X3 -- Sirius Radio Self-Installation

eleen · #1 10-29-2006, 08:46 PM

Has anyone self-installed a Sirius radio package from BMW? I have a pre-wired 2006 X3. The dealer told me it would cost $910 plus tax to install the Sirius package. I can buy the necessary parts for under $500 (the e83 package from Circle BMW) and was thinking of self-installing.

Is it difficult? Any tips? I am moderately handy.

Thanks

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RastaGurl · #2 10-30-2006, 03:49 AM

It's EXTREMELY easy, just plug 'n' play. I did it myself in about 40 minutes. The instructions are straightforward, and easy to follow. As in the Geico commercials: A caveman could do it!

Do a search and you should be all set. I've posted pics somewhere on this board, I think in the audio section, and others have as well. There are instructions on removing the radio posted somewhere, as you'll need to switch a couple of connections around.
GL!

Edit: Here are a couple of links which should be helpful:

http://www.x3world.com/x3-e83-forum/...tml#post135847

and for radio removal:

http://www.x3world.com/articles/x3/s...ut-bmw-x3.html

Be sure to order the installation kit which has the CURRY connector. Hope this helps!

eleen · #3 10-30-2006, 09:31 AM

Thank you very much!!

eleen · #4 10-30-2006, 09:33 AM

By the way, I spoke to a BMW dealer who said that, even if I self-install, I have to bring in the car so the radio can be coded. Is that necessary?

Thanks

eleen · #5 10-30-2006, 10:02 AM

Now I am being told I need a new radio with a Sirius modulator inside.

RastaGurl · #6 10-30-2006, 10:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by eleen

By the way, I spoke to a BMW dealer who said that, even if I self-install, I have to bring in the car so the radio can be coded. Is that necessary?

Thanks

Nope, not true.

RastaGurl · #7 10-30-2006, 10:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by eleen

Now I am being told I need a new radio with a Sirius modulator inside.

If your car's indeed satellite radio ready, then that's not true either. I think the radios in all new BMWs automatically are satellite ready regardless of whether or not the car's prewired. My '04 X3 was not prewired, and I had XM installed without needing to get a new radio, so that's a crock. Looks like your stealer is trying to pull a fast one!

eleen · #8 10-30-2006, 11:13 AM

Thanks. That is what I thought.

RastaGurl · #9 10-30-2006, 02:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by eleen

Thanks. That is what I thought.

No problem. Let us know how it all works out for you. GL!

Rick in Prescott · #10 10-30-2006, 02:30 PM

I did my own install. With parts from my friend at Chattanooga BMW, under 300.00 dollars and 45 minutes of my time, this is an easy DIY. Your dealer is showing it's ugly colors to get you to buy in to their BS.
1, buy the stuff
2, install the stuff
3, call sirius and have your reciever turned on.
4, have a beer

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