Secrets of the Mini Cooper
I was originally hunting for a means to connect my iPod to my Mini’s stereo without using an FM Transmitter, as I’ve discovered that they have mediocre sound quality at best, and suffer greatly from interference. In my case, I’d have to change radio stations at least twice during my daily commute to listen with some level of signal clarity.
The most promising information came originally from Philippe Niquille’s MINI Cooper Aux-In DIY, which includes links giving information on how to properly disassemble the dash and obtain access to the stereo, as well as how to build a cable to connect to the stereo head unit.
After more searching, I eventually stumbled upon the Official DICE iPod integration kit Q/A thread by a user, Tom G., who works for European Auto Source, who sells said DICE kit.
Based on information in the thread, I went to go confirm that my Mini Cooper—an American bound non-S model produced in September of 2006—was indeed pre-wired for use with a CD Changer. After opening up the boot (trunk) and opening the right access panel, I found a number of interesting tidbits. There is an unused socket in the wiring harness which I presume is the CD Changer connection, but I need confirm that there is a 6-wire connection, and a 3-wire connection before I consider it to be true. While in there, I also discovered a nearly unmarked black box that is bolted to the chassis. It has two separate plugs connecting to it. A bit further in, and higher up, is what resembles a speaker of some form which is connected to the same wiring harness as the mystery black box.
In my fit of curiosity, I decided to open the panel on the other side of the boot. Behind the access panel on the left side, hidden somewhat deep, there is a movable lever with a molded hand grip that comes out of a box attached to the vehicle chassis. A pair of wires plugs into that box.
Later the same day I went for a drive and, when pulling out of my parking place, the back up sensors triggered and beeped their familiar tones to tell my the distance away from the objects behind me I realized what that speaker like device hidden away behind the door is—it must be the speaker for my back up sensors. This revelation also suggests that the black box is likely the electronics package for the back up sensors. The lever on the other side of the vehicle still remains a mystery to me.
Tags: Mini Cooper