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      06-06-2018, 03:56 PM   #1
xxatticus
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Pros and Cons of having OEM Nav / iDrive?

I'm looking to buy a 135i very soon, and want to know opinions on the built in iDrive. It'd be an n55 1er so 2011 - 2013. I've seen a lot of people looking for cars without nav, is there a reason? I've never had iDrive in my E46, obviously, so I could probably live without it, but if there are things I'd benefit from I'd like to know before I pull the trigger.

Last edited by xxatticus; 06-06-2018 at 05:16 PM..
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      06-06-2018, 04:17 PM   #2
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I mostly wanted the big screen, I play MP3's non-stop and wanted the display for that.

As an added bonus there is a map I can watch and see if an exit is coming up or similar the occasional time I am in a new part of town.

It wouldn't be a huge thing to not have it, but I do find it convenient.

If you love Nav systems though, or are already used to propping your phone on your dash, then you may be disappointed. Sounds like you are not, in which case I'd say go for it. Or at least don't be afraid to get it, even if it doesn't rank as a requirement.

Last edited by tracer bullet; 06-07-2018 at 11:04 AM..
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      06-06-2018, 05:15 PM   #3
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I'm assuming the Nav system itself is kind of outdated, and I am used to propping my phone up and using Waze.

What are the benefits of the iDrive system besides the nav?
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      06-06-2018, 10:44 PM   #4
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When I was searching for a 135i, I did not consider iDrive a make-or-break option. Now, after owning two of them with CCC-generation iDrive, I consider it a necessity. I'm a big fan of the live traffic functionality, and I've got a few addresses that I commonly visit programmed to the preset buttons, so I just punch one and have an ETA for heading home or elsewhere. The satellite imagery still looks nice, and my car is new enough to display and read text messages and more. Viewing the album art and other things is neat too. I've really grown accustomed to it and have the entire system setup exactly how I want it. I still use Waze, and have my V1 radar detector hardwired, but the iDrive system sort of completes the full array.

The system used in the 135i after 2009 (not sure on the date, just make sure its the larger screen) is worlds better Than the early CIC-generation that originally debuted on the E65. Early 2008 135i's sometimes come with system, and it uses a flip-up screen.
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      06-07-2018, 10:39 AM   #5
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Here's another reason for getting iDrive:

http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1207855

I've heard people say it's pricey but it's all about what you view as value. Some would rather spend money on a ton of performance parts. An example of this is the BMW performance exhaust. People spend the extra money to get the sound with no performance gain. I haven't had the urge to do it and find it not worth the premium.

The Bimmer-Tech system I've installed allows me to mirror the video of my smart phone onto the iDrive screen along with extending audio. So if you like Waze, imagine not having to deal with looking at a smaller screen than the iDrive screen and not dealing with the clutter of having to have your smart phone on some holder in your line of sight. And then there's the back up camera which is part of the system. All of this with full factory integration.
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      06-07-2018, 12:36 PM   #6
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I just picked up a 2013 with iDrive and am happy to have it. I have read about bluetooth being terrible in the 1 series but my car picked up my Android phone easily and shows all music/call information with no issues. The steering wheel buttons even skip songs - though I have no idea if that works the same if you get the right hookup for a non iDrive car. Nav seems OK, but like most I'll probably use my phone for that. As mentioned above the other reason pro iDrive is overall versatility with the screen with potential backup cameras and phone mirroring while still looking stock. The double DIN radio replacements with a screen just look... terrible... even if the functionality is just as good or better due to being newer.

One of the main arguments against iDrive was that it kind of ruins the old school feel and look of the dashboard/car, going against what many believe to be the point of the car. I can totally see that side of the argument, especially if this is just a weekend toy. As a DD for me though, I really just wanted the extra convenience and integration iDrive offers.
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      06-17-2018, 02:24 PM   #7
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I went with non-iDrive so that you can replace the head unit with pretty much anything. I'm putting in a Joying 8" single DIN head unit and a trunk handle backup camera. It runs Android 8.0 so you can run apps, 'Ok Google' voice recognition, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, etc.
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      11-27-2018, 02:30 PM   #8
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wondering if anyone has put a screen protector on their iDrive screen . . .

