How do I set up a cell phone with my 2000 BMW 323i?

Question

If anyone knows how, I would be grateful. Thanks!

Answer 1

Can't do it. Your BMW phone system, called either the BMW CPT 7000 or CPT 8000 phone by BMW, employs proprietary (i.e. BMW only) software in the handset that must exist in order to communicate with the hardwired phone cradle and work through the cars' audio system. Additionally, because of the "E-911" laws that are on the books, cellular phone service providers are only currently activating cell phones that are able to be traceable for 911 tracking purposes, (thus the E-911) so even if you did have a fully functional BMW phone system, no cellular carriers are activating them. My best advice if you want hands-free calling is to purchase a cell phone with Bluetooth capabilities and then buy a Bluetooth earpiece to go with it. They work great and to some degree, offer more functionality for less cost than the current Bluetooth systems that most auto manufacturers presently offer.

Answer 2

Bmw Cell Phones

Answer 3

Before giving up completely, I would check with a BMW dealer or somewhere that knows about BMW's and phone systems just to make sure that no one has released software (including BMW) which can upgrade the system to more current specifications. If such software exists, the software and labor costs cannot be that astronomical.

The above explanation depends on whether the car is even wired to support the cell phone. If there is no wiring - you might as well put a bluetooth earpiece and use the phone that way.

Also realize that not many people are using cell phones which are integrated into cars these days. I had a 318i with an ancient Verizon cell phone and the phone could still dial out except that a Verizon message would nicely tell me that analog phone service is no longer supported.