Jonathan B. Spira, BMW CCA
March 1, 2007

BMW’s new $400 USB option allows attachment of iPods, other music players, and USB keys containing music. It’s factory-order-only, for the 3, 5, and 6 Series plus X5. It’s not a dealer retrofit accessory.
BMW now offers a new car buyers a USB option for connecting music players, including Apple iPods, as well as USB memory keys with music. It’s a factory-order (only) option for the 3er, 5er, and 6er, as well as X5. BMW will continue to offer the dealer-installed Interface for iPod (iPod only) for existing cars with the MOST (fiber optical) bus as well as the original iPod adapter for I-Bus cars. The new option costs $400, which is at least $100 cheaper than the installed price of the dealer-install adapter. The price includes the adapter cable necessary for the iPod.

To get the adapter, make sure you specify the USB "6FL" option (6FL is the order code) when you order the vehicle. It is not marketed as a dealer retrofit item. The USB port is located next to the AUX-IN plug (which accepts an industry-standard 3.5 mm audio jack). In the 3er and 5er, for example, you’ll find it in the center console.


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