OK. I have searched and read, and read and searched.

[PropellerHead]

And yet, I remain totally confused about Bluetooth. I don't NEED links to threads about it. I promise I have read, but I think my situation might be unique because I have 2 2004 X5's and each does something different with the R/T or the Telephone speaker button.

Let's start with the 3.0. 10/04 build date. It doesn't even have panoramic roof- which I actually love about it. I think all that glass up there makes the 4.8 feel top heavy. Anyway:

When I press the telephone button, it wants to dial the last number I dialed from the last time I futzed around with it- my cell phone. When that happens, a Verizon wireless recording comes on and politely tells me to shove it where the sun don't shine. I am interested here because I recently changed to Verizon wireless. Might I be able to use that 'phone' with my family plan? I have read a thread where someone tried this, but no clear end result came up.

If I *can* use it. Could I swap it into the 4.8? Would there be any benefit to this?

Now the 2004 4.8: When I hit the phone button, I get nada. Zero. Zilch. I get 'Phonebook empty.' WTF? The car came with BT pairing instructions, codes, and all of that, but nothing seems to 'find' the BT. I have phones as old as the Motorola flip from years ago and as new and Samsung and Blackberry 8320. I would think ONE of these would find the module were it operational- or present.

Looking in the back, I see that what LOOKS like the BT module is installed. I haven't removed the cover to see the stickers and confirm, but based on what I have found, that's the BT module. If it's there, why won't it be found?

It's easy to say the BT module is shot on the 4.8, but the thing only has 12,200 miles on it! I know it's *old*, but its not like it led a tough life.

So, I appeal to the resources of this forum for real answers and real expertise based on real experience with Bluetooth and with this strange Verizon quandary from the 3.0 What might I do to make the best of both of these parts and pieces?

[UCrewX5]

The 2004 model year is what I would characterize as a "transition" year for BMW when it came to Bluetooth. The X5's that year came with a card in the owners manual that contained the BT pairing codes, however the combination Assist/BT module manufactured by Motorola that year had the Bluetooth functionality disabled. Quite simply, it will not work.

The solution to this, for owners of a 2004 X5, is to swap out the existing BT module for a newer one that doesn't have the BT disabled. See http://www.xoutpost.com/articles/all...04-bmw-x5.html for some guidance.

Regarding what you are seeing on the 2004 that is connecting you to Verizon, what you are experiencing is explained here - So here's what I've found out re: using BMW Assist - The BMW X5 (E53) Forum

Jeff

[PropellerHead]

Originally Posted by UCrewX5

The solution to this, for owners of a 2004 X5, is to swap out the existing BT module for a newer one that doesn't have the BT disabled. See http://www.xoutpost.com/articles/all...04-bmw-x5.html for some guidance.

Regarding what you are seeing on the 2004 that is connecting you to Verizon, what you are experiencing is explained here - So here's what I've found out re: using BMW Assist - The BMW X5 (E53) Forum

Jeff

AWESOME! You cleared up THAT question in one quick swoop! Thank YOU! Now, about this:

Note that the combo Assist/BT module doesn't have the Voice Recognition feature built-in, and will require the purchase and installation of a stand-alone VR module if you want this capability.

I actually have a VR kit on my 2000 540. Wouldn't it be a kick if it's the same part? I would order another, of course. But still it would be kind of fun. I suppose a search will reveal the thread with the part #. I will look around.

I see these DICE units with VR, etc. Is this a better alternative to the OE parts? I am concerned that I would lose function of my factory SIRIUS module if I bought one. It has all of these little connections, but it doesn't say anything ab SIRIUS. Any comments or experience there from the group at large?

Thank you again for clearing this up!

[UCrewX5]

Originally Posted by PropellerHead

AWESOME! You cleared up THAT question in one quick swoop! Thank YOU! Now, about this:I actually have a VR kit on my 2000 540. Wouldn't it be a kick if it's the same part? I would order another, of course. But still it would be kind of fun. I suppose a search will reveal the thread with the part #. I will look around.

I see these DICE units with VR, etc. Is this a better alternative to the OE parts? I am concerned that I would lose function of my factory SIRIUS module if I bought one. It has all of these little connections, but it doesn't say anything ab SIRIUS. Any comments or experience there from the group at large?

Thank you again for clearing this up!

In 2000 the VR module was a stand alone unit that only performed that function. From 2004 and on it was integrated into the BT/Assist module. So this isn't going to solve your issues. Sorry...