Maybe not - check this out... :thumbup:

https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JNoCxounA...Bcar%2Bdvd.jpg https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BYww9Cib8...Bcar%2Bdvd.jpg
Latest Pumpkin Android Car Stereo Review: How to install Aftermarket Pumpkin Android 5.1 BMW E39 X5 E53 Navigation System DVD Player

That's good news. I wish there was another in between picture there to see how exactly he's bending/squishing that cage to get it out. But it certainly does look doable. :thumbup:

Learn something all the time.

I thought I read the removable frame was LCI? Not sure.

Could be - although I think those pictures are an E39, so closer to the pre-LCI? :dunno:

And DrRick hasn't indicated what version his car is - so I'm making this up! ;)

Busy day. Thanks for the replies. My unit is a NON-NAV. Which according to the manufac. must be Cut out. So off I go. I will post some pictures. The only DIY's I have see thus far are for the Nav unit. Again Pictured above.
2003 X5 E53, Non-Nav.

They all say it must be cut out.. But I'm not so sure... Check for the screws as shown in the link above.

Having said that, if you are NEVER putting to factory CD player and MID back in, who cares! ;)

We went thru this back in that monster radio thread. There are two different dashes they install on the early models. One with the frame and one without. Later on it was removable.

We never really resolved it fully though - I'm about at the point where I'm going to tear my '05 apart - just to see! ;)

Damn curiosity.... :rofl:

I can update everyone on the 2004 LCI in about 6 weeks. :thumbup: