Newbie questions: PDC and auto wiper
 

I have had my X5 for about a week now and can't figure out 2 things:

1) How do I get the front PDC to work automatically when I pull into a spot or my garage? I pull in at a slow speed and it doesn't come on. It only work when I put the car in reverse and then in drive or if I keep hitting the button. This is rediculous it should work at low speeds in automatically.

2) How do I get the automatic windshield wiper button to stay on all the time or do I have to hit it every time I turn the car on again?

1) Travelling forward you have to push the button. It does not come on automatically. Just because your moving slowly forward it does not mean you are parking, what about slow moving traffic? If it was auto that would be irritating.

2) Yes, once the car is turned off you and re-started you have to push the wipper button again.

1) PDC only activates automatically after you put the gear in reverse.

2) Yes, you will have to turn on the wiper each time to start the car. It was the same on my E53. My MBZ rain sensing wipers comes on automatically without having to turn off/on the switch after starting the car.

Interesting...will keep this in mind when my wife takes delivery of her 4.8i.

On my MB E63, the PDC sensors in front activate automatically with the car in 'D' at less than 5 MPH - but not the rear. So I do see the indicator lights but the audible warning only sounds when an object is very close - only annoying when driving in Manhattan when pedestrians walk close to the front of the car at street crossings.

No, you can press the pdc button too and that will turn it on.

There may be a country difference too. Mine is active when going forward or backwards, or when stationary. I-Drive does give you options which you can select.

Cheers, and enjoy your car!

Apparently the rationale for requiring they be switched on every time is due to car washes -- it is unfortunate if you go into an automatic car wash and your wipers start on high speed, because they are on automatic.

That's why it helps to read the manual. I never knew about this function until now. thanks!