1. Product Overview
This ZTUZAUTO Wireless CarPlay Android Auto Retrofit Kit is designed to integrate modern smartphone connectivity into your BMW Mini vehicle equipped with the CIC system. It enables wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mirror Link functionalities, enhancing your driving experience with navigation, music, and communication features.
1.1 Package Contents
The package typically includes the following components:
- CarPlay Module
- Power Cable
- WiFi Antenna
- Idrive 10 Pin Cable
- Idrive 4 Pin Cable
- LVDS Cable
- Microphone
Image: Overview of the CarPlay module and included accessories. The module dimensions are approximately 14.2cm x 8.5cm x 2.4cm.
1.2 Compatible Models
This retrofit kit is compatible with BMW Mini vehicles featuring the CIC system, specifically for models manufactured between 2009 and 2014, with a 6.5-inch screen.
Image: A visual representation of the compatible model list, confirming compatibility with MINI CIC systems from 2009-2014 with a 6.5-inch screen.
2. Safety Information and Precautions
Please read and understand the following safety information before installation and use:
- Warranty: This product comes with a 12-month quality warranty. For any issues during this period, please contact customer support.
- Installation: Do not cut or damage original car wires. This product is designed not to affect your factory car warranty. If you are not confident in performing the installation, it is highly recommended to seek assistance from a qualified specialist.
- Testing: Before restoring any vehicle panels, thoroughly test all functions of the module to ensure proper operation. This prevents the inconvenience of re-disassembly.
- Support: For any installation or operational issues, please contact our support team. We can provide more specialized assistance than a general auto repair shop.
3. Installation Guide
The ZTUZAUTO Retrofit Kit is designed for a "Plug and Play" installation, meaning no wire cutting or breaking is required. It integrates with your existing vehicle systems.
3.1 Pre-Installation Checks
- Verify your car's model and year are compatible with this kit.
- Refer to the provided manual (if separate wiring diagram is included) to locate the wiring diagram and dial code specific to your car's model.
3.2 Installation Steps (General Overview)
The installation involves connecting the module to your car's existing wiring harness and display unit. The process typically includes:
- Carefully remove the necessary dashboard panels to access the vehicle's head unit.
- Disconnect the original cables from the head unit.
- Connect the provided LVDS cable, power cable, and other interface cables from the retrofit module to the corresponding ports on the head unit and vehicle harness.
- Ensure all connections are secure.
- Mount the WiFi antenna in a suitable location for optimal signal reception.
- Connect the external microphone for voice commands.
Image: Illustrates the "Plug and Play" installation concept, showing connections to the car's head unit without cutting wires.
3.3 Post-Installation Verification
After connecting the module but before reassembling the dashboard, power on your vehicle and test all functions of the CarPlay/Android Auto system to confirm correct operation.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Switching Between Original System and CarPlay/Android Auto
To switch from your original car system to the CarPlay/Android Auto interface, press and hold the MENU button (or equivalent) on your i-Drive controller for approximately 2 seconds.
Image: Demonstrates the transition from the original vehicle information display to the CarPlay interface by pressing and holding a button.
4.2 Wireless CarPlay Connection Steps
To connect your iPhone wirelessly to CarPlay:
- On your iPhone, go to Settings > Bluetooth.
- On the car screen, navigate to the Bluetooth settings of the CarPlay module.
- Pair your iPhone with the device named "ZTUZAUTO Box_FXX" (or similar) displayed on the car screen. Confirm the pairing code if prompted.
- Once Bluetooth is connected, the system will automatically prompt you to enable CarPlay.
- Ensure your iPhone's Wi-Fi is also enabled, as CarPlay uses Wi-Fi for data transfer after the initial Bluetooth handshake.
Video: Demonstrates the steps for connecting an iPhone to the ZTUZAUTO CarPlay module wirelessly via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
4.3 Wireless Android Auto Connection Steps
To connect your Android phone wirelessly to Android Auto:
- On your Android phone, go to Settings > Bluetooth.
- On the car screen, navigate to the Bluetooth settings of the Android Auto module.
- Pair your Android phone with the device named "ZTUZAUTO Box_FXX" (or similar) displayed on the car screen. Confirm the pairing code if prompted.
