[mvl]

Like others, I'm beginning to think my frustration with steering feel/wandering/dead spot is a software problem. As I understand it, updating to latest ISTA should update all subcomponents, including the electronic power steering (EPS) software.

Does anyone know what the latest relevant ISTA version would be for a 2020 X3M Competition?

[JBX3MC]

Figured I’d bump this thread since the question comes up a lot.

Just had my software updated from S15A-20-06-530 to S15A-23-07-540 and was able to unlock and flash my DME with BM3 no problem.

Overall, car does feel, for lack of a better word, crisper. Shifts are smoother, slightly less bouncing between lines with ACC. I’m glad I did it

[mvl]

Remind me the magic combination of words to use so that the software update is done under warranty?

[RLPras]

Just bought my 2020 X3M competition 3 weeks ago, 41k miles, CPO (Donnington/Full Tartufo). I want to thank the forum and all the posters in this thread as it has been immensely helpful in working through the iStep update with BH BMW.

TLDR- I was able to get the ISTA/I-Level update done at BH BMW and agree with other members about the improvements to throttle response, shifting and, yes, ride quality/harshness. More info below.

Related to the Imprint / iStep update-

I pulled my Imprint before the update based on the instructions here (My Vehicle>Owners Manuel>Keyword>Imprint) and this was my read out (attached)

Couple interesting things here; 1/ Based on all the info looks like this was built in 2018? Vin + all the documentation reads it’s a 2020. 2/ last sequence of imprint shows G01 ID5. Strange as its an F97 which I didn’t realize could have iDrive5(?), based on my research it looks like the NBT EVO iD5/iD6. I do have gesture functionality but have not seen android auto. Any comments/thoughts on the above would be great.

A number of people on this thread and others have noted that the imprint info should change after the update is performed, a few have noted it takes a couple days. It’s been 9 days now and no change on the imprint but the key + Software data does show the iStep update.

When it took the car to BH BMW the service advisor pulled the vehicle info, it showed the software version as 11/19 and there was a section on the readout: i-level status – update available.

I had BH BMW update the software and asked that they do a hard “battery reset”. Also did a manual reset (power button push 30sec in Diag mode). After this dealer re-pulled the info again and it read: i-level (actual)- S15A-23-07-550. / No Software Updates Available

Strange that even after the i-level update the imprint data is unchanged. Wondering if this is related the iDrive level/system?


Related to the ride feel/harshness-
I started on the 765M Y-spoke 21" wheels with Michelin PS4S 255/40/ZR21 fronts and 265/40/ZR21 rears. I had to actually ask the dealer to put these on instead of the conti sport contacts when they CPO’ed the car, cost me an extra $350.

I swapped to 892M 21”s, which another thread noted as 1LB lighter per wheel. IMO this did add a slight improvement to the ride feel. Perhaps it’s the weight or even the construction/pattern of the rim.

Post iStep update I also swapped to Michelin PS4S 265/40/ZR21 front and, 295/35/ZR21 Rear. Clear improvement in ride quality. Tire sidewalls are also now flush to the rim as opposed to previous stretching inward. I also lowered the PSI to 34 in the front and 37 in the rear.

After all the changes the car feels like it absorbs more of the small bumps and road unevenness at driving speeds. I’d say it’s an overall smoother ride than before. There is still the issue of the jolting/drop when going larger potholes / speed bumps but I believe this is related to the suspension springs which I’m hoping to address with the MSS Urban kit in the coming weeks.

Throttle response/Shifting-
Post iStep update IMO, in default settings (Efficient/Comfort/Comfort/D1) the acceleration is more linear. It reminds me of my naturally aspirated 997.2 with acceleration from 0-40mph at 2000-3000 rpm feeling “thinner” and more controlled / less jumpy. My guess is the update re-mapped when the turbo kicks in and pushed it to a higher RPM where you now have to floor it to engage the turbo. Personally, I feel like this is better for daily driving and lines up more to the settings (Efficient/D1). All the sport settings seem to feel similar to pre-update but I haven’t had a chance to really get into Sport+/D3 yet.

