Mitsubishi vehicles are known for their reliability, performance, and integration of smart technology features. One of the key technologies embedded in many Mitsubishi models is the in-dash GPS navigation system. Whether you're driving a Mitsubishi Outlander, Eclipse Cross, Pajero, or another model, the built-in GPS is designed to enhance your driving experience by offering real-time route guidance, traffic updates, and location-based services.
However, like any other technology, a GPS system needs regular updates to maintain accuracy and efficiency. Road networks evolve, new construction projects appear, traffic laws change, and points of interest (like gas stations and restaurants) are frequently added or removed. If your Mitsubishi GPS system isn't up to date, it may lead you to outdated roads or inaccurate directions, reducing the reliability of your driving experience.
This guide will help you understand how to update your Mitsubishi GPS system, what tools and software you’ll need, and how to avoid common mistakes during the process.
Before beginning the update process, it's important to identify which GPS navigation system your Mitsubishi vehicle uses. Over the years, Mitsubishi has used various infotainment systems depending on the model and region. Some common systems include:
Mitsubishi Multi Communication System (MMCS)
Smartphone Link Display Audio (SDA) system
Older hard drive-based navigation units
Systems powered by third-party software like Garmin or TomTom
Each system may follow a slightly different update process. Knowing your specific system will help you access the correct tools and map data. You can usually find this information in the vehicle’s user manual or through the system’s settings or "About" screen.
The purpose of your GPS system is to provide accurate navigation, up-to-date road data, and helpful travel information. Over time, as infrastructure and traffic laws change, your GPS system will become less reliable if it’s not updated. Here’s why keeping it current is essential:
Ensures accurate route guidance, reducing travel time and fuel consumption
Reflects newly built roads, modified intersections, or changed traffic rules
Adds or removes points of interest such as ATMs, restaurants, or parking locations
Improves the user interface and fixes system bugs
Updates voice navigation features or adds support for additional languages
Failing to update your Mitsubishi GPS can result in frustration, missed turns, or reliance on outdated travel information.
Updating your Mitsubishi GPS system requires a few key items. These typically include:
A USB drive or SD card (depending on the system)
A computer with internet access
Your Mitsubishi vehicle (to extract system data or install updates)
The appropriate update software or access to Mitsubishi’s navigation update platform
Time and patience, as map files can be large and updates may take a while
Make sure your USB or SD card has enough free space. It's often recommended to use a device with at least several gigabytes of available storage, formatted to FAT32 for compatibility.
Start your Mitsubishi vehicle and access the GPS system. Navigate to the settings or system information menu and look for an option to export or generate a system file. This file identifies your vehicle’s GPS version and current map data.
Insert your USB drive or SD card into the appropriate slot in the infotainment system. Follow the prompts to save the system identification file to the device. This file is necessary for downloading the correct map updates for your specific GPS hardware.
Once the export is complete, safely remove the USB or SD card from your vehicle.
Next, connect your USB or SD card to your computer. Open your web browser and launch the navigation update software or portal associated with your Mitsubishi GPS system. This may vary depending on whether your vehicle’s GPS system is powered by Garmin, TomTom, HERE, or another provider.
Once on the platform, upload the system identification file that was saved earlier. The software will use this file to verify your device and determine which updates are available. If this is your first time using the platform, you may be asked to create an account and register your vehicle.
Available updates may include:
Full map updates covering your region or country
Software patches or firmware upgrades
Updates to speed limits, traffic patterns, or points of interest
Voice navigation enhancements or user interface improvements
Download the desired updates. This process can take a significant amount of time depending on the size of the files and the speed of your internet connection. Once the files are downloaded, they’ll be written to the USB or SD card so they can be transferred back to your vehicle.
Make sure the files are completely downloaded and written before removing the device from your computer.
Return to your vehicle and start the engine. Insert the USB drive or SD card into the appropriate slot. The infotainment system should recognize the update files and prompt you to begin the installation process.
Follow the on-screen instructions carefully. During installation, it’s important to:
Keep the engine running to ensure uninterrupted power
Avoid removing the storage device
Refrain from using the infotainment system for other functions
Wait patiently until the update completes
Depending on the update size, the installation process may take anywhere from several minutes to over an hour. After the update is complete, the system may automatically restart.
After your GPS system reboots, go back into the system settings or "About" section to confirm the updated map and software version. You can also test the system by entering a new address, checking for newly added roads, or browsing points of interest.
Everything should function more smoothly, and the new data will provide more accurate and efficient navigation.
Sometimes, the update process may not go as planned. Here are a few common issues and solutions:
The system doesn't recognize the update file:
Make sure the file was correctly downloaded and placed in the root directory of your USB or SD card. Check that the storage device is formatted correctly.
The infotainment system freezes during installation:
Restart the vehicle and try the process again. If it remains frozen, consult your vehicle manual or seek professional support.
Map updates are unavailable even though the system is outdated:
Check whether your vehicle qualifies for free updates. Some Mitsubishi models include free updates for a limited time, while others may require purchase after the initial update period expires.
The download fails repeatedly on your computer:
Ensure that your internet connection is stable. Temporarily disable any antivirus software or firewall that might be blocking the download.
Most map providers release updates once or twice a year. It’s a good idea to check for updates every six months or before taking long trips to unfamiliar areas. Even if you drive mostly within the same city, updates can be valuable due to changes in traffic patterns and road infrastructure.
Some Mitsubishi models offer lifetime map updates, while others include a limited update window (for example, one year of free updates). Be sure to verify your eligibility to make the most of available services.
In addition to updating your GPS system, consider the following tips to keep your infotainment system functioning well:
Avoid storing unnecessary data on your SD card or USB device
Keep your device clean and free of dust
Use original cables and accessories whenever possible
Regularly back up saved locations or custom routes
Restart your system occasionally to refresh the software
Updating your Mitsubishi GPS system is an essential step in ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable travel. With accurate maps and updated software, your vehicle’s navigation system can provide real-time guidance, smarter routing, and an overall better driving experience.
Though the process may take some time, it’s a relatively simple task once you understand the steps. Whether you’re navigating familiar streets or exploring new destinations, an updated Mitsubishi GPS system will help you arrive with confidence and peace of mind.