Bluetooth TCU install in ZHP DIY and Parts List

[sna77]

This is a complete list of what you need to retrofit a Bluetooth TCU into your ZHP. If you have BMW Assist and want to keep it your car will require coding... if not, then this is all plug and play. If you want voice recognition enabled (for the phonebook only, not navigation) then you need to enable it on the TCU via coding. An Autologic, GT1, ISTA or NavCoder can do this easily. This should run you about $400 in total parts new from the dealer. Also, if you already have BMW Assist, you most likely have a microphone in the car.

Anyhow, the parts list. You need 5 parts:
84316938762 2nd generation microphone
84506928461 Bluetooth antenna
84136912160 Bluetooth antenna bracket
84136924551 TCU Bracket for sedan and coupe (84136924948 for convertible)
84109195455 Remanufactured TCU (latest generation, works with all iPhones, BlackBerrys etc)

Microphone:
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=EV53&mospid=47725&btnr=84_0021&hg=84&fg=30&hl=12

Everything else:
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=AV53&mospid=47725&btnr=84_0528&hg=84&fg=10&hl=32

Convertible TCU bracket:
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts.do?model=BR93&mospid=47708&btnr=84_0534&hg=84&fg=10&hl=25

Microphone:
http://www.bigpatsfans.com/TCU/8.JPG

Bluetooth antenna:
http://www.bigpatsfans.com/TCU/4.jpg

Bluetooth antenna bracket:
http://www.bigpatsfans.com/TCU/2.jpg

Remanufactured TCU:
http://www.bigpatsfans.com/TCU/tcu1.JPG

[cakM3]

Thanks for putting this up Steve :thumbsup

Glad to see you here on this forum!

[sna77]

The microphone is very easy to install. Make sure you have the arrows lined up properly:

http://www.bigpatsfans.com/TCU/9.jpg

http://www.bigpatsfans.com/TCU/10.jpg



The Bluetooth antenna and bracket attach under the rear armrest:

http://www.bigpatsfans.com/TCU/3.jpg

The Bluetooth antenna is mounted under the rear ash tray in the arm rest. You need to remove the center console to do this. Start by removing the rear ash tray then the screws holding it in:
http://www.bigpatsfans.com/bt/pics/ashtray1.jpg

http://www.bigpatsfans.com/bt/pics/ashtray2.jpg


The Bluetooth TCU attaches to the TCU bracket and gets installed here:

http://www.bigpatsfans.com/TCU/6.jpg

[sna77]

Thanks for putting this up Steve :thumbsup

Glad to see you here on this forum!

Thanks Charlie. Figured I'd get everything organized in one place where the knowledge wouldn't go to waste.

[sna77]

BTW, if you want to be super lazy, you can order this antenna cable 84320138217 and simply stick it on top of the TCU in the trunk with double sided tape. One end connects to the TCU and the other to the Bluetooth antenna.

You don't really need the Bluetooth antenna in the armrest, the range is fine from the phone to the antenna in the trunk. I set both of my cars and Charlie's up this way and they work without a problem. It basically eliminates the only time consuming task of removing the center console.

http://www.bigpatsfans.com/bt/pics/fakra1.jpg

[SoCalZman]

It def won't go to waste. you have saved me hundreds of dollars in install costs. It you come to SF I owe you a beer! haha. Just curious, why does the TCU say "remanufactured"? Is that how they all are or are you giving us that part to save money?

[sna77]

In BMW speak, "remanufactured" means rebuilt. And it generally means they fixed the issues with the original part. They cost less and carry the same warranty, so there is no reason not to go with them. In fact, in the case of the TCU, it is the only TCU BMW now offers for the iBus cars.

Check out number of revisions this TCU had! In most the TCUs, Bluetooth functionality didn't even work, just BMW Assist. The reman unit was rebuilt with the latest hardware / software on it, which is great since there is no way to upgrade the software on an older TCU to the newer ones. For instance my wife's old 2004 325xi came with a bogus TCU like every other 04... The only way to get Bluetooth working was to pull that TCU for newer one...

http://www.bigpatsfans.com/TCU/reman.JPG

[SoCalZman]

Ok. Ill order the parts! so excited to get this done at a reasonable price and able to do it myself!

One question about the bluetooth antenna that goes under the rear ashtray/center console. There is a plug under there already that plugs into it right? and that routes to the trunk that I will be plugging into the TCU?

and there is also a plug for the GPS shark fin on the roof? Ill make sure to plug it in, but what is the purpose of that?

[sna77]

One question about the bluetooth antenna that goes under the rear ashtray/center console. There is a plug under there already that plugs into it right? and that routes to the trunk that I will be plugging into the TCU?


