Z4 Aux Input

I'm wanting to install an Auxiliary Input on my 2004 BMW Z4 in the coming days. After reading through the various threads about this for an hour or so last night, I'm still a bit confused on what kits are compatible with my car. The official kit will cost me almost $100 from one of the parts websites; the one where it's a whole ashtray replacement. However, from the threads I read, it's possible to use an E46 or Mini Aux kit that would only cost around $40. Has anyone had any recent experience using one of these cheaper kits? Thanks for the help!

Welcome to Bimmerfest?

Have you searched this forum at all? I posted about my AUX input installation just eight days ago. I indicated which part numbers I used and the part number I should have used because it's cheaper but appears to be exactly the same thing. Bottom line the AUX input I installed in my 2006 Z4 is working fine.

I have also used the 30 dollar aux kit. Installed myself. I posted a thread about it with pics.

I just put the E46 kit in mine. SD Z4MR was kind enough to link the pin out info to me. http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=667871
Take the gray connector cover off and make sure the pins line up with the correct pins on the back of the radio. I drilled a hole in the cover below the heater controls and mounted the input there as it appears to be installed in the newer models. Works fine. Pins are numbered in the connector on the back of the radio. E46 connector has 10 pins while the Z4 connector has 12. Just ensure the correct pins are aligned.

Okay, thanks. I was still just a bit confused because I had heard there were some differences between the 2004 head unit and subsequent ones. I don't have a nav unit in there so I don't think it will be too hard. Thanks for the help!