I just got my 08 Clubman S and was trying to connect my iphone 4 thru the usb port to play my music, I can't get it to play thru the usb aux in, any reason why?

 

Even if you have the USB cable for the Iphone it's touchy. Sometimes I have to play with it for a few minutes for it to work. It'll play but doesn't charge.

 

are you using the MINI Y cable? On the 2008 you have to use the Y Cable that plugs into both the USB and the AUX port... The AUX provides the sound and the USB Supplies the title for what is playing.

 

There is an updated cable BMW/MINI part number you may want to check your cable for this part number:

61120440812


Also, if it is a power delivery issue you can pick up this new BMW/MINI part for charging the newer Apple devices:

61122167663

 

My problem is the cable that came with our MINI is too short - only about 12" long. I just tried a longer cable that was advertised to work but it didn't. Anyone have a longer cable that works?

 

Oh, I just tried the standard apple charger/sync usb cable, will have to goto bmw I guess unless there is a cheaper version out there by a aftermarket company??

 

The OEM cable has Proprietary electronics in the cable it self to make the iPod/iPhone work with the SUB port. So there is not after market cable that will work.

Now some people have had luck in setting their iPod to Mass Storage mode and have it to only use the cable that came with the iPod but there are some major limitations to working that way. I.E. not DRM Music will play. Most music purchased from an online store will not play (at least that is what has been reported here).

If the OP's iphone 4 is not working with the 08 MINI take Stroby Probey's advice and check out the newer cable sets.

 

There are extension cords out there for extended an iPod cable with connector. Try Amazon or the likes.

I'm having similar iPhone issues. Used to have them intermittently, now seems to get stuck in stupid-mode 9/10 times.