new to X5, already love/hate

[crystalworks]

Originally Posted by alberniken

Thanks for the input; I don't mind laying out the cash for something that makes life a lot easier.


cheers
Ken

Seconded. It definitely makes life easier. Using "P" codes to diagnose a BMW is very difficult (if not impossible) without spending a lot "shot-gunning" parts at each code. It will also help narrow your ABS issues down.

For the wipers I'd start cheap first and try a used switch. Can't be expensive from a wrecker or even Ebay. I don't remember if a faulty ignition switch causes wiper issues, but I know it messes with a lot of other electronics intermittently. Perhaps someone else can chime in.

After you get the Foxwell (or equivalent), if you get a lot of under/over voltage errors that are stored (or present) in multiple modules, odds are it needs a battery and/or an alternator. Very common for almost every used BMW I've purchased that was not enthusiast owned and had over 100,000 miles. Also inspect the water pump and expansion tank... trust me.

[alberniken]

Originally Posted by crystalworks

Seconded. It definitely makes life easier. Using "P" codes to diagnose a BMW is very difficult (if not impossible) without spending a lot "shot-gunning" parts at each code. It will also help narrow your ABS issues down.

For the wipers I'd start cheap first and try a used switch. Can't be expensive from a wrecker or even Ebay. I don't remember if a faulty ignition switch causes wiper issues, but I know it messes with a lot of other electronics intermittently. Perhaps someone else can chime in.

After you get the Foxwell (or equivalent), if you get a lot of under/over voltage errors that are stored (or present) in multiple modules, odds are it needs a battery and/or an alternator. Very common for almost every used BMW I've purchased that was not enthusiast owned and had over 100,000 miles. Also inspect the water pump and expansion tank... trust me.

The PM tips are incredibly valuable. I got this one for a price where I don't mind throwing a couple of grand into getting it right, especially if there is a good chance I will get a few years from it.


Thanks
Ken

[alberniken]

Hi All


Dropped off the board for a bit. Funny how the world can hold so many distractions...


Wiper issue ended up being the motor. "Hecho en Mexico"


Been good for many months now through rain and shine, etc


Just ignored the Trifecta. Tempted to pull cluster and 'de-activate' the lights.


cheers
Ken