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View Full Version : BMW X5 question - XM Direct and BMW OEM IPod interface



ranger
11-27-2014, 11:12 AM
Situation: Just bought very clean 2005 BMW X5 for wife. Fully loaded X5 except it has base "hi fi" (non-DSP) stereo. X5 comes with the BMW OEM IPod interface installed by dealer. X5 does not have CD changer or the subwoofer (again, non DSP).

I have a XM Direct system that I have used in my 2005 325, 2003 525 Touring, and 2005 ZHP (RIP) with great success.

I plugged the XM Direct module into the X5 cd changer plugs in the X5 driver rear side of the cargo area. XM Direct unit seems to work and is getting a signal - the BMW OEM radio display shows XM and shows the station plus details of song playing. Everything seems to be good to go except NO sound on the XM setting - I have sound on radio (AM and FM), single CD, and with iPod adapter.

Internet searches state that the "no sound" is because the iPod interface and the XM Direct are both emulating the non-existent CD changer. Internet posts indicate that I will have to unplug the OEM IPod interface in order to get the XM Direct sound.

I really do not want to tear dash apart to unplug the iPod interface. Long term, I will upgrade all the stereo in the X5 but that needs to wait several months (paid cash for X5 plus Christmas!).

Does anyone have any suggestions and specifically does anyone know how to unplug the BMW OEM iPod Interface without tearing the dash apart?

Thanks

Scott

PS: Happy Thanksgiving!