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#1 · (Edited)
Thread Edit: Oct 15 2013 - Added Wish List Items / Updated known issues
Descriptions and Features

The RA3 and RA4 Radios, what are they?

These radio options are commonly referred to as an Infotainment system as they are a combination of radio tuners (AM-FM-XM), a media player (iPod or various memory devices) as well as a control interface for the vehicle. Depending on the model of radio they support different features which I will explain later in this post. All of the 8.4" units have some common features among them such as how they interact with the vehicle.

Each radio has a common software loaded onto it that is shared among many platforms of vehicle. The software is able to "talk to the vehicle" and find out what type, and trim level the vehicle is and display information and interact with various parts of the vehicle based on what that vehicle has in it. I use the words "talk to" for a reason because the software on the radio and the radio itself are not related to very many operational items in the vehicle. For example, you may be able to save the seat seatings, or change a comfort feature on the radio screen, but the radio is not actually "controlling" that device itself. The radio receives the input from you the user, then tells the seat module to save the setting and maybe the HVAC (Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning) module that you want a certain temperature maintained. For those of you who may have experienced a setting that unchecked itself, this is usually cause by the module not acknowledging the change you made and often nothing to do with the radio.

The actual "Head Unit" itself as the radio is often referred to may be configured with different optional cards to support different features. The radio code of RA3 refers to the head unit that does not have navigation, however there are also other optional components at both the RA3 and RA4 that may be different based on your region. For example, not all regions get SiriusXM which can be identified as by the build code "RSD". The software can tell if the head unit has this component and adjust the available inputs accordingly. There are various other features that are available including UConnect Access which is a Cellular Card built into the head unit allowing independent access to data and cell networks. You would need to refer to the options built in your specific vehicle for all of the details.

A brief note on UConnect Access which I will expand upon later... It uses a Sierra wireless card in order to receive commands that can tell the head unit to perform actions such as initiate a remote start. It can also be asked to send a diagnostic report, download new information or applications and can initiate calls for emergency or service related items. At this time, updates for the base software in the radio cannot be downloaded via the Sierra card or via any mobile data connection directly to the car. I will be noting some more information about the software updates and version in Post #2

The RA3 and RA4 Radios, what are they not?

As mentioned earlier on the head unit really only contains its own communications pieces and the audio playback components (the amplifier components are located elsewhere). This means that the modules located throughout the vehicle like HVAC, Seats, Lighting and Collision Mitigation systems are not in any way physically part of the head unit. This means that software changes on the head unit cannot upgrade features of the vehicle. It has been discussed a few times about temperature sensors, climate control or even air suspension not operating as expected. If there is an update released that changes or corrects something such as the temperature that is recalled when you remote start a vehicle, this is not related to the head unit in almost all cases. These type of changes are firmware that needs to be loaded directly onto the module and in my example the HVAC module. At time of posting this there is still a reported issue of the outside temperature not being accurate, again this is a module update and not related to the radio.

Detailed Descriptions for all 2014 8.4" or 5" Radios

An excellent resource for all thinks WK2 is WK2Jeeps.com. There are complete vehicle specification and detailed "how to". For a complete listing of all of the North American radio features please see here: Jeep Grand Cherokee WK2 - 2014 model year radios

This site is a fantastic resourse, I recommend you browse the table of contents, there is a lot of useful information there.
 
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#2 · (Edited)
Last Edit: Dec 15 2013 8:35am EDT
Software Updates and Changes

Software and Where you get it

First off the current location to receive the most current updates available for your Jeep are located at Link: https://rsur.extra.chrysler.com/rsur/Uconnect.do . Simply enter your VIN and you can download a self extracting ZIP file that can be loaded to a USB Stick and installed on your Jeep. We also offer a section of the site where discussions on specific issues with Software versions and assistance with getting the Radio updated can be found. The following links are Premium Member VIP threads and offer extra assistance from our supporting members in getting the most out of your system and getting the files when the UConnect site misbehaves. UConnect Site instructions at the bottom.

