Bimmertech Apple Carplay MMI install DIY for the BMW F3X series

[@soluschristus1689]

I wish you would've showed a video of you using it

[@BMWDIYGuy]

True and given time I will post a use video in the future.

[@Mark_B544]

Why would you not just attach the cable coming from the screen directly to the mmi box?

[@claytonhenry5827]

14:04 That plug was THE MOST DIFFICULT PART of the installation process on my F80 M3! It still works, but it sure doesn’t look brand new anymore.

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Great job in getting it done though!

[@holgerb4563]

But why unplug it anyway ? You could fix it on the side while working in the middle with some tape :-)

[@bashmilk6747]

Hello I know it’s been 4 years but maybe you can answer my question. I read that you can add a back up camera, but what about adding a front camera? Also what was the point of the usb port hanging from the driver side? Is that to give you the option to plug in a charger for your phone? Thanks and great video!

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Thanks! The USB is for media and storage devices. Not sure it would provide enough power for decent charging. As for a front camera, not that I have seen but maybe possible

[@iJuDDx]

Trying to fit one of these now how the hell did you fit it behind the head unit! I’m finding it impossible and have a large unit like yours there so many cables. Really don’t want to take glovebox off

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Behind and below the head unit can be a real challenge. I have also installed above the glove box in the void space with cables down to the head unit.

[@tvdg93]

Do you hear the MMI unit moving while driving? Or is it relatively secure in place?

[@BMWDIYGuy]

@@tvdg93 no it's completely secure

[@tvdg93]

@@BMWDIYGuy thank you for the quick reaction!

[@pauloroberto1659]

Your installation seems simple. What did you do for the microphone cable? Not needed to extend a wire between MMI and OEM microphone?

[@BMWDIYGuy]

there isnt a splitter between those two.. and yeah, the install is really easy.

[@Diseq1]

Good video! Unfortunately I really didn't manage to cramp the MMI behind the nbt head unit. I also don't think that putting a lot of strain on the cables is advisable. I installed it in the glove box instead. For anyone trying to do the install: The glove box removal is really easy, as shown in different videos. It will safe you a lot of hassle. If you have a European model there won't be an airbag beneath the compartment, so it is even easier to remove.

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Great suggestions!

[@jah_music762]

I can't seem to find a good video showing how to remove the glove box. Do you happy to still have a link to one? Thanks.

[@incartechie]

Great video - we follow this over here in the UK!

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Thank you so much, and happy to help!

[@Nat_Jio]

I saw the KiesMotor guy taking the glove box off to put in the MMI unit on a F30 because apparently theres not much space beneath the Display unit. I have a 2016 328i.. would that be necessary

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Bryan of Kies is awesome.. I was able to do the install without taking out the glove box, so I think it is really what works best for you.

[@Nat_Jio]

@@BMWDIYGuy Thanks for the reply. I also looked at a BMW NBT evo ID6 which is $1050. It doesn't use the aux connection and connects to the Head-Up Display, thus provides better sound quality and convenience. I'm not really driving a whole lot nowadays so I'll look back into this video once I make the purchase.

[@dexterperez4561]

Thank you very much! All I needed was the navigation screen removal part and I couldn't find it anywhere where else. Nice and simple to understand.

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Happy to help!

[@TheBlakebliss]

This was horrible to do...had to pull out the fiber optic cables latch doesn’t secure on the headunit.. but it’s done now...😓 thanks for the video though yours was one of the best!

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Happy to help!

[@sat_sonic]

To make the fit easier, remove the glovebox and there is plenty of space in between the glovebox and the head unit for the MMI box.

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Great suggestions!

[@jah_music762]

Do you happen to have a link to a video showing how to remove the glovebox? Thanks.

[@furthernorthfab]

It been two years… are you still happy with the unit?

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Does a fine job

[@FlorianKF]

What about the ventilation of the HU? Looks like the module is right behind the ventilation outlet of the HU?!

[@BMWDIYGuy]

No issues so far.

[@FlorianKF]

@@BMWDIYGuy Thanks for answering, another question: Why didn´t you unplug the battery? I thought there might be a bunch of error-codes when the car is still powered?!

[@BMWDIYGuy]

@@FlorianKF Never had an issue with errors or bad codes doing this kind of work

[@tylerjohnson512]

I have an issue with my gen 3 mmi im not getting any sound from it

[@brianbernal5192]

looking to get this for my 14 335, does it work with the oem backup cam or do I need the rearview cam they sell with it?

[@BMWDIYGuy]

It will work with the OEM camera.