Correct. That cable is run from the trunk to under the cup holders already. So you either use that existing cable or just use the short one I found...



and there is also a plug for the GPS shark fin on the roof? Ill make sure to plug it in, but what is the purpose of that?

You can connect it, but it won't do anything unless you activate BMW assist. It's also used for a signal booster for the eject box that would replace your cup holders. Unfortunately, the TCU doesnt power the eject box--you'd need a ULF. I used to have this but I switch phones too often and the snap-ins are expensive, and ultimately I swapped the ULF for a TCU because I couldn't get a beta version of BB OS 7 to run on the ULF. The final release of the BlackBerry OS actually worked with the ULF. groan.


Ok. Ill order the parts! so excited to get this done at a reasonable price and able to do it myself!

Awesome! Can't wear to hear about the results! :thumbsup

[SoCalZman]

meh, Ill leave it unplugged. this is my first car with cupholders and I plan to enjoy it :D

I can't believe stereo shops/the dealer were going to charge me all this money for installs.....

[sna77]

meh, Ill leave it unplugged. this is my first car with cupholders and I plan to enjoy it :D

I can't believe stereo shops/the dealer were going to charge me all this money for installs.....

There was a TON of research that went into this originally. Check out what I had to do to get Bluetooth retrofit into my 2001 325i! (BTW, don't look to closely, this will confuse your current install, which is fairly different.)
http://www.bigpatsfans.com/bt/bluetooth.htm

Quite the learning process--and that system is still working today (sold the car to a friend who still uses it)...

As for leaving the sharkfin unplugged... You may as well plug it in. You can hit the SOS button and talk to BMW's service center if you're bored. They ask you for a credit card to subscribe to their service. LOL

[SoCalZman]

well anyone who is going to benefit from this appreciates all the work you put into the research I am sure. I sure do.

I don't have a BMW assist rear view mirror so I won't be able to join in the taunting of the BMW operators. haha.

edit: whoops. I just looked at a picture of my car and I do not have the shark fin. Oh well! haha.

[johnrando]

Thanks for posting this great info.

[328ioc]

This is really great info. I'm glad you did this. But one question. We do NOT need the pairing button? Or do we?

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk 2

[sna77]

This is really great info. I'm glad you did this. But one question. We do NOT need the pairing button? Or do we?

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk 2


A pairing button is NOT needed with a TCU. When you start the car the TCU automatically goes into pairing mode for the first 30 seconds. Just have your phone search for the TCU immediately after starting the car.

A pairing buttons is only needed with a ULF. Alternatively, if you use a ULF, you have the option of using an eject box with snap-in that replaces the cup holders. There is a pairing button built into the eject box.

Comparison of pairing button vs. eject box. These are NOT needed with the TCU!
http://www.bigpatsfans.com/bt/pics/pairing_buttons.jpg

Default location of pairing button install:
http://www.bigpatsfans.com/pairing.JPG

Here is an eject box with a snap-in adapter installed. The snap-ins are interchangeable (well, as long as BMW makes a snap-in for your phone model):
http://www.bigpatsfans.com/razr/razr4.jpg

[328ioc]

A pairing button is NOT needed with a TCU. When you start the car the TCU automatically goes into pairing mode for the first 30 seconds. Just have your phone search for the TCU immediately after starting the car.

A pairing buttons is only needed with a ULF.

Great thanks again.

Sent from my DROID RAZR using Tapatalk 2

[derbo]

This looks great!

Do you still need the TCU bracket if you have SOS assist? I used to have it in the factory mirror and I went to a compass/autodim mirror from a 2007 ZPP 328i.

All those parts with my discount comes to around $322. I'm so tempted!

[sna77]

edit: whoops. I just looked at a picture of my car and I do not have the shark fin. Oh well! haha.

No need--you are all set without it. My ZHP didn't come with one either and I retrofit the OEM one. The instructions are in the bigpatsfans DIY. Again, totally unnecessary with a TCU though unless you plan to use BMW Assist.


This looks great!

Do you still need the TCU bracket if you have SOS assist? I used to have it in the factory mirror and I went to a compass/autodim mirror from a 2007 ZPP 328i.

All those parts with my discount comes to around $322. I'm so tempted!

If your car already has BMW Assist:

- You do not need a TCU bracket, because you already have one.

- You also probably don't need the microphone. Pull the trim panel down and do a visual inspection.

- Depending on the year of the car, you may not need the Bluetooth antenna. The only way to know for sure is to check under the arm rest.

- If you want to retain functionality of BMW Assist or Voice Recognition of the TCU, then the module needs to be programmed. I use a program called NavCoder to do this. The dealer or an Autologic can also do this. You can set the VIN and a number of other features with NavCoder. Again, totally optional. If you simply plug in the TCU out of the box, Bluetooth starts working! :thumbsup

Hopefully for you, it may be as simple as just ordering a new TCU and swapping it for the old one...

Also of note: There is a circa $200 core charge on the TCU. Some dealers have asked for it, some have not. I've ordered 2 TCUs without getting hit with a core from my local dealer. Save that old TCU in case a dealer tries to hit someone up for one!

[derbo]

Thanks for the info :]

I work at a dealership so hopefully I dont need to.

I have an 04 but it doesn't have the bluetooth stuff. :\ I dont need SOS since I deleted the buttons of SOS on my mirror so I dont need to program. :D

[SoCalZman]

-I would like the voice stuff...I hope my dealer doesn't charge (too much) for the programming. Wishful thinking I bet.
Functionality question: you press the talking man button to activate this voice feature right? Can you also activate Siri via the car's control somehow?

- ugh, I hope he doesn't charge a core charge because I don't have a TCU at all it sounds like. I'll find out Monday when I drop the car off for some "pre Tahoe road trip" servicing. Wishful thinking on that agin too, I bet. Lol

Stay tuned!

[sna77]

BTW, I'd be happy to code anyone's TCU for them for free. Its a 5 minute job with Navcoder and the right iBus interace. Also, I'll post instructions on how to program the TCU with NavCoder later this weekend. You need about $50 of software and hardware and an old laptop with a serial port...

Press and hold the guys speaking button on the steering wheel and say "dial name" or "dial number" for the voice recognition.

One cool feature of the ULF (not TCU) is with OEM Nav you can say "find gas station" and it will pull up a list of gas stations nearby.


Speaking of Nav--NorCal, have you updated you OS on the Nav and bought updated maps?

[SoCalZman]

BTW, I'd be happy to code anyone's TCU for them for free. Its a 5 minute job with Navcoder and the right iBus interace. Also, I'll post instructions on how to program the TCU with NavCoder later this weekend. You need about $50 of software and hardware and an old laptop with a serial port...

Press and hold the guys speaking button on the steering wheel and say "dial name" or "dial number" for the voice recognition.

One cool feature of the ULF (not TCU) is with OEM Nav you can say "find gas station" and it will pull up a list of gas stations nearby.


Speaking of Nav--NorCal, have you updated you OS on the Nav and bought updated maps?

Good to know. But what about activating iPhone's Siri voice control. Can you do that? I am just thinking its another option for voice control.

I am a Mac guy and don't have a laptop so I am at the mercy of someone else. If the dealer wants to charge an arm and a leg, are you suggesting we mail you the TCU? Might be a good option if shipping from California isn't too much :)

I have the latest software: 4/00 or something like that right? I dug around and saw that. My maps disc is from 2006 though. That is on my list to buy a new one.

-Antone

[sna77]

Antone,
I have no idea if you could get Siri to work with the Voice Control. I'm guessing no, but I'm a BlackBerry guy so I've never bothered to investigate. :)

Prob cost $7-8 to ship the TCU across country. I'll offer the service for free to any Mafia members who need programming. :thumbsup

You definitely need a new map... Your in luck, the 2012 maps come on 2 DVD's--East and West coast. No chance of my ZHP ever going past the Mississippi. PM me your address and I'll ship you the West coast 2012 DVD. It requires 4-1/00, which you already have so you should be good.

The 2 DVD set of 2012 "High" (not "Professional" which are for the newer cars) maps are BMW P/N# 65902241695 if anyone is looking to buy them. $200 at the dealer. BTW, you can burn copies of the DVD's, however the MKIV DVD drives start acting funny when using them--they boot slower etc. Its well worth using an original DVD to prevent your laser from wearing out.
http://img542.imageshack.us/img542/3905/bmw2012highdvd1.jpg

[SoCalZman]

Seriously???? Dude, you so rock. Just saved me even more money. I was going to have to spread all this stuff out over the rest of the year but now I'll be able to do it within the next month! :roundel

Yes I definitely have that version of Nav. Did a lot of reading when I got the car last month.

And re: the voice control, ah so you are blackberry. They make me carry one of those for work :) personal phone is a iPhone though. Apple owns the Bay Area, hah. I will try to make siri work after I plug everything in and report my findings here. If not I'll probably send the TCU over to you, Steve. Do you know if the TCU allows more than one phone connection at a time, like my work and iPhone or my iPhone and my partners phone?

