nav, dsp, NO cd changer - question about icelink
 

I am about to buy a '03 3.0 that has the nav system, dsp, but no cd changer - will the cables be there for me to just 'plug and play' an icelink system for my ipod?
thanks in advance for any help
Paul

Yes, the vehicle is pre-wired for a CD changer, which is all you need to install the IceLink Plus system and it is plug-n-play. The only thing you may need to do is update the IceLink firmware, depending on what version yours comes with. It's a simple 10 minute process to do so.

:welcome: to X5world :D

thanks for the quick response! that sounds pretty straightforward -in a way I guess it's even easier not having the cd changer there in the first place. Then I suppose have to run the wires up front for the ipod connection itself, yes?

Yes, or you can do what several others here have done and just leave the iPod back in the compartment where the CD changer would normally be mounted.

I ran mine up to the center console and mounted the iPod there. See http://www.xoutpost.com/showpost.php?p=20961&postcount=1

that link was really helpful - thanks! i am a bit of a novice when it comes to this stuff, and i was tempted to let the dealer install the aux setup for me (as they offered), but the icelink seems like a better setup to me
thanks again for answering all my basic questions so quickly!
Paul

was there any trick to running the wire up to the driver's compartment? i'm not terribly handy, but can do basic stuff - i guess what i'm asking is would that be simple enough for me to do so i don't have wires everywhere? i'm certainly willing to dive in and try, but also don't want to create a major headache for myself!

It's not that difficult. What you want to do is pop off the padded cushion that would be up against your left shoulder if you were sitting in the back seat behind the driver. Once that is off you can easily fish the wire from the back to the front. Pull it upward and out with some gentle force and it should come right off.

You can also just pop off the rear door sill cover to run the wires down that channel.

It's not difficult and everything should just pop back on when you are done.

That sounds easy enough - again, thanks for all you help and especially your rapid replies - it is SO nice to have immediate answers like this! You have convinced me to not bother with the dealer's aux installation - i'll just get the icelink+ and give it a shot myself..... i get the x5 next saturday, so i'll visit bestbuy the same day!
thanks so much
Paul

Inspect your connections before getting the ice>Link Plus from Best Buy - you still may have the digital DSP (While it's not common, I've seen it on MY2004 models as well).

Also, the Best Buy kits come with only the Active Cradle - if this is what you are looking for, the Best Buy kit is fine. Most people nowadays want the docking cable which Best Buy doesn't offer.

Let me know if you have any further questions! I'll be happy to assist in determining exactly what you need. :thumbup:

Thanks for the reply Tom

what is the difference between the active cradle and the docking? Is docking the one that allows charging as well? Sorry for the simple questions, but it's all new to me.

Also, I pick up the x5 on Saturday, so won't be able to tell the connections until then, but i'll definitely inspect them before getting the icelink.

thanks
paul

The only difference between the two is one is a cradle to set the iPod into and the other is a "pigtail" cable that the iPod plugs into.

I permanently mounted mine with the cradle located in the armrest console bin, but I use the active cable connection when I do the firmware updates so that I can see what is happening on the iPod screen (I have both connectors that I can switch back and forth between by unplugging and swapping). Having both isn't necessary, but I find it convenient for when I need it.

Here's a couple of pictures to better describe things:


Both of the connections provide the same features. The Active Cradle is more like a "docking Station" and requires drilling to fasten the mount to the vehicle or use one of the Pro Clip mounts to attach to, then attach the Pro Clip to the vehicle.


The Docking Cable is more like the cable that comes with the iPod. This wil allow the iPod to be hidden in the glovebox or armrest and can be totally hidden from sight.

You get to choose one when ordering from me or Dension, the Best Buy kits only come with the Active Cradle, the docking cable must be purchased seperately (if desired).

Hope this helps!

I had mounted mine in the central storage compartment but then decided to mount it back where the CD changer goes. The reason being is that you won't have to look at the IPOD since you have a display to read which playlist you're on. Also, if someone were to break into the car, I think the chances of having it stolen would be greater, and the storage compartment usually collects junk which might scratch up my IPOD.

It is much more convienent to have the iPod up front with you and really doesn't take much more time to route the wiring. With the X5/X3 you can get away with leaving the iPod in the cargo area.

I would never recommend it in other BMWs as the trunk can get well over 160F on a summer day, instantly destroying the iPod's delicate LCD screen and battery.

I did have it upfront with me. I found that as I placed pens, sunglasses, etc, in the storage bin, the risk of scratching the scrreen increased. I think that if the CD changer space is ok for some plastic CD's and electronics of a changer, it should be ok for an IPOD. I think that on a hot day, the whole car becomes a heatbox. Not sure if certain areas get hotter than others. I'll check the ipod manual for temperature extremes to stay away from.

Here are the temperatures for the iPod, from Apple's site:

Caring for iPod's battery

Here are some tips to care for iPod's internal battery.

Keep iPod comfy:

- Operating temperature range: 32° F to 95° F (0° C to 35° C)
- Storage temperature range: -4° F to 113° F (-20° C to 45° C)
- Do not leave iPod in a vehicle's interior when parked in the sun. Temperatures may reach up to 150° F (65 °C).
- Do not leave iPod exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods of time.

Full article can be found here: http://docs.info.apple.com/article.html?artnum=61385

Does IceLink voids my warrannty?
 

I have a 2005 X3 3.0 with Nav system, DSP and satellite preparation I have not installed yet the Sirius radio.
Yesterday I visited my dealer cause I wanted to install the BMW interface for Ipod they say this is only good for cars without "Premium Sound (DSP) and satellite radio" (mine). Then I asked them about IceLink and they say that installing aftermarket devices not installed by them will void my warranty.. :mad:
I check with BestBuy about installing this if I buy from them, they say they will, but still, I am very concern about my warranty !! :dunno:

I believe that is just a scare tactic, and your warranty won't be voided by installing an aftermarket accessory such as the IceLink :tsk:

This is not true, your service advisor is trying to perform a scare tactic on you or he/she is seriously misinformed. Your rights are clearly outlined in the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act. I don't mean to sound upset, but I am. I really do not like when dealers treat their customers this way.

If you would like, PM me your email address and I will be happy to send you a copy to print and hand over to your service advisor, I bet his/her attitude will change immediately.

Also, to be very clear - the ice>Link Plus will not void your BMW's warranty.