458 HDD audio?

Hi All,

Sorry for all the questions.
've got most things to work, such as the DVD which is a cool retro feel.
Any tips on getting the HDD audio to work - I've uploaded music from USB onto the HDD, but when I select to play it is blank.
Is there a how-to?

Cheers.

 

Option 1: USB Drive (most reliable)

1. Locate the USB port
   Usually found in the glove compartment, center console, or beneath the armrest (depends on trim).
   
   
2. Format your USB drive
   
   • Use FAT32 format.
     
     
   • Store music files as MP3, WMA, or AAC (check your owner’s manual—FLAC and WAV often won’t read).
     
3. Load your music
   
   • Keep file names simple (avoid special characters).
     
     
   • You can organize in folders, but keep the folder depth shallow (1–2 levels).
     
4. Insert the USB
   
   • Turn on the car’s ignition.
     
     
   • Press the MEDIA button on the infotainment system.
     
     
   • Choose USB as the source.
     
     
   • Browse and play your tracks.
     

Option 2: Bluetooth (only on later 458s or with optional module)

1. Go to Settings → Bluetooth on the infotainment screen.
   
   
2. On your phone, enable Bluetooth and pair with “Ferrari 458.”
   
   
3. Once paired, select Media → Bluetooth Audio.
   
   
4. Play music from your phone’s app (Spotify, Apple Music, etc.).
   

⚠️ Earlier 458s (2010–2013) did not include Bluetooth audio streaming — only phone call support. If yours doesn’t show a “Bluetooth Audio” option, you’ll need to use AUX or USB.

Option 3: AUX Input

1. Plug a 3.5mm AUX cable into the AUX port (often next to the USB).
   
   
2. Set the infotainment source to AUX.
   
   
3. Play audio from your phone or media player.
   

Option 4: SD Card (if equipped)
Some 458s with the premium navigation/audio unit include an SD card slot:

1. Insert an SD card (≤32GB) with MP3 files.
   
   
2. Select MEDIA → SD Card on the display.
   

 

Thanks - this is the bit I get stuck:

1. Insert the USB
   
   • Turn on the car’s ignition.
     
     
   • Press the MEDIA button on the infotainment system.
     
     
   • Choose USB as the source.
     
     
   • Browse and play your tracks.

There's nothing to browse - maybe I need to look at the folder structure

 

It's not reading your files for some reason. Its a finicky system and a bit of a joke to be honest. Ferrari could have simply bought a system from Sony or someone else like Sony and had a workable system. I gave up on it and now use an FM transmitter which works with no problem but the sound isn't very good.

If I remember correctly, the one time I was successful was leaving the car's ignition on for a long time. Don't forget too that your files have to be non-DRM protected. I used CD's I owned from the 1980's and 1990's to make the transferrable files.