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E39 - BM53 & (BMW) Sirius Radio Retrofit

DIY: 
80K views 210 replies 30 participants last post by  Pontek2 
#1 · (Edited)
:greenflag:
<FONT size=3><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Calibri','sans-serif'; COLOR: black">BOM:<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com
1. 1 – BMW BM53 New Generation Radio P/N: 65126988275<o:p></o:p>

2. 1 – BMW ANT ADAPTER P/N: 61126913955<o:p></o:p>
3. 1 – BMW RADIO HARNESS P/N: 61126913957<o:p></o:p>
4. 1 – BMW CDC ADAPTER P/N: 61126924785<o:p></o:p>
5. 1 – BMW CONNECTION CABLE CD-CHANGER (550mm) P/N: 65128364756<o:p></o:p>
6. 1 – BMW Sirius Installation Kit P/N: 84110141975<o:p></o:p>
7. 1 – BMW Sirius Receiver (tuner) P/N: 65120439437
8. 1 – BMW CDC Slave Cable P/N: 84110150526
9. 1 – Sirius / XM Antenna (with FAKRA SMB connection)

<o:p></o:p>

Tools:
8mm short 1/4 drive socket<o:p></o:p>
1/4 drive extentions<o:p></o:p>
1/4 drivers (rachet and nut driver handle)<o:p></o:p>
Trim removal tool<o:p></o:p>
#2 phillips screw driver<o:p></o:p>
Product Tool Writing implement Pen


<o:p></o:p>
<o:p></o:p>
Removal:
1.Remove the left rear trunk trim.<o:p></o:p>
Vehicle

2.Loosen the two screws on the side of the CD auto-changer (side facing front if vehicle).<o:p></o:p>
a.Remove and disconnect the CDC.
<o:p> Auto part Bumper
</o:p>

3.Loosen the (3) bolts between the bottom of the CDC rear (vehicle) bracket and remove (1) bolt at the top of the C43 radio.<o:p></o:p>
Metal Automotive exterior Bumper Auto part Machine tool

a.Remove the bracket.<o:p></o:p>
Technology Electronic device

4.Loosen the (3) bolts between the front CDC bracket.<o:p></o:p>
a.Remove the (1) bolt between the front CDC bracket and the floor.<o:p></o:p>
5.Disconnect the Antenna and coaxial cables from the C43.<o:p></o:p>
6.Disconnect the electrical connector from the C43 radio<o:p></o:p>
7.Remove the radio.
Electronics Technology Electronic device


<o:p></o:p>
Installation:<o:p></o:p>
1.Install the CDC audio cable to the vehicle harness (BMW CONNECTION CABLE CD-CHANGER (550mm) P/N: 65128364756).<o:p></o:p>
a.To facilitate this you will need to remove the blue CPA (Connector Position Assurance)<o:p></o:p>
b.Insert the CDC cable in the blank cavity across from the Nav./tape audio input<o:p></o:p>
c.Replace the blue CPA<o:p></o:p>
2.Connect the Old to New Radio adapter (BMW RADIO HARNESS P/N: 61126913957) to the vehicle harness.<o:p></o:p>
Wire Cable Electrical connector Technology Electronic device

Technology Finger Hand Electronic device

Electronics Electronic component Technology Electronic device Finger

Electrical wiring Wire Electrical supply Electronics Auto part

3.Install the CDC Adapter Cable (BMW CDC ADAPTER P/N: 61126924785)<o:p></o:p>
Electrical wiring Cable management Wire Technology Electronics

a.Insert the black and white connectors from the CDC Adapter into the cavities of the New Generation Radio side of the Radio Adapter.<o:p></o:p>
4.Install the BM53 radio<o:p></o:p>
5.Connect the harness to the BM53 radio.<o:p></o:p>
6.Attach the antenna adapter to the vehicle antenna cable (BMW ANT ADAPTER P/N: 61126913955).<o:p></o:p>
Cable Wire Technology Electronic device Electronics accessory

