BMW CIC (E84, F20, F30, F10): how to recognise it and pick the right module

CIC sits in an awkward spot. It is the generation between BMW's first iDrive and the modern one, it overlaps with both, and it appears in both E-series and early F-series cars. That combination produces a lot of wrong orders.

Here is how to be certain you have it.

What CIC is

CIC stands for Car Information Computer, in production from roughly 2008 to 2013.

It appears in the E60 5 Series (later cars), E70 X5, E90 3 Series, E84 X1, F01 7 Series, and the early F10, F20 and F30.

That list is the problem: those same chassis codes also appear under CCC (earlier) and NBT (later). The chassis alone will not tell you.

How to identify it

Look at the menu. This is the reliable test.

• Menu entries have icons, and the map rotates smoothly in 3D → CIC
• Plain text list, no icons, flat and slow map → CCC, the older system
• Black background, vertical list on the left, free-standing screen → NBT, the newer system

Then confirm with the physical layout:

• Screen recessed into the dashboard behind a frame → CIC (or CCC)
• Screen standing on the dashboard like a separate panel → NBT or newer
• Controller with no touch surface on top → CIC (or CCC). A touchpad means NBT or newer.

So: recessed screen + icons in the menu + no touchpad = CIC.

The E90 case

The E90 3 Series ran from 2005 to 2013 and covers both CCC and CIC.

Roughly: pre-2008 cars are CCC, 2008 onwards with Professional navigation are CIC. But the changeover was gradual and specification-dependent, so use the menu test rather than the year.

This is the single most common source of wrong orders in the CIC era, and it costs a return either way.

The module

The CIC module (€219) is fitted between the head unit and the screen. Wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, and every factory function retained.

Operation is via the iDrive rotary controller — CIC has no touchscreen, and none is needed. CarPlay's large-icon grid works well with a dial.

What stays and what changes

Kept: Professional navigation, radio, Bluetooth telephony, vehicle settings, reversing camera, parking sensors, steering wheel controls, Logic7 or HiFi audio.

Added: wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Google Maps and Waze on the factory screen, Spotify through the factory speakers, Siri.

The factory CIC navigation stays fully functional. CarPlay is an additional source you switch to and back from with a button press — many owners keep using the factory navigation for familiar routes and CarPlay for anything needing live traffic.

Common questions

Does the factory Bluetooth still work?
Yes. BMW's own Bluetooth for calls keeps working. CarPlay adds a second Bluetooth connection for its own use.

Do I lose the Professional navigation?
No. It remains exactly as before.

Is the reversing camera affected?
No. Select reverse and the screen switches automatically, where a camera is fitted.

My E90 is from 2009 — is that definitely CIC?
Probably, if it has Professional navigation. But 2008–2009 is the transition, so check the menu or send the VIN.

Can I fit it myself?
Yes. 45–90 minutes depending on the model, with basic tools. Illustrated instructions included.

How long is the warranty?
24 months.

Confirm first

CIC overlaps with CCC below it and NBT above it, on chassis codes that appear in all three. If there is any doubt, send your VIN to info@oemcarplay.com — we confirm in writing which system your car has. Free, usually within 30 minutes.

Full identification of all five BMW systems is in the BMW system guide. Or see all BMW CarPlay modules.