Current Version 13.48.3 :http://www.jeepgarage.org/f219/uconnect-8-4-13-48-3-north-america-vip-69170.html#post945137

** Dealers have a bulletin on the above release

Prior Version is 13.38.52 :http://www.jeepgarage.org/f219/uconnect-8-4-13-38-52-north-america-vip-66364-16.html#post905413

Early Stable Release was 13.19.0 (includes info on 13.12.1 for the RA2) :http://www.jeepgarage.org/f219/uconnect-13-19-0-vip-thread-62731-27.html#post857058

First Major update : http://www.jeepgarage.org/f155/uconnect-updates-available-now-60397-39.html#post827863

What Models Run This Software?

As of 13.48.3 The following models of vehicles all run the same software (with the applicable radio)

MODELS:
2013-2014 (DS) Ram 1500 Pickup
2013-2014 (DD) Ram 3500 Cab Chassis
2013-2014 (DJ) Ram 2500 Pickup
2013-2014 (DX) Ram Truck (Mexico)
2013-2014 (DP) Ram 4500/5500 Cab Chassis
2013-2014 (D2) Ram 3500 Pickup
2014 (WK) Grand Cherokee
2014 (WD) Durango
2013-2014 (ZD) Viper
2014 (KL) Cherokee (New with this release)


When Loading the Software

Some key things to keep in mind when loading the software for North America are ALWAYS Follow the instructions. I have included a PDF attachment of the most recent instructions for the installation in this post for your reference. I have also included some notes below, and some of these items are mentioned in the instructions, many of them gathered from your fellow JeepGaragers right here in the forum.

-This update is supposed to correct intermittent showing of the "Service Phone" message. If you continually receive this message on every start up, you should consult your dealer prior to performing the update. If this message comes up periodically or "often" but not on every vehicle start (as per instructions) you may wish to perform the update as it may lessen or correct the problem.
-You MUST use no less than a 1GB USB stick formatted in FAT32 (North America)
-Your USB Stick can be up to 32 GB, it is not recommended to try and use a larger one
-There can only be the single ISO file on the USB once you have created the USB Stick, no other files or folders can reside on the stick.
-Be Patient, Be Patient, Be Patient... If you are in a big hurry do not run the update now. Do not run the update while operating the vehicle, and think about the temperature outside before starting the update. If it is hot outside, run the vehicle and roll down the windows before you start.
-In relation to the last note, do not operate an accessory or touch the start button during the update process.
-Delete completely all Bluetooth Devices from both the radio and the phone and pair after the update again
-Do not panic if you are missing features or certain options will not select (see be patient note)
-If you have UConnect Access, you may experience rebooting of your radio and or freezing for up to 24 hours afterwards (this appears to have been more of an issue with 13.19.0)
-If the update fails or something goes wrong, don't panic, it can easily be restarted.
-The update WILL put a log file on the USB stick showing all items and their completion status.
-If the update continues to cause you grief try a different USB Stick. Using a good quality USB stick will make this process much smoother than the free give away key chain units that have been dropped 600 times.
-Don't even try the update after letting you vehicle battery run down listening to the radio with the engine not running.
-It is a good idea to wait at least a couple of hours before trying to customize Settings on the radio. The update does some processing afterwards and some setting will not stay.
-Be Patient!

Most Significant Reported Fixes For the Latest Version (official Change Logs posted to the VIP Threads)

-Mute will stay on during start up
-Bluetooth Connectivity Enhancements
-Backup Camera Improvements
-Via Mobile Apps NOW ACTIVE !!

UConnect Site Installation Example

Thanks to vroon for this tip when using Chrome: You may need to click on the lock symbol in the upper right corner and tell chrome to "Load Unsafe Scripts" for the UConnect Site.

Also Thanks to SNUKE for Providing the Layouts. I have shown the example in Internet Explorer 9 and the International Thread shows the examples in Google Chrome. Internet Explorer 10 will give you significantly more security warnings.

If Your Dealer is having difficulty getting the software installed for you on a visit, please point them here (I hear the customer site works very similar to the Dealer one)

The UConnect update link at the top of this post will take you through to a secure screen to enter last 8 digits of your VIN, which will look like this. The White Space at the top an bottom will be filled in with UConnect information if you click on the Show all Content button at the bottom.




The Green Minus or Dash Sign is a "+" to expand out the information. You may Choose MAC or PC software, but it will not let you continue until you specify how you got there:



You may select view instructions which will download the PDF at the bottom of this post or Select "Begin Update Process" and it will start an installation tutorial explaining how to place the files on a USB



If you have not already done so it may give you a warning about installing Akamai Netsession Interface (This is the download manager) and once this is OKed, it will ask you where to Save

Do Not save it directly to the USB but to the Desktop or somewhere easy to Extract it from.