Wire Electrical wiring Cable Electrical supply Technology

a.Attach the Antenna to the BM53.<o:p></o:p>
7.Mount the Sirius tuner to the bracket (84110141975)<o:p></o:p>

8.Install the Sirius Tuner<o:p></o:p>
Electronics Machine Technology Electronic device Vehicle

9.Replace the CDC rear bracket<o:p></o:p>
10.Route the CDC Cable (P/N: 65128364756) to the mating connector on the Sirius tuner.<o:p></o:p>
11.Route the I-bus (3-pin) connector from the CDC to the mating connector on the Sirius tuner.<o:p></o:p>
a. Left to right (Sirius antenna, Slave Cable, CDC Cable, I-bus (blank - had not been connected when Pic' was taken)<o:p></o:p>
Auto part Engine Trunk Vehicle Automotive battery

12.Replace and snug (lose enough to allow small movement) all bracket fasteners.<o:p></o:p>
13.Check the fitment of all components for binding and misalignment including the CDC.<o:p></o:p>
a.When final fitment is correct, remove the CDC and tighten the bracket fasteners.<o:p></o:p>
14.Remove the slave cable connector cover from the Sirius tuner.<o:p></o:p>
a.Attach the CDC slave cable (P/N: 84110150526) to the Sirius tuner.
<o:p> Cable Wire Technology Electronic device Electronics accessory
</o:p>

b.Attach the CDC slave cable to the CDC.<o:p></o:p>
Automotive exterior Bumper Tire Vehicle Electronics

15.Replace the CDC<o:p></o:p>
16.Mount the Satellite antenna (your preference).
<o:p> Cable Serial cable Electronic device Technology Hdmi
</o:p>

a.Mine is on the parcel shelf on top of the cover for the center LATCH (child seat anchor).<o:p></o:p>
b.Route the antenna cable to the Sirius tuner or splitter (as required).<o:p></o:p>
c.Attach the antenna (splitter as applicable) to the Sirius tuner.<o:p></o:p>
17.Replace the left rear trunk trim.<o:p></o:p>
18.Turn the radio “on”.<o:p></o:p>
19.Press the “mode” button until Sirius is displayed Nav. Display (Mk-IV).<o:p></o:p>
a.“No Tape” (2<SUP>nd</SUP> time) Nav. Display (Mk-III) and Sirius channel on OBC.<o:p></o:p>
Multimedia Vehicle Car Electronics Vehicle audio

Multimedia Electronics Vehicle Vehicle audio Car

Speedometer Gauge Odometer Auto part Tachometer

(Yes, the pixels have since been repaired.)
b.If you have Mk-III write down the ESN on the Sirius tuner’s label.<o:p></o:p>
c.Make sure that the Sirius preview channel is playing on the radio.<o:p></o:p>
i.If not relocate the antenna or vehicle such that the audio is being received.<o:p></o:p>
20.Call Sirius to activate the tuner. (1-866-635-2349).<o:p></o:p>
21.Rock out with your bad self.
:checkeredflag::applause::woowoo:
 
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#6 ·
The DIY applies to both DSP and Non-DSP vehicles. Mine is DSP with M-Audio. The CDC Connection Cable (P/N: 65128364756) is required as the BM53/4 radio does not have the coaxial input that the C43 (DSP) has. For Non-DSP vehicles the purchase of the CDC Connection Cable should not be required. :cheers:
 
#8 ·
That is correct. When you press the "Mode" button it will scroll through the usual menu (FM, AM, CD & Tape). However, it will appear to stumble after "Tape". This is the Sirius Mode. If you can still find a cassette, put it in the deck as this will help discern the different modes or watch the OBC as you are scrolling slowly through the various modes.
 
#9 ·
What's the cost of the parts? Great DIY !!!
 
