off as above is stated, they are still available to see and download the latest version. If you can’t see it, then you don’t have it. Simple. 2020 maps are now out, 2019-20 are last years. You need to do some research and call other dealers, prices will vary. I called 3 different dealers and quoted the other dealers prices and each one bettered it.
 
Dubjam said:
Its only a half hour labour they charge...although I imagine a more reasonable garage would just do FOC while your car is in for a service if they have an ODIS connection
Click to expand...
That's what I was hoping - £116.00 for a half-hour is steep.
 
Ormesome said:
The maps don’t turn off as above is stated, they are still available to see and download the latest version. If you can’t see it, then you don’t have it. Simple. 2020 maps are now out, 2019-20 are last years. You need to do some research and call other dealers, prices will vary. I called 3 different dealers and quoted the other dealers prices and each one bettered it.
Click to expand...

Yes they do. They turn off at three years. Hence why mine do not show, and after challenging Audi about it I have confirmation emails from both Audi Connect and Audi Customer Services stating they turn off.

 
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Dubjam said:
Yes they do. They turn off at three years. Hence why mine do not show, and after challenging Audi about it I have confirmation emails from both Audi Connect and Audi Customer Services stating they turn off.
Click to expand...
I thought the issue was that the connect licence is initially provided free on new vehicles with a license that expires after 3 years, but it can be renewed and doesn't necessarily need a SIM in the MMI but can run on a data package in a connected mobil, albeit with limited functionality...
 
globet1 said:
I thought the issue was that the connect licence is initially provided free on new vehicles with a license that expires after 3 years, but it can be renewed and doesn't necessarily need a SIM in the MMI but can run on a data package in a connected mobil, albeit with limited functionality...
Click to expand...

I was under the impression it isnt a Connect licence, its the Maps database licence, so essentially they 'force' you to pay to upgrade your maps. Without it, you could simply copy an SD card a thousand times and every one use it.

I dont have Audi Connect so don't have a SIM, and tethering a smart phone on a PFL dosent do anything.
 
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