If you want to add a modern 12.3-inch Android screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to a BMW 3 Series E90, E91, E92 or E93, one of the first questions is usually:
How difficult is the installation?
The upgrade requires removing several factory dashboard components to reach the original BMW head unit and wiring, but the process becomes much easier once you understand the disassembly sequence and the CIC/LVDS connections.
This guide shows the actual installation process, including factory head unit removal, CIC/LVDS wiring, installation of the new display base, and the finished dashboard.
What Does the 12.3" Screen Upgrade Look Like?
Before looking at the installation, here is the difference between the original BMW dashboard and the completed 12.3-inch Android screen upgrade.
The new display replaces the small factory screen with a much wider touchscreen while keeping access to the original BMW system.
After installation, you can use the Android interface and smartphone functions such as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while still being able to switch back to the original BMW interface when needed.
Which BMW Models Does This Installation Apply To?
This installation guide is intended for compatible BMW 3 Series E9x vehicles using the factory BMW iDrive system:
- BMW E90 Sedan
- BMW E91 Touring
- BMW E92 Coupe
- BMW E93 Convertible
The Roadnavier 12.3-inch screen listing covers compatible 2008–2012 vehicles with factory BMW CCC or CIC systems.
Before ordering: BMW E9x vehicles can have different factory iDrive configurations. If you are not sure whether your vehicle has CCC or CIC, send us your vehicle year and a clear photo of the original dashboard. We can confirm the correct version before shipment.
What Comes With the Android Screen?
The upgrade includes the Android display, vehicle-specific display base and the wiring required to integrate the new screen with the original BMW system.
The exact vehicle-specific harness configuration may vary according to the original BMW system. This is why confirming your factory configuration before shipment is important.
Step 1: Remove the Factory BMW Display and Head Unit
The first part of the installation is gaining access to the factory head unit and its electrical connections.
You will need to remove the factory display surround, center control panels and CD head unit. Use a plastic trim removal tool wherever possible to reduce the risk of marking the dashboard.
Factory Head Unit Removal Sequence
- Remove the screws securing the factory display frame.
- Carefully pry off and remove the display frame.
- Remove the radio control panel.
- Remove the climate control panel.
- Remove the surrounding radio trim panel.
- Remove the screws securing the factory CD head unit.
- Carefully pull the CD head unit forward to access the factory wiring.
Installation tip: Do not pull aggressively on the trim panels. Once a panel is loose, check for electrical connectors behind it before moving it completely away from the dashboard.
Step 2: Connect the Android Screen Wiring Harness
Once the factory head unit has been pulled forward, you can access the original BMW wiring.
The Android screen uses a vehicle-specific harness so the new system can work together with the original BMW electronics rather than replacing the entire factory system.
Connect the supplied power harness according to the factory configuration and route the required cables toward the new display location.
Step 3: Connect the Factory CIC / LVDS Cable
The LVDS connection is one of the most important parts of the installation.
The factory BMW video connection is routed through the supplied Android interface, allowing the new display to show both the Android system and the original BMW interface.
Connect the original LVDS cable to the supplied interface according to your vehicle's factory configuration. The Android harness and interface then integrate the new screen with the original BMW system.
Important: Switch off vehicle power before connecting or disconnecting electrical connectors. Do not plug or unplug the harness while the system is powered.
Step 4: Install the New Display Base
After the wiring has been connected and routed correctly, install the supplied display base in the original screen position.
Make sure all cables are routed behind the display without being pinched by the mounting frame before securing the new screen.
Step 5: Connect and Test the 12.3" Android Screen
Before reinstalling all of the dashboard trim, connect the Android screen and test the system.
Check the following before completing reassembly:
- The Android screen powers on correctly.
- The original BMW interface can still be accessed.
- The iDrive controller responds correctly.
- Steering wheel controls operate normally.
- Audio output is working.
- Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connects correctly.
Tip: Test all major functions before reinstalling the dashboard trim. If a connector needs to be checked, it is much easier to do this while the head unit is still accessible.
Step 6: Reassemble the Dashboard
Once the Android screen, factory BMW system and controls have been tested successfully, reinstall the CD head unit, control panels and dashboard trim in reverse order.
Before securing the final trim pieces, check that all factory connectors are reconnected and that no wiring is trapped or pinched behind the panels.
Can I Install the BMW E90 Android Screen Myself?
If you are comfortable removing interior trim and working with vehicle-specific connectors, this upgrade can be installed as a DIY project.
The system uses vehicle-specific connections, so routine cutting or splicing of the factory wiring is not required.
If you have never removed dashboard components or worked with BMW iDrive wiring before, an experienced car audio or BMW retrofit installer may be the easier option.
Common BMW E90 / E92 Android Screen Installation Questions
Do I remove the original BMW system?
No. The Android screen works alongside the original BMW system. The factory interface remains accessible after installation.
Does the original iDrive controller still work?
Yes. The system is designed to retain operation of the original BMW iDrive controller and steering wheel controls.
Do I need to cut the factory wiring?
Routine wire cutting or splicing is not required. The system uses a vehicle-specific integration harness.
Why do I need to know whether my BMW has CCC or CIC?
BMW used different factory multimedia configurations across the E9x platform. Identifying the original system helps ensure that the correct wiring configuration is supplied.
What if I don't know whether I have CCC or CIC?
You do not need to identify it yourself. Send us your BMW model year and a clear photo of the original dashboard and screen, and we can check the configuration before shipment.
Ready to Upgrade Your BMW E90 / E91 / E92 / E93?
The 12.3-inch Android screen gives the E9x dashboard a much more modern interface while retaining access to the original BMW system.
If you want wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, a larger touchscreen and easier access to modern navigation and media apps, you can check the compatible Roadnavier system below.
12.3" Android Screen for BMW E90 / E91 / E92 / E93
Not sure about compatibility? Send us your vehicle year and a photo of the original dashboard before ordering. We can confirm the correct configuration for your BMW.
View BMW 12.3" Android Screen →