Voice Recognition on Bluetooth without Nav Module

[StumpyPete]

Hi all,
I've been a reader of the site for a while (excellent info in general), but I am seeking some clarification on a point on the bluetooth module.

I have a UK-spec 2004 X5 3.0i without the navigation system (pointless in Scotland as we have excellent maps!). I read that the bluetooth module has voice recognition built into the ULF module, but it doesn't seem to work on my car. Do I need the voice recognition module as well to make this work?

Anyone know?

Pete

[UCrewX5]

The Bluetooth ULF made for pre-2004's (manufactured by Visteon) had the voice recognition function built-in to the module itself.

The Bluetooth ULF made for post-2004's (manufactured by Motorola) does not have the voice recognition function built-in and requires a separate stand-alone VR module if you want this functionality. These BT modules, though, also have Assist functionality.

The 2004's are the odd-ball here. They came with the Assist/BT module (manufactured by Motorola) but the BT function doesn't work. You can either install the Visteon module (which gives you VR but not Assist) or the 2005 Motorola module (which gives you Assist but not VR). As noted above, on the latter you can add the stand-alone VR module to gain this capability.

My info above pertains to US spec vehicles, so if there are differences in the UK then I am not aware of them.

Hope this helps.