2005 X5 4.8is & remote starters

zen2u · #1 07-12-2008, 08:37 PM

Hope everyone is enjoying their weekend. I have a question here:

I own a 05 X5 4.8is, steptronic trans, and only have one key. I was planning on having a viper or compustar remote starter installed. I "believe" that any/all issues that negate having one are not in play with my particular model and would like advice on this if possible.

What I do know is that I will have to buy a second key since the installers will need to do surgery on my one key to remove the chip.

Thanks in advance for any feeback - love this forum!

Matt - Pasadena, CA

mrbmwx5 · #2 07-12-2008, 10:39 PM

matt! no need to buy new key or any surgery on one of your key,all he need is to install the by-pass module.

LeMansX5 · #3 07-12-2008, 10:52 PM

Remote starters compromise security and I do not suggest doing it. May also effect warranty.

Also check these threads
http://www.xoutpost.com/x5-e53-forum/...remote+starter

http://www.xoutpost.com/x5-e53-forum/...remote+starter

CanadianX5 · #4 07-12-2008, 10:52 PM

The chip isnt removed from the key. The spare valet(grey) key is placed in a small box that picks up and transmits the key signal to the ignition cylinder.
The X5 is one of the hardest vehicles to install a car starter in. There are so many small and tricky things that have to be done so that everything works properly after the install.

Wherever you take it, personaly talk to the installer and make sure he has done one before successfully.
Ask him if the car starts every time, the doors can be locked and unlocked while the car starter is activated, the key memory/seat position still works and let him know that all 3 ignition wires MUST be powered or the check engine light comes on and DSC wont work.

I used to install and it took me a good day to figure it all out and I was a very experienced installer. I've done about 12-15 X5's now and they are still a pain in the ass every time so I try to avoid them.

BTW
Use the Compustar, it has all the programmable outputs needed to make everything work.
Good luck and keep us up to date.

vinuneuro · #5 07-12-2008, 11:04 PM

You're in Cali, why do you need a remote starter..

JCL · #6 07-13-2008, 05:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by vinuneuro

You're in Cali, why do you need a remote starter..

And why would you want to subject your X5 to the abuse of starting it and idling it for extended periods? Worse thing you can do to it.

vinuneuro · #7 07-13-2008, 05:17 PM

Indeed. Fuel dilution of oil and cat abuse.

zen2u · #8 07-18-2008, 08:30 PM

Thanks for all the great responses. Every one of them. I hadn't mentioned that I am looking at a job relo back to the Midwest so that was why I wanted to learn. I had a Compustar on my Denali and loved it.

I think I am going to pass though. It seems like just too much of a risk for a little luxury. To the installer that provided all that great info, thanks for taking the time. I will save in case I get a wild hair and change my mind.

Just like my x-girlfriend, some things, while great, come at just too high a price and not worth the wear and tear.

Thanks -

M