PM with my address is on the way. Let me know if you want any compensation for the discs!

[sna77]

My work gives me a BlackBerry too--but I can't handle carrying 2 phones so I just go with the BB and leave an iPad in the car for actual web browsing...

The TCU allows 4 phones to be paired with it... but just 1 at a time. If I start the car my wife's iPhone generally beats my BB to the phone... It's a bit of a race to see who will grab the BT pairing and leave the other person hanging.

Dug up the 2011 West Coast DVD. Somehow managed to lose to 2012 one already (ugh). I'll send that out Monday am.

One random map note: Up until 2010 the maps were made by Navteq and fit on one dual layer DVD (7.x GB). The 2011 / 2012 maps are made my Tele Atlas, now Tom Tom. They split them into 2 DVDs for some reason despite still only having 7.x GB of data. Meh

[SoCalZman]

That's cool. I'll take a 2010. How much can change in two years right? And it's still better than 2006

[derbo]

That's cool. I'll take a 2010. How much can change in two years right? And it's still better than 2006


According to the map guys roads change about 3% every year. LOL :)

[SoCalZman]

According to the map guys roads change about 3% every year. LOL :)

Really? ... Steve, dig deeper into that box!! Lol ;) j/k

[sna77]

That's cool. I'll take a 2010. How much can change in two years right? And it's still better than 2006

Whoops, that was a typo... It's the 2011 West Coast. 2010 as noted above was the last year of the single disk Navteq maps. :thumbsup

[SoCalZman]

Even better :)

[prowlerflyer]

Could you describe the difference in requirement or functionality between the TCU and ULF?

I have nav and Sirus, but not Assist. I really just want Bluetooth capability and VR with my phone (Droid). Thanks


Sent from my DROIDX using Tapatalk 2

[sna77]

The simple answer is that if you just want basic Bluetooth functionality and don't care about Voice Recognition, then you can simply order the TCU. If you care about VR for the phone, then you can program the TCU.

If you care about an eject box / snap-in adapter or VR for Navigation, then the ULF is the way to go. :thumbsup

*****

Comparison:

TCU: (Telematic Control Unit)

- Costs less than the ULF (circa $350 US)
- TCU does not support eject box or pairing button.
- Full Voice Control is not supported out-of-the box. Voice Recognition can be enabled via coding for the phone only, not navigation
- TCU supports BMW Assist (US only, and if your car was equipped with it from factory)



ULF: Universal Ladefreisprechelektronik (Universal Hands-Free System)

- The ULF system for the e46 had 13 generations of revisions to it. Most US dealers only sell the first generation -552 unit. These older units have a ton of issues and won't pair with most modern phones. Anything 6th generation and newer is pretty good. The 6th generation unit will pair with an iPhone 4 for instance. ECS Tuning can special order these to the US, along with Bimmernav.
- The ULF is more expensive than the TCU. Runs about $600-$700 for the ULF.
- Out-of-the box, Voice Control is enabled for both the phone and Navigation if you have it (no coding necessary)
- Visteon is the OEM for BMW of these units
- The ULF requires either a pairing button (OEM ones have been discontinued, but you can make one fairly easily) or an eject box that has a pairing button built into it. The pairing button is only required for initial pairing of the phone. NOTE: The button on the steering wheel is NOT a pairing button, nor can it be wired to be one.

More info on ULF's as well as the version changes can be found here:
http://www.bimmernav.com/ulfchanges.html


ULF Version number History:

84216934552 end of life 06/03 1st generation
84216938610 end of life 10/03 2nd generation
84216934961 end of life 03/04 3rd generation
84216950089 end of life 06/04 4th generation
84216945387 end of life 01/05 5th generation
84106955522 end of life 10/05 6th generation
84106969268 end of life 04/06 7th generation
84216958358 end of life 05/06 8th generation
84106987546 end of life 09/06 9th generation
84106980130 end of life 11/06 10th generation
84109133329 end of life 01/07 11th generation
84109145007 end of life 05/07 12th generation
84109154358 current production 13th generation

[sna77]

Voice commands for ULF and TCU (phone section only):

If you just say "HELP," the system mentions that there are 3 help commands:

HELP NAVIGATON
HELP PHONE
HELP NOTEPAD

Below is a list of all the commands mentioned by the HELP commands:

Help NAVIGATION:

Route map
Navigation
Scale 400 feet
Scale 800 feet
Scale one quarter of a mile
Scale half a mile
Scale one mile
Scale two point five mile
Scale five mile
Scale ten mile
Scale twenty-five miles
Scale fifty miles
Hotels as current location
Parking lot as current location
Restaurant as current location
Gas station as current location
Hotels at destination
Parking lot at destination
Restaurant at destination
Gas station at destination
Save current position
New route
Instruction
Instruction off

Help PHONE:

Dial number
Dial name
Add name
Delete name
Play phonebook
Clear phonebook
Redial


Help NOTEPAD:

Record note
Play notepad
Clear notepad

[cakM3]

The simple answer is that if you just want basic Bluetooth functionality and don't care about Voice Recognition, then you can simply order the TCU. If you care about VR for the phone, then you can program the TCU.