[@yapr6]

Thanks for the video. Looking to do this myself and doing as much research as possible. This module doesn’t need an external mic? Also to connect to aux I didn’t see you running a cable. You weren’t required to do so? I’m thinking/hoping it’s another improvement. TIA

[@BMWDIYGuy]

No external mic on that unit at least, and didnt need to run the AUX cable. 8)

[@davh1624]

I am looking into buying one of these, thanks for your video. I got a few questions, hope you can help 1) Are the display cables exactly the same? If so wouldn't be easier to just unplug the end that goes into the HU from the display and move it to the OUT on the MMI. Then use the new cable supplied to connect the MMI to the IN? That way you don't need to remove the display or reroute cables. 2) What are those extra RCA cables that are left unplugged for? My car was come with factory rear camera, is that what the yellow video cable is for? I would hate to lose my back camera functionality . Same goes with the factory MIC. How are those connected? Thanks!

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Great questions and happy to help. The cables are not the same so yes you have to route the new one. The unit does more than just CarPlay which are the extra RCA cables for things like aftermarket backup if you need it. Lastly it wont interfere with your OEM camera, PDC etc. 8)

[@dvazriel]

@@BMWDIYGuy I see, thanks! Good to know i don't have to rewire my OEM camera and PDC- seems pretty plug and play if thats the case. Hope they release the full screen update soon!

[@ScienceBitch123]

The cables are exactly the same, the way they face coming out is different that's all

[@fredterranova3376]

I thought the video was very educational, I ordered mine and installed it only to find out that when I have my cell phone close to the air-conditioning vent the GPS is jammed by the MMI unit. When I move the phone 15 to 18 inches the way the GPS and all the map applications work like they’re supposed to. I have contacted Bimmer tech and they said they would look into it.

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Good to know and definitely update when you get an answer, thanks!

[@Iraanian]

Funny, you didn’t show anything after install on the car screen

[@yousef2648]

Does Siri work?

[@Maverik259]

How would you compare the MMI for CarPlay to the Avin unit? My biggest interest is CarPlay so I’m leaning toward the MMI however I can acquire a Avin 7.1 unit for about half the price. Have you had any issues with the Reverse camera coming up when shifting to reverse etc?

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Two entirely different things really.. so the Avin unit is android and the carplay side comes through android. It works fine, just looks different. The MMI integrated directly into your iDrive side with the overlay screen as well, so presents a different view and setup. Two different ways of really doing the same thing. I think they are both great and can fit the needs of the driver differently depending on your needs and desires.

[@markm8835]

well, I am currently having a few issues with the Avin BMWE60A-88 unit... when I make a call in CarPlay, the other person can't hear me, the screen can not see the front facing DVR camera...

[@kevindaley5632]

Does it work?? I have not seen a single video where the part actually works. I have been looking for something that will give me CarPlay in my 13 328ix and nothing thus far.. These BMW’s are a NIGHTMARE!! Everything is so difficult.. it really makes me want to go back to Mercedes or get another Tahoe!

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Absolutely does work and Bimmertech has a great video showing functionality. My primary goal with this video was to show the install.

[@TarikAK96]

Where is the antenna connection sir?

[@dimitarivanovski8745]

How would you compare the MMI from Bimbertech vs the one from Andream? The unit from Andream is almost half price and reading the specs it looks like it does everything the same as the unit from Bimertech?

[@BMWDIYGuy]

I haven't worked with the unit from Andream, so cant make a comparison, sorry.

[@ssingh20043]

Can this unit be installed in F10 with 10.25’ screen... please reply

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Just confirm with Bimmertech.. they will be able to say for sure.

[@DeeKay1911]

If my car has the small screen now and the Integrated Navigation system (the Bmw retrofit system) can I install this and also big screen and get coded?

[@BMWDIYGuy]

So GREAT question but I cant speak to it in detail.. it *probably* would work, I dont know why it wouldn't if you did a full head unit and screen change with coding. It just piggybacks on top of that.. but again I haven't worked with that setup first hand. I would also talk with Bimmertech FIRST to make sure.

[@DeeKay1911]

It’s a 2017 F36 so the base head unit should support the big screen with coding. So just a question about the CarPlay device regarding the resolution I think?

[@bobkhan5363]

With this device you can only get half of the 8.8 to display the apple car play as BimmerTech “are trying to replicate BMW”

[@BMWDIYGuy]

@@bobkhan5363 the new full screen update was released

[@bobkhan5363]

BMW DIY Guy is that not for the id5/6 that have apple car play without this module? (I’m planning on buying this so if they have then it’s a no brainer)

[@s.c.1972]

is the MMI unit rattling / making noises - as it is just shoved back in there and not mounted/secured into any sort of bracket or mount...I would worry that after adding carplay, i'd get rattles or noises from just shoving stuff into the dash...

