2009 X3 iPod connectivity query

Hi guys,
I just bought a 2009 X3 with nav.
I am having trouble finding options to hook my iPod and iPhone....
The only place I found was the AUX input in the center console on the rear.
Really???? Is that it?
Nothing in the armrest or the glovebox.

Anyways, so the questions is.... What's the best option to hook this up?
Which cable can I use?
Would I be able to control the device using the control buttons on the steering wheel?
Is there an option to simultaneously charge?
I am open to suggestions to get this going the best possible way.
Thanks in advance!

Jas

09...hmmm cant recall on the X3 we had but I believe that chassis used the older E46 wiring harness/architecture. So yes unless you are seeing another USB input near the aux in port (which would be used with the BMW Y-cable, google this) i think you are pretty much stuck with it? Hopefully others can chime in to help you out.

Some thing to look into is to see if there is an after market device for tapping into the CD changer area in the rear, I hooked into this on my E46 and sat a 30 Gb disk-based iPod on that input and was able to control it from the steering wheel etc...Here is one idea:

http://www.bavariansoundwerks.com/pr...X3_Non_DSP.pdf

Originally Posted by jasr

Hi guys,
I just bought a 2009 X3 with nav.
I am having trouble finding options to hook my iPod and iPhone....
The only place I found was the AUX input in the center console on the rear.
Really???? Is that it?
Nothing in the armrest or the glovebox.

Anyways, so the questions is.... What's the best option to hook this up?
Which cable can I use?
Would I be able to control the device using the control buttons on the steering wheel?
Is there an option to simultaneously charge?
Jas

Unfortunately, the only option delivered from the factory for the 09 e83...even with nav...was the aux port behind the armrest.

I had the same question when I bought my 09 new.

There are a few after market options and based on reviews here all have advantages and possible short comings. I recommend doing a bit of research before purchase but below are some additional options to start:

http://www.crutchfield.com/S-tukB9vs...e-for-BMW.html

http://diceelectronics.com/

http://www.isimplesolutions.com/

I might lean toward this option:

http://diceelectronics.com/duo-ipod-sirius-avx


As a side note, I decided to just use the aux port. I picked up a USB/3.5mm audio jack y connector to 30 pin apple and use a belkin slim USB charger in the lighter socket. Works great and I have found I prefer controlling the iPhone this way anyways. Plus this option was less than $10.

The best option would be if the BMW snapin adapter for the armrest hooked into the aux port. However it doesn't. We would need to upgrade to the new f25 with the right audio option package for that to work.

I just installed a Dice Mediabridge in my 2008...I also have NAV, but also have Sirius and premium sound, although no DSP.
Aside from the fact I had to purchase an additional $20 CD-changer extension cable, and had to run a USB extension under the center console carpet, I think this option works the best. Simply plug in using your iPod cable, it will operate in USB mode or internet radio mode, or go full bluetooth and stream A2DP bluetooth audio while charging your phone.

Taking calls also does not seem to be an issue, at first my iPhone 5 did not want to switch to car bluetooth from audio bluetooth, but I think the system "learned" to switch to car bluetooth after a few phone calls.