2001 X5 - Sell it or Keep it?
 

Hi --

My wife and I have a 2001 BMW X5 - manufactured early on so as to have no "aux input" capability. (I just had it at the dealer and learned this.)

The car is in great shape (we bought it used about 5 years ago) but it does have just over 100,000 miles.

I would like to be able to connect our MP3 player (not an iPod) to the stereo to listen to music as well as our satellite radio. Is it worth looking into upgrading the audio system - we can live without the CD changer if we get the MP3 hooked up - and I wouldn't mind a newer GPS system. Or should we look into selling the car and upgrading to a newer BMW?

Thanks

Rich

get a dice input adapter, it plugs into the cd changer wiring harness, and has an AUX input as well. so you can have ipod and aux input for under $200

Other than the MP3 issue, how is the vehicle? If it gives you no problems, runs/drives, and is paid for, I'd keep it and look into options for music. Upgrading the system might be pricey, but there's other options like FM modulators (which suck but work). I used a DICE setup to hook up our ipod and it connects with the CD changer wiring, not sure if it would be compatible with your early X but looking into upgrading your audio system would be cheaper and easier than replacing the whole vehicle, especially if you love your X.

Hi -- I looked at the DICE website but what if I don't have an iPod (as I said in my original psot) ?

New features of DICE SILVERLINE iPod Integration kit include:

- Direct integrated connection, without the need for FM transmitters or cassette adapters
- Full Text Display on your factory radio or Navigation screen
- Full control of your iPod via the radio buttons while in play
- Browse by Individual Song
- Browse by Individual Playlist
- Browse by Individual Albums
- Source Selector w/ Integrated AUX input
- Album Selection
- Full charging mode for all iPods (including 3G iPhone/touch) through included dock connector

I agree with posters above: if it runs well, and you are prepared to spend a
bit each year for maint/repairs, the music stuff is curable and a $300 GPS
will do more than any NAV system will. It is paid for, which is the cheapest
car one can own...otoh, if you have NewCarJones, that is tough to resist,
but expensive, imo.

A couple grand worth of repairs or, preventive repairs is a lot less expensive
than a new car/payments, etc.
GL,mD

keep it.. is it a 3.0 or 4.4

Keep it....

If the car is running well, keep it. Doesn't make sense to spend $50k+ on a new vehicle when you could replace the entire audio system for under $5k and get the functionality you want.

$5k will get you an incredible audio set up. There are some people here selling great set ups for under $3k!