[Vervish]

I updated software last week and I definitely notice more smoothness in transmission logic - I am not sure if that is actually impacted by the update or if it placebo.

I also did 265/295 tire upgrade at same time, so ride got much improved - not sure if it is the Michelin PS all-seasons or the software update.

The ability to use bimmercode for easy, full screen apple play unlocking is awesome.

[Max Well]

Bumping to query how many pre-OTA F97/98 owners are routinely updating via ISTA - whether through Dealerships or otherwise?

Checked my version today - Mar '22, so planning on asking Svc Ctr to go ahead and update to current version when routine service is performed in the next few weeks.

Not something we spend alot of time discussing, in part it seems because we have no idea what is included in each version and whether it will add any value to our driving experience. But, does seem curious as we are essentially driving a PC on wheels - if those systems need firmware/software updates it just seems intuitive we should do the same with these?

Not sure its possible for freshxdough or others in the field to share what these versions contain or if they even know, but for pre-OTA models something to at least consider.

[freshxdough]

Originally Posted by Max Well

Bumping to query how many pre-OTA F97/98 owners are routinely updating via ISTA - whether through Dealerships or otherwise?

Checked my version today - Mar '22, so planning on asking Svc Ctr to go ahead and update to current version when routine service is performed in the next few weeks.

Not something we spend alot of time discussing, in part it seems because we have no idea what is included in each version and whether it will add any value to our driving experience. But, does seem curious as we are essentially driving a PC on wheels - if those systems need firmware/software updates it just seems intuitive we should do the same with these?

Not sure its possible for freshxdough or others in the field to share what these versions contain or if they even know, but for pre-OTA models something to at least consider.

The only thing for G01 chassis that changed for the most part was 20-07 providing Android Auto. After that there’s really no actual big changes. Might be some slight improvements in some modules but nothing you’re really going to notice or worry about.

[Max Well]

Originally Posted by freshxdough

The only thing for G01 chassis that changed for the most part was 20-07 providing Android Auto. After that there’s really no actual big changes. Might be some slight improvements in some modules but nothing you’re really going to notice or worry about.

Thanks for the reply, freshxdough. I'm gonna go ahead and update to current version and will report back if I notice improvements.

[Edgar_FriendlyX3M]

Good thread all around. I have a 2020 x3m with a July 2019 build I believe.
I'm at version 11/19 so quite a ways out from current. I'm going in for service tomorrow morning so I'll follow up on this thread in the coming days.

[joebie3]

Originally Posted by Edgar_FriendlyX3M

Good thread all around. I have a 2020 x3m with a July 2019 build I believe.
I'm at version 11/19 so quite a ways out from current. I'm going in for service tomorrow morning so I'll follow up on this thread in the coming days.

Interested to hear updates, I'm also on 11/19.

[Edgar_FriendlyX3M]

I explained to the SA this morning that my vehicle was on a November dated software version (Istep)and was hoping to get an update. I brought up some of the quirky issues I have (such as the weird acceleration delay sometimes and bouncing around between lanes with steering assist on). I said some of these items look to have been addressed in future releases and asked him to look into it.

He called me later this morning stating since they found no faults, BMW won't let them just flash new software. I said there are some drivability concerns and find it hard to believe that can go ignored. He said sometimes the software update doesn't fix the issue so then they'd be doing extra work for nothing.
I then asked if this is a situation where bmw won't do it without somebody floating the bill. I said I'd pay if need be. He then said it doesn't come down to that.

When I go back later in the week to pickup my car he's going to have a tech ride along with me to make sure they fix my noise issue. I'll consult with him about this.

From what I've read here, there are at least two outstanding items a newer version of software resolved and both of which I certainly notice on my vehicle. The weird acceleration pause/downshift/delay from a slow rolling start in 1st gear and the lane keep assist ping ponging.

I've noticed a lot of the SAs at this dealer are kinda wet mops with ZERO personality or social skills. They never want to chit chat which is odd. There was nobody else dropping cars off this morning so it's not like they were slammed busy. Oh well for me.

