How to determine if you need a replacement USB port (MIB2 vehicles 2015/2016)

As in-car technology evolves, keeping your vehicle's systems updated is crucial, especially components like the USB port that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If you’re experiencing connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay, it might be time to replace your USB port. Early 2015 and 2016 Volkswagen and SEAT vehicles introduced the MIB 2nd generation system, which supported Apple CarPlay. However, not all vehicles from this period were equipped with compatible USB ports due to the staggered introduction of Apple CarPlay in September 2015 and its wider adoption in 2016. Consequently, some vehicles from this era might require an updated USB port to fully utilise Apple CarPlay.

But how do you determine whether a replacement is necessary? This guide will help you diagnose the need for a new USB port and ensure that your car remains equipped with the latest tech.

1. Your Vehicle Has One Of These Installed SW Train Versions

If your Volkswagen has one of these Installed SW Train Versions, it may be affected (where XX means any digit):

• MST2_EU_VW_PQ_P02XXT
• MST2_EU_VW_ZR_P02XXT

If your SEAT has one of these Installed SW Train Versions, it's definitely affected and will need replacement (where XX means any digit):

• MST2_EU_SE_ZR_P02XXT
• MST2_EU_SE_PQ_P02XXT

In some rare cases if you have a single USB port and your version is:

• MST2_EU_SE_ZR_P03XXT - this will need replacing as well.

To confirm replacement, physically remove your USB port and look for a green connector in the next step.

2. Check Your USB Port To See If It's Green

Grab yourself a thin tool to pry out the USB port from your vehicle. A knife or thin screwdriver should do the job. Remove the USB port slowly (while the cable is still connected). If it looks like this with a purple/pink connector behind then it needs replacement.

Part number: 5G0 035 222 F (Android Auto only).

The replacement port looks like this with a green connector instead:

Part number: 5G0 035 222 E (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto)

If you need a new USB port, head on over to our product page here.

For your reference, here's a YouTube tutorial demonstrating replacement of the port.