[Lotus7]

There are different levels of software stored in different locations. Its possible, but not very likely, that BMW might sometime allow updates of the entertainment and NAV software by owners, but unthinkable that they would ever allow any user modification or updating of the mechanical management software because of all the safety related issues. A complete reload of the X3 management software is a 4-hour procedure (had it done twice!), and is not done unless there is a specific issue with a particular vehicle. Updates are vehicle specific, in that all vehicle options must be identified before the software replacement is started. Making a mistake can render the vehicle undriveable.

Performing automatic updates at routine service intervals would probably create more service issues than it would correct.
BMW's philosophy is clearly: "If it's not broke, don't fix it."