How do I connect my iPod to its best accessory: a BMW 1 series 
To assist forum users identify useful information on the board, here is a summary aimed at covering how to iPod your 1er.
Basically you have 4 options depending on budget, desired functionality and whether you have a facelifted model or not.
Any questions or wish to share your experiences with what adapters you used, prices or mounting suggestions? Please feel free to post below.
Please note, all care has been taken to prepare the above summary of the posts on BabyBMW but it is a guide only. No responsibility is accepted for inaccuracies but if you spot one, please let me know and I will amend accordingly.
130girl
To assist forum users identify useful information on the board, here is a summary aimed at covering how to iPod your 1er.
Basically you have 4 options depending on budget, desired functionality and whether you have a facelifted model or not.
- 1. Single connection to "Aux In" port under the centre armrest.
Use a standard stereo audio cable with 2 male to male 3.5mm audio jacks. Connect one end to the "Aux In" under the centre armrest. Connect the other end to either (a) the headphone output of the iPod to access it's amplified signal OR (b) the docking port using an adapter to access the line out signal of the iPod. Although an extra adapter is needed, sound quality through the line out will be better than the amplified headphone signal. See . As connection is ultimately to the 1er Aux In port, your 1er controls will only effect the volume- all iPod functions will need to be selected through your iPod. However, there are some adapters that provide an extra controller and display which can be mounted to the dashboard that replicate your ipod controls and screen to make it easier to select and view your music choices, see
2. Double connection to "Aux In" and "USB" ports under the centre armrest (facelifted models only- ).
Use BMW's double cable that connects to the "USB" and "aux in" ports on your 1er to the docking port on your iPod. As with option 1, iPod output will be through the "aux in" port plus, the additional USB connection will allow control and display of your iPod functions by your 1er. See together with the link to .
3. Replace CD changer connection (pre facelift models)
Use BMW's special iPod kit that lets your iPod replace the CD changer connection to your radio. While this means you will lose your CD changer, the kit uses the iPod's line out signal and you can control and display your iPod functions through your 1er. Beware, there are 2 BMW kits- be sure to get the right one. See
4. Wireless connection using FM modulator
Use a FM modulator connected to your iPod like an iTrip or get a kit which can also bring up the song names via RDS on the dash display- see . As connection is ultimately through the FM receiver of your radio, your 1er controls will only effect the volume- all iPod functions will need to be selected through your iPod. However, there are some adapters that provide an extra controller and display which can be mounted to the dashboard that replicate your ipod controls and screen to make it easier to select and view your music choices, see There maybe some sound quality with this method.
Any questions or wish to share your experiences with what adapters you used, prices or mounting suggestions? Please feel free to post below.
Please note, all care has been taken to prepare the above summary of the posts on BabyBMW but it is a guide only. No responsibility is accepted for inaccuracies but if you spot one, please let me know and I will amend accordingly.
130girl
