Did your E39 have sat nav???? because my X has it and i think you may be thinking of a car with no nav. How exactually do u get the tapeplayer out from behind the screen?
http://www.btinternet.com/~john.ross...ISK/bmw_cd.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...3/Photo141.jpg
http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c2...3/Photo139.jpg

Actually if you do not have an AUX input then you can make a good use of your tape player. With a tape adapter you can easily and cleanly transform your tape player into an AUX input and use it to plug your MP3 player for example. The sounds will be much better than when using one of these FM transmitters. Here is a thread on this very simple mod.
http://www.xoutpost.com/x5-e53-forum/...t=tape+adaptor

Yes good point

I also have a tape player that has not been used ever since I got the X, and would like to use it as an AUX input with a tape adapter. I do not want to open the the unit and fit the adapter to hide the wires as advised by alpac. I dont mind plugging/unplugging the adapter when I want to use the iPod. However, to use the adapter, I would have to leave the screen open to allow for the wire from the adapter to plug into the iPod. Do any of you guys think its ok to use the tape adapter with the screen open?

You can always get a CD changer too, which would install in the rear of the vehicle. I have one for sale in case you're interested. ;)

Thanks for the offer but I have already got a CD changer...just looking for an easy way to use the iPod without the need to open the unit to fit an AUX port or a Dension icelink. Have already tried the FM transmitter and the quality is so bad I would never use them again.

Also, My BMW dealer in the UK have told me that if I open the nav unit to customise it for an AUX port or a Dension Icelink it will probably invalidate my warranty. BMW's quote to fit their approved iPod adapter by their own techs was GBP630.00 that's roughly US$1,134.00

NoooooWaaayyyyyy I am paying that.

Gulp! :mad:

So no ideas if it can be done?

Asked and answered. Hasn't been done because it's not financially responsible to do so (I'd never say it "can't" be done, because with an unlimited budget anything is possible).

So it would cost alot of money? how?