[003]

I'm pretty sure I already know the answer but I just wanted to double check with the 3-series seniors/elders/experts in the community.

I came across this factory bmw navi unit out of an '02 3 series on craigslist for $100. http://kansascity.craigslist.org/pts/2885019380.html

I've installed stereos, mobile electronics, and lots of custom stuff for years, so if it's possible, I will definitely tackle it. Worst case scenario is I'm out $100. I'm pretty sure Metra has the reverse harness and I wouldn't mind buying the misc. parts such as a gps antenna through bmw if needed. I could also fabricate/modify a dash kit. (wouldn't be the first time, only takes a few hours, if that)

Any ideas?

And yes, I realize the answer is like 95% No... Just wanted to confirm.

[003]

I'm just waiting for the ridicule to start pouring in. Flame suit is ready. I'm prepared!

1. Why didn't you just get factory navi?
I bought the car used so that wasn't an option. And before joining this forum I had only heard horrible reviews about the iDrive, from the likes of Jeremy Clarkson and such. And I don't use gps that often anyway. And in the rare rare occasion that I do, I use my handy dandy iphone. Hasn't let me down yet.

2. Why don't you just install an aftermarket doubledin unit?
I don't want nor need the tv nor gps feature. I had it in my previous car for all 4ish years I had it and can count on one hand the number of times I used it. (Most of which were for 'showing off' in the first year.) Its not worth the $1000 or however much they run now. Horrible return on investment.
But for $100 and a weekend of tinkering, I'd consider having it.

3. Why didn't you just buy an M3?? (B/c I know someone will......)
Piss off.

[ctuna]

At some point they started using the most bus system to connect the radio to the trip computer and a lot of other modules. Furthermore it is so tied into the rest of the car that removing the head unit will cause other problems like the chimes and alarms don't work if you have the SOS function it will cause a permanent error and to top it all off if you take the car into have BMW do a diagnostic on it there diagnostic computer will choke if it doesn't find the original configuration of the car including the radio that was originally installed.
Never the less some people install aftermarket head units but they sometimes
install the original head unit in the trunk to avoid throwing these errors.

You should study what you have in your car before you do anything.
The following thread has been prepared for the people just tuning in .
There is a section on changing out the head unit in it.
http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=641323

The head unit that is most popular on here is the dynavin.
Why because it looks like it belongs in the car and its the most bang for
the buck. search for the dynavin thread.

Also if you just want to upgrade the sound there is a lot of info on how
to do it and what works in the car in the above thread.

[003]

Thanks for the prompt and intelligent answer!

I figured I might have to keep the factory head unit in the car, or at least tap into it or run it to the trunk like back in the day for civic's/taurus, but like you said, I didn't do quite enough research. It's not something I'd ever do for a customer since it's not worth the time to even install it, but I'd consider doing it for myself just for the heck of it kinda.
And I actually came across the dynavins a few weeks ago but dismissed them since I hadn't heard of them on this forum. (again, not extensive enough research) I've definitely bookmarked your installs and your provided links and will post something up as soon as I pull the trigger in the audio/entertainment department.

Thanks again!!

[ctuna]

BMW stereo types
http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=352586
http://www.e90post.com/forums/attach...2&d=1266451970
http://www.e90post.com/forums/attach...2&d=1260829447
http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=343673
http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=138949
http://www.e90post.com/forums/attach...2&d=1260829447
http://www.e90post.com/forums/attach...1&d=1209780605
http://www.e90post.com/forums/attach...1&d=1209780865
http://www.musicarnw.com/page-2/
http://www.e90post.com/forums/attach...4&d=1278871872

[003]

Lots of good stuff!! I'm still reading it all. Might be up for a while...
I might PM you real soon with some follow up questions and just to make sure I understand things correctly.

I've used the kicker ssmb8's before, in the rear deck of an Avalon and center console of a Viper I believe, but didn't even think to use them in our application. Great idea! I think I remember liking them a lot... (It's been a few years.)

Also, I've only heard Morel's in person once, surprisingly, but based on reviews and other's avid use of them, that's probably the route I'll go with the front stage. (That might change by morning as I read some more...)

Again, Thanks a bunch!

[ctuna]

So I can't do detailed answers on Head Unit installs .
I would look in the two big dynavin threads as the problems are the
same with any head unit. There are people that have done other head units
but head units generally are not what people do here.
Space restrictions for speakers here is why people use what they use mostly.

http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=473430