Aux-in installation issue

[windy]

I had planned to follow this guide to add an aux-in to my 3.0D Sport (build date 07/2001, with Nav & DSP) however I seem to have an issue. This part of the install, which details "... you can attach the other end to the spare connector on the back of the OBM unit. The module itself will plug into the factory/standard wiring harness and no additional work is required"



I'm assuming that the cable plugs into the back of the HU, but there's nowhere on the back of mine:



and I've checked the loom in the dash, and can't find anywhere along there either. I did notice that the HU in the guide has a different part number to mine (mines a tape deck too)



Any suggestions? Is it because mine's an early car? I've installed a few of these aux-in leads in the past (Z4, E46 M3) so I can usually find my way around these things.

[Brian-bmw]

The car is too early for Aux. I don't think that the aux wiring is there until late 2002 builds. Plus, the radio in a 2001 definitely won't support aux.

[windy]

Arse. Can I just upgrade the HU, or is it the wiring loom too?

I guess that means I can't use the iPod feature of a Parrot Bluetooth kit then?

[big bob]

Since you have a sat nav equipped car, your tuner/amp is in the boot. You are looking for a BM24 or BM54. It's early but I think BM24 doesn't support Aux In. A quick search should reveal more. Upgrading to BM54 will set you back about £300. There are things like Blitzsafe and DICE Mediabridge that might be more useful.

[Brian-bmw]

Originally Posted by windy

Arse. Can I just upgrade the HU, or is it the wiring loom too?

You can upgrade your trunk-mounted radio to the BM53 or BM54 made 2002 or later. You will also need a set of BMW conversion wiring adapters to convert the plug style from what you have to the new gen flat pin radio plugs. However, it is an easy and quick change.

The car will not have the aux wiring that leads from the trunk to the dash, but that is no problem. The Aux kit will connect directly to the radio, and you an run your own extension up to the dash.

[big bob]

I'd say a Blitz or a DICE mediabridge would be a better (cheaper) way to go than the BM54 + 17 to 40 pin route.

[gitchies]

i almost bought an aux input to install in mine....good thing i didn't...i have the exact same HU, mine was built june/july 2002......like the dealer said to me had to be after october build date of 2002.....i'm going to go for DICE or something like that....

[adam12hicks]

And as a semi-pointless additional note - the connection is spliced into the harness, it does not plug into the back of the MID display unit. If your car is late enough to have it that is!