Certain Kia models have a navigation system that provides you with clear directions to your destination. This significantly reduces the risk of getting lost, even if you’re traveling in an unfamiliar area. From time to time, Kia releases updates that you can install on your vehicle’s navigation system to gain access to the latest features and information. However, the installation process can be confusing and intimidating for some people. That’s why the team at Huffines Kia McKinney have put together this helpful guide so you can learn how to update your Kia’s navigation system.
How Kia’s Navigation System Works
Many Kia vehicles, especially the more recent models, offer a version of the Kia Connect or UVO infotainment system that includes a navigation feature. Displayed and controlled on the touch-screen display, this system helps you save time and hassle by making it easier for you to get around. With just a few taps on the screen, you can see your current location, plan the fastest possible route to your destination, learn the estimated arrival time, and get turn-by-turn directions.
The information that Kia’s navigation system provides is highly reliable, as it’s derived from an exceptionally detailed map. The map covers more than 7.5 million miles of roads across the United States, Puerto Rico, and Canada. It also shows the locations of over two million shops, almost 900,000 restaurants, and nearly 11 million points of interest. So, whether you’re running errands around McKinney or going on a cross-country road trip, you can rest assured you won’t lose your bearings.
In addition to providing accurate directions, the navigation system also monitors traffic in your vicinity. If it detects any traffic congestion on the way to your destination, it’ll automatically choose an alternative route to avoid any delays. It also offers walking directions to a specific location after you park and exit your vehicle, and it even helps you find your car in a crowded parking lot.
Another great benefit of the navigation feature is that it can contribute to a safer driving experience. The system works with the voice command system, allowing you to engage it without touching the infotainment display. This means you don’t have to take your hands off the steering wheel and your eyes off the road to get directions to your destination. Being able to focus on driving can reduce your chances of getting into an accident.
How To Update Your Kia’s Navigation System
Updating the navigation system of your Kia vehicle ensures that it stays up to date with any new features and mapping capabilities. This task is actually quite easy, and it shouldn’t take more than half an hour. However, it’s important to note that the process may vary depending on the type of system in your car. The following are step-by-step instructions for updating different versions of Kia’s navigation system:
Standard-Class Gen4 or Gen5 Navigation
On the home screen, click on “All Menus” to open the menu options and then choose the “Setup” icon. Next, select the “System Info” option, which will take you to the system information screen. On this screen, tap “SW Info” to pull up a screen that contains serial information on your vehicle and its system. At the bottom of the page, you’ll see an “Update” button. Click this button to update your Kia’s navigation system.
Standard-Class Gen5W Navigation
Select “Setup” from the main menu on your touch-screen display. After that, tap the “General” icon to access the general settings menu. From the menu on the left, choose “SW Info/Update” to retrieve your car’s serial information. Finally, press the “Update” button.
Premium Gen2 or Gen5 Navigation
Select “Setup” on the home screen and click on “System Info” to open the system information menu. Using the left-hand menu, press “Update” on a Gen2 system or “Software Information” on a Gen5. Tap the “Update” button to complete the process.
Things To Bear in Mind Before Updating Your Kia Navigation System
Before you start installing updates on your Kia’s navigation system, you have to make some preparations to ensure everything goes smoothly. Overlooking certain requirements may result in a longer or unsuccessful update process. The following are a few things you have to do before updating your navigation system:
- You’ll need a 16GB SD card to perform an update on your navigation system, but it’s best to have an extra 16GB SD card as a backup or use a 32GB SD card. This can make things easier between downloading and installing the software.
- Make sure you perform the navigation update while the engine is running. Note that the update process uses your vehicle’s battery, so check to see if it has sufficient charge before you start.
- Avoid turning off the engine or removing the SD card while the update is in progress, as it can cause the navigation system to malfunction. If you start the engine during an update, it may momentarily cut off power to the system, which can have an impact on file integrity and data transfer.
- Keep in mind that updating your navigation system when your vehicle is idling may be a traffic violation. So, you should perform the update at home or in a parking lot.
- Usually, the update process takes 15 to 30 minutes, so if it’s taking a longer time to update your system, there may be an installation issue that can make the process more complicated. Instead of trying to troubleshoot the problem yourself, you should consult a qualified technician at your local Kia service center.
If you live in McKinney, Texas, and you’re having trouble installing or updating your Kia’s navigation system, consider paying a visit to Huffines Kia McKinney. Serving McKinney, Fairview, New Hope, Princeton, Prosper, Frisco, Allen, and Plano, our dealership has a Kia-certified service center that provides the full range of auto services, including fixing infotainment and navigation issues. Our devoted team of factory-trained technicians know the navigation systems of Kia vehicles inside out, so they can help you with any problem you may be experiencing. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment.