DIY Guide: Upgrade Your Mini Cooper EntryNav2 HU+WiFi Port (2021 iLevel)

Are you a Mini Cooper enthusiast looking to enhance your in-car infotainment experience? Upgrading your Mini Cooper’s EntryNav2 system, specifically the HU+WiFi Port version to the latest 2021 iLevel, can unlock a host of new features and improvements. While official service center upgrades can be costly and less transparent, this comprehensive DIY guide empowers you to perform the upgrade yourself. Based on proven methods for similar BMW systems, this guide provides a clear, step-by-step process to flash your EntryNav2 system, potentially enabling features like a more current interface and enhanced connectivity. This DIY approach not only saves you money but also gives you a deeper understanding and control over your Mini’s technology.

Understanding EntryNav2 and iLevel Upgrade

The EntryNav2, also known as Route navigation system, is a head unit found in various Mini Cooper models. Like other in-car systems, it operates on software levels known as iLevels. Upgrading the iLevel essentially means updating the system software to a newer version, bringing potential improvements in performance, features, and compatibility. The “2021 iLevel” refers to a software version prevalent in 2021 models, which is likely to include the latest functionalities available for the EntryNav2 hardware at that time.

Why consider an iLevel upgrade for your Mini Cooper EntryNav2 HU+WiFi Port? Here are a few compelling reasons:

• Enhanced Features: Newer iLevels often introduce updated user interfaces, improved navigation, faster response times, and better compatibility with mobile devices.
• Apple CarPlay Activation: Upgrading to a specific iLevel might be a prerequisite for enabling features like Apple CarPlay, allowing seamless integration of your iPhone for navigation, media, and communication.
• Bug Fixes and Stability: Software updates typically include fixes for known bugs and stability improvements, leading to a smoother and more reliable infotainment experience.
• Future-Proofing: Keeping your system updated ensures it remains compatible with the latest apps and services, extending the lifespan and usability of your car’s technology.

This guide will walk you through the process of flashing your Mini Cooper EntryNav2 system to a more recent iLevel. It’s important to note that while this guide is based on successful procedures for similar BMW systems like NBT EVO, always proceed with caution and ensure you understand each step before execution.

Tools and Software Needed

Before embarking on the EntryNav2 iLevel upgrade, gather the necessary tools and software. Having everything prepared beforehand will streamline the process and minimize potential issues.

Hardware:

• ENET Cable (Ethernet to OBDII): This cable is crucial for establishing a direct and stable connection between your laptop and your Mini Cooper’s OBDII port. It is preferred over older interfaces for its speed and reliability in flashing procedures. You can find ENET cables online from automotive diagnostic tool suppliers.

  Alt: ENET cable connected to a laptop and a car OBDII port, illustrating the hardware setup for car coding and flashing.

• Laptop with Windows OS: The software tools required for flashing are typically Windows-based. Ensure your laptop is fully charged or connected to a power source to prevent interruptions during the process.

• Battery Charger (50 AMP or higher): Maintaining a stable voltage supply throughout the flashing process is paramount. A battery charger with a rating of 50 AMP or more is recommended to prevent battery drain and potential ECU damage during the software update. Connect the charger to your Mini Cooper’s battery terminals before starting.

Software:

• E-Sys Software: E-Sys (Engineering System) is a powerful software tool used for coding, flashing, and diagnostics in BMW and Mini vehicles. You will need to install E-Sys on your Windows laptop. Ensure you obtain a legitimate and reliable source for the software.

• PSDZData Full: PSDZData (Prozessdaten Standard Daten) contains the necessary data files for flashing your car’s ECUs (Electronic Control Units), including the EntryNav2 system. You will need the Full version of PSDZData, corresponding to the iLevel you intend to flash to. Ensure compatibility and obtain these data files from a trusted source, often communities related to BMW/Mini coding and diagnostics.

  Alt: Screenshot of E-Sys connection settings, showing options for target selector and connection via VIN or IP address for vehicle communication.

Step-by-Step Upgrade Process

With all the tools and software prepared, you can now proceed with the EntryNav2 iLevel upgrade. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Connection Setup (ENET):

• Network Configuration: On your Windows laptop, go to Network Connections and find your Ethernet adapter. In the properties of “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4),” set the IP address to 169.254.3.2 and the Subnet mask to 255.255.255.0. Leave the Default gateway and Preferred DNS server fields blank.

  Alt: Windows Ethernet IPv4 settings panel, showing configured IP address, subnet mask, and blank gateway and DNS server fields for ENET car connection.

• Connect ENET Cable: Plug one end of the ENET cable into your laptop’s Ethernet port and the other end into the OBDII port of your Mini Cooper.

• Ignition ON: Turn on your Mini Cooper’s ignition (engine OFF).

• Run ZGW_SEARCH (EDIABAS): Navigate to C:/EDIABAS/Hardware/ENET and run ZGW_SEARCH.exe. This tool helps establish the connection to your car’s gateway module.

  Alt: Screenshot of ZGW Search tool interface, displaying search results and connection status for vehicle gateway communication over ENET.

2. E-Sys Connection:

• Open E-Sys Software: Launch the E-Sys application on your laptop.

• Connection Window: Click the “Connect” button in E-Sys. In the “Target Selector” window, choose “Target Selector” and then select your Mini Cooper chassis (e.g., F56, F60). Ensure “Connection via VIN” is selected.

  Alt: E-Sys Target Selection window, highlighting options for chassis selection and connection type (VIN) for initiating vehicle communication.

• Connect: Click “Connect.” E-Sys should now establish a connection to your Mini Cooper.

3. Read and Save Vehicle Data:

• Read FA (Vehicle Order): In the “Comfort Mode” section, click “Read FA” and save the FA file with a descriptive name (e.g., “FA_original”).
• Activate FA: Right-click on the saved FA file and select “Activate FA.”
• Read ECU: Click “Read ECU” to read the current ECU configuration.
• Save SVT: Save the SVT file as “SVT_ist” (SVT actual).

4. Select Target i-Level:

• KIS/SVT Target: In the “KIS/SVT Target” section, select the “I-Step (shipment)” value that corresponds to your vehicle’s original software level (note this value before starting).
• I-Step Target: In the “I-Step (target)” section, choose the desired target i-Level, which should be the latest available for your EntryNav2 system or the “2021 iLevel” you are aiming for.

5. Calculate TAL and SVT_soll:

• Complete Flash: In the “KIS/SVT Target” section, select “Complete Flash.”
• Calculate SVT_soll: Click “Calculate…” to calculate the target SVT (SVT_soll). Save it as “SVT_soll” (SVT should).
• Calculate TAL: Underneath “KIS/SVT,” click “TAL Calculate…” You might encounter a warning message; click “OK.” Save the TAL file as “SVT_tal” (TAL file).

6. Prepare for Flashing (Expert Mode):

• Expert Mode – TAL Processing: On the left side menu, navigate to “Expert Mode” and select “TAL Processing.”
• Load TAL and SVT_soll: In the “TAL Processing” window, load the “SVT_tal” file by clicking “…” next to “TAL file” and load the “SVT_soll” file by clicking “…” next to “SVT file.”
• Read FA: Click “Read FA” to automatically populate the FA data.
• Read VIN: Click “Read VIN” to read the vehicle identification number.

7. Select Modules and Start Flashing:

• ECU Selection: In the “ECU Tree,” you will see a list of modules to be updated based on the TAL calculation. To specifically target the EntryNav2 system, you can uncheck “ALL” and then manually select only the HU_ENTRYNAV2 module (or similar name depending on your specific system).
• Flash Operations: For the selected HU_ENTRYNAV2 module, ensure the following operations are checked: blFlash, swDeploy, cdDeploy, and ibaDeploy.
• Check Software Availability: Click “Check Software availability” to verify that you have the necessary PSDZData files for the selected operations.
• Start TAL Processing: Click “Start” to begin the flashing process.

8. Wait for Flashing to Complete:

• The flashing process can take a significant amount of time (e.g., 40-60 minutes). Do not interrupt the process. Ensure your battery charger is providing a stable power supply throughout. E-Sys will display progress updates.
• Once the flashing is complete, E-Sys will indicate success.

9. Post-Flash Configuration (Coding):

• After flashing, you might need to perform some coding to activate specific features or customize settings. For example, to enable Apple CarPlay or change the UI skin, you can use E-Sys in “Coding” mode.
• ID6 Lite Skin (if applicable): To change the UI to ID6 Lite look (if desired and compatible), navigate to the HU_ENTRYNAV2 module in “Coding” mode and look for the parameter HMI_ID_VERSION. Change the value to id6_light.
• Apple CarPlay Activation (if applicable): Depending on the iLevel you flashed and your car’s options, you might need to activate Apple CarPlay. Look for parameters like APPLE_ENHANCEMENTS and set them to aktiv.

10. Final Steps:

• Disconnect the ENET cable and battery charger.
• Restart your Mini Cooper’s infotainment system or the entire car if necessary.
• Verify that the iLevel upgrade was successful and that the desired features (e.g., Apple CarPlay) are now functional.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

During the flashing process, you might encounter some issues. Here are a couple of common problems and their solutions based on experiences with similar BMW systems:

• “FA must not be null” Error: This error during TAL execution can occur if the FA data is not properly loaded after reading the VIN. Solution: In “TAL Processing,” after step 17 (Read VIN), ensure you also click “Read FA” again before starting the TAL processing. This reloads the FA data and resolves the null FA issue.

• “Medium in DVD drive” Error: This error indicates that there might be a CD or DVD in the car’s optical drive, which can interfere with the flashing process. Solution: Even if the eject button seems to have removed any disc, double-check the CD/DVD drive. In some cases, a disc might be stuck or not fully ejected. Ensure the drive is completely empty before starting the flash.

By addressing these potential issues proactively and following the steps carefully, you can increase the likelihood of a successful EntryNav2 iLevel upgrade.

Conclusion

Upgrading your Mini Cooper EntryNav2 HU+WiFi Port to the 2021 iLevel through DIY flashing is a rewarding endeavor. By following this guide and utilizing the right tools and software, you can potentially unlock enhanced features, improve system performance, and gain a deeper understanding of your car’s technology. Remember to proceed with caution, double-check each step, and ensure a stable power supply throughout the process.

This DIY guide aims to empower Mini Cooper owners to take control of their car’s software upgrades. For further assistance, detailed software guides, or to explore professional diagnostic tools, visit CARDIAGTECH.