If you care about an eject box / snap-in adapter or VR for Navigation, then the ULF is the way to go. :thumbsup

*****

Comparison:

TCU: (Telematic Control Unit)

- Costs less than the ULF (circa $350 US)
- TCU does not support eject box or pairing button.
- Full Voice Control is not supported out-of-the box. Voice Recognition can be enabled via coding for the phone only, not navigation
- TCU supports BMW Assist (US only, and if your car was equipped with it from factory)



ULF: Universal Ladefreisprechelektronik (Universal Hands-Free System)

- The ULF system for the e46 had 13 generations of revisions to it. Most US dealers only sell the first generation -552 unit. These older units have a ton of issues and won't pair with most modern phones. Anything 6th generation and newer is pretty good. The 6th generation unit will pair with an iPhone 4 for instance. ECS Tuning can special order these to the US, along with Bimmernav.
- The ULF is more expensive than the TCU. Runs about $600-$700 for the ULF.- Out-of-the box, Voice Control is enabled for both the phone and Navigation if you have it (no coding necessary)
- Visteon is the OEM for BMW of these units
- The ULF requires either a pairing button (OEM ones have been discontinued, but you can make one fairly easily) or an eject box that has a pairing button built into it. The pairing button is only required for initial pairing of the phone. NOTE: The button on the steering wheel is NOT a pairing button, nor can it be wired to be one.

More info on ULF's as well as the version changes can be found here:
http://www.bimmernav.com/ulfchanges.html


ULF Version number History:
84216934552 end of life 06/03 1st generation
84216938610 end of life 10/03 2nd generation
84216934961 end of life 03/04 3rd generation
84216950089 end of life 06/04 4th generation
84216945387 end of life 01/05 5th generation
84106955522 end of life 10/05 6th generation
84106969268 end of life 04/06 7th generation
84216958358 end of life 05/06 8th generation
84106987546 end of life 09/06 9th generation
84106980130 end of life 11/06 10th generation
84109133329 end of life 01/07 11th generation
84109145007 end of life 05/07 12th generation
84109154358 current production 13th generation

Just ordered this part and was priced at $475.98 (my cost) :) I have to say....you have lots of very helpful knowledge. Thanks for sharing this with all of us :thumbsup

[sna77]

Awesome Charlie! Was there a core charge on that for that price? You already have the pairing button, correct?

[johnrando]

Does anyone know, if you have the ULF (which includes voice commands for NAV), can you tell it to find a location by voice? For instance, "directions, 111 first street, los angeles".

[cakM3]

Awesome Charlie! Was there a core charge on that for that price? You already have the pairing button, correct?

No core charge Steve. That's the price I was given through my contacts for a brand new ULF module. Yeah, you gave me yours :)

Since the one I already have is an older gen (6th if I recall), getting the newest at this price seems a no brainier for me...

[SoCalZman]

everyone getting around these core charges....glad people are having better luck than I! haha.

[sna77]

Does anyone know, if you have the ULF (which includes voice commands for NAV), can you tell it to find a location by voice? For instance, "directions, 111 first street, los angeles".



I actually don't know--Charlie, can you test this out tonight? I have 2 TCUs now. Ha.

I do know on the ULF you can say "find gas station" and it will pull up local gas stations. Pretty damn cool. Especially when you consider this technology can be fit into a 98 e38 7 series.

[cakM3]

Steve,

I will check this tonight after leaving the movie theaters. Watching Avengers in IMAX this evening :)

[RichardP]

Does anyone know, if you have the ULF (which includes voice commands for NAV), can you tell it to find a location by voice? For instance, "directions, 111 first street, los angeles".
No, the ULF (or dedicated VR module) for the E46 does not support this type of command.

The E46 VR is limited to pre-programmed commands, those listed above, and the ability to match a phone contact name with a previously recorded copy of the name spoken by the same person.

The interface to the navigation computer is very simple, there is just one message with one data byte that tells the Nav what to do. The value of the byte tells the Nav to set a particular scale or to find the nearest gas station for example. The messages structure does not allow for inputting a town and street address, or even a ZIP code.

