Z-E2015 Support Page


Volkswagen & Skoda – Z-E2015 (Discontinued)

  • Current Firmware Versions

    Main System software updates include improvements and bug fixes to improve device functionality. These improvements are usually of a specific nature, relating to a particular function,so please read the software release notes (overview of changes) in the installation guide before updating. Main System updates are usually released once or twice a year or as required. However as this model is now discontinued there will not be any further updates.

    The current Software version is:

    MCU: 0.5.8_03U3_160125
    APP: 1.0.36_03U3_150422

    To find the current firmware version of your Z-E2015:
    – “Setup”
    – “Misc”
    – “Info”
    – Tap “OK” to display the firmware version you are after.

    Z-E2015 Software Update

    Update Instructions Update Firmware

  • Update your Navigation Software

    Navigation software updates (map data and system updates) can be downloaded from the Naviextras Internet portal using your PC or notebook.

    To Update your Navigation Software:
    1. Do you have the SD Card provided with your device?
    a. If no, a new SD card licence will need to be purchased
    b. If yes, proceed to the next step
    2. Register online at Naviextras.com
    3. Download and install the Naviextras Toolbox on your PC (There is no Toolbox for Apple Mac Computers)
    4. Download and follow closely the “Navigation Update Instructions”

    Navigation Instructions Naviextras Toolbox

    How to Video for Navigation Update

  • Update CAN-Interface Software

    CAN-bus updates contain enhancements and bug fixes to improve vehicle integration and compatibility. These enhancements are mostly of a specific nature; read the software release notes (overview of changes).

    The current Software Version is:

    V42

    CAN Update Instructions CAN Update

  • Z-E2015 User Manual Quickstart Navigation Manual Navigation User Manual Hema User Manual


  • Please read before proceeding

    • Please note: the file download may be very large, so we do not recommend using a 4G or Mobile internet service.
    • Please check the internet connection and speed before proceeding.
    • This is a guide only. We cannot guarantee that the appearance and/or layout of Hema Maps’ website will remain the same over time. Referenced aspects of this website may be updated or appear different then what is specified in the below instructions.
    How to Update Hema Maps Guide

    How to Update Hema Maps Video


  • What conditions must be considered for device installation of the Z-E2015?

    The physical shape of the OE radio or navigation must be identical with the Z-E2015. Any further info for compliance is best derived by checking the vehicle compatibility list of you device model.

    The Z-E2015 is equipped with a phase diversity twin tuner. For the correct function of phase diversity signal processing, both tuner inputs of the Z-E2015 need to receive an FM antenna signal. A second FM antenna can be retrofitted, depending on the VW vehicle model. In cases, where retrofitting a second VW OE FM antenna seems too expensive, a cost effective alternative is provided by the ZE-NC-ANT3 antenna adapter. This antenna interface creates a twin FM signal from a single FM antenna input signal. Z-E2015 with the ZE-NC-ANT3: No other additional wires are required.

    Do I need an adaptor or interface to connect the two antenna leads of the vehicle to the Z-E2015?

    The Z-E2015 is fitted with a double FAKRA connector on its rear panel. Normally, the double FM antenna plug from the vehicle will fit without any additional connectors. Sometimes, the antenna lead of the vehicle is a bit short or the antenna connector of the vehicle is a 90° angled type. In such cases, the ZE-NC-ANT2 cable extension should be used to prevent strain on the connector and cable.

    Do I need to adjust the “Antenna Supply” setting in the setup menu?

    The Z-E2015 contains a phantom power supply, to feed active FM antennas. The ex works setting of the phantom antenna supply is ON. Please note that accidentally disabled phantom power supply will cause poor FM reception. Please make sure the antenna power supply is set to ON (System Settings > General > Main > Antenna Supply > ON).

    My Z-E2015 still does not provide an FM reception I would expect from a dual tuner system.  What may be the reason?  

    Please make sure all the FM RDS settings have been carried out correctly, we recommend that you check adjustments in the FM tuner source mode for correct settings, since they will affect general reception quality:

    AF ON: With AF turned ON, the device will automatically search and select the best available FM station with radio station auto-scan. In Austalia we recommend that this is turned off to avoid random radio station selection.

    LOC or DX: To choose local radio stations, or stations that are further away. With LOC chosen, only nearby stations with good / strong FM signal levels are found with the auto scan function.