At the end you will see the following Status Screen. A Pop up will come up for IE at the end saying "Download Complete"

 

Attachments

#3 · (Edited)
Last Edit: Oct 15 2013 7:35am
Known Issues in the Current Version and Feature Wish List


Known Issues and Status When Known

-** After Loading update, Radio is Locked and asking for 4 digit code. This is not a software issue. The radio was swapped from another vehicle and not mated to the new vehicle properly. This is NOT a concern when replacement radios are ordered from factory, ONLY when dealer swaps with "Stock" unit. Unlock code can be obtained from your dealer.
-May see song replication after upgrade on an SD Card or USB Stick, This is not actually songs replicating but simply name tracking for playlists and Genres
-Reports some module setting such as comfort settings (seat and steering wheel not staying checked) - (wait a couple of hours if still the case may be module issue, not confirmed at this time)
-Remote start does not activate auto or set temperature settings. (Not related to UConnect, requires a Dealer Performed HVAC Control Module update) TSB Information Here: http://www.wk2jeeps.com/tsb/tsb_wk2_2400213.pdf (Thanks to WK2Jeeps.com)
-A few "Phone Service" messages have been reported from users but also a great number of users who have seen it much less or disappear, we will track this over time.
-A number of people have complained that their FM and or XM Radio Presets were lost more than a day after upgrade. I am tracking this for reoccurrence.
-This update does not correct the outdoor temperature accuracy as noted in the descriptions in Post #1 this is a Module issue no the radio.



The Wish List (Items that we wish the Radios Supported Including Items that appear to be in the Documentation but not supported marked with a **)

-** Ability to add pictures
-Choose different Skins or Themes
-FLAC Audio File Support in the media Player for SD and USB



Please post any other items you wished for.
 
#7 ·
I guess we may have to wait for another update for the comfort setting to stick.

Advice for a successful update:

After installing the new software as per the instruction, do the power down then let the truck sit for 24 hours. Resist the temptation to play with the setting right away. I did not follow this advice and my radio went screwy. Thankfully everything was back to normal the next day. I think fooling with it to soon could interfere with the modules from loading.
 
#8 ·
I guess we may have to wait for another update for the comfort setting to stick. Advice for a successful update: After installing the new software as per the instruction, do the power down then let the truck sit for 24 hours. Resist the temptation to play with the setting right away. I did not follow this advice and my radio went screwy. Thankfully everything was back to normal the next day. I think fooling with it to soon could interfere with the modules from loading.
Good point...

On the comfort settings not sticking, I am not sure how many people are experiencing this yet. This may be one of those things that only affects certain units.

Did you get the WiTech flash for the HVAC to correct the A/C not coming on during remote start?
 
#9 ·
I don't use remote start much at all, so it is not a big rush for me. I have the flash instructions printed out for when I do my first oil change in the near future. I did notice the the A.C. on auto today seemed to not cool off the car. I think it has to do with mild temps and sun beating down. Maybe the A/C flash will help this also?
 
#15 ·
From page 351 of Version 5 of the Owners Manual:


Auto-On Driver Heated/Ventilated Seat & Steering
Wheel With Vehicle Start — If Equipped
When this feature is selected the driver’s heated seat and
heated steering wheel will automatically turn on when
temperatures are below 40° F (4.4° C). When temperatures
are above 80° F (26.7° C), the driver vented seat will
turn on. To make your selection, touch the Auto Heated
Seats soft-key, until a check-mark appears next to the
setting, showing that the setting has been selected. Touch
the back arrow soft-key to return to the previous menu.
 
#17 ·
I have attempted this update 3 times now and it fails each time at Embedded Air Card. I had successfully updated 2 previous releases without issue and I'm using the same USB so I don't think that is the cause. Guess I'll take it to the dealer tomorrow.

Does anyone know if I can do anything to get the unit out of this update loop? If not will the dealer have to replace the entire unit or is it something they can reset with the software?
 

Attachments

#19 ·
I have attempted this update 3 times now and it fails each time at Embedded Air Card. I had successfully updated 2 previous releases without issue and I'm using the same USB so I don't think that is the cause. Guess I'll take it to the dealer tomorrow.

