Danazc,

Slowdog is correct. You can't hook-up your ipod without the Ipod integration device. However, there are two different versions... one that allows you to control your ipod through idrive ($300) and one that only allows you to route the signal to your speakers. I haven't actually seen the product number of the latter, this was mentioned to me by my service advisor.

BMW's link: http://www.bmw.com/com/en/owners/accessori...ipod_facts.html

Otherwise, you can always burn the mp3's to a cd and run that in your stereo.

Tim

By the way, I ended up spending $300 for the ipod integration kit and LOVE it. Controlling the songs using the steering wheel controls and seeing it on the idrive screen is really cool and safer. Also, you can put the ipod in your glovebox and not have to hide it everytime you leave the car.

 

Thanks for some clarification, that helps. I was under the impression that the ipod was available in some 2004 and 2005's. So my option is Full set up which is going to cost 600-800, a cheap FM Transmitter that is a waste, or trying to do that auxillary mod. Is the aux mod as simple as just buying the aux cable and plugging it into the back of the radio or cd changer or more complex than that? More info the better.

 

Requirements: Cheap, no FM, no I-Drive, keep CD changer

Simple answer: You want Aux input.

 

Not true. This can be done easily with the Aux Input, which is not an "IPod integration device." It is a line-in connection only. But it works. This is the "cheapo" route.

Perhaps what you meant was what I said above. I suspect we are both trying to say the same thing, but I am just pointing out your initial statement may cause some confusion. That is, the Aux Input is not an IPod integration device so to speak.

The IPod integration device from BMW only works with IPods. The Aux Input is universal line-in.

Not trying to bash you or be anal here, but just want to clarify for benefit of people who are not familiar with it. I've had both setups at different times.

 

It's installed inside the glove box. You can't miss it as it has the IPod connector. Same connector as the USB plug for a PC to IPod.

 

Roadrunner,
Thanks for the clarification. I believe you are referring to the device my SA mentioned (per my post). Was cheaper than the ipod integration kit, definitely. But I don't remember the price. Can you let Danazc know how much it cost you to put that in? I paid $300 for my full ipod integration kit.

Thanks,
Tim

 

Well, personally I feel that I got screwed on the IPod integration on my current vehicle. I paid about $550 for that AND the bastards kept my CD changer... which the thought did not occur to me until later. I'm sure there must be some BMW workers flooding EBay with cd changers.... aaarghhh.... what a racket.

I'm trying to recall the Aux Input... it's been awhile. I believe it was something like $45 for the part and maybe 1/2 hour or 1 hour of labor, but I do not remember for sure and I don't have that paperwork anymore. Keep in mind that I live in a part of the U.S. where everything is inflated (price wise), so I'm not the best person to ask.

 

That's odd. They left the CD changer in my car after they put in the ipod kit. Wow, they really did take you to the cleaners. Time to switch dealerships!