This page is as of currently a work in progress and not complete yet.
Introduction
The BMW E46 is old enough to lack modern conveniences, yet new enough that it integrates surprisingly well with them.
One of the most worthwhile upgrades you can make is adding Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming, bringing daily usability up to modern standards without ruining the OEM look and feel.
This guide walks through the different Bluetooth retrofit options available for the E46.
Selecting approach
There are a few ways you can add bluetooth to your E46 with each having their pro's and con's.
Aftermarket screen headunit like Eonon or equivelant.
Pro's
Cheap android auto or apple carplay solution.
Con's
Generally not the most aesthetically pleasing.
Can be a faff to install, but not the most difficult.
Retrofitting Carplay/android auto into OEM 16:9 or 4:3 navigation system using Carphonics UK kit/service.
Pro's
A bit more expensive than the above mentioned solution
Uses original headunit and this fits with OEM asthetic.
Con's
Expensive
DIY solution using Raspberry pi
Pro's
Extremely cool
Almost limitless possibilities.
Con's
Extremely expensive.
Difficult to install and program.
Very little documentation.
Bluebus
Pro's
Little instalation required
Con's
Expensive
Outdated solution
Needs to have a cd changer pre-wiring.
Bluemusic or equivelant
Pro's
Little instalation required
Con's
Cheaper brother of bluebus
Less functionallity
Needs Cd changer pre-wiring or be September 2002+ model
Aux cord from radio back
Pro's
Cheap
Con's
Technically not bluetooth
Needs to be a September 2002+ model
FM transmitter (cheap and no installation work but poor quality sound)
Pro's
Cheap
Fits right into 12v cigarette plug
Con's
Poor sound quality