Disconnecting Battery - Any issues likely?
 

I am looking to replace the multi-function switch panel on my sport steering wheel as it has a nasty deep scratch across it - I have a replacement panel but will need to remove the airbag to get it off.

I will have to disconnect the battery -ve terminal to do this, but am wondering if there will be any 'issues' once I reconnect? The car is stuffed with options including adaptive Xenon's, Nav, TV, BT, and the panoramic sunroof.

Now, the reason I ask this question is that I read in the handbook that the panoramic roof could need to be 'reset' by the dealer if the battery is removed/replaced - it seems that the full opening/closing won't work, only the tilt. Can someone confirm this?

Also, does it HAVE to go back to the dealer or is there some routine/process that can be carried out by me to reset it?

Thanks in advance,

Mark.

Bump!

Anyone have any experience of disconnecting the battery?

I don't have X3 (yet) but did swap a battery in our E46 325. No issues other than reseting time and F -> C temp.

Not many are likely to have done this on a new X3 yet, hence the lack of posts. I have had the same experience as Price, no issues on previous models (E46, E53).

You are not sure to have the problem with the panoramic sunroof, the manual warns that it may happen. That is why there is a hand crank in the tool kit, so that you can crank the pano roof closed if you get stuck. I would pull the battery and carry on, taking a chance (but I would have the roof closed when I did it). Worst case is that you have to go to the dealer, but it isn't guaranteed. Good luck, and let un know how it works out.

Thanks for the responses; I guess you are correct that not many have done it (yet).

I too had an E46 which was fine for disconnecting the battery - I was just anxious about the Pana roof which could be a PITA.

Gonna give it a go this week sometime - will report back.

I disconnected the battery on mine when I installed the Sirius kit and didn't have any issues. There are a couple of warnings lights (4x4, and something else) that came on but those cleared after a few minutes of running.

I agree, I think the warning is just a CYA on BMW's part.

Hi Derek,

Thanks for the response. That is encouraging, and will report back when I have done the deed.

Weather is howling a gale at the moment so I don't feel much inclined to be out in it fannying about with the car/battery etc - am hoping the weekend will be a bit quieter and dryer!

Mark.

I disconnected the battery on my 07 to install the DICE.

The only thing I had was a couple of lights on instrument display that reset themselves after driving a bit. And I had to reset the time, and all the radio stations.

Other than that, no problems...

Same here. Had the battery off for a week on my '04 X3, no issues when reconnected. Just took a while to clear some of the idiot lights.
If you are replacing an electronic part, its is possible the car may need to be reporogramemd to see the new device. The TIS mentions this for several components, not sure if it applies to the steering wheel controls. My guess would be no. Good luck!

Done the deed and seems to be no issues, so a bit of a relief. The panoramic roof etc works OK which was my main concern.