My First DIY Project - Adding AUX Input in 2005 X5

[jfox00]

This serves as my first post, and my first project on my 2005 BMW X5. I recently got a music player, and I did not want to deal with the annoyance of using an FM transmitter. I am also disappointed that Aux In is not a STANDARD feature on such a beautiful car, but maybe it is now.

I was rather apprehensive about installing the Aux Input kit myself, but the dealership was going to charge for 1 - 1.5 hours of time, and after doing some research online, I was ready to jump into it.

I ordered my kit online for about $40, Part # 82110149390, AUX Input Installation Kit. I used a post on Bimmerfest to get me going, and reference the correct TIS instructions for the removal of the radio from the center console. However, I did not like the fact that the installation required mounting the AUX input in the glove box. That seemed like a really difficult place to have my music player, plus access while driving would be difficult. So I decided to throw out an audible, and mount the AUX input in the ashtray, where the cigarette holder was. (Not a smoker). This gave me great access to the player, The AUX cable can still be hidden when not in use, and in general seemed like a better place for it.

I removed the ashtray, drilled a hole for one of the screws, and super glued the AUX IN faceplate in place. I did not have to drill one hole for the other screw, since it fell into the open area where the actual cigarette holder was. I fed the AUX cable behind the stereo, and looped it back up into the where the ashtray would sit. After I glued the faceplace, and screwed in the screws, I put the ashtray back in the car, fed the AUX in cable into the faceplate (this was tough, took some effort), and locked it in place.

I have some rather low quality photos attached, but I think you can see the result of my work. I have a realitively good looking AUX in jack, in a realitively good place. And it works great. Just thought I would share with the community. Hope this will give someone else on the fence the encouragement to put this in. And I have to say, it felt great to do this on my own.