Hi fellow Mini owners,

I've been using the search function but am not returning any results on how to install the factory Ipod link.

My question being: does anyone have any details (pictoral) if possible, on taking apart the interior for a DIY install?

Any help would be fantastic!

Thanks again.

 

also look for radio removal, or center console removal, that may lead to some pics of the install. Here is a PDF instruction set I used when I did mine.

http://www.mossmini.com/graphics/pro...ns/100-274.pdf

to get the down tubes off, you first need to pull the mirror adjuster plate on the center console, there are 2 screws in there under the mirror/heat seat plate that you have to take out, then remove the screws in the front cup holder. On the down tubes, there are 2 torx screws on each side, take those out. Pull the center console a little bit towards the back of the car, then pull down on the down tubes...sometimes I have to push up to move the center console first, then the down tubes will come out.

From there, you can easily see the screws that hold the radio in place to you can remove it to get to the wiring harness. That is pretty much it. The hardest part is getting the down tubes out without scratching them, but be patient.

 

Here's the instruction book if you don't have it...

Also, there is a simpler way of getting the H/U out...

1) First take off the knee bolster under the steering wheel. Just pull down and pivot it out. (also open the glove box)

2) Second undo the four torx screws on either side of the down tubes. Then push down on the tubes. They won't come out but they'll come out of the dash and this will give you enough room to get to the H/U

3) Unscrew the four smaller torx screws that hold in the head unit.

4) follow the directions to install.

 

Cheers guys.

Thanks for the quick replies.

Auscoops

 

You DO NOT need to remove the head unit or console, down tubes, et al to install the Ipod link. By simply snapping out the knee bolster you can easily reach behind the head unit and plug the connector in. This is a very simple install that requires very few tools. Look at my gallery for a unique install and Ipod integration.
TJM

 

good point. For me personally, I don't have that type of dexterity to reach back there and see the wire colors and plugs to integrate it properly, so I wanted the radio out where I could see things and make sure I did not mess it up.

Either way works, depending on your ability

 

Thanks for the help guys!

I finally got off my butt and did it today... Was thinking of having it done, but didn't want to pay the $$ for something i knew i was able to do.

The newer kits are surprisingly easier than the older kits as described in some of the OEM instructions... No cutting of wires etc just unclipping and clipping.

All installed in about 30min.

Happy with the end result.

Thanks again.

 

great to hear, now you get to enjoy it. I love it, just wish my iPod screen showed the songs being played :(. I have it in the Craven iPod mount, but it is worthless there as you only see the MINI logo.

Edit...not saying the craven cradle is worthless, but since MINI basically blanks out the iPod screen, there is no point to have it on display, and might as well be in the glove box. Personally, I think the Craven set up is great, quality stuff and fits my interior well, just I wish I could see what songs are playing from the iPod, etc.

 

just started getting ready to install mine, only unfortunately when i pulled off my cars knee bolster the plastic snapped, making the part with the fasteners stuck and have of the knee pad disconnected to the dash. no big deal with the knee bolster being popped from the fasteners (ill reconnect it with double sided tape and itll be good as new) but now i have no clue how the hell to get the ipod interface installed if i cant get off the knee bolster.

anyone have any suggestions?

 

I don't have the interface I just bought the auxillary input and I just reached behind the radio and plugged it in...didnt take off anything except the little panel below our switch cluster b/c thats where I mounted the plug..Just did it 5 minutes ago and I think its gonna be cool.