If you're running firmware version 1.3.1 or earlier and experiencing issues with over-the-air (OTA) updates, you can manually update your R7M using an SD card.
📌 When to Use This Method
Use this manual update method if:
Your R7M is running firmware v1.3.1 or below
OTA (Over-The-Air) update fails or doesn't complete successfully
You're unable to connect to Wi-Fi for OTA updates
You prefer manual installation for any reason
📦 What You'll Need
Your RiderNav R7M device
The SD card that came with your device (or a compatible SD card)
A computer with SD card reader
The firmware update file (download link provided below)
📥 Step 1: Download the Firmware
Save the file to your computer
Do not extract or modify the file - keep it as downloaded
💾 Step 2: Prepare the SD Card
Remove the SD card from your R7M device
SD card slot location: On the side of the device
You may need the small screwdriver (included with newer units) to access the SD card slot
Insert the SD card into your computer's card reader
Copy the downloaded firmware file to the root directory of the SD card
Root directory = main folder, not inside any subfolders
Simply drag and drop the file directly onto the SD card
Safely eject the SD card from your computer
🔧 Step 3: Install the Firmware Update
⚠️ CRITICAL: Follow these steps in exact order
Ensure the R7M is powered OFF
Remove the device from the BMW navigation cradle
Confirm the screen is completely off
Insert the SD card into the R7M
Locate the SD card slot on the side of the device
Insert the SD card fully until it clicks into place
Power on the device
Mount the R7M back onto the BMW navigation cradle, or
Connect via USB-C cable to power supply
Automatic update will begin
The device will automatically detect the firmware file
Update process will start immediately
You'll see progress indicators on screen
⚠️ DO NOT interrupt the update process
Do not power off the device
Do not remove the SD card
Do not remove from the mount
Wait until the update completes fully
Update completion
Device will restart automatically when finished
First boot after update may take slightly longer than usual
Once restarted, the device is ready to use
⏱️ Update Duration
Expected time: 5-15 minutes depending on firmware size
The screen will show progress during installation
Device will restart automatically when complete
✅ Verify Successful Update
After the device restarts:
Go to Settings → System → About
Check the firmware version number
Confirm it shows v1.4.4 (or the version you installed)
⚠️ Important Safety Notes
DO NOT power off during update:
Interrupting the update can cause system instability
Keep the device mounted or connected to power throughout the process
Ensure stable power supply (don't rely on battery if updating via USB)
SD card slot location:
The SD card slot is on the side of the device
After successful update:
The SD card can remain in the device for normal use
Future updates can be done via OTA (over-the-air)
❓ Troubleshooting
Q: The update doesn't start automatically after powering on
A: Ensure the firmware file is in the root directory (not in a folder)
Verify the file isn't corrupted - try re-downloading
Make sure the SD card is fully inserted
Q: Update failed or device won't boot
A: Try the update process again from Step 1
Ensure you're using the correct firmware file for R7M
Contact support if issue persists
Q: My firmware version is already above v1.3.1
A: You don't need this manual method - use regular OTA updates
Go to Settings setup →Update
Need Additional Help?
If you encounter any issues during the manual update process:
Support Center: https://support.ridernav.com
Email Support: [email protected]
Community: https://www.facebook.com/ridernavglobal
Please include your device serial number and firmware version when contacting support.
Important: After successfully updating to v1.4.4 or higher, future updates can be performed via the standard OTA method through the device settings.