    If the radio reception does not improve with correct adjustment of these options, you should consult your ZENEC specialty retailer and ask for assistance.

    Is it possible to operate the Z-E2015 with the ignition (ACC) of the vehicle in its OFF position?

    No, this ZENEC E>GO device requires ignition (and CAN net) to be powered on for the unit to operate, due to vehicle integration functions.

    CAN data is only present in the vehicle, when ignition status is ON – so for this reason operation of the unit is not possible when ignition of the car has been turned to its off position.

    The device features an “ALT” key.  What is this good for?

    The “ALT” key is a programmable key (“ALT” = abbr. for “alternative”). For the Z-E2015, the ALT key can be assigned to control: Infobar, SIVR voice control, Camera, A/V-In. Please refer to the main device manual on page 56/57 for further instructions. (EN).

    How exactly does the Z-E2015 support the multifunction driver info display (“MFD” / “MFD+”)?

    Out of the box, the Z-E2015 supports Audio source related info on the driver info display. That means, RDS radio station identifiers and track info are supported. The Z-E2015 also supports the display of navigation turn key arrows on the MFD / MFD+ (“multifunction display, incl. Plus version). For the turn key function to work, the VW dealership needs to change the device type from radio to navigation in the car config via OBD II diagnosis port (service fees may apply).

    My Z-E2015 does not show any A/C status info.  Is my device defective?

    A/C status display integration is only available when function specific data packages are present in the vehicle CAN. Vehicles that feature the “small” A/C system usually do not have respective data present in the vehicle CAN net.

    Is the Z-E2015 compatible with the VW OE sound systems?

    Vehicle models that have been factory fitted with a FENDER active sound system have been notified to be compatible by many dealers – yet ZENEC cannot guarantee that FENDER equipped vehicles work all the time (thus disclaimer on the box states “FENDER is not supported”). For the time being while writing this FAQ (Q2_2014) Dynaudio active sound systems are compatible with the Z-E2015.

    My vehicle features a factory installed rear view camera.  Is this camera supported by the Z-E2015?

    The Z-E2015 cannot directly process RGB video signals as generated by OE installed rear view cams. The accessory aftermarket does provide converter options that allow the connection of OE cameras to the Z-E2015. ask your Reseller about this option.

    Is the OE installed GPS antenna compatible with the Z-E2015 device?

    GPS antennas are usually equipped with a standard FAKRA connector that can be connected to the Z-E2015. However, it is still recommended to install and use the ZENEC GPS antenna supplied with the unit – since it is adjusted for use with this particular device and will, most likely, offer better GPS reception.

    Is it possible to continue using the OE installed Bluetooth hands-free module when the Z-E2015 has been mounted?\

    No. The Z-E2015 comes with an integrated high quality hands-free module by Parrot. Any OE installed hands-free devices should be completely shut down, by removing the respective fuse in the main fuse box. Neglecting this step will probably lead to interference and malfunctioning of the Parrot module. Please remove the fuse for the OE integrated BT hardware in the vehicle fuse box to avoid BT interference issues

    The Bluetooth modules features a voice controlled dial option for phone book entries.  I just can’t seem to find my mother language?

    The SIVR (“speaker independent voice recognition”) system is based on a function specific database. The BT module system memory is limited, therefore only eight European languages are supported by the SIVR function.

    How does the TFT brightness adjustment and the day/night HMI switching work?

    The device features a light sensor. Three different options to control the screen brightness are available. In the setup menu under Video / Picture on the second page, you will find the following settings: Brightness: Navigation / Sensor / Car

    Choose “Navi” to allow the GPS system to set brightness automatically over day / night signal of the GPS system.

    Select “sensor” to allow the screen brightness adjustment via light sensor embedded in the device. Note that the sensor is slow to respond to fast changes of brightness on purpose. In this case the delay prevents fast and unwanted screen brightness changes (for example during device operation or driving through avenues with trees etc.).

    Select “Car” to adjust the brightness according to signals present in the CAN net of the vehicle itself.

    Note that if GPS signal controlled day / night switching is enabled, the sync process may take roughly 20 seconds, right after device start up.

