I'm so cofused
 

I just bought my wife her first BMW. It's a 2004 X3 and I'm trying to figure out if it has bluetooth installed already and if not, what I need to get to equip the car with bluetooth functionality.

As far as I can tell, it has BMW Assist, or at least it has the button in the overhead console. When I press the talk button on the steering wheel I get a ring and then a message that says something about being unable to connect to the verizon network. Why would it be trying to connect to the Verizon network?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Nick, check the archives here about this topic. iI's been disucssed several times.

BMW Assist uses a module that accesses over the verizon network. But it's a pay service similar to OnStar. Your call can't be completed because you do't have an account. And even if you did have an account, it's an emergency-based access, and not intended for regualr cell use.

In order to get bluetooth into the car, you need to install a bluetooth module that will pair up with your wife's cell phone. It's an easy thing to do, albeit an expensive one, by purchasing an aftermarket retrofit kit, like the one being solde at www.bimmernav.com. The kit includes a ULF module that is installed in place of your existing BMW Assist module, a pairing button (or eject box to hold the phone, if desired, ) a bluetooth antenna, and a microphone, if needed. Everything plugs into existing wiring and sockets, and it can be installed by a knowledgable person in about thirty minutes. Instructions are pretty easy to follow. I've done it three times, (2003 E39, 2004 E46, and 2003 E53), and it works like a charm.

Check that website, find your car, and pick what you want. I found them to be very helpful with information if you have questions.

Good luck,
Dave

That's actually exactly what I did, and that's why I'm so confused. :rofl:

But your information answered all of my questions, thank you.

Heres the deal ...

Model Year 2004 BMWs only included BMW Assist. BMW service that allows you to contact BMW Assist in the event of breakdown and an emergency. Goto the BMW USA website to find out what services it offers. THis requires a annual fee to remain active. THe BMW Assist service uses the verizon network, so thats why you are getting a error message when you attempt to use the system that you are not currently subscribed to.

When the 2005 model year was introduced, BMW included Bluetooth as part of the BMW Assist module.

If you want BMW Assist and Bluetooth, you will need to replace you MY 2004 BMW Assist module with a MY 2005 or above BMW Assist with Bluetooth module. You can get these from BMW dealers, and there is a service bullitin on the this so the service center knows what to do.

If you are not bothered about the BMW Assist service, you can replace your BMW Assist module with a Bluetooth ONLY module as described by the poster above. THe latter will be the cheapest option to get Bluetooth.

I also have a 2004 X3 and have been wondering the same thing. However, what's even more confusing is, what's the difference between a TCU and ULF? My TCU has a Bluetooth logo and PK on it. If this module does not support BT, what's this for?

Its ok to be confused. Its BMW's mistake ... particularly with the 2004 MY.

Unfortunately even though your Telematics Control Unit (TCU) has a BT logo and and a Passkey it is not enabled for Bluetooth .. nor can it be. BMW originally planned to rollout bluetooth for the 2004 MY, however for whatever reason pushed it back to 2005 MY. So the 2004 TCUs are only enabled for BMW Assist only.

As mentioned previously, you do how a choice for upgrades though ... for Bluetooth support. Its dependant on whether you want to keep your BMW Assist.

If you do, you need to purchase a 2005 MY (or later) TCU. The car will need to be coded.

If you don;t you can purchase a ULF, which is a bluetooth only system. These are available from many on-line retailers including bimmernav.

Hope this helps, Adrian

Thanks. According to service records, the PO had the TCU replaced in 2006 because the old one was faulty. It was replaced with one dated 02/2006 which I hoped would have BT. However, the model number indicates that it's just a remanufactured 2004 TCU.