1. Introduction
The Road Top Wireless CarPlay Android Auto Retrofit Kit Decoder is designed to integrate advanced smartphone connectivity into your BMW's existing NBT system. This decoder box allows you to retain your original car system while adding features like wireless/wired CarPlay, wireless/wired Android Auto, Mirrorlink, navigation, and multimedia playback. It supports voice control via Siri and Google Assistant, enhancing driving safety by keeping your hands on the steering wheel. The unit also supports original and aftermarket reverse cameras, parking radar, and front view camera DVR (CVBS input).
Image: Overview of the Road Top Wireless CarPlay Android Auto Module integrated into a BMW dashboard, showing various supported functions like CarPlay, Android Auto, Airplay, Autolink, USB, Video, and Bluetooth, along with voice command examples.
2. Compatible Models and System Verification
This Wireless CarPlay Retrofit Kit Decoder is suitable for BMW 1, 2, 3, and 4 Series models (F20, F21, F22, F23, F30, F31, F32, F33) manufactured between 2011 and 2015, specifically those equipped with the NBT system. It is not compatible with EVO systems.
Image: Table showing compatible BMW 1-Series (F20/F21), 2-Series (F22/F45), 3-Series (F30/F31/F34), and 4-Series (F32/F33/F36) models and years (2011-2015) with NBT system. Visual examples of compatible NBT and CIC system interfaces and incompatible EVO ID5/ID6 system interfaces are also shown.
To ensure compatibility, please follow these two steps:
- Step 1: Check your original car radio homescreen menu picture. Verify if your car's main menu displays a CIC system interface (CD/multimedia) or an NBT system interface (multimedia). The product is compatible with both as long as the LVDS port is 6-pin. It is NOT compatible with EVO ID5 or EVO ID6 systems.
- Step 2: Check the LVDS port on the back of the OEM car screen. The item fits your car if the LVDS port behind your screen is 6-pin. It does not fit if the LVDS port is 4-pin.
Image: Visual guide for checking BMW system compatibility, showing examples of NBT and CIC system interfaces as compatible, and EVO ID5/ID6 as incompatible. It also illustrates how to check for a 6-pin LVDS port (compatible) versus a 4-pin LVDS port (incompatible).
3. Product Components
The Road Top Wireless CarPlay Retrofit Kit Decoder includes the main decoder box and various cables necessary for installation and functionality. The main unit measures approximately 148mm x 94mm x 23mm.
Image: Diagram of the decoder box with dimensions (148mm x 94mm x 23mm) and port labels (CAN POWER, ANTENNA, USB, CAMERA, LVDS OUT, LVDS IN, TOGGLE SWITCH). Also shows included accessories: long power cable, RCA/USB cable, LVDS cable (1 pcs), Wi-Fi antenna, packing box, and instructions.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Package Dimensions | 8.5 x 6.1 x 3.9 inches |
| Item Weight | 2.31 pounds |
| Screen Size | 10.25 Inches (Note: This refers to the original car screen size, not the decoder box itself) |
| Special Feature | Touchscreen (for the new system interface) |
| Connectivity Technology | Auxiliary, Bluetooth, USB |
| Operating System | Android (for Android Auto functionality) |
4. Installation Guide
Installation of the CarPlay Retrofit Kit Decoder requires removing parts of your car's dashboard to access and connect the necessary wiring. It is recommended to confirm all features work correctly before reassembling the dashboard.
Installation Videos
Video: Detailed installation guide for the CarPlay box in a BMW NBT system. This video demonstrates the step-by-step process of disassembling the dashboard, connecting the wiring harness, and integrating the decoder unit.
Video: Installation instructions for the Autoabc Touchscreen Multimedia Radio for BMW. This video provides a visual walkthrough of the installation process, including panel removal and cable connections.
Video: Installation guide for the BMW Decoder Box NBT. This video shows the process of installing the decoder box into a BMW with an NBT system.
5. Operating Instructions
System Switching
You can easily switch between your original BMW radio system and the CarPlay/Android Auto system. Long press the special button on your car's knob (typically the 'Menu' button) for 3 seconds to toggle between interfaces. The new system interface supports touch control, while the original system interface is controlled via the iDrive knob.
Video: Demonstration of dual system switching in a BMW screen, showing how to toggle between the new CarPlay/Android Auto interface and the original car system using the iDrive controller.
CarPlay and Android Auto
The decoder box adds wireless and wired CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, allowing access to navigation, music, messages, and other apps directly on your car's screen.
Image: Illustrates how to add Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto while keeping the factory car screen, showing the OEM Car System, Wireless CarPlay, and Wireless Android Auto interfaces.
Image: Icons representing additional functions: CarPlay, Android Auto, AirPlay, Autolink, Video, and Bluetooth.
Voice Control
Utilize Siri or Google Assistant for hands-free control of navigation, calls, messages, and music. This feature helps maintain focus on the road.
Image: Shows a BMW dashboard with the CarPlay interface, demonstrating voice commands like "Hi Siri. Navigate home." and "OK Google. Message Peter."
GPS Navigation
The system supports most map applications, including both online and offline navigation, integrated seamlessly into the car's display.
Image: Displays the CarPlay interface with a navigation map, showing integration with popular map apps and voice commands for navigation.
Mirrorlink Function
The Mirrorlink function allows you to mirror your smartphone's screen onto the car's display. This includes AirPlay for iPhone and AutoLink for Android devices.
Image: Shows a smartphone screen being mirrored onto the car's display using the Mirrorlink function, highlighting AirPlay for iPhone and AutoLink for Android.
6. Camera Functionality
The decoder box supports various camera inputs for enhanced safety and parking assistance.
- Supports factory original reverse camera and parking radar.
- Supports aftermarket reverse camera and 360-degree camera systems.
- Supports front view camera DVR (CVBS input).
Image: Displays the CarPlay interface with a rearview camera view, showing parking lines and radar. Also highlights the original car knob and steering wheel controls for camera functions.
Image: Details the camera functions supported by the decoder box, including original reverse camera, parking radar, aftermarket cameras, 360 camera, and front view camera DVR.
7. Troubleshooting
No Sound Issue
If you encounter a no sound issue after installation, it is often due to incorrect cable connections or settings. Ensure the AUX cable is properly connected and selected in your car's original system. You may need to adjust the 'Auto Switch to AUX' setting in the CarPlay system settings.
Video: Guide on how to fix the no sound issue. This video provides steps to troubleshoot and resolve audio problems after installing the CarPlay decoder.
Screen Resolution Adjustment
If the screen display appears distorted or incorrect, you may need to adjust the screen resolution within the CarPlay system settings. Access the 'Car Settings' menu and select the appropriate resolution for your original car screen.
Video: Tutorial on screen resolution adjustment. This video demonstrates how to change the display resolution to ensure proper viewing on your car's screen.
8. Warranty and Support
For any issues or support inquiries, please contact the seller, Road Top Direct, through the Amazon platform. Most problems can be resolved through correct cable connections and settings. It is advised to confirm all features work before fully reassembling your vehicle's dashboard.