I got a lot of PMs from my earlier post
http://www.e90post.com/forums/showpo...2&postcount=24.
Instead of responding to all the PMs, posting my first DIY on this forum.
Parts
TomTom 730 $180
Kuda Mount $60 (
www.kudausa.com)
Swivel Mount $30 (
www.kudausa.com)
16GB SDHC $30
Misc wires $20
DIY, hardwired for power, MP3 and GPS voice wired into radio AUX, no drilling in dash: $320.
Brief Description
I picked TomTom Go730 because it plays MP3s, supports voice instructions, reads street names and was available under $200. The TomTom is hardwired into the AUX jack of the stock headunit. Headunit must be on AUX for TomTom to play through stereo.
- MP3s stored on the SDHC card, play through the TomTom
- When the TomTom has a GPS direction to read, the MP3 is muted and the GPS direction is played over the stereo.
- When you have a bluetooth call to make or receive, all output from the TomTom is muted and the call is handled as normal. All multifunction steering wheel controls are retained.
Instructions
- Screw Kuda swivel mount to Kuda base.
- Install Kuda base to dash per http://www.kudausa.com/manuals/29239...ab%2003-05.pdf, but leave dash trim piece off to install wires as shown below.
- Remove console trim piece.
- Slide out AC controls and headunit. No need to detach wires just need access behind dash to run wires. Route power and signal wires behind dash.
- Using solderless splices attach mini USB power hardwire to cigarette lighter power wires.
- Remove rectangular rubber tray in armrest compartment. Run phono plug under console to armrest compartment and plug into AUX jack. (2nd pic below).
- Put all trim pieces back, slide TomTom onto mount. Enjoy.
Customizations
Changed night colors to match BMW orange of instruments.
- Replace TomTom splash screen with BMW Navigation logo.
- Replace TomTom "here I am" cursor with e90 pic.
Both available from tomtom home site.
Complaints
TomTom needs to power on with ignition. This is a known problem with all TomToms. It does power off when ignition is off.
Minor - TomTom could be a little higher as hazard button not in line of sight, but still accessible.