Having trouble deciding between about the airconditoning options. The only real advantage I see to the extended content option is the appearance of the knobs. I know it has other features, but I could live without those. The standard knobs however, look a little too standard IMO.

My question is, do you know of any aftermarket replacement knobs?

If AC Schnitzer, Hartge, etc offered something like this I'd probably pick the standard option and then personalize my knob (s) later.

 

Advanced Air Conditioning is a must. If you read some threads on this forum, the basic automatic a/c is not totally automatic.

You will regret not taking the advanced a/c.

 

Is that so..? I thought only early built E60s with the basic climate control weren't fully automatic?

The one I tired in an April build 520i was automatic. Atleast the auto button adjusted the fan speed according to the interior temperature.


-paasan

 

I must say that the auto feature is working pretty good for me so far.

 

Sorry guys..but what does Advanced Air Conditioning get you over the standard air?? I must admit I don't know if I have it...so I have to assume that I don't

 

I believe all US models come with Advanced AC. If you have the 2 temp controls for the driver and passenger and the warm cool dial in the back, then you have Adcanced AC. But I am pretty sure Advanced AC comes standard on US spec vehicles.

 

In the German brochure, both options are automatic. The advanced with extended content gives you more fine tuning (like kigerka stated) and a few other small features, but mainly I see it as cosmetic.

That's why I'm asking about knobs?

 

I'm not entirely familiar with the choices between systems but this link may help you decide what you want to order.

 

thanks for the info Rudy. Very informative. I take it from the post that the problems with the basic a/c have since been resolved?

 

You're welcome.

I'm not sure where you're getting the impression something is resolved with this issue.

I think both systems are working "as designed" but maybe not "as advertised".

Since I'm in the US and we only get the advanced (automatic) a/c, I'm probably not the most qualified person to be giving advice on this.

Hopefully someone else can clarify things for you. Good luck!