Interesting cranking/ignition feature…

[E53Envyy]

Kinda a random post,

For the last year I would start the E53 the same way as my E46 where I’d toggle the key on until it fires up. The other day I noticed the X5 will continue to crank and start if I briefly toggle the key to the start position. Is my X5 possessed or is this a feature? I assume it’s a feature but I’ve never seen a reference to it. Can someone confirm their X5 has the same feature?

As I said, kinda a odd post.

Cheers, E53Envyy

[Clavurion]

It's a feature called convenient/automatic start on these V8 engines. Ignition switch activates a separate starter relay which stays activated until the engine starts.

[X5chemist]

Tip start. Most new cars have them. Nice to see it being used so far back. Would be nice if 3.0i had it too.

[Lowblock]

Originally Posted by X5chemist

Nice to see it being used so far back.

My 1995 750 has this
neither one of my 3 series have it, nor does my 5 series touring, but both my x5's my 540 and 750 do.

[Clavurion]

This feature is tied to engine control unit version, not the chassis. 4 or 6 pot engines don't have this option.

[E53Envyy]

Originally Posted by Clavurion

It's a feature called convenient/automatic start on these V8 engines. Ignition switch activates a separate starter relay which stays activated until the engine starts.

Ahh, thanks! Sounds like newer BMWs with push-to-start use very similar technology.

I remember a thread over on e46fanatics where someone retrofit push-to-start but never elaborated on how they did it. Maybe it’s not so difficult with the right EWS module and coding. Edit: and the relay as well

[Clavurion]

This feature has nothing to do with EWS module. It works the same regardless of convenient start.

[E53Envyy]

Originally Posted by Clavurion

This feature has nothing to do with EWS module. It works the same regardless of convenient start.

Yeah I understand, when I was referring to the EWS needing adjustments that would be for push-to-start when the key is in your pocket.

[andrewwynn]

The push to start models the convenience start is still an option it's just on by default.