2023-2024 BMW GPS Location Drift in 3rd Party Apps SIB 84 04 23

Symptoms of Incorrect GPS Location

Owners of certain 2023-2024 BMW vehicles may experience issues with their GPS location data. The primary symptom is that the GPS location displayed in third-party navigation applications, such as "Apple Maps", "Google Maps", and "Waze", will intermittently drift from the vehicle's correct position. Additionally, the vehicle's location shown within the "My BMW app" may also be inaccurate. This is the core of the 2024 BMW X5 GPS drift problem. It is important to note that the vehicle's integrated BMW Navigation system is not affected by this issue.

Cause of the GPS Drift

The root cause of the incorrect GPS location and the 2024 BMW X5 GPS drift is identified as unfavorable software within the vehicle's Telematics Module (TCB4). This software anomaly leads to the miscalculation or misreporting of the vehicle's position to external applications and services, causing the location data to be unreliable.

Correction for the Telematics Module Software

To resolve the issue of incorrect GPS location, BMW's recommended correction involves reprogramming the Telematics Module (TCB4). This software update aims to install a newer, corrected version of the software that accurately processes and reports GPS data, eliminating the drift.

Repair Procedure Summary

To address the 2024 BMW X5 GPS drift and similar issues in affected models, a BMW technician will perform a software update on the Telematics Module (TCB4) as detailed in BMW Service Information Bulletin SIB 84 04 23. The procedure involves several key steps:

1. Determine Current Software Level: The technician will first ascertain the vehicle's current I-level (software version) using specialized diagnostic applications such as AIR, ISPA NEXT, or AWP (Aftersales Workplace).
2. Programming Update: If the vehicle's current software is older, it will be programmed to I-level S18A/U006-23-07-535 or a higher version. This update requires the use of ISTA 4.42.4 software, which was released in early August 2023, or any subsequent ISTA version.
3. Preparation and Connection: Before programming, a BMW-approved battery charger/power supply (as specified in SIB 04 23 10) must be connected to the vehicle to ensure stable voltage throughout the process. The programming system, ISTA 4, is then connected to the vehicle.
4. Measures Plan Execution: The technician will determine and accept the "measures plan," which outlines the specific programming and encoding steps required. They will then fully work through this plan with all control units designated for programming, encoding, and enabling.
5. Rework and Testing: The technician must follow any "rework list" provided by the system. After programming, a vehicle test will be conducted, and any fault memory present will be deleted if needed.
6. Functionality Check: Once programming is fully completed, the technician will check the functionality of the system to ensure the GPS location is now accurate.

It is important to note that ISTA will automatically reprogram and code all programmable control modules that do not have the latest software during this process. For detailed information on programming and coding with ISTA, technicians refer to the Dealer Universal Portal / TIS / Technical Documentation / Diagnostics and Programming / Programming Documentation.

Warranty Information

This repair, identified by Repair Code 8411021100 as "Telematics control unit occasion failure," is covered under the terms of the BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty for Passenger Cars and Light Trucks, or the BMW Certified Pre-Owned Program.

The following labor operations may be used for claiming this repair:

• 00 00 006: Carrying out vehicle test (Main work) - As applicable
• 00 00 556: Carrying out vehicle test (Plus work) - As applicable (Use if a Main labor code for another repair is also being performed).
• 61 21 528: Supporting voltage of the vehicle electrical system / recharging vehicle battery - As applicable (May be excluded if vehicle test includes this).
• 61 00 006:* Carrying out vehicle diagnosis, ABL (Work time) - WT
• 00 58 500:* Diagnosis Worktime Flat Rate - 2 FRU
• 61 00 730: Program/encode control unit(s), includes deleting the fault memory - As applicable

During a workshop visit, if the affected vehicle also has other open programming and encoding Technical Campaign repairs, the programming and encoding procedure for this issue can only be invoiced one time. Technicians can find flat rate unit (FRU) allowances using the BMW Group's AIR Application Resource by entering the VIN. For specific guidance on documenting and claiming diagnosis work time, technicians are directed to SI B01 01 20 or B01 07 20.

Important Notes for Owners

During this workshop visit, your vehicle may also have other open programming and encoding Technical Campaign repairs addressed. The programming and encoding procedure for this issue can only be invoiced once by the dealership. If any control modules fail during the reprogramming process, the dealer is instructed to claim the necessary consequential repair work under the specified Repair Code.

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Source: NHTSA ID: 10242870, SIB 84 04 23