Retro-Fitting The X5 with PDC and the AHM(trailer)
 

Hi guys, long time lurker, i always seem to find the answers im looking for but this time i suppose its more of an opinion and words of wisdom. Another thread i found Via google here linked to a retrofitting guide(not OE instructions) for PDC on the E53 but the link is dead.

So i managed to come across A PDC module, 8 sensors, center button, and rear gong, as well as the AHM module and trailer connector(7pin Pigtail) at the local junkyard. I appear to be prewired for both, as i have already installed them in the battery bin. After connecting only the modules, the PDC alerts me of an issue(sensors are disconnected), and I dont have a test connector for the 7pin trailer harness so no way to verify it.

When i look at the PDC with INPA, it is found but with NCSExpert it is not, which brings me to my question. Should i use NCSexpert to edit my VO to include PDC and AHM, OR Should i use ISTA/P to retrofit the two modules?

Im comfortable with normal coding functions with NCSexpert/Dummy, but havent done a VO change. I have not used WinKFP. As for ISTA, im growing more comfortable with it but i have not used it for any kind of programming only Diagnostics and Info Stuffs. When I was poking around with ISTA/P it seemed like it wanted to update ALL of my modules, and thats a bit overwhelming for a first use. I believe it wanted to update both the KOMBI and EWS for the PDC retrofit, which is still a bit of a nail biter for me.

As for the AHM, I cant seem to find it listed in NCSdummy as a coding option, and didnt find the module with ISTA or INPA. Does anyone know why? I may be missing a fuse somewhere in the vehicle so it may not be powered but that doesnt explain why i cant find a file for it in NCSDummy.

And finally, Is there anything i can do to create a backup or can i pull all of that data from NCSExpert incase something goes wrong? Incase it isnt listed, this is all for an 04 X5, 4.4i, Pre FL i believe (08/2004 Build date) as it doesnt have the recesses in the front bumper for the corner PDC sensors, last 7 of the Vin is lv09366. Thanks everyone.

Add those options in ZCS (bits in SA part). Save the new ZCS on both EWS and instrument cluster. Code all modules (CODE CAR).

235 (SA) 0000020000000000 ANH_KUPPLUNG //Towing hitch, head replaceable

508 (SA) 0000000000008000 PDC //Park Distance Control

Do you have a link to a guide or something with information on doing so. I like having all of the the info, and spoon feeding is prefered, lol. What you said to do is fairly straight forward, i just like to understand exactly whats going on as i do it.

I planned on following this to update which seems similar to what you suggested, yet different still.

Did the junkyard have the trailer hitch too? If so, go grab it ...all of it...like 10 pieces

They do but i fitted an aftermarket one a few years ago.

The complete OEM hitch is worth quite a lot.....go get it and sell it to a deserving forum member..

Newer vehicles have FA list with direct list of additional equipment. E53 has the older style ZCS which consists of three bit strings (GM, SA, VN). In this case you have to add those previously mentioned bits to your ZCS SA string. You have to add those values to what ever value that bit has. If the sum goes above 10, 10=A, 11=B, 12=C, etc.

Like always start by choosing the profile and read ZCS on either module holding it. I would save the original ZCS somewhere before making any changes.

- After reading ZCS press F1 (Enter ZCS)
- Make changes to ZCS, remove last check digits and check “Calculate check sum”
- F6 (Back)
- F4 (Process ECU)
- Choose propriate control unit (EWS and IKE/KMB hold ZCS), then OK
- F2 job -> ZCS_SCHREIBEN (=Write ZCS)
- F3 (execute job)

Now you have the new ZCS saved code all modules (CODE CAR). Alternatively code (SG_CODIEREN) only LCM, PDC and AHM which in this case are the only modules which have any parameters regarding those added options.

Before I saw this, I went and pulled it when i saw what i could purchase it for. Its future is currently Unknown, but it is in my possession. Thanks for the heads up.

Thank you for explaining that. Before i get ahead of myself, ill have a look tonight and make sure that adding the SA bits stays within the confines of Hexadecimal, You also answered my other question about "backing up" before coding. Ive got a few days before i can sit down and take my time with it but i will definitely keep everyone posted.

One thing about the PDC on the E53 is they always seem to be going off in the parking lot, or whenever you start up your car.

I would say you're not missing much by not having it. It's not very accurate.

I would strongly recommend getting the rear view camera option if you have the oem nav screen.

I've done it and it makes all the difference backup the big truck.

Make sure you have all of it, including the long reinforcement bar inside the bumper as well as the piston supports that get inserted into the back of the X5.

I see a lot of OEM hitches for sale that are missing these pieces, and they are nearly impossible to find individually.