No Volume/iPod USB Connection

I have attached an Apple iPod via the BMW provided cable to the USB interface. I can see the device and my music files in the iDrive and can even play them. However, there is no sound during the play back while the system shows the file is playing. Tried the Aux-in and it works fine but obviously this is not very convenient since the device cannot be controlled via iDrive.

Do you still have something plugged into aux in? If so try removing it, I recall getting no sound from other USB or iPhone cradle when aux in still connected to a device or cable.

Did you use the Glove Box or Armrest slot? I read somewhere, the Glove Box is for uploading data and software, so this won't work. Also, some older IPods seem to have this problem or shutsdown, try a newer unit for testing.

Originally Posted by slambmw

Did you use the Glove Box or Armrest slot? I read somewhere, the Glove Box is for uploading data and software, so this won't work. Also, some older IPods seem to have this problem or shutsdown, try a newer unit for testing.

I am using the armrest slot. Also there is nothing connected to the aux-in port when I am using the usb port. I have an older version iPod touch so I will try your suggestion and test a newer model to see what happens!

There are some software updates from bmw. Also update your iPhone to the latest software.

Good write up. My 2013 X3 has the tech packages and although I don't have the HUD display the nav commands still appear in the little cluster read out where your mileage gets displayed.

For example if the NAV is calling for a left on Smith Ave, I'll get a little arrow and text saying take right on Smith. I suppose having this read on the windshield is cool but does it do anything extra besides beam NAV and speed onto to your line of sight?

I opted out of the HUD option mainly due to the fact that I am almost always wearing sunglasses but it does sound pretty cool.

I wear maui Jim sunglasses and you can see fine. It's really nice at night.

I bought a BMW original cable for my iPod Classic and it actually connects to both the USB port and the AUX in at the same time. Works flawlessly, though. I am however not able to play music from my iPhone in the snap in adapter as long as the iPod is connected - then the iPhone behaves like you describe. Cover art is shown and the iPhone is playing but no sound. Unplug USB/AUX and it works fine. So to me it sounds like you either have the wrong cable or something else is plugged into the AUX?

I have my iPod Classic attached to the USB slot in the armrest and it plays back with no issues.

Try using the iPod cable vs. the one from BMW.

Has anyone tried connecting the iPod nano .. does that work? Also, can I have the iPod connected to the USB slot in the armrest to play music, and the iPhone connected through the bluetooth at the same time? I did not get the snap-in adapter to charge the iPhone and do not want to use it to play music... especially when driving inter-state.

On mine the bluetooth iPhone connection works just fine with the phone in my pocket and the iPod works as it is supposed to, conected to the USB. I think the only challenge here is when you connect two sources for playing music at the same time (remember to disconnect the AUX cable when not in use) so far I have not encountered any trouble with the phone BT.