[tagoo]

I recently purchased a 2008 E92, N54, manual (with only 30K miles - woohoo).

A VIN decoder indicates I have: S609 Professional Nav, S677 Hifi System Professional DSP, S694 Provisions for 6 CD changer (but only single CD player).

I can see that I have CCC IDrive and only an aux port in armrest (not a USB port).

I assume I have Logic 7 with 13 speakers. I am satisfied with sound quality through the radio. I would like to add wireless Carplay and keep the MOST system so that sound quality remains as good as possible. I would also like the screen to adequately display Carplay.

I have read some suggestions that it is best to upgrade to CIC first, then add the Mr12Volt unit. If so, I can do that but have the following questions:

1. Is there a single source to get all the needed equipment for the CCC to CIC swap (including any needed harnesses)?
2. Is there coding necessary to make the CIC work with my car after installation?
3. If yes to #2, are there recommendations for someone who can do that coding remotely?
4. Are there there additional considerations for adding Mr12Volt to an IDrive system that has been upgraded to CIC?

Thanks for any input!

[ctuna]

1 Yes but it will be expensive and maybe you should consider NBT EVO if you are going to go that far. google bmw retrofits.
2 Yes also some of the retrofits companys can do that. See the coding sub forum for other possible remote coding.
3 Mr 12 Volt is the only vendor I know doing Most Interfaces for there stuff. (at least for carplay and android)
No major considerations except where will you put it how you will tap the 12 volts needed to power it usually you just by
and add a fuse that will plug into an unused slot in the cabin fuse board like the one for CD changer.
4) I don't know of anything specific for Idrive.

There is and idrive sub forum here
There used to be a site called bimmerretrofits.com doesn't seem to be there anymore.
also Bimmertech.com

Doing the Idrive retrofit will be the greatest amount of work .

[90c4]

I did the CCC->CIC upgrade without knowing how to code, but it was a lot of work to figure it all out. Adding the mr12volt mmi was pretty easy though, and there are a number of videos on youtube that show what carplay looks like through the CCC screen, and it really doesn't seem that bad. For my upgrade I called an autobody shop that had listed an e90 for partout and I offered them $150 for the head unit, display, idrive controller, cables, and center console trim and offered to come down and take it out myself, which I did. I ended up not using the idrive controller and center console trim because I think the controller isn't working and mine was fine, and I sold my CCC head unit on ebay for $150 so it was basically a free upgrade. But again, a lot of work. I'd consider just adding the CCC version of mr12volt if you don't feel like tackling a big project. I added my mr12volt a few weeks later and it took about an hour to put that plus the backup camera in

[tagoo]

ctuna - Thanks for the input and the link to the video!

90c4 - Thanks for the response. Are you saying you used your old CCC idrive controller with the CIC equipment? I didn't know that would work. If so, it could simplify the installation.

I don't mind spending the money or doing the work of taking the dash apart to install equipment. I just don't have the time to do all the research on exactly what parts and coding is need. I may just do as you suggest and just use the mr12volt system for now. I looked at some videos of CCC with carplay and they are not as bad as I thought they would be.

[ptpending]

Originally Posted by tagoo

I recently purchased a 2008 E92, N54, manual (with only 30K miles - woohoo).

A VIN decoder indicates I have: S609 Professional Nav, S677 Hifi System Professional DSP, S694 Provisions for 6 CD changer (but only single CD player).

I can see that I have CCC IDrive and only an aux port in armrest (not a USB port).

I assume I have Logic 7 with 13 speakers. I am satisfied with sound quality through the radio. I would like to add wireless Carplay and keep the MOST system so that sound quality remains as good as possible. I would also like the screen to adequately display Carplay.

I have read some suggestions that it is best to upgrade to CIC first, then add the Mr12Volt unit. If so, I can do that but have the following questions:

1. Is there a single source to get all the needed equipment for the CCC to CIC swap (including any needed harnesses)?
2. Is there coding necessary to make the CIC work with my car after installation?
3. If yes to #2, are there recommendations for someone who can do that coding remotely?
4. Are there there additional considerations for adding Mr12Volt to an IDrive system that has been upgraded to CIC?

Thanks for any input!

the CCC always has two drives
one for DVD for navigation and one CD for music
are you shure that you have CCC
the e9x in the end of 2008 already had CIC

[ctuna]

I don't have Idrive at all so I may not be correct .
It doesn't look like a easy retrofit .
I have read most of the retrofit threads over the years.
Any time you change any module in a BMW it needs
programming usually .
You seem to have the codes for what is in the car.
(as per your first post )
The earlier Idrive was DVD based the later one had a hard drive
and single disk cd player I believe.
There are good descriptions of Idrives on wikipedia.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_iDrive

[90c4]

Originally Posted by tagoo

ctuna - Thanks for the input and the link to the video!

