Sign-in and online vehicle services

Primary user and over-the-air (OTA) updates

If your vehicle is equipped with online services, complete its connection to the manufacturer's account and, as described in the relevant instructions, verify the primary user. Creating an account or adding the vehicle to the mobile app alone may not activate every available function.

For some vehicles, correct activation of the primary user is one of the conditions for receiving over-the-air updates. Requirements vary by model, equipment, software version and the specific update. It is therefore not generally true that no update can arrive unless the primary user is currently signed in.

OTA stands for Over-the-Air, meaning that an update is transmitted wirelessly to the vehicle. Depending on the vehicle, this may include updates to control-unit or infotainment software. Navigation-map and app updates may have separate conditions.

For reception and installation, check in particular:

• the vehicle's internet connection and sufficient mobile-network coverage;
• online-mode settings and the permissions required for data transmission;
• activation of the relevant service or contract, if required for the update;
• conditions shown directly in the vehicle, such as the required battery charge level.

The manufacturer releases updates gradually for specific vehicles. A missing notification does not by itself indicate a fault. Read the on-screen instructions before installation; the vehicle cannot be used during some updates.

2G and 3G network shutdowns: impact on vehicle online services

Mobile operators are gradually retiring older 2G and 3G networks. Dates vary by country and operator. Restrictions may therefore affect a vehicle abroad earlier than when the same vehicle is used in the Czech Republic.

In affected vehicles, some services using the built-in mobile connection may stop working—for example, displaying vehicle status and location in the app, selected remote functions or requesting roadside assistance. The specific communication unit, its software and the service in use are decisive.

Will a software update or unit replacement help?

For some newer vehicle generations, manufacturers offer a software update that can preserve the relevant online services after older networks are shut down. Depending on the vehicle, it is installed over the air or by a workshop.

Software cannot add support for a newer mobile network to a modem that lacks the necessary hardware. Replacement of the communication unit can be considered only if a manufacturer-approved solution exists for that vehicle. This is not a universally available retrofit. For some older systems, the affected services cannot be retained.

Any available solution must be checked using the VIN, production specification and current manufacturer information. The model name or year of first registration alone is insufficient.

Check emergency calling separately

Network shutdowns can also affect emergency calling. The statutory eCall system and a manufacturer-provided emergency service may use different technologies and may be subject to different conditions.

A working LTE data connection alone therefore does not confirm that emergency calling will remain available. A phone connected by Bluetooth or a Wi-Fi hotspot is not a universal replacement for the built-in system. Before travelling to countries with restricted networks, check the impact on the specific vehicle with the manufacturer or its service partner.

Situation in the Czech Republic

3G network operation in the Czech Republic ended in 2021. 2G networks remain in service. The Czech Telecommunication Office requires them to be maintained at least until the end of June 2028, with the possibility of earlier closure if negligible demand is demonstrated. June 2028 therefore cannot be presented as a fixed shutdown date for all Czech 2G networks.

Information verified as of 2 November 2026.