The Ultimate iPod Info Thread

Originally Posted by tom @ eas

Great, thanks for the info - this will make a lot of e60 guys happy.

Also keep in mind, when they go in for the retrofit, the should not mention iPOD.

As long as they have a CD changer, when they get home they can remove it and plug in the MOST adapter. Most dealers will not do it and may give you grief as they make money off the install and software updates.

In 06 and later models no coding is required as the MP3 functionality is working in those models. Coding only is required if you do not have a CD changer as iDrive menu options have to be activated.

I think BMW is keeping this secret under wraps as they do not want a flood of iDrive updates on their dime.

Originally Posted by chuck92103

Also keep in mind, when they go in for the retrofit, the should not mention iPOD.

As long as they have a CD changer, when they get home they can remove it and plug in the MOST adapter. Most dealers will not do it and may give you grief as they make money off the install and software updates.

In 06 and later models no coding is required as the MP3 functionality is working in those models. Coding only is required if you do not have a CD changer as iDrive menu options have to be activated.

I think BMW is keeping this secret under wraps as they do not want a flood of iDrive updates on their dime.

All good info - thanks for sharing.

Originally Posted by chuck92103

The key is the MP3 retrofit. The 5/6 series were designed and have CD/DVD capable MP3 players. iDrive software did not support this feature at the time the cars were built. Having the dealer perform the free MP3 retrofit provides the needed functionality so the CD changer MP3 device, in this case an iPOD, would support MP3's. Although the current CD changer do not support MP3, the communications in iDrive does.

I am attaching the BMW bulletin. 04's can have the work done. You must specifically tell the dealer to perform the retrofit. A PROGMAN update is not enough. Customers should take the bulltin to the dealer as many are not aware of this.

Also, although the bulletin states 05 models, 04 models have had this work done. The dealer may need a little prodding. Contact CobraDav on this forum for questions. He has the scoop since he works or knows someone at a dealer back east.

I can confirm that the MP3 retrofit does work on cars built earlier than the SIB states (how much earlier I don't know). It worked on my '05 545i, built 11/04 (the SIB says it applies to E60 3/05 to 9/29/05 vehicle production).

Here is the second best Ultimate iPOD thread.

MOST adapter specific issues for the 5/6 series. Cover install, cover plate part numbers if you remove your CD changer, CIP updates, etc.

http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=167666

I saw a previous post stating this but just FYI - it WILL work if you put your contacts into the Speed Dial buttons - that is what it will automatically upload to the addressbook. It's the only way around the fact that it won't upload from the Treo's addressbook to the BMW's addressbook.

YEAH! It works! Woo hoo!

New '08 iPod/USB Adapter.

"This option enables the vehicle’s audio system to play an MP3 player through the vehicles audio system. It will fully integrate iPod’s functionality into the radio or multifunction steering wheel, as well as charge the iPod."

Looks like this is on the rear of the center console along with AUX input (same place as it is now). Does this mean no more glove box iPod connection for 08 and up?

That location has never made sense to me - the AUX and USB port should be inside the console storage - or better yet, in the glove box.

Originally Posted by stevepow

New '08 iPod/USB Adapter.

"This option enables the vehicle’s audio system to play an MP3 player through the vehicles audio system. It will fully integrate iPod’s functionality into the radio or multifunction steering wheel, as well as charge the iPod."

Looks like this is on the rear of the center console along with AUX input (same place as it is now). Does this mean no more glove box iPod connection for 08 and up?

That location has never made sense to me - the AUX and USB port should be inside the console storage - or better yet, in the glove box.

I think the issue is the length of cable to the iPOD. It may stay in the glovebox.

Originally Posted by stream

I can confirm that the MP3 retrofit does work on cars built earlier than the SIB states (how much earlier I don't know). It worked on my '05 545i, built 11/04 (the SIB says it applies to E60 3/05 to 9/29/05 vehicle production).

Stream, that bulletin was modified WAY back in March 06 to state from SOP (Start of production)

SI B65 30 05
Sound System, Cruise, Alarms, Monitors March 2006
Technical Service

This Service Information bulletin supersedes S.I. B65 30 05 dated January 2006.

(New) designates changes to this revision

SUBJECT
CCC: MP3 CD Playback Not Available


MODEL
(New) E60, E61 (5 Series) with SA 609 CCC-Navigation from SOP to 9/29/05 vehicle production

(New) E63, E64 (6 Series) from SOP to 9/29/05 vehicle production

E90, E91 (3 Series) with SA 609 CCC-Navigation vehicles produced up to 9/29/05


SITUATION
The MP3 option is not available in the audio menu. When an MP3 CD is used, it is not recognized as a valid CD.

CAUSE
The stability of earlier CCC (Car Communication Computer) software did not allow for proper MP3 functionality.

PROCEDURE

On a customer complaint basis only, retrofit MP3 functionality using Progman V20.00 or higher.

Refer to the SI B09 05 01 Coding, Individualization, Programming (CIP), for the "Retrofit" procedure.

Select "MP3" from the retrofit list and follow the on screen instructions for retrofitting MP3 capability.

The service code "KMP3" will be added to the end of the vehicle order as displayed in the Measures Plan.

After the procedure is complete, turn the ignition off and wait 5 minutes or until the driver's switch block LED goes out. Check the functionality of the system.

WARRANTY INFORMATION
Covered under the terms of the BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty.

Originally Posted by cobradav

Stream, that bulletin was modified WAY back in March 06 to state from SOP (Start of production)

Thanks for the clarification. I guess I stopped paying attention to SIB updates on that issue after I got the MP3 retrofit!

