So can you simply buy a VDO Dayton Carin v xx disc from whereis to work in a MK4 system or do you have to buy from a BMW dealership?

Is there a difference?

The map data is the same, the POI data might vary - BMW map may show lists of BMW garages for example

And the BMW map has a BMW logo and a BMW part number :-)

But the VDO Carin format is the same as the BMW format

JOchen

Right. Boy have I been led up the garden path. Why didn't I find this forum a month ago.

Thanks very much for your help.

I forgot to say there are different VDO map disks for different generation navs, but if the disc was for the carin system, then it will work in a Mk3 or Mk4 nav.

Easiest of course is to try and see :-)

Remember the BMW system was initially designed in the early 90s and has been improved since then - but still runs on principally the same architechture. The first BMW nav system appeared in 1994, with what we now call the Mk1. A 2002 X5 will likely have a Mk3, maxbe a Mk4.

The Mk4 system is still being fitted to some 2008 model BMWs (Z4, X3), and software is still being developed, albeit it appears to be bugfixes only. The latest software release was March 2008.

If the Mercedes system is a new one designed in 2000, then you could easily have a decade of difference between the system designs.

And a decade is very long in computer terms....

Ok

I have a MK4 system that I have installed. It was previously the MK3 unit.

BMW are giving me the run around because of chassis numbers.

Can I safely assume a new version Carin nav disc should work?

I found out during the week that V14 is still available and being supplied with all the new cars sold. Another fact my dealer got wrong.

Do we have a feeling for how long it takes BWM to change to v15 once it is released?

Now that I know whereis is about to release V15 I am thinking I might just buy the carin version from them but at the sometime I would like the BWM version for peace of mind.

does anyone have the dvd map for sale ?