[@BMWDIYGuy]

I completely understand and HATE rattles.. I haven't had an issue, but you could always put some adhesive felt or similar on the box if you are concerned.

[@kevinbagnall2518]

Does this unit work on a 2018 bmw x2 that does not have navigation thus not have CarPlay?

[@BMWDIYGuy]

I believe it will but confirm with bimmertech to make sure

[@johnnyboix]

I can’t get the headunit to fit back for the life of me. I’ve been reading of others placing it near the glove box area? Did you really get the box and cables to fit by fitting it somewhere behind the unit??

[@BMWDIYGuy]

It is really tight for sure.. the MMI box went down and right and pushed as much cabling down and left to get it to just barely fit. You can do it. 8)

[@suvann540i]

I also didn't have any luck with tucking. i just removed teh glovebox and placed it back there. takes me like 5 mins to get the glovebox out now. I will say that make damn sure you have your dip switches set before re-assembling.

[@battrl]

Don't need to disconnect the battery prior to installation?

[@BMWDIYGuy]

I never have and not had any issues

[@lalit119]

Bimmertech MMI or AVIN? You installed both.....which one do you like better?

[@kumarangovender545]

Hi. I'm interested in the gen 2 avin usa display for my 2015 BMW M235i. I don't have navigation or the backup camera. I want to know how good is this gen 2 unit. Are there any negative things that have cropped up in the last few months. Does the unit have a media box that connects the screen to the head unit. Does the back up camera connect straight to the display or to this media box and lasting do you have to connect an aux cable to the connector in the armrest or is all this handled by the unit itself. Thank you. Your help will be greatly appreciated.

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Great questions. The current display is essentially gen 3, now android 7.1 so not even gen 2 anymore. You can easily add a backup camera, and while it takes some time to do, it isnt hard. There isnt a media box, everything is self contained in the new display itself and is a better screen than the OEM 6 inch for sure, and better than the 8.8 easily. For the AUX connector, I dont know why some dont need it (like me) or some do.

[@CrewsMachine]

So we’re about 9 months removed from this video. Any plans to make a video discussing what this mod does and does not do? After install videos seem to be nonexistent with the exception of Bimmertech themselves. I’d love an unbiased viewpoint.

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Great question and actually I cant do so now.. the friend who's car I used sold it, so I no longer have access to it.

[@HENRYrobinson100]

Will this work for a 2012 320i se?

[@BMWDIYGuy]

I believe so yes, and Bimmertech has a new updated model out now too

[@HENRYrobinson100]

Wow man rapid reply thanks! Would you recommend bummer tech or Carly? Both can unlock features for your car but which ones the best? Cheers man

[@BMWDIYGuy]

@@HENRYrobinson100 Well I think we are talking two different things.. Carly plugs in and lets you code your car. I prefer bimmercode for that personally and what I use on my F32. Bimmertech has this MMI module you can install to add features you wouldnt have otherwise.

[@HENRYrobinson100]

Awesome! It’s great that you actually reply and he’ll out your subscribers I’ve just subscribed:) is there a difference between coding with Carly and unlocking options with bimmertech ? So essentially bimmertech unlocks options like sports driving mode where as Carly would be used to code when you lock the car for the automatic windows to fold in?

[@MrPeterhuy]

I got CarPlay mmi but my display screen is a base model which is smaller. Is it the same installation?

[@kumarangovender545]

Great! How can I order this gen 3 as you say. I've been on their webpage but I couldn't any reference to which generation it is. Thanks for your response.

[@BMWDIYGuy]

It's the only models they sell now, they dont sell the previous generations

[@Maverik259]

Also Gen 2/3 is just software change. They haven’t changed the hardware. You can have a gen 2 and simply update to 8.1 and call if gen 3 if you like.

[@thorstendiel4860]

Great Video! Thanks for sharing! Do you know if this system supports fullscreen carplay?

[@BMWDIYGuy]

They are working on an update for full screen.

[@thorstendiel4860]

BMW DIY Guy Thanks that sounds great! Do you know how to get and install the upgrade?

[@623baller]

so u were able to fit the module without removing glove box? checking other videos , seems some are removing glove boxes which looks like a big pain

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Correct, I didnt remove the glove box.

[@623baller]

@@BMWDIYGuy were you able to fit it into the right side cavity or it just sits behind the unit?