    Day / night HMI switching: The factory default is set to day / night switching controlled by the GPS navigation system. However, you are provided with the option to adjust this function manually. If the GPS signal-controlled auto switching is not desired, it can be deactivated in the Navigation Pane of settings (NAV> More> Settings> Map Setup> Color> Day / Night / Auto).

    I encounter difficulties in installing a navigation software update. Is there a ZENEC Support contact that could help me with this process?

    Yes, there is a ZENEC support team. This team is mainly assigned to assist resellers and with providing help to dealers, This is to ensure that the technical skills of dealers are on a high level to deal with different queries from customers. For end users, we have set up tutorial videos on doing navigation updates using a USB and an SD version will be available shortly.These are available under the ‘Navigation Software’ tab in the software support area..

    Why do I need software updates and where do I find them?

    ZENEC often releases software updates to add new functionality, correct software issues and improve reliability in general. Some updates also contain up to date BT firmware, to offer improved compatibility with new mobile phones. Software updates can be downloaded from the ZENEC Australia homepage. Click on the “Support” button in the top section of page navigation and select your specific device for access to the respective software update pages.

    Do not download software packages from third parties or other unknown sources from the Internet, because external software can irreversibly damage your unit. Devices that show software induced system failure by loading unauthorised software are excluded from warranty repair and this damage will be charged at current service rates for labour/support and parts if required. It may not be possible to repair the unit.

    For navigation updates for maps and other free or paid add-on’s, please visit Naviextras at https://zenec.naviextras.com

    My ZENEC device navigates incorrectly.  Some streets aren’t even shown on the device.

    We use maps from the market leader ‘here.com’ for Australia and New Zealand. It is possible that incorrect map data may cause a navigation error. If you experience this, we recommend that this should be reported directly to ‘here.com’ to enable them to correct their mapping data.

    Why does the Z-E2015 device reboot when I start the engine of my car?

    To protect the device electronics from under voltage conditions and resulting malfunction of function modules inside the device the ZENEC mainboard and the MCU constantly measure the power supply voltage via sensor, to trigger a shut-down (and reboot) if the supply voltage drops below 9 V. The automatic sense process avoids faults on the device operation and incomplete loading of software data. This is a device self protection mechanism and not a defect. If the device does reboot after engine start from time to time, it is recommended to see your car dealer for an inspection of the condition of the battery, and or if wires and contacts are corroded to cause supply voltage drop below 9V.

    What should I consider when using SD cards?

    The SD card reader slot on the front side of the Z-E2015 device is reserved for the navigation SD-card operation and data retrieval exclusively. Avoid removing the SD card from the device when the satellite navigation application is running as this could corrupt the software. It is not possible to playback video or audio files stored on normal SD cards using the SD-card slot on the front panel.

    The USB hub keeps changing the drive indication?

    It may happen, depending on the assignment of USB memory devices connected to the USB hub, that the media drive indicator does change the address of drives assigned before, due to dynamic assignment of drive letters by the system OS.

    If you have problems with file playback from USB sticks, make sure that the USB media is formatted correctly before use. Windows Vista, Windows 7 and Windows 8 give you the option of a quick format or full format process. For any problems encountered with USB sticks, applying a full format is recommended. Make sure that the checkbox at formatting options -> Quick format is not enabled. Also make sure, the FAT32 file system has been selected. Do not use NTFS, HPFS and EXTFAT file system / format settings.

    Content on the USB data carrier is not recognised even after successful formatting?

    It may happen that the file system on the disk has been damaged, or that the file allocation table of a data carrier is defective due to erroneous write cycles. There may be different reasons for this to happen, such as previous usage or storage of data carriers and problems occurring at the initial format process.

    In such cases, you must format the data carrier again to make it work correctly.

    Info: If the data carrier after formatting is still not recognized by the device, it may be due to an incompatibility of the disk controller chip itself. In such a case, you should use a different data carrier of another brand or manufacturer.

    What do I need to consider for audio playback from USB source?

    Make sure your USB data carrier has been formatted in FAT32 prior to use. Zenec recommends the use of high quality USB sticks to ensure optimum performance.Study the compatibility features of the ZENEC device, for supported USB flash memory data carriers. Note that the USB connector of the device is limited to a current of 400MA maximum consumption. In most cases, external hard disk models will exceed 400mA and therefore Zenec does not recommend the use of such products.