Hiya!

I still don't "own" a mini yet, but I'm curious as to what others have paid to have the iPod connection installed into the a mini. I guess I'm a little shocked that it costs $300 in labor to install a cable and the another $330 for the cable itself. If I purchase a mini, is this what I can expect as far as labor costs?

 

I paid $330 in labor and another $56 for some kind of firewall cover to get the Ipod adaptor installed in early November. That was in addition to the $479 for the adaptor itself.

The list price for the adaptor was $599 at the time I ordered it. I got it with the NAM discount at Classic Mini in Ohio.

The control unit contains more than just a cable. There is a hardware box that is installed behind the secret compartment. The cable that plugs into your Ipod goes into that box. The box connects to the stereo system through another cable.

I paid an additional $330 in labor costs to have the OEM Sirius radio installed at the same time.

The new convertible they gave me for a week while they straightened out the computer software download problems was free.

 

What is this NAM discount?

 

Aside form that, also consider getting a Glovebox Tidy from GoMiniGo, and the iPod dock and sleeve from Moss or Mini Mania. The iPod adapter connects to the dock, which is now attached to the GBT. Nice, neat installation. You just slid the pod into the dock without ever fumbling with the cable.

 

There are some dealerships that are sponsoring vendors here on North American Motoring (NAM). If you tell them you are a NAM member, they will give you a discount on parts.

Classic offers a 20 percent discount on parts.

 

Don't forget to look into a AUX adapter too. Although you don't get the control with the HU or MFSW, it's a heck of a lot cheaper if you go that route ($45-50)

Not sure what the install cost is, but the Aux port is super easy to DIY.

 

The auxiliary port is standard on the R56. Doesn't cost anything.

I used it for several months and it worked OK. It was cumbertsome, however, holding up the Ipod to change menus. Having the menus come up on the nav screen is much more convenient and the sound quality is better.

 

heh... ... oh.

I need to get with the times, I guess.

(silly R53 owners...)

 

How much does it cost to join the NAM? Or is it enough just having an account on the forum?


(Sorry for the lame questions)

 

This sounds really neat. But what exactly is it?

 

By creating an account (which you have done since you are posting) you have joined the NAM cult. Lame questions are the only ones that I am qualified to answer. You are fully qualified to get the NAM discount.

 

hugs

thanks!

 

Glovebox Tidy. Differs from others in that it doesn't block cold air from the glovebox cold air vent, so you can keep a couple cans of drinks cold, and it has a map holder slot.

http://www.gominigo.com/8401.html

This is the dock attached to a different glovebox organizer, but you get the idea.

http://new.minimania.com/web/STSearc..._Inventory.cfm

 

You would have to arrange with your installing dealer, however, to have the cord from the Ipod adaptor routed to the glove compartment. The standard installation is in the secret compartment, which is where mine is located.

 

True, that of course depends if she gets a New Mini, or an earlier Mini.

The dealer will have no problem routing it to the glovebox if that's what you want. I like the secure feeling I have when I'm on some serious twisties, that my iPod isn't sliding around. It stays put, and planted in my dock.

 

Yes, I was assuming she was talking about a second-generation car (2007 or 2008 hardtop) while you may have thought she could be considering a first-generation model.

The pre-2007 models would have to have the Ipod connection installed in the glove compartment, since those cars did not have the secret compartment. It seems that the Ipod cord could be routed into the glove compartment for an R56, but as I said earlier, that would have to be arranged ahead of time with the dealer since the standard spot for that is the secret compartment in the newer models.

Also, the GBT has been updated for the R56. It has a dedicated space on the left-hand side that holds an Ipod. It would probably accommodate the dock and sleeve that you referenced, as well.

 

Just got an '03 CVT for my daughter's 16th birthday/first car... she wants an iPod connection.. we have the stock am/fm/single CD player... is there an easy/cheap way to do this?

I'm willing to take the unit out of the dash to see if there's an auxilliary jack back there... does anyone know if such exists on the '03 stock radio?

 

There is a space in the lower left hand corner (facing the radio.) You need to buy an OEM Auxillary Input cable - this will plug into the back of the head unit and has a female 3.5mm connector.
The install can be done with the stereo in place - just pull down on the knee bolster (under the steering wheel) and place the Aux-in by feel.

 

Should I assume that this OEM cable will be outrageously overpriced?

 

It's not bad - ~$40
You can get 20% off from Classic MINI - just tell them you are from NAM.

 

Are you getting a Gen 1 or 2 MINI?
That is to say:
2006 or older= Gen 1
2007 or newer= Gen 2
With the exception of the Cabrios that are still Gen 1 until 2009.

If it is a Gen 1 MINI R50/R52/R53 then I can tell you how to install it yourself.
I just installed the Ipod Interface and it only took a short time and saved me a bundle.

Total cost $150 and it is one of the best upgrades I have done to my MINI.
No more fumbling for CD's or CD's sliding around in the glove box.
All my 8000 songs and Podcasts in one easy to reach location.