GSM Antenna

The GSM antenna is the transmit/receive aerial on the TCU (Telematic Control Unit) for communication with a mobile phone network. The GSM antenna is fitted to the outside of the vehicle.

Installation Location 

• E39: The GSM antenna is fitted to the upper edge of the rear window (not shown).
• E46: The GSM antenna is fitted to the rear edge of the roof.
  Fig 1: Locating GSM Antenna (E46 Shown)

  Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
• E53: The GSM antenna is fitted to the spoiler (not shown).
• E85: The GSM antenna is fitted to the rear left wheel arch.
  Fig 2: Locating GSM Antenna (E85 Shown)

  Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Construction 

• E39: The GSM antenna is a short rod antenna (not shown).
• E46: The GSM antenna is a roof-mounted aerial for mobile phones.
  Fig 3: Exploded View Of GSM Antenna (E46 Shown)

  Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.
• E53: The GSM antenna takes the form of a closed casing (not shown).
• E85: The GSM antenna is integrated in the AM/FM aerial (AM = amplitude modulation, FM = frequency modulation).
  Fig 4: Exploded View Of GSM Antenna (E85 Shown)

  Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

How It Works  The GSM antenna works in the same way on E39, E46, E53 and E85 vehicles.

• Each GSM antenna is a dual-band aerial for mobile phones.
• Each GSM antenna is supplied in the EURO national version for the frequency ranges 900/1800 MHz (MHz = megahertz).