How easy is it to fit the extension cable for new head unit?
 

I have a 2005 with factory satnav and CD changer. The satnav and changer are faulty and not economical to repair. I am looking at more up to date head units, but I understand that I will need an extension lead to run from the front to the back of the car. How easy is it to fit? What is involved? Is there a thread on it?

I am pretty good with things like car stereos but if it is a mission to fit I might just pay to get it installed.

I tried google but can't find anything.

Thanks

Rich

Rich, do you have DSP?

Many of us have done this job (just over a month ago myself) and it's pretty straight forward. The extension cable can be pulled all the way from the amp to the back of where the cd changer sits and down along the side panels, under the driver seat - inside center console and finally up behind unit. There are other ways but this was my route. The cable is visible in one place for me and that's when it goes up to the center console.

I'm sure if you search Dynavin install or Eonon install you'd get many hits.

Good luck

BMW X5 4.8iS 2005

No idea, what is DSP? I do not have an amp as far as I am aware.

Thanks for the info, I will try a search.

DSP = Digital Sound Processing. if you can alter the sound of your music (jazz, Concert etc) then you have it. The amp is the radio amp (BM54 or BM53), it sits on the left side within the spare tire compartment, silver box.

The reason I'm asking is due to the type of extension wire you'd need depending on hardware in your X. If you have DSP then you'd need the extension with the module....it bypasses the system and allows you to use the steering wheel commands.

I've been looking at upgrading my head unit too and the 'long cable to the trunk' question has been a little confusing. I have the CD changer / Nav system in the trunk, but I do not have DSP so my understanding is that I do not need any extension cable to the trunk as I will be using nothing there anymore. Does that sound right? Thanks.

For as long as you have the Nav screen up front and nav/cd changer in the back then you need the extended harness. The only difference is you won't need the module that comes with the harness that bypasses the DSP. It's easier to connect for you though as it's one connection less :)

BMW X5 4.8iS 2005

Actually, learned late last night that I actually DO have Nav + CD Changer + DSP. I never realized I had DSP because my stock sound system is so crappy and my LCD display is dying that I hardly ever go into the menu system. Now I just need to decide whether I want the Dynavin N6 or the AVIN Avant 2. At this point I am leaning toward the AVIN as it's GUI looks more modern, and its Android OS lets you do a lot more if you want to. However, it does require some monkeying to work with my setup. Both setups are about twice what I want to pay but I just don't want to get stuck with a cheap brand that has lag and unresponsive buttons.

I couldn't comment on any of these brands as I installed the Eonon (Android) myself. All I could say is that the Eonon installs easily and works without hassle. The only small issue I have is the radio reception, the eonon antenna is weak so I'm buying/upgrading to stronger DAB receiver.

Note that that lag and non responsive buttons you're referring to on the Eonon is happening only on the cheaper units not running Android system.



BMW X5 4.8iS 2005

I got a good deal, so decided to pay someone to do the install - Pioneer AVIC F88DAB.

Cool! Make sure to post some pics when done...it's mandatory :D

BMW X5 4.8iS 2005