2009 X5 35d Quibbles / Questions

[asawadude]

It's simple to rewire the plug outlets to remain hot, but if you're going to tap your fuse box, just be aware that you could void the warranty coverage should you encounter any electrical malfunctions or if you shorten the car battery life. Checking the fuse boxes is part of the battery inspection check. BMW turned off a lot of the devices that used to stay hot (cigarette lighter, radio, 12V outlets) because there is alot of electrical draw on the system on their newer models, especially when the vehicles are shut down. It takes very little draw on the system to discharge a battery to the point where a newer model BMW won't start.

BTW, I don't know of too many people who have a 12V cooler permanently installed in their vehicle, unless it's a recreational vehicle which typically has an auxiliary battery. If I need to keep something cold, my igloo filled with ice seems to work just fine.

The seat belt chime can be silenced through programming, but as mentioned by many, no U.S. BMW dealer will circumvent programming of safety devices. The solution would be to find an independent BMW mechanic with a GT-1 diagnostic system and pay for an hour or two of labor for reprogramming. I'd much rather have the chime turned on so I don't have to police the occupants in my car for seat belt compliance.

The rear headrests ARE removeable. There's a spring loaded tab in the sleeve through which the headrest post slides. Press the tab and the headrest is unlocked for removal.

Understanding how the PDC system works is required in order to maximize its benefits. It is a very effective and a very accurate system. Yes, PDC begins to beep when objects enter the green zone which is approximately 5 to 7 feet away from the vehicle. Perhaps you're thinking these are false alarms, but it's simply a warning that there is an object entering the sensor zone. The beeps grow in frequency as objects grow closer until it turns into a continuous tone when the object is approximately 1 ft. away. Perhaps its a pain in the butt to you, but if it alerts someone to the fact that their small child or family pet has wandered behind the car with reverse gear engaged, then PDC has done its job.

It would be wonderful if BMW and other car makers could customize all of its features to fit the requirements of each and every individual owner, but unfortunately, that won't happen.