How to Update Mitsubishi Touchscreen GPS?
How to Update Mitsubishi Touchscreen GPS?
In the modern driving experience, a car’s infotainment system does more than just play music or display maps—it has become a central hub for communication, safety, and navigation. For Mitsubishi vehicle owners, the touchscreen GPS system is a powerful tool that helps guide daily commutes, road trips, and urban exploration. However, to ensure it remains accurate, efficient, and feature-rich, regular updates are essential.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to update your Mitsubishi touchscreen GPS, explain why it’s important, and share tips for a hassle-free update experience.
Your Mitsubishi’s touchscreen GPS system is built to provide real-time, turn-by-turn directions, traffic alerts, and points of interest. But like any technology, its effectiveness relies heavily on current information.
1. Map Accuracy
Road networks change constantly—new streets are developed, traffic patterns shift, and infrastructure upgrades alter routes. An outdated GPS may misdirect you or fail to recognize newly constructed roads, leading to delays or confusion.
2. New Points of Interest
Businesses open and close, gas stations shift locations, and landmarks change. Updates refresh your database of points of interest (POIs), ensuring you can find essential services wherever you are.
3. Software Improvements
Aside from maps, updates can enhance the performance of the system itself. You may gain smoother screen transitions, faster processing, or even new features, such as improved voice recognition or touchscreen responsiveness.
4. System Stability
Updates often include bug fixes and patches that improve system stability. If you've experienced freezing screens, crashes, or sluggish performance, an update may resolve those issues.
Before you begin the update process, gather the following:
A USB flash drive: Ideally, use a USB with at least 16 to 32 GB of free space. It should be formatted in FAT32 or exFAT.
Access to a computer: This will be used to download the GPS update files.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): This helps ensure you're downloading the correct files for your specific model and year.
A stable internet connection: Some update files are large and may take time to download.
Time: Depending on your vehicle model and the size of the update, the process may take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour.
Mitsubishi has equipped its vehicles with different infotainment systems depending on the model and year. The update process can vary slightly depending on whether you have:
Smartphone Link Display Audio (SDA) System
MMCS (Mitsubishi Multi Communication System)
Standard Mitsubishi Touchscreen with Navigation
While the general update method is similar, always consult your owner’s manual to identify your system.
Step 1: Identify Your System and Software Version
Start your car and access the main menu on your touchscreen. Navigate to the Settings or System Information section. Look for details like:
System version
Map version
Navigation software version
Note this information, as it will help when determining whether an update is needed.
Step 2: Visit the Official Update Platform
Once you have your system details and VIN, use a computer to access Mitsubishi's official GPS update platform. This site is typically hosted by the map provider used by Mitsubishi, such as HERE or Naviextras.
Enter your VIN and system information to check for available updates. If an update is listed, you’ll be able to download it.
Step 3: Format and Prepare the USB Drive
Before downloading files, insert your USB into your computer and format it:
Open your operating system’s format tool.
Choose FAT32 or exFAT as the file system.
Name the drive if necessary, and ensure it’s empty.
This step is critical. An improperly formatted drive can prevent your car from recognizing the update files.
Step 4: Download the Update Files
Once your USB is ready:
Download the update software from the website.
The site may require you to install a dedicated download manager to transfer files correctly.
Follow the prompts to download map or system software files to your USB.
Make sure the files are saved to the root directory of the USB—not inside a subfolder. Do not rename or alter the downloaded files.
Step 5: Insert the USB into Your Vehicle
Head back to your Mitsubishi vehicle:
Start the engine or place the car in accessory mode so the infotainment system powers on.
Insert the USB into the USB port connected to the navigation system (usually located in the center console or glove box).
The system should automatically detect the update and display an on-screen prompt.
Step 6: Begin the Update
Once prompted, select "Start Update" on the touchscreen. The system will begin reading the USB and installing the update.
During the update:
Keep the engine running or ensure the battery remains charged.
Do not remove the USB.
Avoid turning off the system or operating other features during the update.
A progress bar will show on the screen, and your vehicle may restart the infotainment system during the process.
Step 7: Complete and Confirm the Update
When the installation is complete:
The system will display a message confirming the successful update.
Safely remove the USB drive when prompted.
Restart the infotainment system if it doesn’t do so automatically.
Check the System Information section again to verify the updated software or map version.
Issue: USB not recognized
Ensure the USB is formatted in FAT32 or exFAT.
Make sure files are not inside a folder.
Issue: Update won’t start
Double-check your VIN and downloaded the correct files.
Restart the vehicle and try again.
Issue: Update process stops midway
This may be due to power loss or corrupt files. Reformat the USB, re-download the update, and repeat the process.
Update Regularly: Most navigation providers release updates two to four times per year. Check at least biannually.
Dedicated USB Drive: Use one USB drive solely for updates to avoid file conflicts.
Avoid Interruptions: Choose a time when you don’t need the vehicle for at least an hour.
Backup Your Data: If your system stores user preferences or favorite destinations, back them up if possible before updating.
There are certain conditions under which you should delay or avoid starting a GPS update:
Low Fuel or Battery: If your vehicle is low on fuel or battery charge, it’s best to wait until it’s powered properly.
Time Constraints: Don’t start an update if you’re in a hurry—let the process complete without rushing.
Unreliable USB or Internet Connection: Corrupted or incomplete downloads can cause system issues. Always verify file integrity before beginning.
Your Mitsubishi’s touchscreen GPS system is an essential part of the driving experience—one that contributes to safety, convenience, and peace of mind. Keeping it updated ensures that it remains accurate, responsive, and feature-rich. Though the update process requires a few steps, it’s a relatively simple task that pays off each time you hit the road.
Whether you’re navigating a busy city, taking a road trip across the country, or simply heading to a new restaurant in town, having the latest map and software updates ensures you get there smoothly and confidently.
Take a little time every few months to check for updates. It’s a small effort that keeps your Mitsubishi’s technology running like new.