Hello!

I'm in a quandary. I want to be able to hook my iPhone 6s to my R53 stereo. Is there an adapter out there that will let me have a simple USB port to attach my phone's lightning cable to my stereo and still keep my steering wheel controls? I don't want the USB adapter to go all the way back to the trunk either! 😳

I'm not interested in using Bluetooth to play my iTunes music on my phone. I would prefer the direct connect of the USB.

I know I can put in a new head unit (and I have one), but I'm still wanting to keep by steering wheel controls. Any ideas here?

I hope their a few R53ers out there that can help! Looking forward to your replies!

😊

 

no

 

Short and sweet bj, quite helpful.

I don't think there is an "easy" way to do what you want, but sure anything is possible. Why the hate for bluetooth?

For the price, I don't know that you can beat this:
And if you really refuse to use bluetooth, try one of these hooked to the aftermarket head unit you already have...http://newministuff.com/mfsw-multi-f...-gen-430-p.asp

Cheers!

 

there are units that claim to be compatable
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_541SWIR...r.html?tp=3405
i have no actual experience so do your research

 

I just talked with Car Toys and they told me that I wouldn't be able to use my H/K system if I changed my head unit because the head unit already has an amplifier in it. Huh?

My son has a HUGE stereo system in his car with 4 amps, two equalizers, and subwoofers. No, it's not a MINI.

So why do I loose my H/K is I put in a new head unit? They slso told me it would take 8 hours to do. That doesn't would right either.

I really could use some advise in changing my H/K head unit.

Thanks in advance.

 

the H/K system is "unique" in many ways

what you are hearing from the store is pretty much correct.

dig around in the GEN1 Navigation and Audio section
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...-and-audio-14/

The easy options are two when you have H/K issues
1) find HK replacement parts used, on eBay or the like
2) rip the entire system out and start over .....

I ran into similar problems with a special edition Miata with an 'upgraded' sound system (I think it was Bose). Pre-amps buried in weird places, strange crossover wiring ... the Miata was so small inside that I just ripped everything out and wired up new (and simple)

I think if most folks knew the dark side of the H/K system they'd stay away . . .

have you seen this?
http://www.outmotoring.com/gen-1-min...in-module.html

This kit is for the installation in the trunk of a MINI R50, R52 or R53 using the factory CD changer input that is pre installed in all Gen1 MINI models. Once installed any USB capable device can be plugged in using the USB connection cable and integrated into the factory stereo.

iPod, iPhone, iPad car integration: Connect your Apple device to the factory car stereo via USB port. Play music, control from car stereo or steering wheel, and charge at the same time. Use standard USB to Apple connector cable (including Lightning style). All iPod, iPhone, iPad are compatible, including latest iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus.

yes it installs in the trunk ... but you can always run a USB cable back to the dash . . .

I would CALL and ask about H/K issues . . . .

 

Thanks, BJ. I called my MINI dealer and I'm having an adapter put in on Friday so I can listen to my music. I can still plug into the cigarette adapter I have for charging.

 

watch out for ground loops .......

another common GEN1 issue with "devices" and chargers . . .

 

I put in a new head unit and ordered an HKenabler from England. I also ordered (from Crutchfield) the device to use the steering wheel controls. Things work as they should. I now have Bluetooth phone and streaming or I can plug in via the cord. I didn't get to keep the original head unit but I'm much happier with this set up. Everything was really plug and play once it came in.

 

I second this, almost exactly my story but I bought the MSFW kit from newMINIstuff as well. A lil tough to stuff it all in there but it works as it should...a worthy option if you want to keep the H/K.

 

I'm in the same boat. Want my MFSW and HK system but new unit. Looks like the adapter from GB would be a HUGE PITA to stuff in there behind the HU. And for $170 to keep both... Is it really worth it?

 

I love my HK Enabler. Works great and I love my new head unit too. The HK speakers & amp really aren't done any justice by the OEM head unit. It's pretty impressive after changing it.

Yah, space behind can be a bit of an issue depending on the head unit you end up with.