John: Make sure you look on the X5World home page, all the DIY articles are listed there.

Limo: There is not another name for the final stage resistor, it is not a preventative maintenance item, and you don't need to worry about it unless it fails and you get the common symptoms of the heater fan continuing to run. You may want to check the home page for the articles as well.

Welcome to the forum to both of you.

__________________
2007 X3 3.0si, 6 MT, Premium, White

Retired:
2008 535i, 6 MT, M Sport, Premium, Space Grey
2003 X5 3.0 Steptronic, Premium, Titanium Silver
2002 325xi 5 MT, Steel Grey
2004 Z4 3.0 Premium, Sport, SMG, Maldives Blue