Hi
I have the 528 i BMW. It has the standard radio, Business class model. There is no CD unit out back, ; just the cassette. Here is issue:
The usual radio issue, .... weird background noise some popping in the driver's front and
rear. The passenger's side seems OK. Probably only a matter of time. I'd like to keep it stock
OEM, but how to fix it ? ?
Questions. 1) How many parts are there to the radio? It seems like there is a cassette unit part, and a
display- preset stations unit part and I think there is a component in the trunk. (amp ??)
2) Which part requires replacement?
3) Location of each part ?
Thank You,
Bill
Hi,
All USA spec E39's were equipped with a separate amplifier module and it'll be located in the boot/trunk left hand side behind the trim flap. The symptoms you mention are likely the amplifier beginning to fail. If you wish to remain stock only, then you can get the part number/revision number of the amplifier in your car and find another unit and swap and hope that lasts a decent amount of time. Alternatively, you can have your unit sent away for repair. Hopefully that'll resolve it, but it's not possible to be 100% sure until you try. It 'could' be a faulty cassette unit or the MID panel although less likely. This is due to the oem E39 audio systems being modular and all modules needing to be connected for the setup to work. You'll need to swap each module in turn with known working ones to 100% identify which module(s) are causing the issue and replace or repair.
I've got these two saved in my favourites as OEM car audio repairers in the USA, I've never used them, I don't even know if they are operating etc as I've not had to call them. Do internet searches for any other similar specialists
http://www.willmanselectronics.com/default.htm
http://www.hitechserv.com/
Cheers, Dennis!
+1 on amp going out and also a possible grounding issue if you're hearing odd background noises - does the volume also seem to be lower than usual - needing to be turned up to hear the radio?
-Dmitry
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Hi
Hi
Yes, the popping/ crackling is in the driver's door and a bit in the driver's rear speaker. And yes the volume does require being turned up to be heard. Where are the grounds that need to be checked?
Thank You,
Bill
I don't have access to a diagram, but you can likely find one online for your E39. I asked our master tech and he suggested going through the AM, FM, CD, and any other inputs that you have to see if the problem is consistent throughout. If so, likely an amp issue.
-Dmitry
Your Trusted Source For DIY and Parts
FREE SHIPPING over $99 click here
BMW Parts | DIY Tech Articles | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Promos
888.280.7799 | 6am - 5pm PST
Start by cleaning amp connections with de-oxit cleaner.
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