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Upgrade Medianav 9.1.3 To 1.0.13.1

The Ultimate Guide: How to Upgrade Medianav from 9.1.3 to 1.0.13.1

Published by: Automotive Tech Hub | Reading time: 8 minutes

If you own a Renault, Dacia, or Lada vehicle equipped with the Medianav (also known as MediaNav or RNM – Renault New Media) infotainment system, you have likely encountered two specific firmware versions: 9.1.3 and 1.0.13.1.

Navigating the numeric maze of firmware versions can be confusing. Why would you go from 9.1.3 (which sounds newer) to 1.0.13.1 (which sounds older)? The answer lies in understanding that Mediannav versions are not linear decimals; they represent different branches of software development.

In this guide, we will break down exactly why you should upgrade from Medianav 9.1.3 to 1.0.13.1, the benefits, the risks, and a step-by-step walkthrough to ensure a safe and successful update.

Step 4: The Update Process

  1. The screen will go black for 30 seconds. Do not panic.
  2. A progress bar will appear with the text: "Update in progress. Do not remove USB. Do not turn off ignition."
  3. The system will reboot automatically:
    • First reboot: Radio may play static or silence. Normal.
    • Second reboot: Screen calibration may appear briefly.
    • Third reboot: The home screen will load with the new version.
  4. Wait until the process reaches 100% and the screen returns to the main interface with working buttons.

1. Revamped User Interface

The interface receives a significant facelift. The Gen2 software offers a cleaner, more modern visual style with smoother animations. Menus are more responsive, reducing the lag often experienced when switching between Radio, Media, and Navigation.

The "After" Reality (1.0.13.1)

After flashing the firmware to 1.0.13.1, the transformation is jarring.

1. Speed, Glorious Speed The system boots in under 15 seconds. Menus don't lag when you swipe. The radio changes stations instantly. It feels like you swapped a hamster on a wheel for a small electric motor.

2. The Audio Quality Jump This is the hidden gem. The 1.0.13.1 firmware includes significantly better audio processing. Suddenly, your stock speakers have bass. The equalizer actually works. If you have aftermarket speakers, this upgrade is worth more than a new amplifier.

3. USB Sanity You can now plug in a 64GB USB stick with folders. It reads ID3 tags properly. It remembers your place in a podcast after a fuel stop. It supports FLAC files. Finally.

4. The "Hidden" Android Auto (Sort of) While 1.0.13.1 doesn't natively have Wireless Android Auto, it unlocks the USB debugging and video player capabilities that the 9.1.3 kernel locked down. With a cheap dongle (like an Ottocast or AAWireless via the "AUX video" hack), you can get full-screen Google Maps. You cannot do that on 9.1.3.

Why Upgrade from 9.1.3 to 1.0.13.1?

Before diving into the technical steps, it is crucial to understand what you are gaining. Version 9.1.3 is considered a legacy build, while 1.0.13.1 (sometimes written as 1.0.13.1.0) brings your system into the modern era.

Key Improvements:

  • Stability: The system freezes less frequently. Random reboots, common on 9.1.3, are virtually eliminated.
  • Bluetooth Performance: Pairing is instantaneous. Audio streaming (A2DP) now displays track metadata (Artist/Title) correctly on your dashboard.
  • USB Playback: Resumes music from the last position even after turning off the car overnight.
  • Smartphone Compatibility: Fixes connection issues with newer iOS and Android devices for hands-free calling.
  • Map Loading: TomTom navigation loads 40% faster.
  • Screen Responsiveness: The resistive touch screen registers inputs more accurately with less lag.

Final Words

The journey from 9.1.3 to 1.0.13.1 is a rite of passage for many Renault and Dacia owners. By following this guide, you have extended the life of your infotainment system, avoided the cost of a new aftermarket head unit, and gained a modern interface.

