Questions about 2009 328i audio system

[Curtiswg]

I have just gotten a cpo 2009 328i, with the premium package. It does not have the navigation feature.

I have an iphone 4s with the new ios. I have been using an aux cable to stream pandora/audio however it has started making a lot of backgroumd noise after I received a call via the Bluetooth connection.

I was wondering if there is a better way to stream my pandora. I would prefer not buying the $72 cable from BMW. I have noticed some on amazon for around 10 to 15 but I wanted to make sure that cable works as well.
My next question is if anyone has been using the BMW "connected" app with this car.

I have scoured these forums and the BMW website but any additional info that anyone cam provide specific to my year and model would be great. I'd love to be able to listen to Pandora without it having a horrible background noise, and I'd also like to know the best alternative to the $72 cable

[crackerjack1000]

I have a 07 without nav, I use a normal AUX cable. I also have a BMW cable, but I like a normal, simple aux cable a lot better and I don't get any background noise.

Double check that your wire is ok, and that it is plugged in all the way in the input. Also if your phone has a case maybe the cable isn't able to be pushed all the way into the headphone jack.

[Curtiswg]

The interference seems to only come in after a Bluetooth call comes in. I also have a fairly cheap aux cable too though. I'll need to try it with my iPod to see if the problem replicates. Any recommendations on the actual idrive cables? There's one on amazon but I'm not sure of its a cheap imitation or if it functions just as well.

[bigwillstx]

I had the same problem with my iPhone 4s, and found out its because of interference from the phones antenna. It seemed to go away a little when I kept the volume on the phone down and turned up the cars volume. But I got an iPhone 5, so now the problem is gone. I use a generic aux cable and do not have Idrive.

[Curtiswg]

Was this with using the Idrive cable or an aux cable? I'm wondering if the idrive cable will fix it

[crackerjack1000]

Was this with using the Idrive cable or an aux cable? I'm wondering if the idrive cable will fix it

The iDrive cable is not worth the money. You could buy one to see if it work's but then again a normal cheap aux will be good. I have both aux and iDrive cable. The iDrive cable is just way over priced. Also a heads up, when you plug the iDrive cable into your iPhone from the charging port, it won't charge.

But also seeing that the background noise only happens after bluetooth, there could be something wrong with your phone. Try your iPod, and see if someone has a iPhone you could use just to make sure it's not the phone. If all fails, take it to the dealer maybe there's something wrong with module in the car :dunno

[Curtiswg]

Does anyone have any specific knowledge about my year and model ('09 328i w/ premium package) capabilities with a cable?


Can I use any BMW apps? I don't have BMW assist, but there are apps that are in the App Store.

Can I use the controls on my steering wheel for pandora/iPod with a new cable?

How do I download my phone book to the car? When I use the voice command option, it always says phone book empty...