Waze not showing in the BMW cluster: why and what to do
If you use Waze through CarPlay or Android Auto, you probably only see it on the central screen. The cluster behind the wheel keeps showing BMW navigation. It is not a phone or app bug: this is how standard integration works on most iDrive 7 BMWs.
There are still steps you can check yourself, and on some cars the directions can be brought into the digital cluster. Below is a clear explanation of what is possible and what is not.
Why it happens
CarPlay and Android Auto are designed to show apps on the central display. The digital cluster is controlled by BMW and normally shows only the car navigation. That is why Waze appears on the main screen but not between the dials.
What you can check yourself
- Are Waze and CarPlay or Android Auto up to date?
- Is the phone connected properly and Waze selected as the navigation app?
- Is BMW navigation stopped, so it does not override the directions?
- Which iDrive do you have: two separate screens means iDrive 7, one curved panel means iDrive 8.
When coding can solve it
On some BMWs with iDrive 7, an MGU unit and a compatible digital cluster, Waze directions can be integrated into the cluster. The head unit, the cluster type and the software version matter, not just the model and year.
What we do not promise
We do not promise it works on every BMW, and we do not promise it appears on the head-up display. We check the car setup first and tell you honestly whether it can be done.
FAQ
Does it work with iPhone and Android?+
It depends on the car setup and the phone. Tell us what you use and we check before installing.
Does it show on the head-up display?+
This page is about the digital cluster. For the HUD, ask us with your exact model.
Do I lose BMW navigation if I integrate Waze?+
No. BMW navigation, CarPlay and Android Auto all stay. Waze is added to the cluster.
How much does the integration cost?+
It depends on the model and the head unit. Send the model, year and VIN for a quote.
See what your BMW can do
Send us the model, year and, if you have it, the VIN. We will tell you honestly what works on your car, in person or remotely.