How to Update Your Skoda Navigation via SD Card: Step-by-Step (Amundsen & Columbus)

Keeping your Škoda’s navigation system up to date is crucial for safe, smooth travels. Outdated maps can lead you astray, so knowing how to update your Skoda navigation via SD card will ensure you always have the latest routes. In this guide, we’ll walk through the process step-by-step for both Škoda’s Amundsen and Columbus navigation systems. Whether you drive an Octavia, Karoq, Kodiaq, Superb or any other model, performing a Škoda navigation update via SD card with fresh map data will make your journeys easier and more efficient. Best of all, you won’t need any dealership visits or complicated software – just the SD card and a few minutes of your time to get the latest maps ready to go.

Understanding Škoda Navigation Systems: Amundsen vs. Columbus

Škoda primarily uses two in-dash navigation systems that can be updated via SD card:

• Amundsen: The mid-range navigation system in many Škoda models (e.g. Octavia, Karoq, Kodiaq). It uses an SD card for maps, which usually stays inserted during use. Importantly, Amundsen units only accept official or specially coded SD cards for map data (the original card or an authorized update card).
• Columbus: The premium navigation system (found in higher-end models like the Superb or top-trim Octavias) with internal storage for maps. It uses an SD card to import map updates but stores the maps in its internal memory. After updating, the SD card isn’t needed for navigation until the next update.

Knowing which unit you have is important, since a Škoda Amundsen navigation update requires a different SD card than Škoda Columbus navigation update.

Preparation: What You Need for the Update

Before starting the update on either navigation system, make sure you have the following:

The Right SD Card

Ensure you have the correct SD card for your system. For Amundsen, this means the original navigation SD card for your car (or a new one specifically encoded for your model’s maps). For Columbus, you’ll need an SD card (typically 32 GB or larger (large map packages can be 20GB or more, so a high-capacity SDHC card is recommended)) containing the latest map update files. You can purchase pre-loaded Škoda SD card map updates (with the latest maps for your region) from authorized sources – for example, map update SD cards for Škoda models are available on our store. Using an official or compatible card is crucial; a generic blank SD card will not work for Amundsen due to the security ID feature, and Columbus updates also require the proper data on the card.

Computer (Optional)

If you obtained a new SD card with up-to-date maps, you might not need a computer at all – the update can be plug-and-play. However, if you plan on downloading map files yourself to put on an SD card, you would need a computer with an SD card reader to transfer the files. (Remember: avoid using unofficial download tools – our method uses the ready-to-go SD card approach to keep it simple.)

Time and Power

Map updates, especially for Columbus (which can involve copying large files to internal storage), can take some time. Set aside at least 15-30 minutes for the process. It’s recommended to perform the update with the car engine running or the battery sufficiently charged so that the infotainment system stays powered on the whole time. You don’t want the unit to shut off mid-update.

Once you have these in place, you’re ready to proceed with the Skoda map update. Below we outline the steps for updating Amundsen and Columbus systems.

How to Update Skoda Amundsen Navigation via SD Card (Step-by-Step)

Updating an Amundsen system is straightforward when you have the proper SD card. Follow these steps for a successful Škoda Amundsen update:

Step 1 (Amundsen): Safely Access the Navigation SD Card

Ensure the car’s ignition is on (accessory mode is fine). Locate the SD card slot (commonly in the glovebox or center console). If a navigation SD card is already inserted (most Amundsen units have one for maps), eject it by pressing it in until it clicks out (you might use a menu option like “Remove SD card” if available to be safe). Take out the old SD card and set it aside.

Step 2 (Amundsen): Insert the New Map SD Card

Now, take the new SD card with the latest Amundsen maps. Confirm it’s the correct update for your region (e.g., Europe 2025). Insert the card into the slot until it locks. The Amundsen system should detect the card and begin loading the map data. Usually, you won’t need to press any buttons – the system will automatically use the new maps on the card. Give it a minute to load the data.

Step 3 (Amundsen): Confirm the Map Update

After insertion, verify the update: check the navigation settings for map version information (it should show the new version or year). Test the system by searching for a recently added location or road to confirm the new map data is active. If the new location appears and guidance works normally, the update was successful. The new SD card can remain in the slot for navigation use.

