Vehicle software updates
The latest software updates occur over-the-air (OTA) and may include new features and enhanced functionality.
Get updates over the air
Over-the-air (OTA) updates are a convenient way to keep your vehicle's software up-to-date . These updates are delivered wirelessly directly to your car, much like how a smartphone receives software updates. This means your Volkswagen can receive the latest enhancements, features, and security improvements.
Your benefits
- Updated performance and safety-enhancing features
- Optimized systems and functionality
- Fixes for bugs and better connectivity with the latest devices and apps
Over-the-air updates checklist
What's necessary for a successful over-the-air update?
Most model years 2020 and newer are eligible to receive available over-the-air (OTA) updates. Requires the myVW mobile app and acceptance of the myVW and Car-Net terms of service.
- Green light on: With your vehicle running, check your overhead console to verify there is a green light illuminated indicating your vehicle is "online" and able to communicate with Volkswagen servers
- Network coverage: OTA updates are delivered to your vehicle using cellular connectivity, so cellular network coverage is critical for a successful update. If network connectivity becomes limited during the process, the update will pause, but will automatically resume if network connectivity becomes available
- Battery charge (EV only): For electric vehicles, your vehicle must have a battery charge of 50% or more
Your step-by-step over-the-air updates process
For eligible vehicles, there are two steps to complete an over-the-air update: download and install. First, the vehicle automatically downloads the update through the vehicle's data connection. Once the download is complete, you'll be prompted to install the update, helping your vehicle remain up-to-date with the latest features and improvements.
For electric vehicles and some MY25 gasoline vehicles, once you’ve accepted the myVW and Car-Net Terms of Service, and provided consent to download the software in your vehicle through the myVW mobile app, the download will occur automatically while the vehicle is in operation.
For all other vehicles whose owners have accepted the myVW and Car-Net Terms of Service, an in-vehicle message will display on your infotainment screen prompting you to initiate each step. At that time, you will have the option to “download” or “cancel”. To begin the software download, select “Download”. You may safely drive the vehicle during the download process. Turning off the ignition will automatically pause the download, but it will resume the next time you start your vehicle. Therefore, it may take several vehicle trips for the download to complete.
To postpone the download, select “Cancel” on the in-vehicle display. You will be prompted again to initiate the download each time you start your vehicle while the OTA update is available, which may be for a limited time. If at any point the software update becomes available through your local Volkswagen dealer, you will be notified by mail or email.
Warning
- For electric vehicles: Do not charge your vehicle during installation
- For all eligible vehicles: The vehicle cannot be driven during software installation. Before choosing to install, please park your vehicle in a safe location
- During the installation process, all Volkswagen connected services and Safe & Secure emergency response systems will not be active
Once the software download is complete, your vehicle is ready for the installation to begin. As soon as you turn your ignition off, your infotainment screen will prompt you to begin installation by tapping “Start” or selecting “Cancel” if you need to delay. Installation time will vary based on the size of the update but can take up to 60 minutes. Once the installation begins, you can leave and lock your vehicle. The vehicle must remain parked and off.
When complete, your infotainment screen will display an “Installation Successful” notification the next time your vehicle is started. You may also receive a confirmation of completion by email or verify completion in the myVW mobile app under the Service tab.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I opt-out of over-the-air updates?
How is my data used during an over-the-air update?
How do I know which software version is currently installed in my vehicle?
Which features do I get from the latest over-the-air update?
Do I incur any cost for an over-the-air update?
Will the vehicle warranty be forfeited if I do not install software updates?
Why haven’t I received a notification about the over-the-air (OTA) update yet?
My over-the-air installation failed, now what?
Can I install the over-the-air update without a data connection?
Why are there no visible changes after my over-the-air update?
I accidentally bypassed the notification that the over-the-air update is ready to install. How can I complete the installation?
For electric vehicles, is there a minimum state-of-charge required for the over-the-air update?
Can I charge my electric vehicle during the over-the-air software installation?
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