Want to install AUX Input in a 2004 X5 3.0

jbooky33 · #1 04-17-2005, 09:04 AM

So, if i wanted to install the AUX input in the glovebox of my X5, where would I buy the input, and about how much should it cost. I'm not sure if I am going to do this myself or bring it to the dealer. Is it diffficult? If I do bring it to the dealer, how much should it cost to install. I also want to buy the unit that converts the flashlight jack to a cigarette lighter jack. How much does this cost? Lastly, when I turn off the car, would my iPod plugged into this rig turn off?

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UCrewX5 · #2 04-17-2005, 09:24 AM

See items 19 and 20 in the STEREO section on the home page (http://xoutpost.com) for the installation instructions for nav and non-nav vehicles.

Installing it yourself isn't that difficult, as long as you are comfortable with things like removing the radio unit and the glove box. The kit itself should be under $40 for the parts, but will run you about an hour or so in labor if you choose to have the dealer install it for you.

Before you go the route of adapting the flashlight to a cigarette lighter plug, look up in the pasenger side footwell area below the glovebox. There should be a power port there that may be useful for what you are trying to do. Note, though, that neither that power port nor the one for the flashlight are switched power sources, so it will not power off the iPod when the key is turned off.

Smiley · #3 04-17-2005, 09:40 AM

Just a thought, but I fished my Aux input down behind the radio and up through the ash tray. I had to pop out the ash tray and drill a hole in the back of it to bring the cable out. I tried this so I could use a short stereo plug to connect the Aux input to my Belkin cable. My lazy self has not gotten around to mounting the input in the tray (it just lies there). I'm thinking of popping out the cigarrette holder (is that what that is, I'm not a smoker) and securing the input there.

Anyway, because the Aux input does not let you use the stereo controls on the steering wheel, I did not want to keep my iPod in the glove box. For now, it rests flat on the tray for my center cupholders.

jbooky33 · #4 04-17-2005, 10:15 AM

Thats an interesting solution. Maybe I could do that and then get the belkin tunedok cupholder thing to hold it up. Is it easier to install it in the ashtray as opposed to the glovebox? Are the wiries all over the place though? Anyone have any pictures of this type of install?

Smiley · #5 04-18-2005, 10:08 AM

Y es, my wires are becoming an eyesore. Right now, the stereo cable and the aux input are simply folded and tied together in the ash tray itself. The Belkin cable runs along the the side, past the emergency brake and up over into the tray that covers the cup holders. I'll try to take a picture and post it tonight.

The other 'issues' with this set up are:

1) you lose the use of your cupholders since the iPod rests in the tray (not a big deal for me because people rarely ride with me and I just use the rear cupholders), and

2) you lose the use of the power outlet in the ash tray. I starting to think more and more about using the power outlet under the glove box. That may mean pulling out the aux cable and wiring it through the glove box. Oh well, it's all about trial and error to see what works best for you.

I'll try to get that pic for you.

jbooky33 · #6 04-19-2005, 07:39 AM

Thats why I was leaning toward the glovebox in the first place, much more discreet. I usually like listening to my iPod in shuffle play anyway, even when it is in my hand. Right now I'm leaning towards the glovebox, and adapting the flashlight. I know its a very minor issue, but does the flashlight stay charged if you keep it out of the socket?

Lastly, if I leave the iPod plugged into the outlet when the car is off, will it kill the battery? If so how long would it take?

Smiley · #7 04-19-2005, 09:45 AM

Sorry for not getting these pictures up last night. You sound set on using the glove box. Cool. Here's a picture of my mess of an aux input setup. I want to keep my iPod in that cupholder position, so I will have to find a way to tuck those wires away. Maybe I'll get to it this weekend (if I can actually keep the X parked for a while

I also apologize for the large pictures (I still haven't figured out how to post smaller pics or to create thumbnails

jbooky33 · #8 04-20-2005, 07:58 AM

Thanks alot smiley. But I think thats still kinda messy for me. So how will the glovebox iPod affect the battery once I turn the car off? (i.e. I forget to turn it off or take it out)

x5Monkey® · #9 04-20-2005, 03:23 PM

the glovebox flashlight power source is switched. it turns off when you turn the car off. that adapter is like 8 bucks. that's the way to go, IMO.

Quote:

Originally Posted by jbooky33

Thanks alot smiley. But I think thats still kinda messy for me. So how will the glovebox iPod affect the battery once I turn the car off? (i.e. I forget to turn it off or take it out)

jbooky33 · #10 04-20-2005, 05:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by UCrewX5

Note, though, that neither that power port nor the one for the flashlight are switched power sources, so it will not power off the iPod when the key is turned off.

Quote:

Originally Posted by x5Monkey®

the glovebox flashlight power source is switched. it turns off when you turn the car off. that adapter is like 8 bucks. that's the way to go, IMO.

We seem to have a bit of a contadiction here...Could anyone clarify this?

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