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#10 ·
I'll need to dig out the reciepts, but off the top of my head:

1. 1 – BMW BM53 New Generation Radio P/N: 65126988275 $667.00 (New OE)<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com<img src=" /><o:p></o:p>
2. 1 – BMW ANT ADAPTER P/N: 61126913955 $25.00 (New OE)
3. 1 – BMW RADIO HARNESS P/N: 61126913957 $53.00 (New OE)
4. 1 – BMW CDC ADAPTER P/N: 61126924785 $45.00 (New OE)<o:p></o:p>
5. 1 – BMW CONNECTION CABLE CD-CHANGER (550mm) P/N: 65128364756 $36.00 (New OE)<o:p></o:p>
6. 1 – BMW Sirius Installation Kit P/N: 84110141975 $60.00 (New OE)
7. 1 – BMW Sirius Receiver (tuner) P/N: 65120439437 $237.00 (New OE)
8. 1 – BMW CDC Slave Cable P/N: 84110150526 $12.00 (New OE)
9. 1 – Sirius / XM Antenna (with FAKRA SMB connection) $19.00 (Best Buy)

10. 1 - MK-IV Navigation Computer $450.00 (Used Ebay)

Total $1604.00
 
#12 · (Edited)
Thanks for posting this. I have done the upgrade before on a previous M5 and now I tried it again and it was not successful. I think I am missing a cable:

I already have:

1 - BMW ADAPTER CABLE, RADIO P/N:
61126913957
1 - BMW ANTENNA ADAPTER TUNING P/N:
61126913955
1 - BMW
ADAPTER CABLE, CD CHANGERP/N: 61126913954

I see two parts that you listed that I do not have.

1 – BMW CDC ADAPTER P/N: 61126924785
1 – BMW CONNECTION CABLE CD-CHANGER (550mm) P/N: 65128364756


One other potential issue is that the radio came from a 2003 3-series. I did remember the first time I did it I had to mess with the cable going to the CD changer and this time I didn't with the parts I ordered. Thanks for giving me some direction to troubleshoot it.


 
#14 ·
Thanks for posting this. I have done the upgrade before on a previous M5 and now I tried it again and it was not successful. I think I am missing a cable:

I already have:

1 - BMW ADAPTER CABLE, RADIO P/N: 61126913957
1 - BMW ANTENNA ADAPTER TUNING P/N: 61126913955
1 - BMW ADAPTER CABLE, CD CHANGERP/N: 61126913954

I see two parts that you listed that I do not have.

1 – BMW CDC ADAPTER P/N: 61126924785
1 – BMW CONNECTION CABLE CD-CHANGER (550mm) P/N: 65128364756


One other potential issue is that the radio came from a 2003 3-series. I did remember the first time I did it I had to mess with the cable going to the CD changer and this time I didn't with the parts I ordered. Thanks for giving me some direction to troubleshoot it.


josiahg52,
I am sorry for not responding earlier, work has been hectic and a lot of things have been missed. Did you get your Sirius up and running?
 
#13 · (Edited)
I'm considering adding this, but I've already got a BM53 unit installed as a warranty replacement for the original C43. Because of this I'm not certain I need the full list of parts. I think if you already have the BM53 then you don't need the following (purely speculation) -

BMW CONNECTION CABLE CD-CHANGER (550mm) P/N: 65128364756
BMW RADIO HARNESS P/N: 61126913957
BMW CDC ADAPTER P/N: 61126924785
BMW ANT ADAPTER P/N: 61126913955

My guess is that they should already be installed as part of the BM53 installation. Can anyone confirm this so I don't need to go dig through the wire harness?


Edit...
Should have done some more searching. The above seems to be corroborated by AGM5's post here - Link
 
#15 ·
I'm considering adding this, but I've already got a BM53 unit installed as a warranty replacement for the original C43. Because of this I'm not certain I need the full list of parts. I think if you already have the BM53 then you don't need the following (purely speculation) -

BMW CONNECTION CABLE CD-CHANGER (550mm) P/N: 65128364756
BMW RADIO HARNESS P/N: 61126913957
BMW CDC ADAPTER P/N: 61126924785
BMW ANT ADAPTER P/N: 61126913955

My guess is that they should already be installed as part of the BM53 installation. Can anyone confirm this so I don't need to go dig through the wire harness?


Edit...
Should have done some more searching. The above seems to be corroborated by AGM5's post here - Link
Bat711,
If the BM53 has already been fit, than yes, you will not require the radio harness adapters you mentioned. You will still require the CDC slave cable (P/N: 84110150526) if you wish to retain CDC (or other e.g. Intravee II) functionality.
 
#17 ·
That's a hell of an expensive tab for the addition of Sirius.

If you're cheap like me, the solution was ~$150 for a GROM Audio bluetooth unit and my cell phone (and I guess the DICE DSP adapter as well).

OP: love the BPM station choice!
The problem with the Smart Phone / AUX or Bluetooth is when you're travelling cross-country and you lose cell and or data service. On my last trip out West I was constantly losing cell service and or data service. When cell service cuts in and out every 45 seconds or so for 300 miles it gets a bit annoying.
Yes it can be expensive, if you doing a full upgrade as I did. If however, you already have a newer BM53 it's pretty cheap, especially if you factor out the $140.00 for the first years’ service.<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com<img src=" /><o:p></o:p>
 
#20 ·
TS question.

I'm in the process of doing this upgrade, in steps, on a 2000.
Installed MKIV a while back and it works great.
Ordered the first 5 items on the first post and installed them this morning. Well, except for the antenna adapter; I forgot to order that.
Went to test and no joy. Nav works but Mode, AM/FM or presets do nothing. I double checked all of the connections with the same results.
My guess now is a bad radio. I ordered it from the dealership so it's not used. It is part number 65126988276

Does anyone have any suggestions?

TIA

ps, great write up AGM5, thank you.
 
#21 ·
I'm in the process of doing this upgrade, in steps, on a 2000.
Installed MKIV a while back and it works great.
Ordered the first 5 items on the first post and installed them this morning. Well, except for the antenna adapter; I forgot to order that.
Went to test and no joy. Nav works but Mode, AM/FM or presets do nothing. I double checked all of the connections with the same results.
My guess now is a bad radio. I ordered it from the dealership so it's not used. It is part number 65126988276

Does anyone have any suggestions?

TIA

ps, great write up AGM5, thank you.
Does your new radio have round pins or flat blades in the connector? If you have the flat blade terminals can you photograph the part label, or at least confirm the description and build date. Early BM53 do not have support for Sirius. Also, check the adapter for the nav/tape and CDC audio may not be properly plugged in. The adapter is not keyed so it can be connected to the wrong side of the vehicle's harness and also the wrong way round. Does the navigation have audio, does the tape deck work with sound, and does the cdc still work?
 
#23 ·




I didn't check Nav or tape audio but I did not have any audio from the Dice unit hooked up to the CDC terminals. I don't have a CDC installed.
C43 radio reinstalled and works.

I can get any other photos that may help.
I appreciate the quick reply.
Is the BM53 getting power? If not check the NG Radio adapter, it can be a bit fiddley and if it's a bit crooked it may not work; but the connector willl still close and apear to be joined properly.
 
#25 ·
To the best of my knowledge the antenna should onlt affect the radio. Yes, the 16 pin to the 40 pin connectors and adapter.
 
#27 · (Edited)
I can pretty much confirm this. Although I wasn't trying to retrofit satellite radio, in trying to upgrade to the BM53, I forgot to install the CDC "patch" cable. This was the part that I remembered using when I performed the upgrade on my last M5 but wasn't in my purchase history because the seller of the last radio included it. I haven't confirmed this function but it is the only piece missing from the above list. I was clued into this function as the BM53 does not have an Ibus connection on it.
 
#28 ·
The CDC is at the end of line and is slave to the Sirius tuner. Thus it should not cause a "no function"; except of the CDC. The Dice device if it is the DSP adapter it will not be required for the BM53 as it only has analog in from the Sirius and the CDC.
 
#31 ·
Yup. The I-bus cable is removed from the CDC and plugged into the Sirius Tuner and the "CDC Slave Cable" is attached to the Sirius tuner and then to the CDC.
 
