Why does my BMW beep when I turn it on?

Q: Why does my BMW beep when I turn it on?

A: When the temperature is below 37 degrees F (3 degrees Celsius) this is a safety feature which warns you that the roads are potentially icy. The rear demister comes on at the same time depending on model.

This is a feature I’ve had on my E46 and E92. It is quite common across all BMW ranges though.

What is the button for under the arm rest of my BMW E46?

Q: What is the button for under the arm rest of my BMW E46?

A: Under the arm rest there is a hidden compartment. This is accessible by pressing the button located underneath. You can store coins out of the way or use it for other small items. Please note it is not lockable.

Where is the trunk / boot release on the BMW E46?

Q: Where is the trunk / boot release on the BMW E46?

A: This is located just above the liscence plate. It is an electronic button which activates the release mechanism.

E46: Ridges on wing mirrors

Q: Why do the wing mirrors on the E46 have ridges?

A: The wing mirrors have ridges on top to help reduce wind noise at high speed.

BMW warning light meanings

Q: BMW E46: What do the warning lights mean on the dash?

Battery Charge Indicator
This means the battery is not being
charged. Check the alternator, V Belts and charging circuit

Engine Oil Pressure
If this light comes on red stop your engine straight away! Top up the oil if it is low. If it is correct then take to your nearest garage to get it checked out.
When you turn your car off, if the light comes on amber then it means the oil is running low, ensure you check the level of oil. If correct it could be a faulty oil level sensor.

Tyre Pressure Control
This light will come on with an audio signal too. It indicated a drop in pressure on one of the tyres. Avoid hard braking and pull over at the soonest opportunity.

Brake Indicator
If this light coms on when driving, stop straight away (in a safe place) and check the brake fluid levels. Avoid hard braking situations. If the levels are ok take your car to the closest garage.

E9X dash cam how to

This is a brief how to on installing the E9X dash cam from amazon

Content of the box E9X Dash cam below:

Step 1: Remove light and control panel:

Step 2: It's worth removing the sun visor clip holder to lower the head lining a bit for access:

Step 3: Connect the new cable to the existing cables connector, and plug in the end to the light/control unit 
This will leave the cable and connector which goes in the dash cam unit.

Step 4: I'd advise testing the dash cam powers on etc before the next steps of removing the unit that houses the rain/light sensor!

Step 5: Remove the surround from the light/rain sensor

Step 6: I pulled the cables through to ensure they all went through the rubber grommet WARNING this bit IS annoying and takes time and patience

Step 7: Refit the control/light unit

Step 8: Fully installed E9X dash cam It then a case of carefully clipping in the connector to the dash cam and fit it in place of the old surround. GO CAREFUL as the clips are fragile and the cables can get in the way too:

Step 9: Once connected you just need to download the software and insert and SD card:

Shot of software:

Note:
This is an affiliate link, this means that I get a tiny percentage for making you aware of this product.
In no way does this affect the quality or standard of the product.

Up and coming how to’s

It’s been a while since this blog had any updates on all things BMW related so it’s time to revive it!

Over the next few weeks there will be guides on some simple updates to tidy up and modernise the 335i.

• Stealth dash cam
• Removing the phone connector in the centre console 
• Updated gear stick

Stay tuned!