[johnrando]

Thanks Richard. Guess I'm sticking with my current setup then. Parrot/Connects2, Dice for Ipod, Nav.

[SoCalZman]

Well today wasn't very successful with this project, unfortunately.

The microphone went in ok.

The wire for the BT antenna was at an angle that made putting the bracket into position very very difficult. I ended up just plugging in the antenna and forgetting about the bracket.

I didn't mount the TCU yet but I did plug it in to see if things were working.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d0573b96-f89a-dca5.jpg

When I turn start the engine my phone doesn't find any BT to hook up to. Does this need to be enabled at the dealer since I dont have BMW Assist, maybe?

Edit: For anyone that does this, beyond the cream colored plug on one side, you have to plug in the big fat black plug on the other side too. Once I did that the BT system came alive (like magic!).

AND, for all you iPhone owners out there: Siri works fine through it. So you can use all her voice commands through the car. Makes getting the unit coded for VC kind of moot, I think

[sna77]

yes... glad you got it working. :) You initially only plugged inthe antenna--the large black connector powers the device and handles communications with the car's communications bus.

[Crickett]

[ . . . ]

AND, for all you iPhone owners out there: Siri works fine through it. So you can use all her voice commands through the car. Makes getting the unit coded for VC kind of moot, I think

How do you use Siri through BT? Just press & hold the "talking head" button on the steering wheel?

[SoCalZman]

I haven't tried that yet. I pressed the home button on the phone to get Siri to respond (through the cars' speakers). Once there I could issue all the commands through the BT. I have the bimmian phone holder set up so pressing my home button is not a big deal. I will try holding down steering wheel buttons though, and report back

[SoCalZman]

Ok I tried pressing/holding both the talking head button and the R/T button and it did not trigger siri. So the only way to trigger siri is to hold the home button on the phone, but itll start working through the car speakers once you do. Since my phone is in the bimmian holder that isnt a issue for me. Especially since getting voice control activated on the BMW would cost 200 bucks. no. thank. you.

[Crickett]

Ok I tried pressing/holding both the talking head button and the R/T button and it did not trigger siri. So the only way to trigger siri is to hold the home button on the phone, but itll start working through the car speakers once you do. Since my phone is in the bimmian holder that isnt a issue for me. Especially since getting voice control activated on the BMW would cost 200 bucks. no. thank. you.

Understood; thanks for investigating!

[sna77]

This makes sense--pressing the Siri button essentially initiates a phone call.

[SoCalZman]

I tried to finish mounting everything this weekend, exactly how SNA77 did his. Note for anyone doing the same:
- in addition to the bracket youll need for the TCU, youll need the clips and bolts to mount the bracket to the car. I need to go to the dealer to buy those as they seem to be proprietary. I did go to the hardware store and just bought some nuts to secure the TCU to its bracket. Not a big deal, but could save yourself a 2nd trip tot he dealer.

sna77, did you ever get your TCU coded yourself to activate the Voice Control? over the weekend I was at a E46r's house and we plugged the laptop with PA Soft software onto my car and looked for any way to activate it ourselves. While we found the Bluetooth section (everything looked fine), I couldnt see anything about the Voice Commands. I guess I will have to look for some documentation on doing it outside of a dealer, if that is possible.

edit: rereading through the post you coded it yourself with something called Autologic, I see. I dont think I should worry about the voice control functionality if Siri is working so well for me.

[sna77]

I didn't need the clips and bolts because my car came with BMW Assist. I removed the old TCU from its bracket and replaced with the newer TCU with working Bluetooth.

I can program TCU's locally with a program called NavCoder using a reslers ibus interface. Simple to do.

NavCoder is a great app for anyone with Nav:
http://www.navcoder.com/

Reslers interface:
http://www.reslers.de/IBUS/index.html

PS: NorthCal, I have an old WinXP laptop with serial port that runs NavCoder and the Intravee firmware updater. Old laptops with serial ports are always useful.

[MrMaico]

Thanks for all the info Steve! I scored an 84109195455 TCU on Ebay last night and since I already have BMW Assist and a Bluetooth antenna it sounds like I should have everything I need?

I do have Navcoder that came in a software bundle I got off Ebay. You're saying I'll need to use that to activate VR? I don't have factory Nav.

It'll be nice to have Bluetooth even though I don't use the phone a lot in my car. In fact, I don't even own a cellphone, just have a basic phone from work. I'm sure I will get one though if I ever lose the work phone.

