Go here for the iphone dock http://www.specdock.com/
Get the car coded for mp3 before you do the retrofit (it might be anyway, have you tried an mp3 disc in the dashboard cd player?)
Part number is 65412160342 This may be updated, best to check with your local BMW dealer...you want the latest revision. Fitting the retrofit kit is very easy, as described in the begining of this thread.

Gav

 

I have tried an MP3 in the dashboard CD player and it didn't recognize the disc.

Many thanks for your help, the doc is pretty expensive though, $599.00. WOW!

 

You only need the ashtray part of the specdock, 150 bucks i think....or get creative like i did and make your own...or just leave the ipod/iphone in the glovebox.

 

Thanks Gav!

 

ok so i installed the ipod unit in my 2005 545i. I have the 6 disc cd changer unit which i removed because its no longer needed once you replace the ipod kit. so i know i need programming to enable the MP3 function for the ipod to work. i went to a place in BX, NY and they quoted me 175.00 dollars to program. i was like WTF! they said they have to update all the modules in order for the IPOD Kit to work. i read somewhere on the forums that the whole update is NOT needed for the MP3 retrofit, is this correct? anybody know of a place in NYC or in North New Jersery that knows how to program this without me giving up an arm and a leg.

thanks guys.

 

Your right, they don't need to update all the modules. Thats just they're way of guaranteeing it will work, because they don't really know what actually needs done. I suspect this happens alot in BMW dealerships..

 

Thanks, I'm looking for a shop in NYC or in nj who can do this for a decent price. 175 bucks is a lot I think

 

I booked an appointment with my local BMW dealer, he said they will charge me $210 for the MP3 software retrofit. I'm ok with that, I will buy the cable, remove the CD changer and wire the thing all the way to the center console with the phone normally sits.

Thanks everyone for your help, let's keep this thread alive

 

Can you keep us posted with your wiring job to the center console ..pics.....
Also what wire are you using because i dint think the standard iPod cable will not fit all the way to the center console

 

I will for sure, I will see if the cable is long enough, if not I will have to customize an extender (male to female) if I can find such connectors, I'll keep you posted.