Jeckyl

I've recently encountered the display unit issue showing "check external connections" and "external function not connected" whereby intermittent dysfunction is extended to all the connected systems including the defrosters. Given that it is still the middle of Winter in my area, this is decidedly unfortunate and requires more immediate correction to continue to use the car this season. From everything I can gather it will likely involve replacing/repairing the multi function display in order for it to get the radio, backup camera, defrosters, etc working again. I've already checked the connections I have access to, replaced the battery, pulled the cd player (I have not been able to remove the display unit itself yet - I think there are two additional screws I just need to play with). I'm ok with doing the replacement myself if it comes to that (as I don't want to pay @$2000 for a dealer to replace it), but I've heard that the 2004 model was a split year for which display was actually installed.
How do I find out conclusively (outside of pulling the unit) which one is installed in my car?
I've got to wait for decent weather before I go to the trouble of pulling everything out and would like to shop around for the part and have it on its way.
I have a UL LS430 2004.

Additional question - for owners who have repaired/replace the display did it fix the issue for an extended period or is there some additional option to replacing with a display which restores all the other associated systems and is a better part so that this fault in the display doesn't come back later?

e60bmw

iTrader: (1)

Removing the display unit shouldn't be too hard. The tempature buttons on either side pop off and there are some screws behind it. You may need to remove some of the other components too. I've removed everything else around it but never had to take it out. You can buy just the screen or the entire thing, I recommend ebay there are literally tons for sale. Looks like the 04-06 should mostly be the same but may want to have others chime in.

https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_fro...splay&_sacat=0

Alternatively you may be able to plug the vin number into some of those parts sites and see the model # for your specific chassis. Its most likely part # 86110-50180

tallcaguy

I had mine removed, tested, completely resoldered then reinstalled for $200. It's called Radio Metrics (Rancho Cordova, CA). Zero problems since then.