Hello,

I've got a specific question that I could not find the answer for on these threads. I hope you can help.

For the past couple of years, i've been using both the iTrip (for my ipod) and the basic MyFI car kit in my 2003 Velvet Red Mini Cooper (not S). I'm tired of trying to find clear FM channels (I live in Brooklyn) and I want to upgrade both audio systems as simply as possible. I have decided that the Ipod Aux Input is the way that I want to go for the ipod. I have ordered one and will be installing it soon. I don't mind not controlling the ipod through the head and it seems like the Aux input works very well.

Now, for the XM. Is XM Direct something that I can use in my 2003 Mini, or is it only for more recent Mini models? Has anyone had any experience with the electronics and this particular model? The main problem is that I don't know if my radio (basic factory installed unit that came with the car) is satellite ready, and I'm not sure how to figure out if it is. Ideally, I'd like to be able to switch stations through the stereo head itself, so that's why I want to get an XM Direct.

If the 2003 stereo is not compatible, would the MyFI work with the newly installed Aux input? Has anyone had any experience with such a system?

Thanks in advance for your help - sorry for such basic questions. This is a great forum.

 

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ighlight=radio

 

I can't speak to the XM Direct, but I do have the Delphi MyFI installed in my '06 via the Aux in. It works great!

The only problem I've had is that I needed to purchase a ground loop isolator from Crutchfield (about $15) since I had it plugged into my lighter socket for power. Without the isolator, the MyFi would cut in and out. Eventually it caused a fault in the radio itself. I suggest you get this product anytime you use a powered device (non-battery) via aux in...

I recently also installed the OEM iPod adapter to use my iPod.

 

thanks for the info on running the MyFi...i've just checked my specs on the original paperwork for my mini and the stereo appears to be satellite radio ready, so it looks like the XM Direct should work...

 

I could be wrong on this, but I'm pretty sure the OEM radio is only satellite ready for the Sirius network, not XM...

See the previous poster's link that describes one external interface (Blitzsafe) that you can use to tie the XM Direct into your stereo...

 

this is the version that i was planning on getting:

http://www.myradiostore.com/xm-radio...ni-cooper.html

the specs say that it'll fit (among a number of other cars) All 2003 Mini Satellite-Radio-Ready-Vehicles, so i'm hoping that this is what my mini is

 

Cool... it looks like you can now skip the interface kit...

Well, it's certainly looks worth a shot. I assume you could always return it if they are wrong about not needing an interface kit.

Post your results so we all know if this works

(BTW, if you are already putting in a aux-in, it may be worth trying your MiFi before dropping the $180 or so for the above kit...)

Good luck!

 

We offer the kits also:

XM Direct Satellite Radio Package for BMW & Mini
http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...roducts_id=267

This is compatible with your MY03 MINI and in stock, ready to ship.

 

thank you Tom...i'm happy to see that the XM direct is going to work...looking forward to a new audio setup for my mini

 

Nope, you still need the Blitzsafe interface. It's included in the package.

Phil

 

just wanted to post a followup and say that I've just finished installing both the AUX input for the Ipod, and the XM Direct Blitzsafe kit on my '03 MC and both work great - total installation time took less than 1/2 hour for both...thanks for all of the advice

 

Both of these items are incredibly easy to install - glad you are up and running!