I'm having no luck finding a decent stereo that is compatible with my 02's steering wheel controls. I don't want to loose an option in my car just to upgrade my stereo. I'd also like it to be an MP3 player. Anyone know of something that will work???

 

You could just replace your head unit with a newer version of the same one (i.e. standard MINI)... the newer versions support MP3 CDs, and of course Aux input (for hooking up an iPod or something).

Not sure about aftermarket head units that will retain the controls - you'll probably need a custom wiring harness for that.

 

I have an '02 S that I used a Sony unit to replace the OEM unit with. I got an adapter so I could use the MFSW controls from www.newministuff.com - worked like a charm. Just decide what head unit you want to use and then check with newministuff to make sure the adapter will work with your choice. Their adapters work with most major brands and any model that supports MP3s should work. My Sony unit does MP3s and well as XM Radio and has an Aux Output that I hook my iPod Shuffle into. If you have questions on what head units might work Crutchfield is a good resource. Good luck!

 

Is there a difference between "MFSW Adaptor Ready" and "MFSW adaptable? I see a few different head units with different descriptions for the MFSW option.

 

If the aftermarket HU has an IR remote, it will most likely work with the PAC SWI-X (here's my install in GBMINI#2) - you have to mount the IR LED in view of the HU, then "teach" it what IR codes to transmit.

Some HUs can have wired interfaces instead - very few in USA. I have an Alpine CDA-9857 which has a wired interface; check NewMINIstuff and their MFSW adaptor list on MINI2

 

OEM would be the best way to go, we have them on the site:

Radio Boost upgrade w/ MP3 support - Mini Cooper/Cooper S
http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...roducts_id=318

These are the sought-after versions that play MP3s and have text display with the DICE kits.

 

Definetly worth contacting Mikey at www.newministuff.com to get an adapter. Then you can find a better HU for the money.

 

If you are already set on aftermarket, we have installation kits on the site also:



R40 Radio Wiring Harness (Harness Side)
http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...roducts_id=695



MINI Aftermarket Radio Installation Kit
http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...roducts_id=694

Steering wheel control can be retained with the PAC Steering Wheel Control Interface:



PAC SWI-X Steering Wheel Control Interface
http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...roducts_id=682

As always, everything is in stock - ready to ship.

 

Tom has the parts as well and no pound to dollar conversion.

 

Will this work with ANY stereo?

 

If referring to the SWI (Steering Wheel Interface) - this will work with any stereo that has IR capabilities. For specific radios, we have other kits also:

SWI-ALP Steering Wheel Control Interface (Alpine/Kenwood/JVC)
http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...roducts_id=699

SWI-ECL Steering Wheel Control Interface (Eclipse)
http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...roducts_id=701

SWI-PS Steering Wheel Control Interface (Pioneer/Sony)
http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...roducts_id=702

SWI-V Steering Wheel Control Interface (Dual Control)
http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...roducts_id=700

If your specific radio is not listed, use the SWI-X interface.

 

Tom,
Don't forget about the Antenna adaptor.

I have the Alpine CDA 9857 with Pac Swi Alp

 

Good call:



Amplified Antenna to Aftermarket Radio Adapter (MY02+ )
http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...roducts_id=686



Antenna to Aftermarket Radio Adapter (MY02+ )
http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...roducts_id=685

 

Tom,
I had no idea you carried all this stuff too - great!
I'll have to peruse your website ...

This amplified antenna: where does it get power from? Does it need to be spliced into the harness wiring?

 

We're about to get better - we're completing development on the non-NAV Bluetooth kit and a coupe of other surprises we haven't mentioned yet.

The power wire can go to any 12V switched source, this will allow an additional boost for signal strength.

 

I have a Premier something-or-another. I've been looking online for the model number but cannot find it. I got it around 2004ish. Apart from this one being compatible, what is the best all around head unit for the $$$ that is MFSW compatible?

 

As long as the radio has IR remote capabilities, it will work with the SWI-X and your MFSW controls.

 

I really hate to be a pest, but how will I know it has the IR remote capabilities?

 

Check the product features to see if your radio has infared remote control. If so, the SWI-X can be used with your radio.

 

It's this stereo. It has a remote... ???

 

From the looks of the page, it appears to be IR remote capable.

 

How long is the cord to the sender on the SWI-X? I'm looking into getting a JVC KD-HDR1 (IR remote) and was wondering where the best place to mount the sender is. I'm not sure that I'm brave enough to drill through the dash right above the radio .

 

Sender is 10 feet, it can be placed anywhere in the vehicle you desire, with no drilling.

 

It shows a remote control, my guess you also have the remote control so it definetly has IR capability, you are good to go