Thanks again.....Barry

[MrMaico]

Got my TCU the other day, install was simple..........once I figured out how to release the latches on the connectors. I'd never dealt with that style before, you have to lift the latch up, away from the connector about 2 mm to release it and even then it took a bit of a pull to disconnect the cable. You can see I cracked the latch on my blue one but that won't be a problem, it still fits tight.

Also, even though it had the same part number my wires ended up in different places on the new TCU. Mine were from left to right, white, blue, black while Steves pic on page 1 shows black, blue, white. Regardless, they are all notched different so you can only install them on the correct conector on the TCU. Or, it looks like you can match them up to the decals on top of the module. It supposedly came out of an 06 X5.

It fired right up when I turned my key on and paired with my basic "dumb phone" Samsung ConvoyII. It also was already coded for voice recognition so that was nice! Got it off of Ebay for $170.

Barry

http://mrmaico.smugmug.com/Cars/BMW-ZHP-misc/i-p4pwJmt/0/L/IMG_1907-L.jpg

[cakM3]

I was told that even with the 13th gen TCU (which I have installed in my ///M) voice recognition is not used with navigation. Only with the phone do you have VR.....I do have VR programmed for the ///M and do not have VR for navigation...:/

Getting the ULF module however, you have VR for everything including navigation.

[MrMaico]

Yup, that's what I got was the latest version TCU and the VR was already coded for the phone commands but I don't have nav so no need for the ULF. I do have VR on my Garmin GPS but I really don't use it all that often.

I also bought a Ram mount for my Ipad w/cellular so that's handy to have for internet or just GPS with the satelite view map. I need to take a road trip this summer so I can really get some use out of it. I've just been buying the $20 a month plan for it and so far I haven't used up my 1gb a month but it might be different if I went on a road trip.

Barry

EDIT: I forgot to mention......the Bluetooth works/sounds great! Nice and clear, people tell me they can't even tell the difference between the phone and hands free. Sounds better and connects faster than the factory BT in my new Chevy Colorado work truck.

[derbo]

I need to be like Barry and find this on ebay. :)

[JupiterBMW]

I need to be like Barry and find this on ebay. :)

I need to be like Derek, who is like Barry, who found this on eBay.

[derbo]

That's funny Jon.

I'm also curious if the iphone 5 can pair to the older 2006 M3 ones. Currently there is a 798 on ebay with a build date of 8.2005
The 455 one build dates usually 2009.

[JupiterBMW]

Honestly, I am waiting for you to figure it all out. I don't have an iPhone 5 yet, still rocking a 4 (no, not a 4S, an OG 4). But, by the time I completely kill this phone, I'll be ready for whatever Apple puts out next, maybe a 5S? Who knows...

Eventually I'll get around to this upgrade...

[MrMaico]

Good luck guys! I actually found this one by creating a search for the part number on Ebay. Honestly, I don't even recall setting up that search, it must have been a year or so ago. I got an e mail from Ebay when this one showed up and I snagged it without anyone else even bidding on it.

Barry

[JupiterBMW]

Hmm, saved searches on eBay... I was not aware of this feature...

[MrMaico]

Hmm, saved searches on eBay... I was not aware of this feature...

It can work pretty good depending on what you're looking for. Sometimes though you get alot of e mails from them. I never got an e mail on the TCU until that one came up but I also have one set for BMW LCM and I get one just about every day with a bunch of them listed. I usually just scan the more expensive ones looking for the 4.0 software.....nothing yet.

[derbo]

That is definitely a good idea with the saved searches.

Barry,

I bought the 768 2005 build date TCU from ebay last night. Its a Motorola one instead of the later Continental from the 455 model. Hopefully it works with my iPhone5. If not, up for sale it goes, maybe to Jon? :)

[sna77]

Personally, I'd spend the extra $100 and get a new one--I pulled a BT module form my wife's 2006 X3 and replaced it with the final version. The previous versions were all a bit finicky, and the new one works great with iphone 5s, and every other device I've paired with it...

[derbo]

Personally, I'd spend the extra $100 and get a new one--I pulled a BT module form my wife's 2006 X3 and replaced it with the final version. The previous versions were all a bit finicky, and the new one works great with iphone 5s, and every other device I've paired with it...

Rgr that Steve. Thanks for the help! I did buy the 798 used and will find out the hard way.. :(

[Utterchaos]

Hi All,

new here so sorry for exhuming such an old thread...

I have a UK 2006 X5 (old shape) and am having bluetooth problems.

I have a Motorola TCU (I thin it's a TCU anyway.. what does a ULF look like?) and I also have an ANTENNA REGULATOR Nr. 84106945425, (but have no idea what that bit actually does?) and a centre console paining button.