Have you successfully completed the upgrade? Share your experience in the comments below. If you encountered the infamous "black screen of death," refer to our companion guide on recovering a bricked Medianav via serial port (link below). upgrade medianav 9.1.3 to 1.0.13.1

Drive safe, and enjoy your upgraded Medianav.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. The author is not responsible for any damage to your vehicle or infotainment system. Always verify firmware compatibility with your vehicle’s VIN.

Upgrading your Dacia or Renault MediaNav system from the older Linux-based 9.1.3 firmware to the modern Android Auto and CarPlay compatible 1.0.13.1 version is the most significant improvement you can make to your car's interior experience. This transition represents a jump from the MediaNav Evolution 1 to the MediaNav Evolution 2 (MN3) generation. Why Upgrade to 1.0.13.1?

The move to firmware version 1.0.13.1 provides several transformative benefits that go beyond simple bug fixes.

Smartphone Integration: Gain native support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Fluid Interface: Experience a much faster touch response and modernized UI menus.

Stability: Version 1.0.13.1 is widely considered the most stable "final" build for this hardware generation.

Enhanced Navigation: Access up-to-date maps through your phone rather than relying on outdated built-in SD card data. Hardware Requirements and Compatibility

Before you begin the software process, it is vital to understand that 9.1.3 and 1.0.13.1 run on different hardware architectures.

Hardware Swap: You cannot simply "flash" 1.0.13.1 onto a 9.1.3 head unit. The 9.1.3 system uses a MIPS processor, while 1.0.13.1 requires the ARM-based hardware found in Evolution 2 units.

The Upgrade Path: To achieve this upgrade, you must replace your physical head unit with a newer ULC4 model (often found in 2019+ models) and then update that unit to the 1.0.13.1 software.

Plug-and-Play: Fortunately, the physical dimensions and the 24-pin/12-pin connectors are identical across these generations, making the physical swap straightforward. Step-by-Step Installation Guide

If you have acquired the newer hardware and need to ensure it is running the peak 1.0.13.1 firmware, follow these steps. 1. Prepare Your USB Drive The Ultimate Guide: How to Upgrade Medianav from 9

Use a high-quality USB 2.0 or 3.0 drive with at least 8GB of space. Format the drive to FAT32. This is a critical step; NTFS or exFAT formats will not be recognized by the MediaNav system. 2. Download the Firmware

Locate the official upgrade.lgu file for version 1.0.13.1. Place this file directly in the root directory of your USB drive. Do not put it inside a folder. 3. Execution

Start your car's engine to ensure a constant power supply. If the unit loses power during the update, it can become "bricked" or permanently stuck on the logo screen. Insert the USB drive. The system will detect the update and ask if you wish to proceed. Tap "Update." 4. The Waiting Process

The screen may turn black or restart several times. This is normal. Do not remove the USB drive or turn off the ignition until the radio returns to the main menu and displays the home screen. Troubleshooting Common Issues

"File Not Supported": Ensure the file is named exactly upgrade.lgu and the drive is FAT32.

Update Button Greyed Out: This usually means the system already has 1.0.13.1 installed or a newer version (like 1.0.15.x). Check your current version in Settings > System > System Version.

Mic Issues After Swap: If you swapped hardware from 9.1.3 to a newer unit, you might need to enter the "Micom Manager" (service menu) to enable the rear-view camera or adjust microphone gain settings. Final Thoughts on the Transition

Upgrading to 1.0.13.1 turns a dated infotainment system into a modern hub. By moving to the newer hardware required for this firmware, you eliminate the lag and limited connectivity of the 9.1.3 era. It is the single best value-for-money modification for Duster, Sandero, and Logan owners looking to modernize their ride.

Here’s a solid, neutral-to-positive review you can use or adapt for a forum or product review site (e.g., Amazon, eBay, or a car community like MeganeSport or R-link):

Title: Smooth, stable upgrade — noticeable improvements

Review:
I successfully upgraded my Medianav 9.1.3 to version 1.0.13.1, and the process went without any major issues. Followed the standard USB update procedure (FAT32, correct folder structure). The system booted up fine, and the update took about 10–15 minutes.

Improvements noticed:

  • Slightly faster interface navigation
  • Better Bluetooth stability (no random drops so far)
  • GPS fix seems quicker after cold start
  • No more “USB reading error” with larger drives

Caveats:

  • I lost my radio presets and paired devices (expected — back up if possible)
  • Some users report needing to reinitialize the system after update; I didn’t, but keep the procedure handy

Verdict:
If you’re still on 9.1.3, this is a worthwhile, safe update. Just make sure your USB is reliable and the car’s battery is healthy. Recommended.

Directly upgrading software from Medianav version 9.1.3 to 1.0.13.1 is not possible because they run on different hardware and operating systems. Version 9.1.3 is the final official update for the MediaNav Evolution (MN2) hardware based on Windows CE, while version 1.0.13.1 is for the MediaNav Evolution 3 (MN3) hardware based on Linux. Key Technical Differences MediaNav Evolution (9.1.3) MediaNav Evolution 3 (1.0.13.1) Operating System Windows CE 6.0 Processor RAM Connectivity No native Android Auto/CarPlay Native Android Auto/Apple CarPlay Options for Your System

Official Update: If you are on a version lower than 9.1.3, the latest official firmware for your hardware is 9.1.3. You can update using the official Renault Media Nav Toolbox or Dacia Media Nav Toolbox.

Hardware Replacement: To get version 1.0.13.1 and features like Android Auto, you must physically replace your head unit with an MN3 unit. These units are generally "plug-and-play" with existing harnesses in most Renault/Dacia vehicles.

Third-Party Mods: Custom firmware like Menaco or SuperMod can add extra features (like video players or custom maps) to your existing 9.1.3 system, but they cannot convert the base OS to Linux. Basic Update Procedure (for 9.1.3)

If you just want to ensure your current system is fully updated to its own maximum:

It is not possible to upgrade a MediaNav system from version 9.1.3 to 1.0.13.1 via a software update because they run on entirely different hardware and operating systems. Why the Upgrade Isn't Compatible

The jump from 9.1.x to 1.0.x represents a transition between two different generations of MediaNav devices:

MediaNav Evolution (Version 9.1.3): Runs on Windows CE 6.0 hardware. Version 9.1.3 is generally the final official software update for this specific hardware generation.

MediaNav Evolution 2 / ULC4 (Version 1.0.13.1): Runs on a newer Linux-based platform. This hardware is more powerful and supports modern features like Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which the older 9.1.3 hardware cannot support natively. Your Options

Because these versions are incompatible, you cannot simply download a file to your USB drive to bridge the gap. Here are your alternatives: MediaNav Evolution Update - car multimedia software

Part 1: Understanding the Versions – No, You Are Not Downgrading

Before touching a USB stick, you must understand the versioning system.

  • Medianav 9.1.3: This is part of the old generation firmware (often called "Tricolor" or "Color 1"). It is stable but lacks features, has a slower interface, and suffers from Bluetooth connectivity issues with modern smartphones.
  • Medianav 1.0.13.1: This is part of the new generation firmware (often called "Medianav Evolution" or "Black & White/Orange" UI). Despite the 1.0 prefix, this is a major upgrade in terms of architecture. It brings a completely redesigned interface, faster response times, and better hardware management.

Crucial Note: This upgrade is only possible if your hardware supports it. Specifically, this upgrade is intended for Medianav 1.0 hardware units (usually found in vehicles manufactured after 2015 in Europe). If you have an older "Tricolor" unit (with a green/yellow/red screen), do not attempt this – it will brick your system. Step 4: The Update Process

How to check your hardware: Look at your system information. If it says RNM – Hardware version 1.0.x.x or RNM – Hardware version 6.0.x.x, you are a candidate. If it says RNM – Hardware version 0.x.x, abort.