I wanted to add Bluetooth functionality to my p38a Range Rover, but didn't want to replace the entire head unit unless I had to do so. As there seems potential issues with the steering wheel controls and if it has the additional harman/kardon amplifier in the boot/trunk.
Please take this information at face value, I cannot guarantee the accuracy of any of it, nor am I affiliated with any of the companies.
General info:
My research has lead me to understand that there are two main radio options on the 99+ model year p38a's. I believe they are both Alpine units. The difference I know of, is one is a 'premium' system and has a sub and amp in the trunk, while the other doesn't.
In order to get Bluetooth you will need a CD changer capable headunit and steering wheel controls. If you don't, then you'll need to research yourself on what options you have.
My head unit looks like this:
The 'premium' version is likely to say harman/kardon on the door tweeters:
And should have a CD changer in the boot, along with a sub and amp:
At the CD changer end, there is a unique plug, or at least a plug I could not ID. You will not be able to plug in a Bluetooth unit in the boot, you'll need to access the back of the head unit.
Specifics about the Bluetooth kit:
The Bluetooth unit is from a company called Grom.
Main USA site: http://gromaudio.com/
UK site: http://gromaudio.co.uk/
Grom sell a number of units, however in simple terms they all simply replace the CD changer on an older stereo. The headunit will still think it is playing a CD, but the input will becoming from the Grom unit. They offer a unit that uses UBS if you prefer to use a USB stick/dongle. And other alternative connection methods that require plugging in via a cable.
I opted for the simple Bluetooth one, as it doesn't require you to physically plug in anything. This should work fine for iPhones, iPods and Android phones/tablets.
Specifically I purchased the current version called the Grom-BT3. Although I'm sure as they update it the model number may change.
For the Alpine headunit in the p38a you'll want the Grom kit that comes with the blue "Rover" or "RVR" style audio plug:
http://gromaudio.co.uk/products/blu...bmw-mini-rover-bluetooth-integration-kit.html
Please take this information at face value, I cannot guarantee the accuracy of any of it, nor am I affiliated with any of the companies.
General info:
My research has lead me to understand that there are two main radio options on the 99+ model year p38a's. I believe they are both Alpine units. The difference I know of, is one is a 'premium' system and has a sub and amp in the trunk, while the other doesn't.
In order to get Bluetooth you will need a CD changer capable headunit and steering wheel controls. If you don't, then you'll need to research yourself on what options you have.
My head unit looks like this:
The 'premium' version is likely to say harman/kardon on the door tweeters:
And should have a CD changer in the boot, along with a sub and amp:
At the CD changer end, there is a unique plug, or at least a plug I could not ID. You will not be able to plug in a Bluetooth unit in the boot, you'll need to access the back of the head unit.
Specifics about the Bluetooth kit:
The Bluetooth unit is from a company called Grom.
Main USA site: http://gromaudio.com/
UK site: http://gromaudio.co.uk/
Grom sell a number of units, however in simple terms they all simply replace the CD changer on an older stereo. The headunit will still think it is playing a CD, but the input will becoming from the Grom unit. They offer a unit that uses UBS if you prefer to use a USB stick/dongle. And other alternative connection methods that require plugging in via a cable.
I opted for the simple Bluetooth one, as it doesn't require you to physically plug in anything. This should work fine for iPhones, iPods and Android phones/tablets.
Specifically I purchased the current version called the Grom-BT3. Although I'm sure as they update it the model number may change.
For the Alpine headunit in the p38a you'll want the Grom kit that comes with the blue "Rover" or "RVR" style audio plug:
http://gromaudio.co.uk/products/blu...bmw-mini-rover-bluetooth-integration-kit.html