All used to work ok, no VR but I google maps from my iPhone used to talk to me though it.. then it suddenly stopped working. It would say pairing, but not pair and the 10 sec press would not delete paired devices.

I took it to a BMW dealership who said it might be corrosion on the TCU plug that fried the TCU, but he didn't know.

With this in mind I bought, on eBay a replacement TCU with the closest spec I could find.

In replacing it I damaged the ANTENNA REGULATOR CABLE, but seeing as I don't know what it does, cannot tell if that has caused any problems or not... it seemed to have the TCU end rotated 90 degrees and didn't fit...

Anyway, now I can delete the pared devices ok, and pair my iPhone and old Nokia (as a test) but the iPhone won't connect.. I just see "Please wait!" and the phone disconnects. This Nokia works fine.

My diagnosis thus far is that my old TCU had SW28 and my new one is SW18... is it the software that is too old.. and will NavCoder and an iBus help? Or do I need to eBay this one and start again with a newer TCU?

Thanks All... will be monitoring this thread closely as we have a long drive next week and I'd love to get it working by then...!

[Utterchaos]

Ok guys.. got this sorted.

I have now cannibalised the new SW:18 unit i got from eBay, putting the Bluetooth board into my old TCU and all works well.

I think the SW must not be on the Bluetooth board as it kept my original PJK too.

I still have a question re the "antenna regulator" but will start a new thread on that one....

[derbo]

I need to be like Derek, who is like Barry, who found this on eBay.

Joop,

I literally just got my first hit on the part number in the OP, and bought it on Ebay. :)

[Indvdl M]

Would newer TCU units from E90 cars work for e46's?

[derbo]

Would newer TCU units from E90 cars work for e46's?

Nope

sent from Moto X Dev Edition

[cakM3]

iirc...the E46 TCU/ULFs are physically different from those made for E9x.

[derbo]

iirc...the E46 TCU/ULFs are physically different from those made for E9x.

Yup. E53 TCUs and E83 TCUs should work.

[E30Cafe]

Bumping this thread to keep the bluetooth install dreams alive!

I'm contemplating a future BT module install for a soon to be mine 2004 330Ci. The build sheet states 2004-06 with #639 Complete Prep. Cellular Phone USA/CDN. Which I assume will have the antenna, microphone, and the tcu bracket.

Can anyone confirm?

[derbo]

Bumping this thread to keep the bluetooth install dreams alive!

I'm contemplating a future BT module install for a soon to be mine 2004 330Ci. The build sheet states 2004-06 with #639 Complete Prep. Cellular Phone USA/CDN. Which I assume will have the antenna, microphone, and the tcu bracket.

Can anyone confirm?

Don't assume. Just check.


-Sent from Mobile

[KevinC]

I'm contemplating a future BT module install for a soon to be mine 2004 330Ci. The build sheet states 2004-06 with #639 Complete Prep. Cellular Phone USA/CDN. Which I assume will have the antenna, microphone, and the tcu bracket.

Can anyone confirm?

My car states the same.. but I also have BMW Assist, which means Bluetooth is already present. For whatever reason, they don't show Assist either on the Monroney nor on the build list you can run from the various sites. I think if you have a shark fin that you may well have BT and not know it. Cross your fingers!

[derbo]

My car states the same.. but I also have BMW Assist, which means Bluetooth is already present. For whatever reason, they don't show Assist either on the Monroney nor on the build list you can run from the various sites. I think if you have a shark fin that you may well have BT and not know it. Cross your fingers!

My car is a 2004 and it has BMW assist. It did not have the BT antennae in the armrest but it did have the Mic. It's simple to check.


-Sent from Mobile

[E30Cafe]

Hi Derek,

Do I need to install a BT antennae if my 2004 only has BMW assist?

[derbo]

Hi Derek,

Do I need to install a BT antennae if my 2004 only has BMW assist?

Yes.


-Sent from Mobile

[E30Cafe]

Thanks Derek. Although I might not have a need for this anymore... Family emergency came up and I have to scrap my plan of bringing a mint ZHP into my stable.

:crying:crying

[mercury26]

Old thread, new question. I installed everything per directions, when I turn on the car and press the R/T button the radio pops up a message "ACTIVATE PHONE". I am assuming the car does not need to be on. I cannot get my iPhone 6S to pair with the car. It does not show up as a BT device on my phone. Any thoughts on the issue?

TCU Module is 84.10 9195455-02

OK, I added a pic of the TCU Module, did I miss an antenna cable? I have the multipin cable connected on the other side.

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