BMW’s iDrive system has evolved over the years, with different models and production years featuring varying versions. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) can help determine the exact infotainment system installed. Below is a detailed guide.
1. BMW iDrive Generations (2003-2024)
|
System Code |
Name |
Release Years |
Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
|
CCC |
Car Communication Computer |
2003-2008 |
6.5″ screen, CD-based navigation, no HDD |
|
CIC |
Car Infotainment Computer |
2008-2012 |
8.8″ screen, HDD navigation, 3D maps |
|
NBT |
Next Big Thing |
2012-2015 |
10.25″ screen, touch-sensitive iDrive knob, HDMI input |
|
NBT EVO |
NBT Evolution |
2015-2018 |
Supports CarPlay, modernized UI |
|
MGU (ID5/ID6) |
Modular Gateway Unit |
2017-2020 |
Digital cockpit, touchscreen support |
|
MGU (ID7) |
iDrive 7.0 |
2018-2023 |
Voice assistant, OTA updates |
|
MGU (ID8/ID9) |
iDrive 8.0/9.0 |
2022-2024 |
Curved display, no physical buttons |
2. How to Check iDrive System Using VIN
Method 1: Use BMW VIN Decoder Tools
-
Visit a BMW VIN decoder website (e.g., bimmer.workor mdecoder.com).
-
Enter the 17-digit VIN (found on the windshield or driver’s door jamb).
-
Look for “SA” codes (vehicle options), focusing on:
-
SA 609 → CCC (older E60/E90 models)
-
SA 606 → CIC (E70/E90 LCI)
-
SA 609A → NBT (F10/F30)
-
SA 609B → NBT EVO (F30 LCI/G11)
-
SA 609C → MGU ID5/ID6 (G30/G01)
-
SA 609D → MGU ID7 (G20/G05)
-
SA 609E → MGU ID8/ID9 (G60/G70)
-
Method 2: Identify via iDrive Interface
-
CCC/CIC: Older menu style, no touch support, low-resolution screen.
-
NBT/NBT EVO: Touch-sensitive iDrive knob, modern UI (2012-2018 models).
-
ID5/ID6: Full digital cockpit, gesture control (2017-2020 models).
-
ID7/ID8: Large curved display, no physical knob (2020+ models).
Method 3: Estimate Based on Model Year
|
Year Range |
iDrive System |
Example Models |
|---|---|---|
|
2003-2008 |
CCC |
E60/E90 |
|
2008-2012 |
CIC |
E70/E90 LCI |
|
2012-2015 |
NBT |
F10/F30 |
|
2015-2018 |
NBT EVO |
F30 LCI/G11 |
|
2017-2020 |
MGU ID5/ID6 |
G30/G01 |
|
2018-2023 |
MGU ID7 |
G20/G05 |
|
2022-2024 |
MGU ID8/ID9 |
G60/G70 |
3. Special Cases
-
Some cars may have aftermarket upgrades (e.g., older F30 with NBT EVO retrofit).
-
EVO systems have different versions (e.g., EVO ID4/ID5/ID6), so check the software version.
If you’re still unsure, provide the VIN or model year for further verification!
Before upgrade your BMW screen monitor or Apple CarPlay , please check the above information, it is helpful to identify your BMW car infotainment system and choose correct BMW android (Linux) display or Apple CarPlay interface or BMW android decoder.
https://www.ugode.com/bmw-android-screen-upgrade/
https://www.ugode.com/car-carplay/
The following guidance is helpful to check BMW iDrive system :
Post time: Aug-07-2025