Hello Mike, and others.
I'll start this off. First, obtaining the parts is probably the most difficult part of a DIY to upgrade the CCC module to a CIC module. If it were as simple as listing part numbers for all the items, I would do so right now. So for those of you that are thinking about this and have, or have not read the many threads on parts required, FSC codes, EU vs. US, and the final task; coding, let's start with a brief tutorial on the CIC itself and the COMBOX addition.
The CIC, (Car Infotainment Computer), which is the module behind the radio controls, was never intended to be legitimately upgraded in pre CIC MY's. Those models contain a CCC module (two disk slots). So it's necessary to fool the car thinking it is really a newer model year during various coding processes, but can be done.
There are a few part numbers for CIC units. the US version is in the link below. The EU version is in the picture. That's the one I have. What's the difference? Really, there isn't any. Both are adaptable to US cars via coding processes. So assuming you could get either part, it is necessary to insert what's known as FSC codes. These codes are specific to your VIN and can be purchased from BMW. (They are called enabling codes). You can see them in the second link. In order to insert these codes a rather rigorous procedure is required, that can be done DIY, but requires a special cable.
The alternatives for this are twofold. Buy a CIC from a reputable seller who will insert the FSC code for you on a bench setup using your VIN (That's the OEM way), or buy a CIC with what's known as an emulator (The emulator basically emulates an FSC code that is not specific to your VIN, nor required to be). That's the non OEM method.
I won't list the vendors who sell both, they are well known around various boards. My setup is the OEM method, and honestly either method will work.
Obtaining the CIC via BMW dealers and our well known advertisers is difficult, as you will find out. Dealers and the usual parts sellers will not list these part numbers on their sites as being valid numbers. I'm not sure the reason why other than possible legal implications or BMW restrictions. Either way, you will find it difficult obtaining these through BMW channels.
On to the COMBOX, which is a module that replaces an existing module (TCU/MULF) located behind the rear seat. The features allow BT music transfer, Album Art display, and a variety of other features. My 2c suggests if you are going to upgrade to a CIC, the COMBOX is a must. There are two versions; COMBOX Media (Media, as in music, BT, phone) and COMBOX Telematic/Media (Media plus all the features you now enjoy with BMW assist, service call initiation, etc. Basically functions that use a call out process including SOS). You will give these up with the COMBOX Media only version. I have the COMBOX Media version. Rarely have I ever used the SOS, service call , etc functions. And programming the Telematic/Media version is not easy.
So, not to turn anyone off, it is my suggestion to purchase a CIC at a minimum from one of the dealers you have probably read about in threads here and elsewhere.
Let's stop with these two parts for now. The rest are wiring harnesses, cables, etc, and are the easy parts to obtain, and we can list those numbers later.
- CIC EU version 65129222874 (you won't find this number in realoem.com)
- CIC US version (see link #1)
- COMBOX Media 84109257160
- FSC Codes (see link #2)
Let's make sure everyone is clear on these two items before we press on.
US ver CIC:
RealOEM.com * BMW E63 M6 Car Infotainment computer
FSC Codes:
RealOEM.com * BMW E63 M6 Enable code, update for Professional GPS
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