[joebie3]

Originally Posted by Edgar_FriendlyX3M

I explained to the SA this morning that my vehicle was on a November dated software version (Istep)and was hoping to get an update. I brought up some of the quirky issues I have (such as the weird acceleration delay sometimes and bouncing around between lanes with steering assist on). I said some of these items look to have been addressed in future releases and asked him to look into it.

He called me later this morning stating since they found no faults, BMW won't let them just flash new software. I said there are some drivability concerns and find it hard to believe that can go ignored. He said sometimes the software update doesn't fix the issue so then they'd be doing extra work for nothing.
I then asked if this is a situation where bmw won't do it without somebody floating the bill. I said I'd pay if need be. He then said it doesn't come down to that.

When I go back later in the week to pickup my car he's going to have a tech ride along with me to make sure they fix my noise issue. I'll consult with him about this.

From what I've read here, there are at least two outstanding items a newer version of software resolved and both of which I certainly notice on my vehicle. The weird acceleration pause/downshift/delay from a slow rolling start in 1st gear and the lane keep assist ping ponging.

I've noticed a lot of the SAs at this dealer are kinda wet mops with ZERO personality or social skills. They never want to chit chat which is odd. There was nobody else dropping cars off this morning so it's not like they were slammed busy. Oh well for me.

The throttle delay is downright dangerous in my opinion. I can usually plan for it, but MANNNNN when you really need the thing to go and it don't, it's sketchy as hell LOL. Are you using Knauz?

[Edgar_FriendlyX3M]

Originally Posted by joebie3

The throttle delay is downright dangerous in my opinion. I can usually plan for it, but MANNNNN when you really need the thing to go and it don't, it's sketchy as hell LOL. Are you using Knauz?

I agree. It's like a weird kick down but since you're already in 1st gear, there is no higher gear to go to. Totally bogus and has happened to me a few times when pulling out into traffic.
I'm not familiar with Knauz. The dealer?

[joebie3]

Originally Posted by Edgar_FriendlyX3M

I agree. It's like a weird kick down but since you're already in 1st gear, there is no higher gear to go to. Totally bogus and has happened to me a few times when pulling out into traffic.
I'm not familiar with Knauz. The dealer?

Yessssss, great way to describe it. It's almost like it doesn't *really* shift to 1st even though it shows it's in 1st. Yup, Knuaz BMW on 41 in Lake Bluff. That's where I took mine for it's last service, no complaints. Although that can always change on any given day lol.

[Edgar_FriendlyX3M]

Originally Posted by joebie3

Yessssss, great way to describe it. It's almost like it doesn't *really* shift to 1st even though it shows it's in 1st. Yup, Knuaz BMW on 41 in Lake Bluff. That's where I took mine for it's last service, no complaints. Although that can always change on any given day lol.

Ahhh gotcha. No I went to BMW Westmont. Nice people but just meh in the personality department.

[Max Well]

Originally Posted by Edgar_FriendlyX3M

I explained to the SA this morning that my vehicle was on a November dated software version (Istep)and was hoping to get an update. I brought up some of the quirky issues I have ...

He called me later this morning stating since they found no faults, BMW won't let them just flash new software. ... I said I'd pay if need be. He then said it doesn't come down to that. ...

I just got my Sep 2019 build 2020 X3MC back from the Svc Ctr which I took in for elective maintenance. Being 4-1/2 years out its no longer in warranty, so I wanted to preemptively take care of the Diff bolt issue with OEM parts as they come with a 2 year warranty (and I've done alot of launches at the Strip) . I'll provide F/U as to what the bolts looked like in a subsequent post.

While it was there I asked them to also update to current ISTA firmware [S15A-23-11-550] and to also update my 'aged' NAV software [now at NORTH AMERICA EVO 2023-1]. No question - just done. I understand their software programming and onsite labor costs so not an issue from my perspective to pay for the service, so maybe they misunderstood your intent to have it done?

