How can l still use my factory radio to play music thru my speakers using my iphone using an aux input.l do not wanna use fm transmitters they stink any suggestions would be helpful l would like to maintain my factory installed radio??

You will have to get a radio built after September 2002 l believe it is. Basically one from a 2003+ E46. Then get the aux input adapter from the dealer. Tell them u have a 2003, otherwise they will give u a hard time. Plug the adapter in to the back of the new head unit, & install the jack where u want it. The instructions say put it in the glove box. That is what l did with it. Done. New radio has a new mode called ''AUX'' & u can also adjust the input volume for it, one of the settings along with bass, treble, balance, etc. You will also have support for Sirius if u buy the receiver & antenna for that.

You can find the radios on eBay http://cgi.ebay.com/BMW-E46-BUSINESS-CD-PLAYER-RADIO-STEREO-323-325-330-HK_W0QQitemZ390018944520QQcmdZViewItemQQptZCar_Audio_In_Dash_Receivers?hash=item390018944520&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1205|66%3A2|65%3A12|39%3A1|240%3A1318|301%3A1|293%3A1|294%3A50 or at junkyards or here http://bavariansoundwerks.com/product/636/282/BMW-Radio-E46/ but very pricey.

l know u wanna keep it factory but just get an aftermarket radio instaleed they run about 80 for a decent one and will sound better and probably have more configuration for ur AUX since it offers it

If u do not have a CD changer, there is an aux adaptor u can buy which connects through the CD changer connector. It even offers u TWO auxiliary inputs!

You just need to select ur CD changer mode to activate it. It is also quite cheap. Google ''DF-BMW''. Circuit City were having these on clearance for $10.

All u need is a long cable to run from the trunk to the front to connect ur iPod.

For a more advanced unit - which allows u to control ur iPod (even from ur steering wheel), there is another more expensive model. Google ''PA11-BMW''. It offers one iPod connector & an extra Aux input.

Both r very good products.

I've used the DF-BMW for years without any issues.