I have some scratching around the edges, from PO trying to 'clean' the screen I assume - and I want to see if a screen protector will make those go away
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      11-28-2018, 08:58 AM   #9
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While there are advantages I ordered mine without iDrive and remain happy with that choice. I will use my phone for navigation if that is all I have but I much prefer using a Garmin. The display is much more legible and they do a good job with how they display information. I made a bracket and have it tucked into the space between the hood over the gauges and the windshield on the left. I have a backup camera hooked to it too. It uses a fisheye lens so it is pretty distorted but serves the main purpose - to warn me if there is something back there (view out of my convertible is terrible in reverse). I get map updates for free. Works well for me.
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      12-18-2018, 12:49 AM   #10
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Quote:
Originally Posted by xxatticus View Post
I'm looking to buy a 135i very soon, and want to know opinions on the built in iDrive. It'd be an n55 1er so 2011 - 2013. I've seen a lot of people looking for cars without nav, is there a reason? I've never had iDrive in my E46, obviously, so I could probably live without it, but if there are things I'd benefit from I'd like to know before I pull the trigger.
I didn’t want iDrive simply because it’s a bit of an eyesore and outdated, and one can always add a modern, 3rd party option if that kind of functionality is needed.
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      12-25-2018, 07:26 AM   #11
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I highly recommend test driving one with and without it. BUT don't forget about the stereo choices.

I had an e60 with the first gen I drive. I'm scarred and never want to own a car with it again. I haven't tried the new CCC version in a 135 but for me I hated the knob & functionality. Plus in the 135i you have to accept the ugly dash bulge & side cup holder. Both no go for me personally. I prefer the clean look analog interior.

If I was buying a 135i today finding one with the Harmon Kardon stereo system would be a priority or budget for an amp to upgrade the stereo. I'm not an audiophile by any means but the Base & Top Hi-Fi versions of the stereo are lacking even for a car built 2011-2013.

Is I drive a necessity? Up to you & what you prefer. I'd put more weight into other options/upgrades or no-upgrades/tune done & the maintenance history.
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      12-26-2018, 09:17 PM   #12
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I don't have iDrive so don't miss it. I would, however, like a big, clear, rear view back-up camera, like the kind you get with Bimmertech. Would be my only reason for wanting iDrive. I'm sure after having it I'd find more reasons to like it. Or hate it. lol
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      01-30-2019, 10:26 AM   #13
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I specifically hunted for a NO-NAV car because I hate having a screen in my field of view. I bought this car to drive it, not to stare at a screen.
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      06-19-2019, 11:10 AM   #14
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In the last 5 years I've had a F30 328i, F22 230i, and a F87 M2, all with iDrive, Nav, and reverse cameras. Big improvements in iDrive with the 2017 upgrade on real time Nav. Its as good as Waze in my opinion and no annoying ads.

That said when I bought my 2012 135i I avoided the iDrive because I was already spoiled with newer tech. I also prefer the look of the dash without that big bulge. I do miss the reverse camera for finding small kids dashing about parking lots so I'm doing my due diligence on adding an aftermarket Stereo Nav system with camera. The new ones look to have modern functionality at less than $700 all in with an uncluttered OEM look and feel. Pretty good deal. To each his own though.

These two seem to be leading contenders. If you've found a better option post it!

https://www.belsee.com/belsee-afterm...car-radio.html

http://www.carnaviplayer.com/bmw-1-s...ad-unit-p-1147
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      09-13-2019, 03:28 PM   #15
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Wish I knew more as I just got my 135i and the screen just shows there is a problem with restrant system--can't get it to show anything more -new to this but don't care for it.anybody got any idea
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      09-13-2019, 03:56 PM   #16
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Bill23 View Post
Wish I knew more as I just got my 135i and the screen just shows there is a problem with restrant system--can't get it to show anything more -new to this but don't care for it.anybody got any idea
Something is up w/ an airbag most likely. Could be one of the myriad of sensors as well.

Need a device to clear codes - Carly is an option, there are others. Dealership as well. Then see if it comes back and go from there.

You'd be best off making a new post about this.
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      09-13-2019, 06:01 PM   #17
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Quote:
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Wish I knew more as I just got my 135i and the screen just shows there is a problem with restrant system--can't get it to show anything more -new to this but don't care for it.anybody got any idea
Get the airbags replaced under the Takata airbag recall.
They will then reset everything and your problems will hopefully be fixed
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      09-14-2019, 07:56 PM   #18
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I would highly recommend the iDrive. For about $500 you can get a Apple CarPlay integration which makes the unit like a modern car.
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      09-14-2019, 08:07 PM   #19
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I would highly recommend the iDrive. For about $500 you can get a Apple CarPlay integration which makes the unit like a modern car.
Can you provide a link? I ended up picking up a car with iDrive and don't really use it except for keeping the nav open when cruising around.
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      09-15-2019, 11:42 AM   #20
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http://m.unichip-tec.com

I emailed them and asked a few questions and they gave me a discount.

Let me know if you have any questions
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      09-15-2019, 08:15 PM   #21
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http://m.unichip-tec.com

I emailed them and asked a few questions and they gave me a discount.

Let me know if you have any questions
Do you have more pictures of the install? Which box did you get as the website has no references for the E82 and is rather confusing on which box would work with our cars.
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      09-15-2019, 08:46 PM   #22
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This is the version for us, http://www.unichip-tec.com/h-pd-21.html#_pp=118_689

I also hooked up a backup camera.
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