Skoda: Updating the navigation system – here’s how

You should regularly update the navigation system in your Skoda. The updates are usually free of charge and all you need is a USB stick or an SD card.

Skoda: Installing free navigation updates

Skoda installs two different types of navigation systems in its cars: Amundsen and Columbus.

• Depending on the system and year of manufacture, there may be slight differences in the installation and availability of updates. In most cases, you will need an SD card for the update. For some cars, an update via USB stick is also possible. In Amundsen systems, the SD card must remain in the car permanently. For Columbus systems, you can remove the SD card or USB stick after the update.

• For some Amundsen systems, an update is only possible with an original Skoda SD card. All other SD cards are not accepted by the car. Unfortunately, such SD cards are comparatively expensive. You can buy the SD cards already with the current navigation version, or buy an older card and install the update there. The availability of the original SD cards fluctuates, just search online for “Skoda Amundsen SD card”.

• If you purchased an Infotainment Online license with your Skoda, updates will be automatically downloaded and installed via a built-in SIM card as soon as they become available.

• No matter which system you use, you can also have the updates installed by any Skoda dealer. However, a fee is always charged for this.

Instructions: Update Skoda sat nav

For the installation, you need a USB stick or an SD card with at least 32 GB of storage space. Check beforehand which connections your Skoda offers. In addition, the storage medium must be completely empty; ideally, you should format it beforehand.

• First, open the following Skoda website and enter your vehicle identification number in the top left corner. You can find this on your vehicle registration document.

• You will then be redirected to all available updates. Download the appropriate updates to your PC.

• Open the downloaded ZIP file and copy the files contained in it to the USB stick or SD card. The ZIP file usually contains two folders and a text file.

• Now turn on the ignition of your Skoda and open the “Set-Up” and “Version Information” categories in the navigation system. You will now find the “Update” option here. Some of these names may differ depending on the system.

• Now follow the further instructions on the display. The update may take up to 30 minutes. Do not turn off the ignition during this time.