A method for automatically updating software which is used for updating software which is running on a system, by using new software modules, these software modules first being tested, and application modules then being derived from these software modules. The actual new function is implemented by the application modules. The software modules may be received advantageously over a wireless interface. The method according to the present invention is particularly suited for applications where software is used in a motor vehicle. The application module is usually derived from the software module on the basis of the principle of inheritance. The software module is tested by a call instruction using test parameters.