2008 528xi Auxiliary Input Pops/Cracks

I bought a 2008 528xi about a week ago. I have noticed that the audio pops and crackles when I play my ipod via the auxiliary input. The radio, cd player, etc is fine and my ipod/ipod cord is fine in other cars. I don't believe it's covered under factory warranty. Has any had this issue or have any suggestions?

Are you using an aftermarket adapter or the one that came with the car from BMW?

It came with the car. The auxiliary input is behind the middle console.

I knew someone that had the same issue but wasn't using the bmw supplied adapter that has the usb & aux cable to where both are plugged in.

My manual says "to connect the iPod, use the BMW cable adapter for Apple iPods (which has the aux input 1/8" jack and usb). My car does not have a USB input anywhere, so this does not make sense to me. Maybe that is only for controlling the ipod through the iDrive. Any suggestions?

Q1: Do I need to specify anything when I order my BMW for this great functionality?
A1: Yes. You need to order the optional Auxiliary input port. It was a couple of hundred quid

Q2: Is that it then? I'm ready to rock?
A2: Nope. You will also need a special cable which goes from the iPod Doc connector to a USB and 3.5mm jack. This is where I got mine Cooper BMW on eBay. Should be about £35

Q3: Can't I just use an 3.5mm audio cable?
A3: Of course. But you will have to operate your iPod directly and it will not be charged.


So apparently you don't need the USB. You should be able to use just the aux input. So in that case, it must be something wrong with the auxiliary input :-(

IMO, I'd call the dealer if it's still under warranty.

the dealership says "uhh it could be anything. The clicks/pops could be coming from the Ipod or cord. That isn't covered under warranty." It is obviously not the ipod or cord if it works in other cars...ahhh

I'm a new user and noticed this wasn't resolved when looking for something similar.

But I've had this experience and for those searching on it later, I thought I'd still mention it here.

My experience was that my car did that as well when the volume on the device that is connected to the aux in port is too high. That doesn't mean that the volume actually *is* too high, it's just that the signal coming in is too high so if you turn the volume down a little on the device and then use the volume on your stereo to turn up the volume, the popping and cracking goes away.

As with all things, your mileage may vary.

Cheers!

You should have a USB jack INSIDE the console. Pick up a USB flash drive, transfer your music to that and your problems will be solved.