New OEM-Style Screen Upgrade for Z4 (2003–2008 models)

[Z4LauncherMan]

Hey everyone,

I’ve had my Z4 for around 2 years now. I wanted to share a project that’s been a real passion of mine. As an industrial designer, I’ve always loved how clean and driver-focused the Z4 interior is—but the lack of modern infotainment options left something to be desired.

I set out to design a screen upgrade that truly belongs in the Z4—something that integrates so seamlessly, it feels like BMW could have designed it themselves. This wasn’t about slapping a tablet onto the dash; it was about respecting the car’s original design language while bringing it into the modern era.

What started as a personal project quickly gained momentum. As the prototype came together, I realized other Z4 owners might be looking for the same kind of solution. That insight sparked the creation of my new venture: DashCraft—a brand focused on OEM-style tech upgrades for iconic sports cars, starting with the Z4.

I’ve focused on:

-A seamless dash fit

-High-res screen

-Full wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

-Factory-style mounting (NO permanent mods or need for drilling/retrofitting the car; comes with harness, brackets, etc everything needed to install)

I just launched the the product package specifically for the 2003–2008 Z4. It’s something I genuinely believe elevates the interior without taking away from what makes this car special.

if you're curious to learn more, here’s the site:

https://dashcraftauto.com

I’d love to hear what you think—and happy to answer any questions!

Cheers,
Aaron
(Industrial Designer / Z4 Owner)

 

[elfer]

I like how it looks!

I'm just not sure I'd want to completely lose my front vents.

 

[Z4LauncherMan]

Thanks! Totally fair point — that was one of the tougher design trade-offs.

The Z4’s dash is pretty tight on space, and to get a large enough screen that’s easy to see and use, something had to give. I prioritized a clean, integrated look over keeping the small center vents, especially since most airflow still comes from the side vents and footwells.

I also include an Air Vent Plug to push more air to the outer vents. In a smaller 2 seater, this really works well. That said, I’ve been driving mine with the setup and haven’t missed them at all.

Appreciate the feedback!

 

[caius]

Having run mine with the middle vents off, my left hand gets cold when it's around 5°C or lower outside and I'm driving a long enough distance. It is a very tricky problem to solve, I like the way you've taken cues on lines and style from the surroundings, it does look OEM+ to my eyes. Much nicer than my modified Pioneer head unit (modified so the screen sits under the vents, but without blocking the HVAC controls.)

 

[enuff_zed]

I have to say that personally what you describe as a ‘seamless fit’ looks as though it’s been glued onto the vents.

 

[Mr Tidy]

That's a pretty impressive achievement in terms of design and functionality, but my car has the OE Sat Nav so I'd prefer something up to date that would fit in that housing.

 

[Meds]

Yes, love that...
But did nearly spit my morning tea out when I saw the price. :rofl:
It looks a polished product with a good website, too.
Excellent work.
Bookmarked.

 

[kis]

I quite like it. But comes with a heavy price tag. That’s probably half the value of my car.

 

[jenniferlouise]

I love this! Looks like it’s supposed to be there. Given the relative small numbers you’ll be producing and the work you’ve clearly put into design and website creation I can see why the pricing is where it is. Of course, being an E89 owner with satnav/pop-up display it’s easy for me to be complementary as I don’t need one. However, a great option for those looking to get their 85/86 tip-top tech ready. Bravo

 

[ryushe]

Looks good, and seems very feature complete!
I'm not really your target audience at that price point (although know some people who migth be), but I do have a question about shipping. Seems you could increase your sales / # of customers if you shipped outside of the US as well; is that something you're looking in to?

 

[john-e89]

Looks very slick, a good option for those without the flip up nav screen.

Hope you do well with it.

 

[Darkangelv2]

I've installed my CarPodGo in this exact position, turning off the centre vents. I'm yet to have an issue feeling too hot or cold relying solely on the outside & footwell vents! Our cabins are so tiny anyway.

I would be so interested in this product, however, given you seem to have used the CarPodGo screen (which retails at less than $300) - an extra $800+ for a 3D printed bezel & camera mount feels very toppy.

 

[Ertyqway]

Would it be possible to route the vent duct behind and to the side of the screen to keep the vent functionality?


I have the Pioneer AVH-3500NEX in my car (Single DIN, flip out screen). It's okay, but the screen brightness is not great and has terrible glare problems when the top is down. It also doesn't connect to Android Auto entirely reliably. So I am definitely interested in this project.

