I asked about it. It costs a little more and there is a wait since US units are pretty rare. Still debating what to do. I'd hate to buy it and have it fail in a year or tow since its a used unit. Since the current radio just up and died its not an unfounded fear.

I agree, not an unfounded fear at all. For me, it was/is worth taking the chance.

Upgrade to that droid unit from AVINUSA/Yokotron... $500 can't go wrong.

I'm done with the Android experience. No thanks :)

What was wrong with it?

Did you check the fuse on the back of the M-ASK head unit.

I didnt. Tech did it. Fuse was blown, dude replaced it, plugged radio back in and blew the fuse again. Said he could smell burning in the unit. Based on that they say I need a new M-ASK, screen and iDrive controller are apparently still good.

Think I might get a used one off Ebay, seen one for about $300, would an independent shop be able to do the VIN coding?

Depends on the indy I suppose. This is simple default coding.

Cool. They managed to register a new battery i installed so I'm guessing they could probably code the radio too. I'll call to make sure tho.


Thanks

If you get INPA/NCSExpert you can do it yourself.
The following DIY shows you how to default code BMW modules.

https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/s...ad.php?1765680

In the 9th photo, choose MASK ECU instead of DSC