2004 Z4 Sat Nav - Needs Bluetooth & More!

[kadro]

Hi guys,

Having being helped on my initial purchase 8 months ago by Z4 Forum, I'm back again with some more newbie questions:

1. I previously had a mini in which I had installed an Alpine Bluetooth headset with USB port. This allowed me to connect my Blackberry to the speakers and also Ipod. I have found various posts discussing replacing the OEM but nothing that gives me specific advice. Will I devalue the car if I replace the head unit? I don't particularly want to install a Parrot or anything that adds an extra 'piece' to the car. I'm a bit of a neat freak and would like everything tucked away nicely - if cables can be avoided at all, that would be ideal (i.e. linking the Ipod and Blackberry to the system via Bluetooth is ideal).

2. The car has factory Sat Nav - as it's a 2004 model, I was wondering whether the Sat Nav can be upgraded and where best to get this from. Does it change the graphics or would I have to upgrade the actual unit for this?

3. Can I use the Sat Nav device as a TV? Any ideas on this?

4. Any other good gadgets recommended? I don't want monster speakers etc - just good, handy gadgets!

Thanks in advance!

Kadro.

 

[kadro]

Oh - to keep with the aesthetics, it's a merlot red 2004 3.0 with beige leather interior and wooden trim.

Thanks!

 

[pvr]

1. BT module can be added, installed in the boot. New wires are needed though to install that.
2. Maps can be bought at £99 from the dealer upon trading in your new one. Software upgrade allows the new MKIV features such as perspective (3d) view. Can be obtained from xoutpost.com.
3. Yes - TV module needed, can be bought but digital not cheap.
4. Use Intravee for iPod, makes your satnav screen looks like an ipod. Great toy.

 

[kadro]

Thanks PVR.

Any idea on costs? Is it preferential to install the BT module in the boot as opposed to changing the facia/head unit?

I'll have a look at Intravee - have read a few things about it but would love to see pictures of how it looks on screen and how the cables are run/charging etc.

If not a TV, how about DVD player using the Sat Nav screen? Is that possible?

Thanks again.

 

[pvr]

Search for my Intravee build in thread and you see what happens to cables (non visible).

Installed picture:

Screen:

BT costing: see here: http://www.bimmernav.com/bmw_Z_series_bluetooth_retrofit.html

 

[pvr]

The BT module goes in the boot as that is where the OEM location is. There are two wires to the headunit for sound. The mic needs to be installed as well though.

 

[Hotride]

FYI the sat nav is connected to the head unit, if you change it I'm pretty sure your sat nav won't work. Which will impact your resale value.

For the DVD you need to install the tv module first, as it is the only part with input for a DVD Player.

I like your idea of keeping everything looking oem, I am the same but after looking at BMW prices I eventually went with parrot, and I'm happy I did oke:

 

[kadro]

Thanks chaps.

So, looks like I'll be leaving the TV idea out - unless it becomes an affordable option.

On the Bluetooth and Intravee - any suggestions on where I could have these fitted in/around London/Watford area? Is this the most cost effective solution to having handsfree and ipod useage in the car?

Cheers.

 

[kadro]

In case in makes any difference, there's a 6 CD changer also (which I'd like to keep).

 

[peddy]

I think there's a wire you can get from parrot to integrate you MFSW button (if you have it) with a parrot kit, so no messy wires.

 

[davegt]

I'm about to add TV with a view to add a freeview box, dvd, camera etc. Retrofit cable for the ariel and Module (Not including the ariel its self) is around £60 from BMW, TV modules come up on fleabay often enough just make sure it's a later 16.9 viewing size, cable to add dvd etc is about £30. I think it'll be worth it once fitted plus it's another extra ticked off the list at around £120 (Minus the freeview box etc).

I plan to add bluetooth next year, retro fitting standard kit is usually pretty easy if you have the right instructions and there's plenty of help via the forum