My First DIY Project - Adding AUX Input in 2005 X5

[jfox00]

This serves as my first post, and my first project on my 2005 BMW X5. I recently got a music player, and I did not want to deal with the annoyance of using an FM transmitter. I am also disappointed that Aux In is not a STANDARD feature on such a beautiful car, but maybe it is now.

I was rather apprehensive about installing the Aux Input kit myself, but the dealership was going to charge for 1 - 1.5 hours of time, and after doing some research online, I was ready to jump into it.

I ordered my kit online for about $40, Part # 82110149390, AUX Input Installation Kit. I used a post on Bimmerfest to get me going, and reference the correct TIS instructions for the removal of the radio from the center console. However, I did not like the fact that the installation required mounting the AUX input in the glove box. That seemed like a really difficult place to have my music player, plus access while driving would be difficult. So I decided to throw out an audible, and mount the AUX input in the ashtray, where the cigarette holder was. (Not a smoker). This gave me great access to the player, The AUX cable can still be hidden when not in use, and in general seemed like a better place for it.

I removed the ashtray, drilled a hole for one of the screws, and super glued the AUX IN faceplate in place. I did not have to drill one hole for the other screw, since it fell into the open area where the actual cigarette holder was. I fed the AUX cable behind the stereo, and looped it back up into the where the ashtray would sit. After I glued the faceplace, and screwed in the screws, I put the ashtray back in the car, fed the AUX in cable into the faceplate (this was tough, took some effort), and locked it in place.

I have some rather low quality photos attached, but I think you can see the result of my work. I have a realitively good looking AUX in jack, in a realitively good place. And it works great. Just thought I would share with the community. Hope this will give someone else on the fence the encouragement to put this in. And I have to say, it felt great to do this on my own.

[Bimmer4125]

This is genius! Exactly what I've been looking for, but scared to do it myself. I imagine it will work on my 2004 4.4 in the same general manner. Can you tell me how difficult it was to remove the radio? Thank you - John

[Bimmer Ese]

Sweet write up. Looks like this will be my next project.

Dan

[jfox00]

Thanks guys - I'm quite happy with the result myself. Removal of the radio and the CD player was pretty easy, actually. The instructions (in the Bimmer link I mentioned) show the removal of the multi-info display and the radio.

It took a little patience after twisting the small screw and pulling at the right angle to remove both, but you will be able to "feel" it out as you go. I'm not a big DIY'er, and my wife was VERY nervous about my project. But, I knew I could always run back to the dealer with my tail between my legs, and ask for help.

One final note I just remembered - this kit was for a NON-NAV, with the Business CD player. They have similar kits if your BMW has NAV, and I would assume the instructions differ slightly as well.

[faz]

Thanks for the post... I had some time today to drop by here and take a look at some of the DIY links on the main page... and this looked like a good one that I will definitely do. (My wife's 328i comes with the AUX input already in it, so we use the ipod with that setup already.) I also think the location you have installed the jack is better than the glove compartment.

[carlgo]

For another way to use your new aux connector, see this:

http://www.xoutpost.com/x5-e53-forum/...onnection.html

If those using an fm connection, please consider the better and safer aux method.

There are many good articles one this forum on how to install an aux. Even if you have to pay someone, do it.

Note that the aux works with bluetooth, so it is all good.

[TaMbALoLoNg]

Thanks for the 411

[X5 Meister]

Nice install.

The advantage of the glovebox mount is that you can keep the ipod in the glovebox hidden from view and lock it in there if needed. The disadvantage is tha you'll need a little longer cable to comfortably work it from the driver's seat. Another disadvantage that I discovered the hard way was that if you leave the cable connected to the aux input while in the glovebox, if anything hits the cable as it enters the connector (like the leather folder with all the manuals) over time it will loosen and you'll have an intermittent signal. Annoying as hell. So now I keep the cable disconnected at the aux input when not using an ipod and also cleaned out the glovebox somewhat.

Last point, if you are using an ipod make sure you get a cable with a connector that connects to the bottom port of the ipod rather then the headphone jack. That way you'll get line-out output from it and can control the ipod's sound with just the radio controls and not have to use the radio controls AND the ipod to adjust the sound.

[carlgo]

Originally Posted by mgruber

Nice install.

The advantage of the glovebox mount is that you can keep the ipod in the glovebox hidden from view and lock it in there if needed. The disadvantage is tha you'll need a little longer cable to comfortably work it from the driver's seat. Another disadvantage that I discovered the hard way was that if you leave the cable connected to the aux input while in the glovebox, if anything hits the cable as it enters the connector (like the leather folder with all the manuals) over time it will loosen and you'll have an intermittent signal. Annoying as hell. So now I keep the cable disconnected at the aux input when not using an ipod and also cleaned out the glovebox somewhat.

Last point, if you are using an ipod make sure you get a cable with a connector that connects to the bottom port of the ipod rather then the headphone jack. That way you'll get line-out output from it and can control the ipod's sound with just the radio controls and not have to use the radio controls AND the ipod to adjust the sound.

Yes, it is important to use the bottom connector for sound and for recharging. The Tuneflex connects like that, recharges as well and has an adjustable output so you can get the best sound.

The disadvantage is that even if you take your iPod/phone with you, a criminal might see the stalk and assume there is something to steal and break in. If you are worried about that, then the glovebox method is best. Of course, many people don't want any cables, etc. cluttering things up.

[X5 Meister]

Great input. The tuneflex is certainly nice and does have the additional advantage of recharging which will not happen using the aux input method alone unfortunately. I also didn't know about the adjustable output!

Originally Posted by carlgo

Yes, it is important to use the bottom connector for sound and for recharging. The Tuneflex connects like that, recharges as well and has an adjustable output so you can get the best sound.

The disadvantage is that even if you take your iPod/phone with you, a criminal might see the stalk and assume there is something to steal and break in. If you are worried about that, then the glovebox method is best. Of course, many people don't want any cables, etc. cluttering things up.