[@cruza925]

When are you going to install Bimmertech AppleTV?

[@BMWDIYGuy]

No plans at this time but you never know for the future

[@ilirprendi4344]

can it work for bmw E90 ccc ,is plat 59 end of 2009

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Great question, I would say check with bimmertech for comparability if it will work. Not sure myself.

[@jeffthurmond4841]

Helpful video, thank you. Question - did you have to also connect the AUX L and AUX R cable between the Aux input in the armrest and the MMI harness? I just received mine and the instructions say it's required for Carplay audio, but it didn't look like you connected them.

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Interesting.. you are correct I didnt connect those cables. I would say go with their recommendations though not heard any issues from my buddy and his car after the install.

[@jeffthurmond4841]

@@BMWDIYGuy FYI - Just finished my install. It DID require the cable run between the AUX input in the armrest and the connectors in the MMI harness in order for audio to be heard from CarPlay. Also, it required a microphone cable that they supplied to be run through the dash and up through the A pillar and connected to the original mic. It was all doable, but definitely added steps and time to the project. My car is an F30 328i, and appeared to have the same head unit as yours in the video, FYI.

[@BMWDIYGuy]

@@jeffthurmond4841 thanks for sharing the info!

[@miller330i]

Hi all! It appears I have a problem with my atm (atm01t2us4g) from a NBT Evo id6 set I recently bought. Does anyone know of a coder/component repair service/place I can get it repaired? PM me with details or post here if you like. The set was out of an unfortunate M4 that was written off. The head unit works, the atm not so much. Thank you for any help in advance!

[@riyan015]

Thank you for sharing this, will that fit on BMW 2013 328i xdrive ? I just bought the car and I absolutely know nothing about BMW parts

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Very likely and you will confirm with bimmertech, when they check your VIN for compatibility

[@EP76]

Thank you for your great work ! 👍

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Thank you!

[@hudsonhawk90]

Yeah, if you just throw that media box there without securing it, wouldn't it just rattle on every road bump?..

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Never had any issues because of the amount of cables in there. It's a very tight fit.

[@SmooveLeek]

Sigh. Bruhh I couldn’t that get the head unit back in with the MMI I just left that shit 😩😂 stressed af. I’ll look at it 2moro I have no interest in taking off the glove box.

[@oldiesuganda4522]

Can you recommend someone who can install one for me. I have tried and failed myself. My zip code is 01463 any one around me up to 100 miles away. Thanks

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Bimmertech has an installer/dealer page and you can look in your region for someone close to you.

[@oldiesuganda4522]

@@BMWDIYGuy thanks. Let me look for it

[@xxchona]

what model years does this work for?

[@BMWDIYGuy]

Best way to check for your car specifically is the bimmertech website, as they have a VIN lookup for compatibility.

[@FrenchValleyAirport]

Hmm don't understand why the box has to be so big, looks like an electronics box from the early 2000's, I'll hold off on purchase until something more compact comes along

[@BMWDIYGuy]

I hear you, but the box will never been seen again once it is behind the dash, so really doesnt matter to me what it looks like.

[@FrenchValleyAirport]

@@BMWDIYGuy I don't care what it looks like, it's just the size of it makes it looks like the biggest inconvenience in regards to install.

[@mitchellsx]

Thanks for the vid, looking at getting one of these. Do you lose any other functionality in the car at all?

[@BMWDIYGuy]

No you don't loose any functionality.

[@kumarangovender545]

Great! Thanks for your help.

[@MrRapciugosu]

How much for apple car play?

[@timt976]

Carplayguru.com

[@stopexams]

Great Video! Nicely narrated and easy to follow. Thank you!

[@kumarangovender545]

Hey BMW DIY guy. I urgently need to contact you. Please let me know how I can communicate with you. Thanks.

[@BMWDIYGuy]

How can I help?

[@BarneyRubble]

Press 8 where? On the iPhone. I have the Apple car play dongle connected to my usb connected to my new avin usa android screen but cannot find any app to connect to get carplay to appear.

[@obert7625]

ANTHONY STREET you press number 8 on the dash pre set radio buttons. Or hold menu button down on the I-drive controller to bring up car play while your phone is plugged in.

[@ramonali2001]

Bimmerfest is the best so let me ge my update.

[@YakobtoshiNakamoto]

It’s pronounced “beem-er” not “bimmer”. If you’re gonna say it, say it right. Continue...

[@violin245]

Traditionally, Beemer is a motorbike and bimmer is a car. Americans just started calling them all beemers but some people like the old way of saying it.