Subject: Nav computer replacement and upgrade is very easy Author: Brian (moderator) : member since January, 2005 : 10650 posts Posted on: 2009-03-27 09:56:15

The nav computer is located in the trunk of the X5. You simply insert 4 coat hanger-sized pins into the four holes around the face and it slides out of the bracket. You can simply plug-and-play replace it with the same unit. Or, with a tiny bit more effort (stil near plug-and-play) you can upgrade.

Based on the fact that your car came with the 4:3 screen, you probably have the MKII navigation computer. You should be able to buy a good used one for $200 - $250 from eBay. Prices have been dropping lately, so maybe you can get one for as little $150.

You can upgrade to either a MKIII with much improved graphics and speed, or go all the way to a DVD-based MKIV. Here is a post that outlines the differences between all the nav computers.
http://www.bimmerboard.com/forums/posts/378456/

If you upgrade, you just need to remove the external "Trimble" module that is tied to your current MKII computer, and re-route the GPS antenna from the removed Trimble to the MKIII or MKIV nav computer. It is pretty easy. Other than that, the rest is plug-and-play.

• X5 No Display - Help - 01x5 2009-03-26 19:04:40 (552 views)
  • It sounds like you have a bad navigation computer. - Brian 2009-03-26 21:15:43 (403 views)
    • Re: It sounds like you have a bad navigation computer. - 01x5 2009-03-27 09:48:40 (311 views)
      • Nav computer replacement and upgrade is very easy (url) - Brian 2009-03-27 09:56:15 (380 views)
        • Re: Nav computer replacement and upgrade is very easy - 01x5 2009-03-27 10:36:51 (323 views)
          • Yes, that is your nav computer. (nt) - Brian 2009-03-27 13:12:28 (285 views)