Goal: Automatic Bluetooth media streaming to iDrive
I wanted to be able to have my phone start streaming audio immediately as I get into the car - not having to plug in an aux cable, or hit the Power button on the Mpow for six seconds every time I turn the vehicle on. All of the Bluetooth receivers I looked at require powering on if they're running on battery and drop their pairing.
Install:
I knew I wanted to use a fuse out of the glove box. Most Add-A-Circuits don't want you using more than 10 amps, so that narrowed things down significantly. I settled on Fuse 29 in the glove box, a 10 amp that appears to be used for door modules and OBD2. So far it appears to be a constant on. I don't foresee the Bluetooth receiver pulling enough power to be an issue, but we'll see. That's why a Brightech Jump Starter lives in the beast.
Step 1: Strip an additional 1/2" to 1/4" of insulation off the positive and ground wires on the Female Cigarette Lighter. Splice the positive Add-A-Circuit wire and positive Female Cigarette lighter together with the included butt connector. Add some solder if you're the thorough/nervous type.
Step 2: Access the glove box fuse box.
Step 3: Remove the 10 amp fuse from fuse 29, install the Add-A-Circuit, install both 10 amp fuses.
Step 4: Choose an adequate ground. I used the upper right screw/metal washer that attaches the fuse box assembly to the chassis.
Step 5: Install the USB Car Charger.
Step 6: Run the Micro USB Cable from the glove box to the center console. It's quite easy to fit it underneath the center console trim/carpet.
Step 7: Plug the Bluetooth receiver into the Aux input with the included cable. Pair your phone following the directions.
Step 8 (optional): Use Tasker or a similar app to setup rules similar to the following:
When BMW78994 Bluetooth connection is established, set media volume to 14 and start Pandora app
When BMW78994 Bluetooth connection is disabled, set media volume to 0 and kill Pandora app
Boom. Music immediately when you power on, and it turns off immediately when the vehicle does. The reason for using the BMW Bluetooth connection as your rule instead of the Mpow one is because the Mpow will stay active constantly, whereas the BMW Bluetooth turns off immediately when you turn off the vehicle. Eventually I'll probably lift the whole center console out so I can run the cable properly, but this works for now.
Products used:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SDF ... ge_o00_s00
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00P20 ... ge_o06_s00
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001QR ... ge_o02_s01
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00RT5 ... ge_o02_s00
http://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerDrive- ... ar+charger
http://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-6-Feet- ... +micro+usb
This post is simply how I decided to proceed. You assume your own risk when modifying the electrical systems of your vehicle. If you're not comfortable with your level of knowledge/expertise, hire a professional.