Mitsubishi SD Cards for Navigation: The Ultimate Guide to Updating Your Maps

Outdated navigation maps can lead to missing roads or wrong directions. If you own a Mitsubishi with a built-in navigation system, keeping those maps up to date is crucial for a smooth driving experience. This ultimate guide will walk you through everything about Mitsubishi SD cards for navigation and how to use them to update your maps. We’ll cover why map updates matter, explain how Mitsubishi’s navigation systems operate with SD cards, guide you in choosing the right SD card for your vehicle, and provide step-by-step instructions to perform the update. We’ll also share tips to ensure a successful update and answer some common questions.

Why Update Your Mitsubishi Navigation Maps?

Navigation systems are only as good as the data they have. Over time, road networks change – new highways are built, streets get renamed, and new businesses or landmarks appear. Here are a few reasons why updating your Mitsubishi’s navigation maps regularly is a smart move:

• Accurate Routing: With up-to-date maps, your GPS is far more likely to provide the best routes and correct turn-by-turn directions. You won’t be sent the wrong way down closed roads or old routes that no longer exist.
• New Points of Interest: Map updates add newly opened restaurants, gas stations, hotels, and other points of interest (POIs). This is especially useful when traveling in unfamiliar areas – your system can guide you to the latest amenities.
• Time and Fuel Savings: New or improved routes introduced in map updates can shorten your travel times and help save fuel.
• Safety and Peace of Mind: When your navigation is current, you can drive with confidence. You’re less likely to be distracted by trying to figure out detours on the fly. The system will be better prepared to guide you correctly, which is safer for you and your passengers.

By keeping your navigation maps updated, your Mitsubishi’s infotainment system remains a reliable companion on the road. Next, let’s look at how Mitsubishi’s navigation systems use SD cards and what you need to know before updating.

Mitsubishi Navigation Systems and SD Cards

Many Mitsubishi models (especially from the 2010s) use the Mitsubishi Multi Communication System (MMCS) for navigation, which stores map data on an SD card. If your car has an SD card slot labeled for navigation or maps, it likely uses this system. Here are a few key points:

• MMCS Versions: Mitsubishi navigation units have different versions denoted by codes like W17, W15, E11, E12, etc. These codes appear on the navigation info screen or sometimes on the map SD card label. They indicate the specific map format your system uses.
• Why the Code Matters: Map update cards are made to match these version codes. A map SD card for a W17 unit will not work in an E11 unit, for example. So, knowing your code ensures you pick a compatible update.
• Regional Cards: Also, be aware of region differences. There are separate SD cards for Europe, North America, Asia, etc. Use the update for the region where you drive (a European SD card won’t have U.S. maps, and vice versa).

In short, to update via SD card you need to use one that matches both your MMCS version and your region. Next, let’s discuss how to identify and choose the correct SD card for your Mitsubishi.

Choosing the Right SD Card for Your Mitsubishi

Using the correct map SD card is critical for a successful update. Here’s how to find the right one:

• Confirm Your Model and System: Note your car’s model/year and identify the navigation system’s version code (e.g. W17, E12). You can find this code on the navigation info screen or on the label of your current SD card.
• Get the Matching Map Card: Find an update SD card specifically made for that system code and your region. Check the map card’s description or part number to ensure it matches (for example, a card labeled for W17 Europe if that’s your system and region).
• Buy from a Trusted Source: Purchase the SD card from an official Mitsubishi source or a reputable vendor like Smart SD Cards. Our site lists Mitsubishi map update cards by model and MMCS version, making it easy to pick the right one. Steer clear of unofficial “free” downloads – they are often incompatible and potentially risky.

How to Update Your Mitsubishi Navigation Maps via SD Card

Once you have the new map SD card, updating is straightforward. Follow these steps:

1. Power On and Park: Park your vehicle and ensure it’s safely stopped. Turn on the ignition or start the engine so the navigation system has continuous power during the update.
2. Access the SD Card Slot: Locate the SD card slot for the navigation system. (It’s often behind a small panel on the dashboard, in the center console, or in the glovebox. Check your owner’s manual if you’re unsure.)
3. Swap the SD Cards: If an old navigation SD card is in place, eject it by pushing it in gently and then pulling it out. Take the new map SD card and insert it into the slot, label side up, until it clicks securely.
4. Load the New Maps: Turn on the car’s infotainment system and allow the Mitsubishi navigation to recognize the new card. In most cases, it will automatically detect the new map data. If a prompt appears (for example, asking to update or activate maps), confirm or select “OK.” The system may spend a couple of minutes loading the new data – avoid turning off the car during this process.
5. Verify the Update: After the loading is complete, check that the maps have updated. You can view the map version info in the navigation settings (it should show the latest year or version), or simply search for a new road or point of interest that was not on your previous map. If it appears and everything is functioning, the update was successful.

Tips for a Smooth Update

• Maintain Power: Keep the engine running (or at least the ignition on) during the update. This ensures the car doesn’t shut off mid-process and cause an incomplete installation.
• Handle Cards with Care: Remove and insert SD cards gently, and avoid touching their metal contacts. Don’t try to alter or copy files on the new SD card – use it exactly as provided.
• Verify Compatibility: If the new maps don’t seem to load, double-check that the SD card you’re using is intended for your Mitsubishi’s navigation system (correct model, year, and MMCS version). Using the wrong card is a common issue that’s easily fixed by obtaining the proper one.

Conclusion

Using an updated SD card is the easiest way to keep your Mitsubishi’s navigation system accurate and reliable. We’ve discussed why it’s important, how to find the correct SD card, and the simple steps to install it. The process can be done at home in just a short time, saving you a trip to the dealer. With the latest maps on your side, you’ll drive with more confidence, knowing your directions and points of interest are current. Make it a habit to update your maps periodically (about once a year) so your Mitsubishi’s GPS is always ready to guide you on the newest roads. Happy driving with your up-to-date navigation system!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How often are Mitsubishi navigation map updates released?

Mitsubishi typically releases new navigation map updates about once per year. It’s wise to check annually for a new SD card for your model so your navigation stays current with the latest road changes.

Can I use my old Mitsubishi SD card to update another vehicle or a different MMCS version?

Generally, no. Map SD cards are usually specific to a particular system version and region. An SD card from one Mitsubishi (or one MMCS version) won’t work in another. Also, some cards are locked to a vehicle to prevent re-use. Always get the proper update card for each vehicle’s navigation system.

My Mitsubishi has navigation, but I don’t see any SD card slot. How do I update it?

If your Mitsubishi’s navigation doesn’t have an SD card slot, it likely uses a different update method (or relies on phone-based navigation). In such cases, map updates might be done via USB or at the dealership. Check your owner’s manual or ask a Mitsubishi service center for the correct update procedure for that system. (Many newer models that use Apple CarPlay/Android Auto don’t require map updates, as they use your phone’s navigation apps instead.)