I am looking for a CD Changer for the new MINI. If anyone has one in good condition they are selling for a reasonable price, let me know. I can paypal or send checks/Money Orders

Thanks

Cabbagetoe

 

Cabbage, they are all over ebay, selling for about $275-300.
Can someone who knows about BMWs tell me, will a changer out of an E36 Bimmer (whatever the hell that is) plug-n-play with my MCS?

 

E36 is a platform designation for a newer model 3-series BMW. Another example is the B5 platform...that stands for both the Audi A4 and the VW Passat...they are identicle underneath. Since BMW made the Mini...the changer is a direct fit, that would be my understanding why their changer is plug and play...same connectors, etc.

 

>> Since BMW made the Mini...the changer is a direct fit, that would be my understanding why their changer is plug and play...same connectors, etc.

This is not necessarily true. I had a '95 E36 M3 and now have a '97 E36 M3. The changer from the '95 would not work in the '97. I guess I might have been able to get some kind of adapter. I'm betting they changed the setup when the went to the E46 platform too. Basically, don't just assume that any BMW changer is going to work in the MINI without some kind of modification.

 

>>>> Basically, don't just assume that any BMW changer is going to work in the MINI without some kind of modification.
>>

True...good points made. I would check with the dealer as to what the connections look like...Like anything, connections change and systems are improved...or so they say

 

>>>> Since BMW made the Mini...the changer is a direct fit, that would be my understanding why their changer is plug and play...same connectors, etc.
>>
>>This is not necessarily true. I had a '95 E36 M3 and now have a '97 E36 M3. The changer from the '95 would not work in the '97. I guess I might have been able to get some kind of adapter. I'm betting they changed the setup when the went to the E46 platform too. Basically, don't just assume that any BMW changer is going to work in the MINI without some kind of modification.
>>
I think BMW changed the CD changer protocol in 96. My guess is that a CD changer for a 95 and earlier BMW will not work, but a CD changer for a 96 and later will work. However this is only my guess. Check with your parts guy; they will be able to tell you if the part numbers are the same.

 

This brings up a question I've had about the HK system:

If you own a 2003 MINI with the Harman/Kardon single-disc in-dash CD player, how difficult is it to install the 6-disc player in the boot? Is there a prepared wiring adapter dangling back there ready to connect the changer, or do I have to have a specialist wire it up?

Thanks,

Joe

 

i have the HK on a 2003 and i am going to get a 10 disc changer. I want it to be able to play mp3's however i am not sold on having to use a dormant radio station to use it......so i might replace the entire unit. :???:

 

Install your own brand new cd changer for under $300. Last week end I installed a new CD changer in the boot and it works fine. I bought an Alpine 630 CD changer from a New York electronics outfit on the internet for $168.00 plus a rip off $31.00 for shipping. I bought a Blitzsafe adapter for $79 from another web site. I bought the CD changer bracket for $24.50 from a local MINI dealer, I looked at the various do it yourself MINI web sites, R-Speed, Bridger, etc. It was very very simple, took under one hour, and works great. I also got two extra CD magazines for another thirty dollars to go with the one you get with the CD. I am handy, but not very adventursome, but very frugal. Why spend a fortune at the dealer? or car stereo shop? Do it yourself!

P.S. My first MCO posting! The frugal MINI Maniac

 

Be aware Alpine has one that is a 6 disk MP3 capable shuffler that with one adaptor will interface with the behind the wheel controls.

 

Xanthus,

More info on the specifics. You can't taunt me like that! Can you give model number, etc.

Thanks a bunch

Cabbagetoe

 

The CHA-S634 maybe?

Cabbagetoe