Is or will the USB iPod adapter available for 2007 5 series automobiles?

I have attached my IPOD invoice to Kuni BMW. Total cost including CCA discount is $ 366.

Originally Posted by stevepow

New '08 iPod/USB Adapter.

"This option enables the vehicle’s audio system to play an MP3 player through the vehicles audio system. It will fully integrate iPod’s functionality into the radio or multifunction steering wheel, as well as charge the iPod."

Looks like this is on the rear of the center console along with AUX input (same place as it is now). Does this mean no more glove box iPod connection for 08 and up?

That location has never made sense to me - the AUX and USB port should be inside the console storage - or better yet, in the glove box.

Yea, unfortunately per this
http://www.bmwcca.org/node/7241

It looks like you use a special USB to iPOD cable - so it does indeed plug in behind the center console and you then drape the wire to wherever you want it.

All I know is that my kids would be kicking that plug out all the time.... sort of glad mine is in the glove box.

Originally Posted by doug_999

Yea, unfortunately per this
http://www.bmwcca.org/node/7241

It looks like you use a special USB to iPOD cable - so it does indeed plug in behind the center console and you then drape the wire to wherever you want it.

All I know is that my kids would be kicking that plug out all the time.... sort of glad mine is in the glove box.

Thanks - arggh! Big bummer. And it uses the Aux Input for audio - I did that when I first got my car and to me the glove box interface sounds better.

It does sound like they have moved the jacks into the console: "In the 3er and 5er, for example, you'll find it in the center console" And that little picture in the article seems to show that. Maybe that's OK.

Worse news: "On compatible devices, supported file formats include MP3, WMA, and AAC as well as playlists in the M3U format." So apparently/maybe no CD Quality 44.1/16-bit Wav audio support. That would be a shame too as nice as the L7 stereo is, to have to pump low grade audio through it - makes no sense.

Yes, it looks like it will be inside the armest. Another reassuring fact is that Aux-In interface in the current 3er is inside the armrest console already. I imagine BMW would use a similar setup in the new 5.

It is a bummer about the iPod using the Aux-In for transferring the sound, though. With the base sound system you probably won't be able to tell a difference, but BMW's high-end audio systems are sensitive enough to allow the listener to appreciate a direct iPod feed.

At Best Buy I saw an i-simple connector for BMW for $99.00. Full Functionality with the system and the steering wheel controls. Where am I going wrong?

Scott

Originally Posted by scottsalisbury

At Best Buy I saw an i-simple connector for BMW for $99.00. Full Functionality with the system and the steering wheel controls. Where am I going wrong?

Scott

http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=436184

Hey -
I am buying my first BMW - a 2004 525i. I I want to hook up my iPod. Is there any way to get it to work through the icontrol system?

i have ordered 528xi and it has gone into production..can i now add on ipod or is it too late?

Originally Posted by Beemersn

I have attached my IPOD invoice to Kuni BMW. Total cost including CCA discount is $ 366.

What? Why the freak did BMW Bellevue just tell me it's about $800??? Am I missing something?

I've always thought it was more like $400.

Originally Posted by exis350

What? Why the freak did BMW Bellevue just tell me it's about $800??? Am I missing something?

I've always thought it was more like $400.

Show them my invoice. Some dealers are charging for the software update. According to my dealer software update is covered under the warranty. If they don't come down, try another dealer.

Good luck!

Originally Posted by Beemersn

Show them my invoice. Some dealers are charging for the software update. According to my dealer software update is covered under the warranty. If they don't come down, try another dealer.

Good luck!

Thanks for the tip... I think I will. I didn't get the Logic 7, and one-disc non-MP3 cd is just not going to cut it for me.

Originally Posted by exis350

Thanks for the tip... I think I will. I didn't get the Logic 7, and one-disc non-MP3 cd is just not going to cut it for me.

pls help!!! my 1st bmw (528xi)gone into production and i did not get the ipod/usb connection and i knnow it is too late to order now..my question is can i get the dealer to install it but i have read many forums and what i need ot know is is there a difference between dealer and factory installed?are all the functions similar and are they controlled similarly..plz advise.i would only get it from the dealer if it functions the same way as a factory installed would?also if there is a difference then what exactly is it?

Originally Posted by deelee

pls help!!! my 1st bmw (528xi)gone into production and i did not get the ipod/usb connection and i knnow it is too late to order now..my question is can i get the dealer to install it but i have read many forums and what i need ot know is is there a difference between dealer and factory installed?are all the functions similar and are they controlled similarly..plz advise.i would only get it from the dealer if it functions the same way as a factory installed would?also if there is a difference then what exactly is it?

You can re-order the car. Just tell the dealer you want it now. I did this with my 550 when I added the Comfort Seats option (THANK GOD). They were not thrilled but they wanted to make sure I got the car I wanted. You are spending a ton of cash on this car, make sure it is EXACTLY what you want.

Originally Posted by doug_999

You can re-order the car. Just tell the dealer you want it now. I did this with my 550 when I added the Comfort Seats option (THANK GOD). They were not thrilled but they wanted to make sure I got the car I wanted. You are spending a ton of cash on this car, make sure it is EXACTLY what you want.

I totally agree--even if you have to wait an additional month, get what you want. And it appears the factory installed iPod/USB adapter is far superior to the dealer installed iPod interface.

Originally Posted by stream

I totally agree--even if you have to wait an additional month, get what you want. And it appears the factory installed iPod/USB adapter is far superior to the dealer installed iPod interface.

thanks for ue input..but guess cant wait another month..need the car now.so guess will let go of the ipod thing.but are u sure its not possible to get the dealer put it..and is the quality/functions different?