90c4 - Thanks for the response. Are you saying you used your old CCC idrive controller with the CIC equipment? I didn't know that would work. If so, it could simplify the installation.

I don't mind spending the money or doing the work of taking the dash apart to install equipment. I just don't have the time to do all the research on exactly what parts and coding is need. I may just do as you suggest and just use the mr12volt system for now. I looked at some videos of CCC with carplay and they are not as bad as I thought they would be.

Correct - the CCC idrive controller works great and using it means that you don't have to replace the console trim either. In your case I would definitely order the CCC version of mr12volt. Many people have reported being surprised by how good it looks through the CCC screen despite no change in resolution. There's a chance that you'll still need to code either 1 or 2 settings, which can easily be done with the bimmercode app. One may already be set if the car was prepped for a CD changer, even if it doesn't have one. The other isn't even necessary, but most people code off SVS which is the voice control button on the steering wheel so that it can be used with Siri instead of the car. You can add a backup camera later if you choose, and that doesn't require any other coding as it plugs into the mr12volt directly

[tagoo]

Originally Posted by ptpending

the CCC always has two drives
one for DVD for navigation and one CD for music
are you shure that you have CCC
the e9x in the end of 2008 already had CIC

Yep, it is CCC. Oct 2007 build date and CCC screen (4 tabs on home screen)

[tagoo]

Originally Posted by ctuna

I don't have Idrive at all so I may not be correct .
It doesn't look like a easy retrofit .
I have read most of the retrofit threads over the years.
Any time you change any module in a BMW it needs
programming usually .
You seem to have the codes for what is in the car.
(as per your first post )
The earlier Idrive was DVD based the later one had a hard drive
and single disk cd player I believe.
There are good descriptions of Idrives on wikipedia.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BMW_iDrive

Yes, I have both the DVD for Nav and a single disc for CD - even though the 6 disc changer prep was included. Thanks!

[tagoo]

Originally Posted by 90c4

Correct - the CCC idrive controller works great and using it means that you don't have to replace the console trim either. In your case I would definitely order the CCC version of mr12volt. Many people have reported being surprised by how good it looks through the CCC screen despite no change in resolution. There's a chance that you'll still need to code either 1 or 2 settings, which can easily be done with the bimmercode app. One may already be set if the car was prepped for a CD changer, even if it doesn't have one. The other isn't even necessary, but most people code off SVS which is the voice control button on the steering wheel so that it can be used with Siri instead of the car. You can add a backup camera later if you choose, and that doesn't require any other coding as it plugs into the mr12volt directly

Thanks for all the great info 90c4. Good to know about the controller should I go that way. I do think I will just get the mr12volt for CCC for now. As we agree, image quality doesn't look that bad. I already have Bimmercode but only have used the basic settings - not expert mode. I assume the CD changer needs to be coded in expert mode. I think I may still need some coding because when I go to the CD player on the idrive menu it only shows a single disc, not 6. Any tips on where or how to code via bimmercode or will the mr12volt instructions include that? Thanks!

[90c4]

It may be in expert mode but expert mode just shows additional, less often coded, items and everything operates the same way. I believe I only saw a single disc before I added the mr12volt too (and I didn't need any additional coding). If you do need to code, you simply use bimmercode to set CDMM_CHANGER_3 to mp3_cdc. You can find it by doing a search in bimmercode.

[ctuna]

prep just meant the wiring is there if you buy the module . They use to prep everything before 2009 models came out.
There are many DIY's on this stuff on Ytube and some here to .

[tagoo]

I want to provide an update...

I installed Mr12Volt on my 2008 E92 with Logic 7 and CCC. I was concerned that the resolution of the CCC display would be too low. I am surprised to report that the 8.8 CCC display with CarPlay exceeded my expections. To my old eyes, it looks really, really good. As some have mentioned, I have been underwhelmed with the wireless CarPlay sound quality. However, the Mr12Volt USB wired connection sounds much better (close to the other Logic 7 sources but still a bit soft with bass response).

I did not do any type of coding for the CCC. In fact, Bimmercode shows coding of the head unit is not supported. Nonetheless, it all worked after I installed it.

The single button iDrive controller is a bit funky as it isn't totally untuitive how to move through the CarPlay menu. For instance, I cannot scroll through menu items. Instead, I have to press the wheel forward or rearward to move through menu items. I can get to everything on the menu, it just isn't as convenient as it could be.

The bottom line (according to me) is that CCC has surprisingly good display quality. CarPlay using the wired USB cable gives great sound quality. Wireless CarPlay is a lot lower quality than the wired USB cable. Finally, the CCC iDrive controller is not intuitive to operate (although it can be made to work).

I'm happy to hear any recommendations for improving the wireless sound quality or CCC iDrive controller functionality.

Special thanks to 90c4 as he recommended I simply try the Mr12Volt for CCC. I'm glad I did.

