'05 to '03 radio module swap
 

I have a 2003 X5 4.6 w/ nav, that is built before the date in which they can support the satellite radio, but want to get the feature working. I have access to a 2005 4.4 w/ nav, can I just swap radio modules between the cars? I need to know if there are any differences between the 2003 & 2005 modules, and if there is any programming necessary, or if it is just a plug and play operation. Any input is appreciated.

It's a plug and play swap from a 2003 to a 2005 radio module, no coding or programming required

Does anyone know of a good source for '05 radio modules other than ebay?

Check with Vaheh at Crevier, he had some remanufactured units for around $350 that support Sirius. See http://bimmer.roadfly.org/bmw/forums...6382073-4.html

Jeff

Thanks for the response. Anyone got a DIY link to the removal of the radio module??

Here's the steps

Remove the trunk floor panel and the left and right trunk side panels. Remove the spare tire. If you have a 4.6iS, remove the spare tire cover and the spare tire.

Remove the black round cover by loosening four (4) 10mm bolts. Then remove the forward and rearward fasteners from the spare tire bracket by loosening two (2) 13mm nuts and two (2) 13mm bolts.

http://www.xoutpost.com/images/articl...Guide-12_1.jpg

Remove three (3) screws from the battery access panel cover (aka battery module panel) and remove it (the one with the big BMW logo).

http://www.xoutpost.com/images/articl...Guide-12_2.jpg

After the battery module panel is removed, you will see the black plastic compartment right underneath it. Remove four (4) small screws from the plastic compartment to remove it.

http://www.xoutpost.com/images/articl...Guide-15_2.jpg

Once this unit is out you can unplug the old radio module (the unit on the left in the picture above, just below the battery), disengage it from the plastic compartment and replace it with the new radio module.

Reverse the steps to reinstall

Thanks dude, apprecitate the 411. :thumbup: