ipod in car options (icelink?)

[Winsor_Pilates]

I just got a new car, and need to get my ipod runnig in it. In my old car I had a new deck installed with an aux input, however I'd like to keep my factory deck/steering wheel controls if possible in the new car.

Has anyone used an icelink system or anything other more advanced system like that?

On top of keeping the factory deck and wheel controls, I'd also like to get charging ability, display on my deck and any other features that can be had.

thanks

[burn_this_city]

The best I could do without a aux input was get the fm transmitter. Does your new vehicle come with one of those? If not you could be stuck, I know if I change my factory deck to an aftermarket one with aux in I lose all the wheel controls.

[Rathji]

There are harnesses you can get that plug into the back of your deck, to allow ipods and the like to connect without needing to change your deck.

[Ironhorse]

I've got one from DICE electronics. Charges the iPod, and gives me full control through the deck & steering wheel controls. It also scrolls the song info on the factory deck. The one I have is for BMW & MINI, but they may make some for other cars also.

[burn_this_city]

I want one.. Anyone have a link for domestic vehicles?

[Winsor_Pilates]

Originally Posted by Ironhorse

I've got one from DICE electronics. Charges the iPod, and gives me full control through the deck & steering wheel controls. It also scrolls the song info on the factory deck. The one I have is for BMW & MINI, but they may make some for other cars also.

Thank you,
May I ask where you got it? was it professionally installed, or did you do it?
Also what year is your car? I have a 2001 BMW and have read that the 2002+ models have a different factory deck which has connections in the back of it. My car has a cd changer hookup in the trunk, but nothing on the back of the deck. I think this makes it more difficult to install because wiring needs to be run from the trunk back to the front dash.

Originally Posted by Rathji

There are harnesses you can get that plug into the back of your deck, to allow ipods and the like to connect without needing to change your deck.

don't think I can do that with my model of car unfortunately.

[Ironhorse]

I installed the unit myself. I have an 06 MINI, and used the radio interface option. It essentially just plugged into the audio harness, and other end into the head unit. It took me longer to take the glovebox and head unit out.

The DICE Silverline uses the CD changer protocol, so if you're pre-wired for a CD changer, you're golden. I got mine through European Autosource - with the fastest shipping option, there were no brokerage charges.

If you have a trunk interface, you may need this one:

http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...oducts_id=1621

The only cable that needs to be ran is the iPod cable itself.

Give them a shout. Tom is really good about recommending the proper unit for your car.

[Winsor_Pilates]

Thanks Ironhorse, that's exactly what I need. After further research it seems the icelink systems are discontinued and the Dice silverline is the most recommended option for BMWs.
Now I just need someone good to install it for me in Van, so I don't F up my car trying to do it myself.