I own a 03 MINI with the Harman Kardon sound system and the CD will not come out. I will be removing the unit and seeing if it's a easy fix. If not is the Harman Kardon system the same as the base system and far as the reciever/CD player and only difference being the added amp? I'm looking into options as far as if I need to replace the unit or have it repaired if there is something I can not repair. I see Alpine on some on line, what years do Alpine make them and will Alpine repair mine? Thanks, AL.

 

Does the 2003 MINI with a Harman Karman system have a code needed to enter after removal for repair? Thanks, AL.

 

The headunit is the same whether or not it is a Harman Kardon system. Yes, a 2003 headunit requires a security code after removal (not required for headunits in later years). If it needs repair, it may be cheaper and easier to replace with a used unit from eBay.

 

Is the code with the car when sold and can be set or is this a dealer programing only thing? AL.

 

The code is given to the buyer on a card or document when the car is sold. It is not dealer programmable, but I believe they can enter the radio's serial number into their system and look up the code.

 

Can I install a later reciever in my 2003 so I do not need to mess with the code issue? AL

 

Yes, a newer radio would be compatible and not require a code. I don't know exactly when they stopped using the code, but certainly by 1/2005.

 

If you can, get a radio from an 05/06 as they can playback CDRs with MP3s recorded on them. I did that for a friend's MCS and he was very happy with that feature.