How to Update Skoda Columbus Navigation via SD Card (Step-by-Step)

Updating a Columbus system is slightly different since the data will be copied to internal storage. Here’s how to perform a Škoda Columbus navigation update using an SD card:

Step 1 (Columbus): Prepare for the Update

Make sure the car’s ignition is on to power the Columbus unit. If an SD card from a previous update is in the slot, remove it. (If you haven’t updated before, the slot will likely be empty since Columbus stores maps internally.)

Step 2 (Columbus): Insert the Update SD Card

Insert the SD card containing the latest Columbus map update. The infotainment should detect new navigation data and prompt you to start the update. Approve the prompt to begin transferring the maps to the internal memory. This copy process can take several minutes. 

Important: Do not turn off the car or remove the SD card while the update is in progress. You may see a progress bar – wait until it finishes. 

Tip: You can drive during the update (to keep the battery charged) as long as the ignition remains on and the system will continue updating until finished.

Step 3 (Columbus): Complete the Update and Verify

After the update completes, the system may reboot. Once done, check the map version in the Columbus unit’s settings to ensure it reflects the new data. Try using the navigation to confirm that new roads or places are now available. If everything looks correct and no error messages occure, the update was successful. You can then remove the SD card – the maps are now stored in the car’s memory.

Note: If you encounter any errors during the process (such as the car not recognizing the SD card or an update failing), double-check that you have the correct SD card for your system and that the update process was not interrupted. Often, retrying the update with the proper card (and ensuring the car stays on) will resolve the issue. Refer to the FAQs below for some common concerns.

FAQs: Škoda Navigation SD Card Updates

How do I know if my Škoda has Amundsen or Columbus navigation?

Amundsen typically displays its name on start-up and often has a smaller screen, while Columbus units have larger screens and usually indicate “Columbus” on boot. Also, Columbus often has features like a hard drive for media storage. Knowing which unit you have is important, since a Škoda Amundsen navigation update requires a different SD card than a Columbus update.

Can I update my Škoda maps with a regular SD card I bought myself?

For Amundsen, no – it will only work with the original or an authorized SD card because of built-in security. For Columbus, you can put the update files on an SD card, but it’s recommended to use the official update card or a reliable source so the data is correct. The simplest path is to use a pre-loaded navigation SD card update from a trusted provider, avoiding any complicated SD card tools or software.

How often should I perform a Škoda navigation update?

Map providers typically release updates once or twice a year (for example, often in spring and autumn). Updating your maps annually is a good rule of thumb. This ensures you have the latest roads and points of interest. If you drive in fast-changing areas or have a big trip planned, updating beforehand is wise. An up-to-date Škoda map update will help you avoid surprises on the road.

Will updating my navigation via SD card also update the infotainment software?

No – updating via SD card only refreshes the map data (roads, POIs, etc.), not the system’s firmware. The SD card update is focused on navigation content. Any software or firmware updates to the infotainment (to fix bugs or add features) are done separately, usually by a dealership or a different process. The SD card method is a safe way to get the latest maps without changing your unit’s core software.

I lost (or never had) my original Škoda navigation SD card. Can I still update my maps?

Yes, but you will need a proper replacement card. For Amundsen systems, the card must be an official or compatible navigation SD card that’s coded for Škoda (typically obtained from a dealer or a trusted online provider). For Columbus, you can use a standard SD card to transfer the update, but it’s easiest to buy an official map update card with the latest data. If you bought your car used and it didn’t come with a navigation SD card, obtaining one is necessary to perform updates. In either case, once you have a valid SD card with the map update, you can follow the steps above to install it.

Škoda Navigation SD Card Update – From Octavia to Kodiaq

By following this guide, you can confidently perform a Škoda navigation update on your Amundsen or Columbus system using an SD card. Keeping your car’s maps current – whether it’s for a Škoda Octavia navigation update, a Škoda Karoq navigation update, or updating a Superb’s Columbus, or other models – ensures you get the most out of your Škoda’s built-in GPS. With up-to-date directions at your fingertips, you’ll enjoy stress-free travel on every journey. This DIY update approach saves time and lets you rely on your Škoda’s navigation with confidence.