BMW Radio Has No Auxilliary Plug

Question

Level 1

2 points

BMW Radio Has No Auxilliary Plug

I just recently bought a 2003 BMW. In my prior vehicle, I used to use my 3g iPhone with a cassette adapter and was able to listen to the iPod and then take calls through the speakers of my car. Now with the BMW, it doesn't have a cassette deck and no auxilliary audio jack. I have tried some of the FM transmitters, but so far haven't found one that is not loaded with static or that is clear but won't transmit the calls through the speakers, too. Can anyone suggest one that is more or less static-free and can take the calls and put them through the speakers, too? I am tired of buying and returning! LOL.

Thank you so much for any suggestions.

Posted on Mar 9, 2009 4:42 PM

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Answer 1

IanDB

Level 1

4 points

Mar 10, 2009 2:12 PM in response to starmate5

Last time I looked at the BMW the Aux input was in the centre arm rest - not sure when they started adding it to the models though.

It's worth asking a specialist Car Audio fitter/dealer if they can hardwire iPod connectivity to the standard BMW radio if the Aux isn't there.

Good luck!

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Answer 2

Mar 10, 2009 3:16 PM in response to starmate5

contact AAMP of America in the US. They have solutions for i-pod and i-phone intergration for the BMW.

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Answer 3

starmate5 Author

Level 1

2 points

Mar 10, 2009 3:51 PM in response to IanDB

Hi, Ian. Thanks for the reply. I can't imagine where in my center console that would be. I have a convertible, so there are three buttons to the left of the shift for the windows and two to the right. Where else could it be? Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks!

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Answer 4

starmate5 Author

Level 1

2 points

Mar 10, 2009 3:52 PM in response to Fujimirider

Thanks, Fuji. I will look into it.

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Answer 5

~007~

Level 1

0 points

Apr 6, 2009 6:54 PM in response to starmate5

there is an option that isn't too pricey. you can technically "give" any car an auxiliary cable. Go to your local Best Buy and ask them about a FM modulator. If they are unsure what you mean tell them it is the one that they keep in the install bay not on the sales floor. I put it in my girlfriends car and it works amazing!!!!!! let me know if you need anymore information regarding this.

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Answer 6

r.cloud

Level 3

815 points

Apr 6, 2009 7:19 PM in response to starmate5

The BMW i used to drive had the plug attachment inside the storage compartment in the centre console, though for a later model BMW i used to drive i contacted BMW and they had a full cradle accessory that was an OE part wasn't that pricy either

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Answer 7

NWGuy

Level 1

15 points

Apr 17, 2009 10:09 AM in response to starmate5

Vehicles without aux jack is tough problem (me too!). New product out by Parrot, the PARROT MKi9200, is a direct connect, charges, hands free system that I am considering. A bit pricey at about $250 - 300 but it does everything we've been wanting.

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Answer 8

cburke5

Level 1

26 points

Apr 18, 2009 6:54 PM in response to NWGuy

i have to say dont go with the FM Modulator option... fm's suck for iphone/ipod, you dont get the same quality as you do with the aux plug and if your in a big city that has a lot of radio stations, its hard to find a perfectly clear channel...sound the sound becomes staticy

if you drive a bmw, my guess is you've got some money.. i would have a new deck installed (or install one yourself) you can buy a decent deck for 150-200 bucks (even cheaper at some places) install it yourself, cost you about 50 bucks, or have it installed at future shop or best buy for around 100 bucks... aux port is very much worth it.. you wont regret it.

i went this route and installed it myself.. the deck has a aux in it, so I can plug in my iPhone or my satellite radio, which ever i want.. it sounds amazing!

Message was edited by: cburke5

Message was edited by: cburke5

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Answer 9

Jokassis

Level 1

0 points

May 21, 2009 2:38 PM in response to starmate5

I am not sure which Model 03 BMW you have but www.NAVTV.com makes numerous direct auxillary audio and video input options for BMW and many other vehicles with and without factory navigation screens. They have a universal vehicle dock for IPHONES and IPOD. These use composite video and RCA audio outputs so the sound and video quality is perfect and there are no FM modulators used. (Video is only available on IPOD) The dock has a wireless remote and also keeps your IPOD/IPHONE charged. You can navigate through your IPHONE and IPOD menus which are sent to your factory navigation/video screen through the NAVTV A/V inputs, all menus, music, artist, genres and even movies can be seen on your factory navigation screen, hope this helps.

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Answer 10

Jul 7, 2009 12:21 AM in response to Jokassis

BMW sell a separate Auxiliary port that you can fit yourself into your car. I believe the part number is Part # 82110149390, AUX Input Installation Kit.

Most BMWs have the connection on the stereo wiring loom to accept a connection for the AUX port, it's just BMW didn't always fit it.

I've fitted one in my X5 and it was quite easy. I followed the instructions from http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-forums/x5-e53-forum/58087-aux-connection-2003-4- 4i-e53.html

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