disassembly/interior view of center console switch panel

[2mbb]

Hi: I'm a new owner of a 2001 X5 with the 4.4L engine. I'm wondering if anyone has taken apart the switch panel in the center console. I am able to remove it, but I'm interested in installing a radio auxiliary jack into this assembly and I would need to take it apart to drill some holes in the back as well as the face. I've done this on a couple of E46 sedans I have, but this assembly case looks a little bit more complicated. I'm just trying to get an idea if it's even possible to install a jack before I dig in to take it apart. My fall back option is to install the aux jack on the passenger side of the shifter surround.

Thanks!

Screenshot 2020-09-16 084827.jpg

[goinstrong]

It may not be as professional looking, but I bought an adapter that plugs into the back of the deck and ran the wire so it comes out at the ashtray. There is a small plug on the driver side that fits the wire nicely. You can close it up when done and no one sees the connection.
FYI: you will need a newer deck in order to have the AUX option on the radio. I got mine from a part out on CL. Not sure but I think it has to be 8/2002? or newer on the sticker on the back side of the deck so the plug will work (it will fit but not function). Hope that helps!


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[2mbb]

Thanks for the reply. I have seen some videos where a hole is drilled in the removable part of the ashtray and the jack is installed (screwed into) to that. But when you remove the ashtry, the wires will be attached. I don't want that.

I spent some more time looking at options and am now considering the cd faceplate on the right side. The CD player has a wide overhang to the right and left of the CD player box. So I think I will do that instead of breaking into the center switch.

Thanks for the tip about the early CD player. I will check operation of the AUX before I drill any holes! My X5 was built in 6/2001, so it may not work

[jclausen]

I replaced the front cigarette lighter and I had to take all sorts of stuff to get to it