Since my last post I decided that the M5’s “GALA” system left quite a bit to be desired. The Graduated Audio Level Adjustment is supposed to maintain a consistent audio experience within the car, irrespective of road noise. Sadly, while it is a good idea in theory, it makes quite obvious ham-fisted adjustments to not only overall volume but also tone balance, and as such, I decided I was better off without it. After a bit of internet research, and some valuable input from a forum user, and I managed to turn the GALA sensitivity down so much I no longer notice that it is there. Here’s how:

BMW E39 GALA Adjustment

Turn the radio on – this may work while playing a CD but I did it while listening to an FM station. Hold down the ‘TP’ button for about 8 seconds. The screen should display service mode. Use the < and > buttons to scroll to the ‘GAL’ setting. Then, using the numerical preset buttons, set the GALA sensitivity to the desired level. Once finished, switch the radio off. Done!

I’m also looking in to replacing this 4:3 unit with a 16:9 widescreen like I’ve got in the 330d. I thought I would see just how hard it is to remove the unit, and I was pleased to find it was easy. The trim panels either side can just be pulled off.

Two small screws, one at the top of either side hold the silver face plate on. Once these are out, there’s a lever on both sides that need to be raised, and the facia pops straight off.

Finally, four more screws, and another tweak of the two levers and the whole lot is out.

See – nice and easy! Ideally I’ll be able to collect a second hand unit and test it before paying, so I thought it important to be able to strip the car down quickly. I’m aware that I’ll need to upgrade the TV tuner to have a true 16:9 image, but I’m happy to crawl before I can walk. :)