[oVeRdOsE.]

for those looking to this.

if you do a CCC to CIC, use the later CIC generation.

Ive used a 2012 X1 CIC head unit, with the BMW bluetooth audio combox (bn2000).
took all the part at the junk yard for 85$cad, including the harness.

Then I use a ali MMI box 220$ cad.


All this cheaper than the mr12volts alone (700$cad), and audio to bluetooth is almost has good.

Note Ive dropped the aux for BT from the MMI, while there a sound improvement, it's not day and night.
But Ctuna was right, aux definitively drop quality. Like listening a 96kbps mp3.



If money is not considered, then yeah mr12volt is easier to integrate for sure.

[90c4]

I haven't tried wired, but I was under the impression that the bitrate was the same regardless of wired or wireless. The CCC controller takes a little getting used to - I have one with my CIC unit as the CIC controller I grabbed from the junkyard didn't work. The only issue I've had is that there's no way to get out of the zoom screen on maps other than resetting the unit. Not sure if that's the same with carplay as android auto (which I use) but I just avoid hitting that zoom button

[90c4]

Also, regarding the economics of CCC-> CIC, I paid $150 for my head unit, controller (which I couldn't get working), center trim for controller, wiring, and display. I listed my CCC gear on ebay and was surprised to sell the head unit for $150, the screen for $50, and the HD Radio receiver in the trunk for $60, so even after fees and shipping I came out ahead and still have some other parts I can list. The only reason not to do the CIC upgrade is the hassle, which isn't insignificant. Glad to hear that the CCC screen looks good with mr12volt. I'll likely be putting one in a friends car soon

[tagoo]

90c4,

The CarPlay map function isn't great with the CCC one button controller. rather than doing a hard reset, I just use the phone to back out of the zoomed-in view.

I'm still hopeful that I can find a way to get better sound quality using the wireless capability of Mr12Volt. I just haven't taken the time to play much. As I mentioned, I recently picked up this 30K mile e92 N54 6MT car and have been doing all the maintenance including tires, wheels, brakes (Akebono) a new starter (ugh) and all of the "since you are in there" jobs including walnut blasting plugs, coils, belt, mickey mouse flange, seals, etc. I finally feel like I am on top of the mainentance and can play around with the new Mr12Volt to see if I can make it better.

Thanks again!

[oVeRdOsE.]

Originally Posted by 90c4

I haven't tried wired, but I was under the impression that the bitrate was the same regardless of wired or wireless. The CCC controller takes a little getting used to - I have one with my CIC unit as the CIC controller I grabbed from the junkyard didn't work. The only issue I've had is that there's no way to get out of the zoom screen on maps other than resetting the unit. Not sure if that's the same with carplay as android auto (which I use) but I just avoid hitting that zoom button

AUX and BT might be same bitrate , I dont know. Im saying both has a difference, but need to switch over quick to notice it.

you wont have this issue with Mr12volt, since it use MOST.


The part I hate the most of this system is :

- android auto drain the cellphone battery fast af. You know when you have a S23 ultra that come hot and drain 10-12%/hour.

- The MMI box come on went you unlock the door and your cell phone connects automatically. Very annoying, like very. especially when you work outside or your car is in the garage.

Very dangerous when you need to flash MHD, you need to make sure you forget the MMI before flashing.

where on my audi it only share hotspot when the car is ON. If I go in and out, the cell wont connect.

- finally, app availability is very very low. And there's no hack for this at the moment.

imo a xtrons full android unit might be better, I dont know from fact since I never used it in a E90, but Ive using it in my audi.

[90c4]

These don't support MOST though, correct?

Originally Posted by Aerisauto

Feel free to ask any questions – happy to help anyone thinking about upgrading their ride.

[tagoo]

I'm a bit confused as i don't know what it means to "support" MOST. Can you answer the following for a CCC system?

1. Does your system replace the CCC System or is the CCC system still active?
2. If the CCC system remains active, how do you select access to CarPlay/Android Auto capabilities (via AUX, CD, or some other way)?

Thanks!

[oVeRdOsE.]

Originally Posted by tagoo

I'm a bit confused as i don't know what it means to "support" MOST. Can you answer the following for a CCC system?

1. Does your system replace the CCC System or is the CCC system still active?
2. If the CCC system remains active, how do you select access to CarPlay/Android Auto capabilities (via AUX, CD, or some other way)?

Thanks!

I look at their site, and i dont see MOST audio support. yes their wire adapter got a slot for most, but wont use it as a audio source. Only to connect the headunit back on most.


unless i miss it. but if it does RIP mr12volt, but doubt.

i see aux cable, so I assume you are stuck to use aux input on the ccc.

[ctuna]

Mr12volt has both a CCC and CIC unit with screen I believe with support for Android Auto and Carplay . These are there 2nd or 3rd generation adapters not the simple audio source and bluetooth and phone adapter.