Does anyone know if I can do anything to get the unit out of this update loop? If not will the dealer have to replace the entire unit or is it something they can reset with the software?
Try Formatting the USB and extracting to it again. If not I would try another USB.

Did you receive the phone requires service message on a regular basis?
 
#26 ·
Remote or not if the ambient temps are met and the box is checked the heated seat and steering wheel should come on. Mine worked flawless when I received it early in the spring when we were still having sub 40 degree days. It does not turn in the passenger seat or rear seats, just the drivers seat and steering wheel.
 
#32 ·
I want to add my 14 this feature on 13.28.2(?) fw that was installed from the factory sometimes showed checked but usually unchecked yet when temps were 80 or above the vented seat was on automatically after starting.

13.38.52 so far doesn't show the checkmark after checking it except one time I did see it stay. The outside temp is in the mid 40s so not cold enough to see if heated seat/wheel come on anyways.
 
#38 ·
I just updated about 15 minutes ago, after the dealership updated me to 13.31.6 this morning when I took my GC in for an oil change.

I can't speak as to whether any previous issues were fixed, as I've been really lucky and haven't had any problems with my uConnect system since getting the vehicle at the end of May. However, I just went and started it after reading this thread (just now). It's 31 degrees out here and my heated seats and steering wheel turned on automatically just like they did before the update. So that's working for me.

If it matters, the one problem I do have is the issues with the HVAC system not working right on remote start--I always have to manually turn it back on and put it back on auto after I get in--and I haven't had the flash for it done yet because I forgot to ask about it while I was in the dealership this morning. My heated seats and steering wheel are working automatically on regular vehicle start regardless.
 
#40 ·
Will, can a dealer downgrade from 13.38.52 to the older 13.19.0 version? If they can, I'd better make sure it's on my service work order not to do it. :confused:
 
#42 ·
Yes... easily possible to go backwards. Take the TSB with you and tell them not to touch the radio but they can claim the .2 for the RRT if they want. This way it shows in Chrysler records it was done.

Should be a dollar incentive for them not to mess with it :D

I know it isn't totally correct but downgrading to 13.19 they are still getting paid because Chrysler can't verify which software they installed.
 
#41 ·
I'm going in tomorrow because I can't find the source of what appears to be a drive train noise. I am bring in the letter for the DRL recall and will let the do an oil change since I have 2 more free ones to use by March.

My guess is they will probably understand the basics of an oil change. The recall procedure should be spelled out for them. I have some concerns about them diagnosing the noise.

But, I have reading material and they keep the coffee fresh. If they screw with the update I can fix it. I keep the USB drive in the console. ;)


---
 
#43 ·
It's been over a week and still no resolution. Dealership still has my GC. If I don't hear from them today I guess I will go talk to the CEO again and see what my options are with him
 
#49 ·
Good news is I have it back. Now for a drive test tonight and tomorrow. One thing is the radio will not register on uConnect server. They are working on that at the moment. Software is current release all menus and all options stay checked and have worked as expected. My salesperson spent some time with me when I picked it up and we went over all settings. It was dusk when I picked it up so no validation on headlights yet. Will see how it goes tomorrow.
 
#51 · (Edited)
Day 1 complete. Radio is functioning normal so far. Was able to finally get it to register on uConnect today and verified all boxes have stayed checked as I have them set. No Phone needs service messages yet, but as I just got the uConnect re-registered guessing I might at least see one with the first OTA update. Will update again after end of day 2. Headlights, well that's another story and is posted in the headlights thread (http://www.jeepgarage.org/f107/headlights-in-auto-mode-bouncing-on-and-off-64782.html). :cool:
 
#54 ·
Someone was wondering what version new builds are coming with...took delivery of mine on 10/16 with a build date of 10/5. It came with 13.37.00.

As an aside, I updated it to the latest which went well. Found one issue so far: I paired with my phone which went fine, but when I disconnected and reconnected, it got "stuck"...no communications with the phone even though it said it was paired and connected (phone didn't think it was connected though). Tried to disconnect, no luck. Tried to delete the phone, no luck--it wouldn't let me. Finally had to turn the vehicle off and leave it alone for a while. When I came back and did a restart it had finally come out of its weird state.

Eh...nothing's perfect...
 
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