Anyone using iPod/DICE on the standard E46 head unit?

[stevesuk]

Eggle said:

Steve, just looking at the dice and google found this post.
Can you run me through the install as my cd changer has packed up and I would prefer to spend the money on a integrated ipod thing

What you need to do is to remove the rear trim in the boot. This gives you access to the metal "cage" that holds the CD changer. Undo the bolts and remove the changer. Disconnect the wiring from the changer, and connect it up to the DICE box. Job done.

I did disconnect the battery whilst doing the job, and it didn't cause any issues when reconnecting (no codes to enter etc, just had to set the clock in the car). I since read that there are two fuses you can pull instead. But I guess when playing around with the electrics in a car, its always fairly good practice to play safe and disconnect the battery.

Originally, I left the DICE unit and iPod in the CD changer "hatch" in the boot, but eventually I decided to route the cabling through to the front of the car so the iPod ends up in the glovebox. Helpfully, BMW left a hole in the top of the glove box which is just big enough for the DICE cable to pass through. And even more helpfully there are some cubby holes underneath the fusebox that are just the right shape for the DICE interface box to sit in This does involve removing some trim, the glovebox and the rear seat cushion. But it was all easy enough to do (even for a heavy handed numpty like me), and I also found some great guides online.

In particular:

http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=9E6590CE7D...
and
https://www.europeanautosource.com/support-center/...

I think the only difference on my car was that there weren't as many screws to undo to release the glovebox.

Hope this helps... it is a useful gadget, have some 8 hours of driving to do this week and I have loaded the iPod up with some Podcasts

Steve.

[Eggle]

Thanks Steve. I will get one and replace the faulty CD unit.