TruPhone SIM no signal
 

I had read numerous posts by folks substituting a TruPhone SIM card for the OEM SIM that came with their vehicle. The OEM SIM in my 2013 (Firmware version HN+_US_AU3G_P0566) quickly shows 2G with 3 or 4 bars when inserted, but there is no data plan for it unless I subscribe). I bought a TruPhone SIM and when inserted, I get NO bars ever.

Could this be an indication the AudiConnect feature on my vehicle requires a different carrier than whoever TruPhone uses in the US?

TruPhone uses AT&T which at the end of last year turned off their 2G network. The 2013 hardware doesn't support AT&T's 3G band, so you won't get a signal. You need to use a T-Mobile SIM or a third-party SIM that uses T-Mobile's network such as FreedomPop. However, you may only get a 2G signal, because T-Mobile is moving their 3G network to a different band in their spectrum and the 2013 hardware doesn't support that band either.

Thanks tons for that useful information! I wondered why I never saw a (even grayed-out) 3G logo on the MMI display, and that explains it. Presumably there is a dealer-installed upgrade available that would expand my options to 3G but not sure how much it costs or whether it's worth it. I have ordered a T-Mobile SIM card that allows me to "load" it with data as I go - hopefully this will do the trick.

Props to TruPhone for fully refunding me on the SIM card purchase.