AUX input intallation nightmare. HELP!
 

First of all thank you for a GREAT forum! This is my No1 source for X5 Info.

I have a 08/2002 X54.4 with Nav (no dsp). After reading the postings on the forum i ordered from my dealer the Aux input cable that is supposed to be be installed on a spare cable behind the headunit in the cockpit. After some extensive searching I was satisfied that it just didn´t exist in my car. Turns out, the aux in spare cable was only installed to x5´s from 09/2002 onwards (atleast in europe). F**K me!

SO... I figured I´ll just rip the back of the car and install the cable directly into the radio unit which had the pins for aux in still available (The radio unit is the new flat pins style). I took apart the aux in cable and installed the cables (perfect fit) to the radio unit corresponding pins. But NOOOO. The aux in option doesn´t appear on the head unit. I don´t know what the problem is. The Aux in cable has a small relay on it, i suppose to prevent the "turn on pop sound". May that prevent the headunit from detecting the aux in? Or is it likely the head unit / radio verision isn´t on this production model "configured" to detect it after all? If so, why on earth would they have the pins available for it.. Anyone familiar with this problem?

All help is much appreciated!

It's the radio module. If you want AUX input you will need to replace it with one from a 2003 or newer. If you get one from a 2003 you get AUX. If you get one from a 2004 or 2005 you will get AUX and SIRIUS capability.

Vaheh fom Crevier BMW recently had some newer radio modules that support AUX and SIRIUS capability for around $350. A steal compared to the regular price.