My car is in the garage for the first service (2 years old now).

My Columbus has HW-Version H02, SW-Version 0764.

Knowing that the firmware is ages old, I've asked the dealer to update the firmware, but he doesn't seem to know what I'm talking about, he thinks I'm talking about the maps. I've contacted Skoda after sales and they have the same problem.

Is there any way I can require them to do this, or do I have to negotiate?

My car is in the garage for the first service (2 years old now).

My Columbus has HW-Version H02, SW-Version 0764.

Knowing that the firmware is ages old, I've asked the dealer to update the firmware, but he doesn't seem to know what I'm talking about, he thinks I'm talking about the maps. I've contacted Skoda after sales and they have the same problem.

Is there any way I can require them to do this, or do I have to negotiate?

It's different from manufacturer to manufactorer.

Volvo has "Service 2.0" that updates the engine, radio and other types of software in the car while on service.

I believe that the Volkswagen company is a little more conservative on that.

Remember that a software update is not allways for the good.

Assuming you are uk based, just ask them to upgrade to latest version of the maps. They'll then have to upgrade firmware to get things like 7 digit postcodes working.

Just be aware that Skoda garages normall charge for a map upgrade.

Thanks

Steve

Assuming you are uk based, just ask them to upgrade to latest version of the maps. They'll then have to upgrade firmware to get things like 7 digit postcodes working.

Just be aware that Skoda garages normall charge for a map upgrade.

Thanks

Steve

How much?

I will shortly be picking up a 2009 (MY 2010) Superb Elegance.

It is due the 2 year service (variable) which they are going to do.

Can I insist that they update the maps for free. I think the CD disc in the car is V.5

What version bought along 7 digit postcodes?

Very few dealers know about the newer firmware versions, and rely on the VAS diagnostic tool which may say that no update is available. I dont believe any of the newest firmwares are supported on H-02 as thats an old A version unit, however there are newer ones available than 0764 which should work.

You may end up doing the firmware upgrade yourself.

A list of firmware and download links are here.

http://www.vwitalia.it/forum/f37/lista-firmware-rns-510-a-6383.html

Can I insist that they update the maps for free. I think the CD disc in the car is V.5

What version bought along 7 digit postcodes?

You can insist what you like, doubt you will get much joy - but if you don't ask ......

7 digit postcodes are from V7 maps onwards.

I've asked the dealer to update the firmware, but he doesn't seem to know what I'm talking about, he thinks I'm talking about the maps. I've contacted Skoda after sales and they have the same problem.

This sort of comment from a dealer nowadays is both outrageous and unacceptable. This particular subject excises me more than most and I would really like to do something about it. However, with just anecdotal evidence, I'll struggle.

If any member, in the UK or elsewhere, has actually been successful in having their FIRMWARE updated by a Skoda dealer, please PM the dealer details and I'll compile a letter to a few relevant parties in an attempt to alter this poor service.

As I've probably said before, when you buy a new TV or WiFi music centre, on installation the firmware update is one of the first tasks that the kit performs. Having bought a technically-complex car with a large amount of electronic equipment, the least I'd expect is a similar availability of updates. I accept that there are those who are quite happy about upgrading their own firmware (and are more than competent to do so), but there is an implied risk of "bricking" the unit if anything goes wrong.

My other car was subject of a recall, during which both maps and firmware were updated FOC. I'm not expecting free maps from Skoda, but firmware upgrades that make the most of the fitted equipment are, I believe, something that we are entitled to expect.

I look forward to hearing of your experiences, although I'm not expecting a flood of "I've been successful" PM's any time soon!

Ray

In the last Month I have had the Columbus Firmware updated on my business partners Superb delivered October 2011 by the dealer in Hull and my wifes Octavia delivered November 2010. the wifes car was done on the first service by Wayside in Milton Keynes no problem at either dealer