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      11-15-2020, 11:56 AM   #1
bwright657
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DIY: BlueBus Install in E86 Z4M Coupe

Given the interest seen in the BlueBus bluetooth module for our cars, I put together a guide on how the install went in my 2008 Z4M Coupe. Many thanks to Maupineda for some of the pictures. This thread is intended just to show the install. For using the BlueBus, reviews, troubleshooting, etc, please visit the thread in the Navigation, Audio & Electronics section linked below.

My car is a M Coupe with the top hi-fi Carver system but no nav. The car also never had a 6-disc CD changer or Sirius XM retrofit. The vast majority of Z4s came pre-wired for the CD changer (all US cars had it) and the BlueBus uses those pre-wiring cables. If you have a Sirius XM retrofit, there is a cable you can get to use both. If you have a non-M or a roadster, removing the trunk trim will be slightly different, but the electronics and wiring should be very close.

First, read up on the BlueBus to understand how it works. The GitHub wiki is especially crucial. If you don't have navigation, you have the "CD53" system.
BlueBus Website
ZPost Thread on the BlueBus
YouTube video of BlueBus in an E46
YouTube video of BlueBus install in an E39
GitHub Wiki for BlueBus

Now that you've read up on the BlueBus, installation details are below. You will need the following tools:
  • Plastic Trim Removal Tool (Fishbone)
  • 8mm Socket
  • 10mm Socket
I also recommend getting a 6 foot micro-usb data cable for firmware updates, taking logs, etc. I got this cable on Amazon.

If you have satellite radio retrofitted, 84110150526 is the BMW part number for the retrofit cable on E46s. This thread also has useful information about having both.

And finally, the install guide.
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      11-15-2020, 01:46 PM   #2
maupineda
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Thanks for putting all the effort in getting the DIY.
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      11-16-2020, 10:56 AM   #3
wdb
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Nice work!
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      12-26-2020, 12:18 PM   #4
c41250n
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great write up, i’ve been looking for some info on how to install it!!
I’ve ordered mine, and should be receiving it in Feb 2021.
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      02-11-2021, 07:35 PM   #5
stephenkirsh
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I'll be ordering mine in the March batch.
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      03-11-2021, 10:00 AM   #6
bosstones
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Got notice that mine shipped yesterday. Can't wait to try it out!
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      05-26-2021, 06:24 PM   #7
bosstones
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FINALLY got a chance to install mine. I'll post some supplemental pix and associated write-up when I get a chance.

I completely removed the TCU and the bracket it was on. To do that, I had to remove more of the panels to get access to do that. The mounting holds in the BlueBus are meant to use some of the mount locations on the TCU bracket, but the stock harnessing is not long enough to reach that far w/o undressing the OE harness and separating out the 2 required harness legs. I wasn't about to do that so I used a couple strips of super velcro to install mine (same location as bwright657).

I did forget to put on the 2 nuts on the far left of the bracket that holds the amp....I'm figuring the other nuts on it will be enough; especially since there is very little mass on the left side. Obviously, I discovered this after I put the last trim panel back in....hence my decision.

The momentary blinker feature is nice. The one gripe I have is you can't cancel it once it starts. I might drop it from 5 blinks to 3 for just that reason.

So far, no regrets! I have a Grom BT3 for sale if anyone is interested. It's in excellent condition and I have all the harnesses and manuals.
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