A Beginner's Guide to BMW CIC Carplay Installation Using Android Auto and Apple Carplay Wireless Adapter
The BMW CIC Carplay Installation enhances your BMW's infotainment system. It is easy to install and retains your car's features. You can enjoy wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto, allowing you to access maps, music, and calls effortlessly. Additionally, the module mirrors your phone, making driving safer and more convenient.
Key Takeaways
Adding BMW CIC Carplay improves your car's entertainment system. It lets you use maps, music, and calls without wires.
Get all needed tools, like LVDS cables and a Wi-Fi antenna, ready before starting. This helps make the setup easier.
Check the system after setting it up. Make sure sound, video, and wireless features work well for a great drive.
Required Accessories for BMW CIC Carplay Installation
To install BMW CIC Carplay, you need some important tools. Each item is necessary for the system to work well. Below is a simple list of what you’ll need:
LVDS Video Cable
The LVDS cable links the Carplay box to your car’s screen. It has one LVDS-IN and one LVDS-OUT port. These cables send data quickly for smooth video.
Key Features:
Sends data fast (650Mbps to 1.3Gbps).
Strong and lasts a long time.
Reduces noise for clear video.
Wi-Fi Antenna
The Wi-Fi antenna helps connect wirelessly to Apple Carplay or Android Auto. Stick it on plastic for the best signal.
Benefits:
Improves signal for smooth use.
Supports features like maps and calls.
AV/USB Cable
This cable powers the backup camera and adds video input. It also lets you play media and use navigation.
Highlights:
Easy to install.
Keeps your car’s original features.
Needed for extra camera setups.
Can Cable (Power Cable)
The Can cable gives power to the Carplay box. It is easy to plug in and use.
iDrive Cable (4-pin and 10-pin)
The iDrive cable works with your car’s control system. It has both 4-pin and 10-pin options for flexibility.
Aftermarket Microphone
If your car doesn’t have a microphone, you’ll need this. It helps with clear voice commands and calls.
MIC Adapter Cable for OEM MIC
This adapter connects the Carplay box to your car’s built-in microphone. It removes the need for a new microphone.
Component | Description |
|---|---|
LVDS | Cable for BMW CIC Carplay, 1 x LVDS-IN, 1 x LVDS-OUT. |
Wi-Fi antenna | Attach to plastic, not metal, for wireless Carplay. |
Powers backup camera and video input; connects to harness for extra camera. | |
Can Cable (power cable) | Plug-and-play power cable. |
iDrive Cable | Includes both 4-pin and 10-pin connectors. |
Aftermarket Microphone | Optional mic for cars without a built-in microphone. |
MIC adapter cable (For OEM MIC) | Adapter to link Carplay box with the original microphone. |
These tools make installing BMW CIC Carplay easy and smooth. They keep your car’s original features while improving its infotainment system.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Getting Ready for Installation
Before you start, gather all the tools you need. Make sure the AUX-IN wire is ready since it connects separately from the main cable. If your car doesn’t have a microphone, get the external one from the package ready to install.
Preparation Step | Description |
|---|---|
AUX IN Connection | Hook up the AUX-IN wire for sound to work. |
MIC Installation | Add the external mic for calls and voice commands. |
Tip: Keep your tools neat and disconnect the car battery for safety.
Hooking Up the LVDS Cables
The LVDS cables connect the Carplay box to your car’s screen. This ensures smooth video display.
Find the LVDS-IN and LVDS-OUT ports on the Carplay box.
Plug the LVDS-IN cable into the car’s head unit.
Connect the LVDS-OUT cable to the car’s screen.
Note: Use the wiring guide or video demo for help.
Adjusting the Low CAN / High CAN Connector
Most BMWs use the Low CAN connector, but some models like X3 or X5 may need the High CAN.
Start with the Low CAN connection first.
If it doesn’t work, switch to the High CAN connector.
Tip: Test the system after switching to check if it works.
Connecting the Audio Cable to AUX-IN
To get sound, plug the audio cable into the AUX-IN port in the armrest box. This lets sound from Carplay play through your car speakers.
Find the AUX-IN port in the armrest box.
Securely plug in the audio cable.
Reminder: Make sure the cable is firmly connected to avoid sound issues.
Setting the Toggle Switch for Display and Microphone
Change the toggle switch settings based on your microphone type.
For built-in microphones, set pin "7" to "FF".
For external microphones, set pin "7" to "ON".
Restart the system to save the changes.
Adding the External Microphone (if needed)
If your car doesn’t have a built-in microphone, install the external one from the package.
Place the microphone near the driver’s seat for clear sound.
Use the MIC adapter cable to connect it to the Carplay box.
Testing the System and Switching Modes
Once done, test the system to make sure it works.
Use the iDrive buttons to switch between Carplay and the original system.
Check that sound, video, and wireless features work properly.
Tip: Test maps, music, and calls to confirm everything is set up correctly.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Fixing Sound Problems
Sound problems might happen during the BMW CIC Carplay setup. These are usually caused by loose cables or interference. Try these steps to fix them:
Make sure the AUX-IN cable is tightly plugged into the armrest port.
Check the USB speed. Slow speeds can lower sound quality.
Change the audio settings in the Carplay box to reduce noise.
Problem | Explanation |
|---|---|
USB Speed | Affects sound quality, though its impact varies. |
THD Noise | High volume can distort sound due to compression. |
USB Traffic | Heavy USB traffic may reduce sound clarity. |
Tip: If sound still doesn’t work, update the iDrive software. You can do this at home using BimmerTech's remote coding.
Solving Wireless Connection Problems
Wireless issues can interrupt Apple Carplay or Android Auto use. To fix them:
Place the Wi-Fi antenna on plastic for better signal strength.
Restart your phone and the Carplay box to fix small glitches.
Update the ConnectedDrive software if your car has a Combox. This improves connection features.
Note: If problems continue, a full ECU software update might be needed. This requires expert tools and help.
Installing the Reverse Camera
Adding a reverse camera improves safety and works with the Carplay system. Follow these steps to install it:
Plug the reverse camera into the CVBS OUT port marked "Reverse camera."
Connect the "12V reverse camera (yellow)" cable to the camera’s power.
Open the Carplay settings menu. Go to Settings → Reverse → Reverse camera → Aftermarket.
For more details, check the online user manual. This will help you install it correctly.
Reminder: Test the reverse camera after installing to ensure it works with the Carplay system.
Adding the SCB-CIC Carplay module upgrades your BMW's system. It is easy to install and keeps all car features. You can use Apple Carplay and mirror your phone screen. This lets you access maps, music, and calls easily. Follow this guide to set up BMW CIC Carplay and improve your driving today!
FAQ
What if the system doesn’t work after setup?
Check all cables and toggle switch settings. Restart the Carplay box. If it still doesn’t work, ask your installer for help.
Can the original BMW microphone be used?
Yes, the MIC adapter cable links the Carplay box to your car’s microphone. This allows voice commands to work smoothly.
Do you have to install a reverse camera?
No, it’s not required. But adding one improves safety and works well with the Carplay system for easier driving.
