Upgrading OEM BMW E46 radio head unit with an AUX Cable:

What draws many people to the older BMW models is the pure driving experience that cannot be replicated by modern cars, some even say by BMW themselves. If you own an E46 you know what I am talking about. It is possibly one of the greatest 3 series ever built. If you daily one you may be frustrated by the lack of modern options to be able to play music from your phone through the OEM radio. CDs and Cassettes have their limitations and do not allow the versatility of having any song at your fingertips like modern phones. Luckily, BMW has a retro fit kit that allows a more modern functionality to the OEM radio.

Obviously, there are options to replace the entire head unit with modern features such as Bluetooth, USB, WiFi etc. Although this is an acceptable solution for some people, it isn't one all E46 owners want. The downside to this are the modern head units can be pricey, you have to cut/splice into the OEM wiring harness, they do not look as clean on installation and the glow the colors at night which is distracting and takes away from the clean OEM look since they often do not match.

The clean, OEM BMW solution:

BMW has created a retrofit kit which allows owners to use the OEM BMW Business radio head unit and install an AUX cable off the back. This keeps the OEM radio harness intact, the clean look and the natural orange glow of the buttons at night to match the rest of your interior.

NOTE: The kit comes with an AUX port only, this allows for the user to stow away the actual cable until needed and plug it into the port when wanting to use it. Many owners opt to not mount the port, but keep an AUX cable permanently installed into the port and feed the AUX cable under the center console for a clean look (see picture below).

Who is this kit for?

Any E46 owner who wants to keep the OEM head unit but still have the option to play music from a device with an auxiliary cable output.

What OEM radios will this work with?

Radios without navigation manufactured after September 2002.

How do I know when my radio was manufactured?

There is a sticker on the bottom side of the OEM head unit with the manufactured date. See picture below for clarification.

Which OEM radios will this not work with?

Any radio with navigation and or built before September 2002.

What is the kit part number?

OEM BMW Part Number: 82110149389

Will my steering wheel buttons work with it?

The volume buttons will work but the next and previous track buttons will not. Same functionality as the OEM head unit.

How much is the OEM kit?

$33 - $40

Where can I purchase it?

BMW dealership, FCPeuro.com, ECStuning.com

What tools are needed?

Philips head screwdriver, plastic pry tool.

How long does installation take?

10 - 15 min

How do I install the AUX kit?

The kit comes complete with step by step installation instructions. The entire process is very simple.

How do I access the AUX mode once installed?

Hit the MODE button on the head unit until AUX appears on the screen.

Where can I learn more BMW fun facts?

Learn more BMW fun facts by clicking HERE