 

[elfer]

I've installed my CarPodGo in this exact position, turning off the centre vents. I'm yet to have an issue feeling too hot or cold relying solely on the outside & footwell vents! Our cabins are so tiny anyway.

I would be so interested in this product, however, given you seem to have used the CarPodGo screen (which retails at less than $300) - an extra $800+ for a 3D printed bezel & camera mount feels very toppy.

I don't believe CarPodGo does Android Auto, so imagine it's not the exact same.

But I also think the price from a consumer's point of view is very high.

I do see the entrepreneur's point of view. They would want to recover the cost of development, the production costs per unit for quality parts in a low-volume run must be high, plus there has to be a profit to make the whole exercise worthwhile. But us consumers still have to see value in it or we won't buy. Add 20% VAT to those dollar prices and it's an even harder sell over here.

 

[Darkangelv2]

I've installed my CarPodGo in this exact position, turning off the centre vents. I'm yet to have an issue feeling too hot or cold relying solely on the outside & footwell vents! Our cabins are so tiny anyway.

I would be so interested in this product, however, given you seem to have used the CarPodGo screen (which retails at less than $300) - an extra $800+ for a 3D printed bezel & camera mount feels very toppy.

I don't believe CarPodGo does Android Auto, so imagine it's not the exact same.

But I also think the price from a consumer's point of view is very high.

I do see the entrepreneur's point of view. They would want to recover the cost of development, the production costs per unit for quality parts in a low-volume run must be high, plus there has to be a profit to make the whole exercise worthwhile. But us consumers still have to see value in it or we won't buy. Add 20% VAT to those dollar prices and it's an even harder sell over here.

CarPodGo does support android auto - moreover the link OP provided actually stated they’ve used a CarPodGo.

I agree OP definitely deserves reward/profit for their work. I just think $8-900 is always going to be difficult to justify to consumers.

I should add, the tiered pricing is also a huge put off. I’d already included the cost of the CarPodGo camera kit in my costs.

I bought a different camera mount to mount exactly like OP has designed but I had to do some small cutting to the bumper to fit whereas I assume OP’s uses the existing license plate light holes. $1200 for both mounts is *gulp* a lot.

 

[elfer]

CarPodGo does support android auto - moreover the link OP provided actually stated they’ve used a CarPodGo.

Ah, cool.

 

[SGRG]

One of the better design I have come across in my opinion. I have got an Apple play solution installed by Carphonics. I would have definitely considered this had I had no factory sat nav.

 

[Z4LauncherMan]

Looks good, and seems very feature complete!
I'm not really your target audience at that price point (although know some people who migth be), but I do have a question about shipping. Seems you could increase your sales / # of customers if you shipped outside of the US as well; is that something you're looking in to?

I have thought about selling outside US but not sure what the cost would be. Thanks for the feedback!

 

[Z4LauncherMan]

I've installed my CarPodGo in this exact position, turning off the centre vents. I'm yet to have an issue feeling too hot or cold relying solely on the outside & footwell vents! Our cabins are so tiny anyway.

I would be so interested in this product, however, given you seem to have used the CarPodGo screen (which retails at less than $300) - an extra $800+ for a 3D printed bezel & camera mount feels very toppy.

Thanks for the message- I agree on the vents. I tried it when testing and felt it was a small tradeoff for a big benefit of having tech.

That said, your comment was interesting. I am utilizing a CarpodGo screen. Also the prices include that screen. I also wanted to mention that you cannot just 3D print a dash part for vehicles. Most plastics that can be 3D printed melt in the UV/Heat from the Sun. Believe me I tested it That said, The parts being made are quite expensive custom high temp rated Nylon (HP MJF) parts that are then shot peened and UV trim painted black to match the interior better. The Core kit includes the Screen, the bezel system, the brackets and vent plug (also all nylon). Lastly, I made a custom harness for the Z4 (connects into the back of the existing radio), that has an auxillary connection and power connection for the screen. So its a plug and play kit.

I am curious, I am trying to figure out pricing, etc- what cost do you think is reasonable in your opinion?

 

[Z4LauncherMan]

Would it be possible to route the vent duct behind and to the side of the screen to keep the vent functionality?


I have the Pioneer AVH-3500NEX in my car (Single DIN, flip out screen). It's okay, but the screen brightness is not great and has terrible glare problems when the top is down. It also doesn't connect to Android Auto entirely reliably. So I am definitely interested in this project.

I did try what your proposing. The screen uses most of the bezel area however. On th ebackside there could be a small slit vent that moves some air but as mentioned, the tradeoff seemed fine after testing. The cabin is so small and all. Thanks again!