- Once Bluetooth is connected, the system will automatically prompt you to enable Android Auto.
- Ensure your Android phone's Wi-Fi is also enabled, as Android Auto uses Wi-Fi for data transfer after the initial Bluetooth handshake.
Video: The same video above also illustrates the connection process for Android Auto, showing the pairing of an Android device with the module.
4.4 Audio Output Settings
To ensure audio functions correctly:
- If using AUX: You need to set "AUX front" in your original car's multimedia interface. Access the Settings interface > Factory Mode > Phone Link setting > Turn off the "Disable phone link audio" option > Reboot. Then, enter the Multimedia interface, click "External devices", and select "AUX front".
- If using Bluetooth for sound: Access the Settings interface > Factory Mode > Phone Link setting > Open the option "Disable phone link audio" > Reboot. Then, pair your smartphone with the original vehicle's Bluetooth and select the original car Bluetooth for both phone and music sound sources in the original car media settings.
Image: Detailed steps for configuring audio output via AUX and Bluetooth within the car's settings.
4.5 Key Features and Functionality
Once connected, the retrofit kit provides access to various smartphone features directly on your car's display:
- Navigation: Use your preferred navigation apps like Apple Maps, Google Maps, or Waze for real-time directions.
- Music & Audio: Stream music, podcasts, and audiobooks from apps like Spotify, Apple Music, Pandora, and more.
- Communication: Make and receive calls, send and read messages (via voice commands or on-screen display), and access your phone's contacts.
- Voice Control: Utilize Siri or Google Assistant for hands-free control of various functions.
- Mirror Link: Mirror your phone's screen directly onto the car display.
Image: Illustrates the main features: Wireless Apple CarPlay, Wireless Android Auto, and Wireless Mirror Link.
Image: Shows a variety of supported applications for navigation, music, and communication within the CarPlay/Android Auto interface.
Image: Provides close-up views of music playback, message display, map navigation, and phone call interfaces.
Image: Highlights the integration of intelligent voice systems like Siri and Google Assistant for hands-free operation.
4.6 Retaining Original Car Functions
The retrofit kit is designed to retain the functionality of your original car controls, including:
- Steering Wheel Buttons: Volume control (+/-), voice awakening, and other media controls remain functional.
- i-Drive Controller: The i-Drive knob can be used to navigate the CarPlay/Android Auto interface, press to enter APP functions, and use arrow keys for cursor movement.
Image: Illustrates how original steering wheel buttons and the i-Drive controller are used to interact with the new system.
5. Maintenance
The ZTUZAUTO Wireless CarPlay Android Auto Retrofit Kit requires minimal maintenance. Keep the unit free from dust and moisture. Ensure all cable connections remain secure. Software updates, if available, will be provided by the manufacturer and should be installed according to their instructions.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your ZTUZAUTO Retrofit Kit, consider the following troubleshooting steps:
- No Display/Black Screen:
- Ensure all power and LVDS cables are securely connected.
- Verify the car's ignition is on.
- Try switching between the original system and the CarPlay interface using the i-Drive button.
- No Sound:
- Check your audio output settings as described in Section 4.4.
- Ensure your phone's volume is up and not muted.
- Verify the car's audio source is correctly selected (e.g., AUX).
- Wireless Connection Issues (CarPlay/Android Auto):
- Ensure Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are enabled on your smartphone.
- Forget the device from your phone's Bluetooth settings and re-pair.
- Restart your smartphone and the car's infotainment system.
- Ensure the WiFi antenna is properly connected to the module.
- Controls Not Responding:
- Check the i-Drive and steering wheel button connections.
- Restart the system.
If these steps do not resolve the issue, please contact ZTUZAUTO customer support for further assistance.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 3.34 x 0.94 x 5.59 inches |
| Item Weight | 2.55 pounds |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, USB, Wi-Fi |
| Power Source | 12-volt DC Power |
| Material | Metal |
| Special Feature | Bluetooth |
8. Warranty and Support
ZTUZAUTO provides a 12-month quality warranty for this product. If you encounter any problems during this period, please do not hesitate to contact us. Our support team is available to assist you with installation, operation, and troubleshooting.
Contact Information: Please refer to your purchase documentation or the ZTUZAUTO official website for the most current customer support contact details.
