BMW iDrive ID4 → ID6 Upgrade
Early NBT Evo cars shipped with the older ID4 or ID5 software. Updating the same head unit to ID6 gives you the newer tile-based menu, and it is often the step that makes CarPlay possible.
€50 · usually done together with CarPlay activation
In person across Dublin, Kildare, Wicklow & Meath · remote across Ireland
ID4, ID5 and ID6 are software versions of the same NBT Evo head unit, not different hardware. Cars built around 2016–2017 often still run ID4, which looks dated and does not support CarPlay. Updating the software to ID6 brings the live-tile home screen and the newer menus, and opens the door to CarPlay activation.
The update is done with dealer-level tools over an ENET connection — remotely with your own laptop, or at your car around Dublin. Your settings, radio presets and coding are checked afterwards.
Important: this only applies to NBT Evo. The original NBT (iDrive 4, roughly 2013–2016) and older CIC units are different hardware and cannot be updated to ID6. Your VIN tells us which one you have.
What the update gives you
- ID6 live-tile home screen and newer menus
- The software level needed for CarPlay on most NBT Evo cars
- Done on your existing head unit — no new hardware
- Settings and coding checked after the update
Compatible cars
- NBT Evo head units running ID4 or ID5 software
- F-series such as F20/F21, F22, F30/F31, F32/F33/F36, F10/F11, F15/F16, F48 — if fitted with NBT Evo
- Not possible on NBT (non-Evo), CIC or EntryNav units
- Confirmed from your VIN before booking
Real work, real cars
Photos from jobs we have completed — not stock images.
F15 - iDrive Update and CarPlay Activation
F36 ID4 to ID6 update + Fullscreen Apple CarPlay + 6WB cluster retrofit
How it works
Send your VIN
We confirm it is NBT Evo and which software it runs now.
Remote or visit
Your laptop and an ENET cable, or we come to the car around Dublin.
Update to ID6
The head unit is updated with dealer-level tools; this takes a while, so the car needs a stable battery supply.
Add CarPlay if you like
Most people activate CarPlay in the same session.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if I have ID4, ID5 or ID6?
ID6 has a home screen of live tiles; ID4 and ID5 open on a list menu. The surest way is the VIN — send us the last 7 characters.
Do I need ID6 for CarPlay?
On most NBT Evo cars running ID4, yes — CarPlay needs the newer software. ID5 cars can often be activated directly. We confirm from your VIN.
Can my NBT (iDrive 4) be upgraded to ID6?
No. NBT and NBT Evo are different hardware; ID6 only runs on NBT Evo. If you have NBT, we will tell you honestly what is and is not possible.
Is it reversible?
It is a software update to a newer official version. There is normally no reason to go back, and nothing physical is changed.
What is possible depends on your exact model, year, head unit (NBT, NBT Evo or MGU) and software version, plus any installed hardware. We confirm compatibility from your model, year and VIN before any work starts.
Related BMW services
Ready when you are
Send your model, year and what you want — we’ll confirm what’s possible and the price up front.