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Ultimate Guide to CIC (Car Information Computer) for BMW E-Series Navigation | Tips, Types, and Troubleshooting

2/15/2023

Ultimate Guide to CIC (Car Information Computer) for BMW E-Series Navigation | Tips, Types, and Troubleshooting

When it comes to the world of BMW navigation, understanding the CIC (Car Information Computer) can seem daunting. Whether you're retrofitting a CIC into a CCC-equipped vehicle or replacing a malfunctioning unit, this guide will provide you with essential insights to navigate the complex world of CIC.

1. VIN Authentication:
When you boot up your CIC, the first thing it does is to check the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The CIC holds the VIN's last 7 digits and compares this with the CAS module. If there's a mismatch, your map will gray out, rendering the navigation non-functional. This feature is presumably a safety measure against theft. Solutions include:

Using an Emulator: Handy but may come with operational hitches.
Inserting a Script: Directly integrate VIN authentication into the CIC's boot sequence.

2. Distinguishing Between CIC Types: E-Series vs. F-Series:
The main difference lies in the presence of a flat cable on the E-Series CIC front panel, absent in the F-Series.

3. Recognizing Japanese vs. Overseas CICs:
CICs tailored for different regions differ. For instance, Japanese and overseas versions can be distinguished by ETC, VICS/BEACON connectors or the labels ALPINE or HARMAN BECKER. Just because a CIC displays Japanese doesn't imply it's Japanese or that you can install Japanese map data.

4. CIC Shapes Vary Across Series:
While the E90 series has a distinctive shape, the E60 and E70 series have variations in the head unit. The used market predominantly features the E9X series, with the E60/E70 being rarer.

5. Retrofitting Overseas CIC Kits:
Remember, you can't install Japanese map data on an overseas CIC, even if it's a retrofit kit.

6. Adaptations Across Different Series:
Each series requires tailored programming. For instance, adapting an E9X CIC to an E60 needs reprogramming. The E70, with its unique head unit design, may necessitate modifications right from the outset.
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