That would be a question for your specific BMW dealer - some part numbers require a core while others do not.

One question I haven't seen asked (since you have a MY2003) is what type of NAV computer do you have? If you have the MKIII system (CD based) this is the reason Sirius will not come up as a selection, you must have a MKIV (DVD-based) system.

I have the DVD Based NAV System.

I'm not sure - I've used that same part number in a Sirius install in a MY2003 530i with success, it might be something buggy within the tuner.

the tuner as in the display piece (where i see the maps and such)?

That's the monitor - the tuner is the piece you pictured with the part number ending in 399.

so, the turner is the same as the radio
module (the item in the trunk).:dunno:

Correct, the monitor is only that - a monitor. :)

also, i emailed another dealer requesting a
quote for a new radio module. now, i'm even
more lost. here's his reply (the most recent first) -

4:24PM today - "Well, the new ones come with a Sirius sat prep #691. That is not the problem, the problem, I believe, is that your radio does not have an aux input like the new ones, to plug the Sirius in. That part number is for a $1000.00 radio. Let me know what the forums bring you. "


2:48PM Today - "Unfortunately, as you probably already know, your production date does not apply to Sirius w/ Nav. I do not know what module you are talking about. I don’t believe this is a factory item. If you want to stay OEM, you might need to put a newer radio in it. That would be costly and might not work. Search the forums and see what this module is and if it is BMW, try and get a part number."

Sirius does not use the AUX input - it uses the CD Changer audio input. The SA691 is correct for Sat-prewiring on other vehicles (X3/Z4), all X5's are pretty much "prewired" since it is using the CD Changer interface. The tuner and NAV system need to be compatible for the Sirius system to activate correctly.

The best thing would be to see if the Dealer would possibly let you try a couple of newer radio tuners and plug them in right there on the lot.

The 3-pin wire going into the Sirius module: there should be brown wire in the number #1 position (not in the middle) and check to see if the 2amp fuse on the Sirius module isn't blown.

ok. i'll check that wire and the fuse.
my NAV looks like this -
http://www.xoutpost.com/images/articles/59/mk4.jpg