After updating RNS510 Firmware/Maps/POI - GTI now won't start!!

[LovemyGTI]

I followed the instructions to upgrade the RNS510 firmware (after confirming the version suitable for my RNS 510 part no and H/W radio) - this installed okay. Then installed maps - this installed okay. Then installed Custom POIs from SD card and this installed okay. Everything was working fine to this point.

Then, while setting up Maps to display cameras and petrol stations - BAM! - the head unit screen went blank and some beeps could be heard in car. I put the key back in ignition and try to turn it on I get these warnings in the MFD and beeps in the car:

Fault: ESP
OR
Fault: Airbag & Brake fault: Workshop!

Car now won't start! These weren't faults with the car before the firmware upgrade so I doubt the car has a genuine problem but I'm not sure what's happened? The firmware didn't fail, the head unit was fine after maps and POI import.

The RNS510 does still turn on and shows the logo screen but then goes blank so I don't think the head unit is fried. But something in the car's computer is snafu'd.

I have no idea what to do. Is it a fuse blown? Is it something that needs to be reset in VCDS? Should I disconnect battery to reset things? I have left it as is for the moment.

If there's a specialist who can help, I'd very much appreciate your PM?

[staz88]

What's your battery voltage like?

[LovemyGTI]

What's your battery voltage like?

Hey Staz, I don't know but I think you could be onto something. Google suggests battery might be related. How can I tell voltage? I don't have VCDS.

I haven't driven the baby for a few weeks - I recently had a real baby! And doing all the RNS510 upgrades with engine off probably drained it further. It's the same battery that came with car in 2010.

Does anyone else recommend new battery? I don't have a battery charger to check. Or should I jump start car and let it run for a few hours to recharge?

[staz88]

Voltmeter across the terminals if you have one.

Otherwise I would just jump start it and take it for a 20 minute drive.
Remember positive to positive, negative to negative when jump starting. Double check.

[LovemyGTI]

No jumper cables so called roadside assistance to start engine. Drove for 30 minutes and all good now.

New firmware & POIs look great!

[staz88]

Glad to hear you're running again.

[tonymy01]

Battery is probably nearly cactus though. I have done a few rns & Bluefin stg1 &stg2 flashes and it really took a toll on the battery. Battery only lasted 2 years. When it went, it went in a hurry. Slow cranking for a couple of weeks and then having to push start it for a couple of days...(even after overnight charging!) I bought an AGM battery to replace it since it will support these deep cycles much better.

[LovemyGTI]

Battery is probably nearly cactus though. I have done a few rns & Bluefin stg1 &stg2 flashes and it really took a toll on the battery. Battery only lasted 2 years. When it went, it went in a hurry. Slow cranking for a couple of weeks and then having to push start it for a couple of days...(even after overnight charging!) I bought an AGM battery to replace it since it will support these deep cycles much better.

I figure the battery is probably on its last legs at almost 5 years but the roadside assist dude did confirm satisfactory voltage (13+ volts) and didn't try to sell me a new battery (although he could have). I'll look out for the slow cranking for early signs for death. The car's really under-used lately - I take the bus to work - and we always drive the wife's A3 where the baby capsule cradle is installed.