On the ride home I can say it definitely seems 'tighter' in response both in handling and performance in a very good way, much as RLPras shared. This is all subjective no doubt, but I'm realistic when it comes to results and would openly share if I didn't sense a difference. Not alot of difference to me now between driving my wife's 2022 LCI - in fact, we'll be taking mine on a trip this weekend instead of her X3MC as we had planned.

[Edgar_FriendlyX3M]

Appreciate the input. I'm going to push again tomorrow when I pickup that at the very least, they should be updating the software to resolve two actual drivability and safety issues. To your point, it would also be nice if my maps were updated too and not 4 years old.
I'll follow up tomorrow hopefully with more.

And Max, it's possible he misinterpreted what I meant by paying. Again, the SAs there are rather dry so he might just be going through the motions. A "next customer please" mentality.

[Max Well]

For those pre-LCI F97/98 owners lacking the ability to update OTA - sharing how my 'exported-to-USB Driver profile' looks in Notepad (before and after the Dealership Svc Ctr update). You can see that we are now current with the OTA group's i-step firmware version which was just released (planning on updating my wife's LCI via OTA this weekend).

[thestimp]

Originally Posted by Edgar_FriendlyX3M

Appreciate the input. I'm going to push again tomorrow when I pickup that at the very least, they should be updating the software to resolve two actual drivability and safety issues. To your point, it would also be nice if my maps were updated too and not 4 years old.
I'll follow up tomorrow hopefully with more.

And Max, it's possible he misinterpreted what I meant by paying. Again, the SAs there are rather dry so he might just be going through the motions. A "next customer please" mentality.

Maps can be updated via connected drive online, if you are subscribed you can just push it from the website?

[Edgar_FriendlyX3M]

Originally Posted by thestimp

Maps can be updated via connected drive online, if you are subscribed you can just push it from the website?

It actually looks like the map updates are set to automatic from the connected drive section. I'll check the car again but could have sworn it had been out of date.

[Edgar_FriendlyX3M]

Update time. Went back to the dealer to pickup my car. The SA brought the shop foreman out and had me explain to him what was going on. He listened while I brought up the few issues around lane keep and the weird acceleration delay. We chatted for a bit and he pointed out that yes, the vehicle I Level was quite old and that he'd bring it up to current (which I believe is about a week old now). He also mentioned there may be the ability for him to add Android Auto which would be cool, if possible.

Bottom line, talk to the right person and state your case and you'll get results. I also chatted with the master tech that worked on my car (replaced a noisy rear strut) and he made mention too about the I Level needing to be current. He shared the same viewpoint as I did where there are certainly benefits to having the car updated to a more current version. He was very friendly and spent about 40 minutes with me just chit chatting.

I should know by Monday how things are looking so I'll follow up then. Big thanks to the folks on here that shared some input on how their scenarios panned out as it helped me build a case for my vehicle. So thanks all!

**I should also add my dealer is aware of my tune and the shop foreman had no issue with that. He only made it clear to me the tune (and any other coding) will be wiped. I already knew this but told him I understand and have no issue with this. The DME will not be locked though since this DME was not part of the newer style ones that are locked from the factory. Only the OBD lock goes back in place and I can unlock using BM3 again.

[Max Well]

Originally Posted by Edgar_FriendlyX3M

Update time... We chatted for a bit and he pointed out that yes, the vehicle I Level was quite old and that he'd bring it up to current... I also chatted with the master tech that worked on my car (replaced a noisy rear strut) and he made mention too about the I Level needing to be current. He shared the same viewpoint as I did where there are certainly benefits to having the car updated to a more current version...

Glad its working out for you, Edgar_FriendlyX3M - I really think firmware updating for older models is often overlooked, but to me its an essential component to owning one of these PCs on wheels. Most everything we use auto-updates so keeping firmware and software current in our F97s is (and should be) just another part of our routine maintenance IMHO. FYI - updated my wife's LCI via OTA to this current version this afternoon in the driveway (that is def one advantage to having newer technology)!