#33 ·
ECS has it listed as a slave cable, it's only semantics, but if that is what the actual BMW part description is then you are correct. The CDC does not have a relay for the bus to continue. This is the primary reason why the media bridge and intravee replace the CDC and are not installed after the CDC.
 
#37 ·
It is the description from BMW.

Our bus system is not a loop (like the CCC and CIC cars), it's more hub and spoke. None of the accessories really have a bus relay to continue past (the ULF module is a prime example). The extension harness puts the sirius before the CDC afaik and I'm fairly certain you'd need something to emulate the presence of a CDC for the setup to work. It would not work in my car w/o the presence of the CDC. The last time I tested this is when Martin Bishop and I were figuring out how to retrofit Sirius to a nav equipped E39. It was never offered from the factory with nav AFAIK, and there is BMW literature that states it's not even possible (likely because they did not have the updated BM53's out when it was written).
 
#34 ·
Good/bad:
The BM53 is working.
I disconnected/reconnected everything and hooked up the CDC, viola. Works.
Disconnected the CDC, works.
Connected the DICE, cycled through Mode, got music via the iPod.
Left the iPod playing while I reinstalled everything. Got everything mostly bolted in, then nothing.
Pulled everything back out but still could not get it working again. Started from scratch and got it working again so I have a bad connection somewhere, most likely the car harness.

But, the BM53 will work without the CDC and with/without the DICE.

I'm going to order the Sirius kit now.

Thank you for the help!
 
#35 ·
Good/bad:
The BM53 is working.
I disconnected/reconnected everything and hooked up the CDC, viola. Works.
Disconnected the CDC, works.
Connected the DICE, cycled through Mode, got music via the iPod.
Left the iPod playing while I reinstalled everything. Got everything mostly bolted in, then nothing.
Pulled everything back out but still could not get it working again. Started from scratch and got it working again so I have a bad connection somewhere, most likely the car harness.

But, the BM53 will work without the CDC and with/without the DICE.

I'm going to order the Sirius kit now.

Thank you for the help!
Glad that your'e up and running. :thumbsup:
 
#42 · (Edited)
Not wanting to thread jack, but it is my thread and somewhat related.

I was thinking that though, I am currently happy with my audio setup, I really would like the added features that come with the Intravee II. As I don't really need audio output, or at least, at this time. Can I add the Intrevee somewhere else on the i-bus? I was thinking of in place of the PDC as my car is without that option, or wired in like the valentine radar detector?

I have the Valentine installation instructions but, they are on my notebook at home so, I will attach it this evening.

Any ideas or input will be appreciated.

edit - I was wrong the instructions are for the 'Stealth One' not the Valentine.

View attachment E39_StealthOne_Installation_Guide.pdf
 
#43 ·
Not wanting to thread jack, but it is my thread and somewhat related.

I was thinking that though, I am currently happy with my audio setup, I really would like the added features that come with the Intravee II. As I don't really need audio output, or at least, at this time. Can I add the Intrevee somewhere else on the i-bus? I was thinking of in place of the PDC as my car is without that option, or wired in like the valentine radar detector?

I have the Valentine installation instructions but, they are on my notebook at home so, I will attach it this evening.

Any ideas or input will be appreciated.
The PDC is on the Kbus, so I think that's out. Stealth one taps into the ibus and sends level 1 messages (ie to supercede the clock/DTE/etc) to the IKE or nav. Intravee mimics the CDC...maybe if you could figure out how to patch another item onto the bus between the sirius and cdc...maybe you could use the intravee, cdc, or sirius through the same menu. Im not sure that will work, but it might be worth a try. I sold my intravee/kca420i eons ago, or I'd try myself.
 
#47 · (Edited)
just a couple more Qs

Trying to decide whether to do the rest of this or Bluetooth next but, a couple questions regarding the Sirius upgrade:

- is 84110141975 just the bracket?

- will any Fakra connector work? The reason I ask is it seems that I have read BMW refer to different colored connectors, e.g. curry.

Thank you
John
 
#48 ·
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