Need Help for Bluetooth

Katwizard · #1 03-10-2011, 04:58 AM

Hello everyone, I'm new here and really need your help getting Bluetooth for my 2004 X5 (E53) production date:10/03
I've confirmed it has a TCU, Navigation (Software:18-03-88), BMW Assist(innactive), microphone, V/R button, R/T button.
I don't think it has bluetooth, and for sure it doesn't have: a cradle/phone in the console.

I wan't to get bluetooth working with my iphone 3gs. I found a cradle on ebay but don't know if it'll help. 3gs Cradle

This is my rack(click to view)

and here is the pics of the TCU,

These two wires are hanging loose, I guess this is the free connector for the bluetooth?

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big bob · #2 03-10-2011, 07:16 AM

I *think* the TCU didn't get BT until 2004 (not sure about US models), irrespective of the BT logo on the sticker. You may need a later model TCU and/or Navcoder and Resler interface to enable the BT. The BT antenna is usually a cream connector on the TCU, which your TCU doesn't have, lending weight to the lack of BT.

The spare connectors are for a GSM antenna switch/booster/filter device for the snap in cradle.

You may or may not have the snap in 12 pin connector under the console du to the lack of GSM wiring in the trunk area (unless you have to wire the purple FARKA to the missing switchbox and the black/purple goes up to the front of the car). That would be something to check. On X5 retrofit the BT antenna goes in the trunk, and the signal strength can be a little low for some handsets.

Brian-bmw · #3 03-10-2011, 07:41 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Katwizard

Hello everyone, I'm new here and really need your help getting Bluetooth for my 2004 X5 (E53) production date:10/03
I've confirmed it has a TCU, Navigation (Software:18-03-88), BMW Assist(innactive), microphone, V/R button, R/T button.
I don't think it has bluetooth, and for sure it doesn't have: a cradle/phone in the console.

All you need to do is upgrade to a current TCU module. Your car has all the other wiring and connectors in place. It probably already has the Bluetooth antenna installed, but you would want to confirm that. You just need a new TCU and to have it coded for your car.

Katwizard · #4 03-10-2011, 04:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by big bob

You may need a later model TCU and/or Navcoder and Resler interface to enable the BT.

Thank you big bob

, what year models or p/n should I be looking for and how could I check if it will be compatible with my X?
I will look under the console tonight.

Katwizard · #5 03-10-2011, 04:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brian-bmw

All you need to do is upgrade to a current TCU module. Your car has all the other wiring and connectors in place. It probably already has the Bluetooth antenna installed, but you would want to confirm that. You just need a new TCU and to have it coded for your car.

How do I check for the Bluetooth antenna and after upgrading to the current TCU, who can code it for me?

big bob · #6 03-10-2011, 05:17 PM

The iBus TCU was fitted to the E46, Z4, X5 and X3. After that they went to the MOST bus which has an additional optical fibre connector and is not compatible. I think the last X3/X5 units were about 2006. Obviously they' have the latest and best hardware and software, assuming they aren't RFMD (re manufactured) old ones.

The BT antenna looks like this and is unlikely to be in your car if you don't have the antenna compensator, a cream FAKRA cable etc.

It is not mandatory to code the TCU to your car. Only if you want BMW assist do you need to set the VIN. Only Navcoder can enable the occasionally dormant voice control in the TCU, as well as set the VIN, BT name and BT passkey.

Katwizard · #7 03-10-2011, 05:48 PM

Where exactly should I look for the bluetooth antenna? do you have a picture of the cream colored connector?

Brian-bmw · #8 03-11-2011, 07:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Katwizard

What year models or p/n should I be looking for and how could I check if it will be compatible with my X?

Here is a post with all of the Bluetooth-compatlble (and other) ULF modules. Look for a TCU with one of the part numbers under the heading "Units below have bluetooth and Assist" that also has voice recognition.
Here's a great TCU part number reference

Quote:

Originally Posted by Katwizard

Where exactly should I look for the bluetooth antenna?

Your BT antenna is located on top of the brackets that support the nav computer, CD changer, and TCU module in the trunk compartment. Is the picture you posted described as "This is my Rack," is that your actual car, or someone elses? If it is yours, it does not appear that you have the BT antenna.

Katwizard · #9 03-11-2011, 08:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by big bob

You may or may not have the snap in 12 pin connector under the console du to the lack of GSM wiring in the trunk area (unless you have to wire the purple FARKA to the missing switchbox and the black/purple goes up to the front of the car). That would be something to check.

I think I got the wires ready if these are it, I popped it open and took a picture.

(click to view)