So I have a 530i with bluetooth (phone calls work perfectly), No factory AUX and no Navigation.

I have no problem going to my local BMW dealer to have the AUX added if it becomes required. But as I understand it if I have AUX added then an aftermarket BT unit plugged into it. I will have two different BT systems in the car and have to switch back to the car to make a call. Is there any system where I can stream through the factory stereo and take phone calls on the same system.

I am still trying to learn all the systems and acronyms. But I think I have an early BT system since I did not need a specific PassKey and just entered in 0000. Is that right?

Jake

 

Hi Jake,

As I understand it, without an aux jack, you would have to connect one of those aftermarket units to your speaker wires somehow. Most pull the radio out and connect them there. You also need a power source. I do have an aux in my 2017 530xi, so I installed a Sure board and tapped into the cigarette lighter ports on the back of the center console. You could probably do something similar behind your glove box.

Once installed, all Bluetooth communications go through the device, so phone calls will occur the same as they do now. Your music, GPS directions, etc. will be interrupted when the call comes in and resume once you hang up. Regarding the passkey, any four digits will work as long as you use the same number on both sides.

 

Like I said I am more than happy to go to the dealer and have AUX installed. And I would rather do that than having to connect to the speaker wires. Would the phone button still work on the steering wheel?

Jake

 

Yes.

If you're going to have aux installed, also have them add a USB port while they're at it. That will broaden the options for devices you can consider.

 

I had not thought of that. Thank you. That goes on the list.

Jake

 

They also have those Bluetooth adapters that play through your FM radio. What I did was I copied a bunch of mp3 files to a CD.

 

I used the Bluetooth adapter that plugs into the Aux port and it works seamlessly. I play music through aux when a calls comes in I answer it like normal and when I hang up the music starts back playing. I wouldn't go to the dealership to pay to get aux coded/installed. To me it's not worth it. It takes literally 5 mins to code it. A $30 (max) 5.0 Bluetooth adapter (5.0 allows multiple phone connections which BMW does not have for your year) and 10 mins of your time to install it and you're done. Plays crystal clear and works like it's factory other than playing it through aux.

 

@seanjordan20 You got a link for that adapter? eBay, Amazon?

 

I couldn't find the guy I purchased from who use to sell them and did it for years but found 2 other that are different kinds. The adapter with the 2 wires and the plug is the type I used. The one that's basically plug and play is another option.

The one like my adapter

Another option