Cheap replacement for BM53 Stereo
 

Hi everyone, I just wanted to leave a quick post to let people know that if you need to replace your BM53 stereo in the trunk beside the battery (those with navigation), due to corrosion or whatever, that the L322 Range Rover BM53 from the same year is a direct plug and play option.

On EBay the L322 Range Rover BM53 can be had for a fraction of the price of a used BMW BM53.

Just a quick reminder to save some folks some cash :)

Cheers!

Good tip. I always forget to look in RR world for parts.

A better tip is when it stops working throw it in the trash :D

Sad to say that I’ve come across an issue with my replacement radio, which makes me even happier that I paid $50 for it.

Turns out that the older BM53 modes do not have AUX capability. While it has been impossible to find information using the RR part number, there are many BMW radios for sale that have parts numbers that indicate that they will NOT support AUX, Serius, or MP3.

It is important to check the BMW part number to make sure that it falls into the newer BM53 category if you want these extra capabilities. I don’t know how to cross reference the RR B umbers as their owners don’t seem to have compiled a list.

I am now on the hunt for a newer BM53…. Everything else works function wise though so there is that…

Curious, what is the compelling reason that you want a BM53 with so much effort when there're BM53 looking modern head units like the Avin4 with all the latest tech+? Can't tell apart the Avin4 from a BM53 head unit.

Honestly I just don’t want to spend 6-800 on a head unit right now. I need to rebuild the top end this spring and get new huge tires for the 20’s.

I need my music though, and a stock set up with aux should for the bill.

Avin4 head unit is only $370, and you already spent $50 and may be more in your quest, eventually adding up-to close to the $370 for the Avin4.

https://avinusa.com/avant-4-multimed...mw-x5-e53.html

I think I was looking at a dynavin or something. I will have a look for sure, I’m definitely not married to the idea of stock radio :)

Thanks for the tip!

Edit: just went through and added DSP parts and CarPlay, and a few cables to run to the back and I’m up at $690USD before shipping.

Damn that’s pricy.

Choose the essentials to get started and should be no more than $450. You don't need car play and such other optional items for now.

With just the 2 DSP addons ($150) and nothing else (means Navi doesn’t work and CarPlay is not there for my phone to send Navi) it still ends up being $520USD which ends up being $660CAD.

Anyways, something to think about.

It's an android system so you can install anything on it. Teether the unit to your phone and for navi just install Google maps and it's just as good - don't need car play navi ever. As for music, you have pandora or your favorite app and Micro card (to store music if needed).