2003 BMW X5 - Ipod Interface

[jamesm067]

Hello,

I have a 2003 BMW X5 4.4 with a standard single cd player and radio without the GPS navigation system.

Can anyone tell me if this radio model can accept an IPOD interface cable (e.g. IPOD Shuffle)?

Is there more than one way to go about installing an interface adapter for this radio? And if so, do you recommend one way over another?

Can I rig it so that an IPOD can connect to the X5 radio system through the glove box (e.g auxiliary input) or does the IPOD have to connect to the wiring in the rear of the vehicle (e.g. where an optional 6 CD changer would go)?

Any detailed instructions and product recommendations are appreciated.

Thanks,

Jim

[DaveNW]

I went with a DICE iPod controller in my X. Mine is the smae year and model you have. Works excellent. I fed the cable out the center console, so I can reach the iPod while driving, if needed. But you can do it through the glovebox, too. Check it out:

http://www.bavariansoundwerks.com/ca...d-Integration/

At the same time, I also installed XM radio, and bluetooth for my cell phone. I'm pretty wired. My stereo installer guy did it all in about an hour. Piece of cake, and all the items are controlled by the dash and steering wheel controls.

Have fun,
Dave

[jamesm067]

Hello Dave,

Thanks for the website link and response. How hard was it to connect the DICE adapter? Does the DICE adapter come with detailed (easy to follow) instructions?

Does this adapter work with only one type of IPOD or will it work with all IPOD models. My girlfriend has an IPOD shuffle she wants to play in the X5 when we go on a trip next month, so I am trying to get my X5 set up for that.

Please tell me more about your Bluetooth installation. I just got my X5 Friday afternoon and have not really had a chance to go through all the features yet. Do you know if there is any sort of wiring in place for a phone in the X5? Many times the wiring comes standard but minus the option unless you purchase it. I take it that bluetooth was not even thought about in 2003 X5s.

How is your phone set up in your X5? Is it one of those speakerphone (hands-free systems)?

Thanks again for the response. I just traded in my 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee with 236,000 miles on it for a 2003 BMW X5. The X5 definitely rocks so far.

Jim

[jamesm067]

Hello,

Here is a link I found on the web, that is interesting. How does this unit compare in performance to the DICE?

http://forums.ilounge.com/archive/in.../t-214259.html


http://www.oemautosound.com/pc-228-1...interface.aspx

http://www.oemautosound.com/pc-292-8...1996-2006.aspx

Is it possible to install an aux. jack port in a 2003 BMW X5 (E53)? I would like to connect an IPOD Shuffle (different from the other IPODS) to the standard radio in the 2003 BMW X5.

Is this possible?

Thanks in advance for any responses.

-J

[zerochief]

Talk with Tom G at EAS, a sponsor here.

More Info:
http://www.xoutpost.com/vendor-forum/...lable-bmw.html

[DaveNW]

Jim, search the archives here for the numerous threads about iPod interfaces, bluetooth retrofit kits, and how to use them. There is a TON of information about them. I'm not an expert, by any stretch. I did my research here, then bought the best I could afford. There may be other/better kits available, but what I bought works great.

I got my bluetooth kit at www.bimmernav.com. Stock installation worked perfect right out of the box. Handsfree, through the steering wheel and dash controls. I wouldn't be without it. If you have BMW Assist, you have the wiring guts needed to put in bluetooth. If not, it can be added.

The DICE box plugs right in to the existing AUX jack on the radio. Sockets and such are already there. Hardest thing is finding a mounting place and routing the cable. You'll have to ask the seller whether it'll control your GFs shuffle. I've only tried my video iPod.

Good luck!

Dave

[Tom G.]

Originally Posted by jamesm067

Hello,

Here is a link I found on the web, that is interesting. How does this unit compare in performance to the DICE?

http://forums.ilounge.com/archive/in.../t-214259.html


http://www.oemautosound.com/pc-228-1...interface.aspx

http://www.oemautosound.com/pc-292-8...1996-2006.aspx

Is it possible to install an aux. jack port in a 2003 BMW X5 (E53)? I would like to connect an IPOD Shuffle (different from the other IPODS) to the standard radio in the 2003 BMW X5.

Is this possible?

Thanks in advance for any responses.

-J

That's the USA Spec kit, it's very limited in features and does not offer text display. This is the kit you need:

DICE - SILVERLINE iPod Integration Kit for X5 00-06 (Trunk Interface)
http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...oducts_id=1631

The DICE iPod Kit will integrate perfectly with your X5 and offer steering wheel control as well as ID3 text and charging of your iPod. Full CD Quality can be expected after installation. There's even an integrated AUX port for other devices.

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 iPods through included dock connector

The kit will come with everything needed w/ the docking cable. The iPod can be safely stored away in the glove compartment for 100% stealth installation and accessed completely from the steering wheel controls. The DICE comes with a 15-foot cable length to reach anywhere in the vehicle you like.

The DICE will not support the Shuffle, since it does not have a dock connector. Any other iPod will be perfectly fine.

Let me know if you have any further questions.