manual transmission X3 - how to tell if in sleep mode

[titan silber]

How can I tell if a manual transmission X3 has gone into sleep mode? On automatic cars it's pretty easy - when the lights on the gear position indicator go out. But what to look for on a manual version?

[yes_its_neil]

Originally Posted by titan silber

How can I tell if a manual transmission X3 has gone into sleep mode? On automatic cars it's pretty easy - when the lights on the gear position indicator go out. But what to look for on a manual version?

If you leave the tailgate open, or ajar by an inch or so, the 2 side lights at the rear of the cabin will turn off once the car is in sleep mode.

[titan silber]

Is that the car going to sleep or just the LCM saving the battery?

[yes_its_neil]

I thought saving battery was the main objective of the sleep mode? On my auto, the rear cabin lights turning off coincides with the orange light on the console gear position indicator turning off, after a 16 minute delay.

[titan silber]

Sorry, my post wasn't very clear. What I meant to suggest is that although the LCM turns off any lights after 16 minutes as a result of an open door or tailgate is that positive proof that the entire car has gone to sleep or just proof that the LCM is doing its thing?

[yes_its_neil]

And as I said, it coincides with the transmission position light turning off. I can't add anymore.

[titan silber]

The plot thickens - I think the root cause is an insurance company's device plugged into the OBD port. The device is either drawing power 24/7 or preventing the car from going to sleep. Or both! Have unplugged the offending article and am recharging the battery. Will use an amp meter in series with the battery tomorrow to confirm current draw with and without the device and report back.