Backup Cameras & Wireless Apple CarPlay in E90 and E60 BMW’s

I have been using wireless Apple CarPlay in my 2010 BMW 535 Wagon for more than a year now, as well as wireless Android Auto. Before this vehicle I installed just the backup camera in a 2009 328 E91 wagon. The hardest part with both installs is running the backup camera wiring through the tailgate latch and up behind the dashboard. I’m told it’s a much easier process on sedans, coupes and convertibles. This same installation info should also apply to BMW X5, 6 series bmw, f series bmw, etc. This is written for someone inclined to DIY and can handle a few quirks.

Installation Parts List (excluding tools)

• iDrive replacement screen. It’s essentially an Android touchscreen interface. Get the newest unit on the market with the latest OS and the most RAM / storage. Be sure to get the CIC version if your vehicle is CIC or CCC version if your vehicle is pre LCI.
  • I’ve bought two screens from NaviFly seller on Aliexpress. They have a lot of different screens for BMW’s and other makes/models.
  • $380 CIC 4GB RAM 64GB Model
  • NaviFly 4GB Android 9 IPS screen Car multimedia player for BMW 5 Series E60 E61 E63 E64 E90 E91 CCC CIC system gps navigation
• Backup camera handle. I think it’s the same handle for all E9x and E6x BMW’s
  • $15 on AliExpress
  • For BMW 3 series E90 E91 E92/5 series E60 E61 E63 E64/X5 E70/X6 E71/Car Rear View Camera Auto Parking Monitor
• MOST 16pin Quadlock wiring connector, so that you don’t hack up your OEM wiring
  • $15 on eBay!
  • Most Quadlock Extension Socket Cable Adapter for VW Audi Seat Skoda Vauxhall Aux
• GPS Antenna splitter to use BMW’s antenna (if you run native android apps on the screen)
  • $7 on eBay!
  • Fakra C Male Plug to 2x SMB Female 5005 RG174 Y Type Splitter Combined Cable 20″
• Wireless Apple Carplay adapter dongle. Optional, but this plugs into the Android screen’s USB cable, and lets the iOS device display wirelessly for both audio and video.
  • $53 on Aliexpress (or a few more dollars on Amazon)
  • Carlinkit Wireless Car Link Dongle Apple CarPlay Plug Play USB Car Link Dongle For Android Navigation Player

Once everything is installed you will have to tweak the resolution a little bit. The password for changing this setting is 1314 on my unit. I would also recommend using a different launcher for the Android screen if you’re buying all of this primarily for wireless Apple CarPlay. FCC Launcher is a great app to use as the default launcher.

If you’re only looking to do wireless Android Auto, grab Headunit Reloaded app. You don’t need the carplay adapter.