Hello all. So, I've been doing my searches on the forum like a good newbie and have found lots of useful stuff.

I'm going to be picking up a 2005 545i next week (Cold Weather, Premium Sound, Sport, Heated Rear, Navigation, Folding rear seat, Sirius, Sunshades, and automatic). I'm really excited, although I just learned a 550i is in the works. I'm not too upset because I figure the performance gains will be minimal over a 545i? I'm assuming nothing is different besides the motor.

Besides that concern, I have the following questions:

1. I've been reading a lot about CIPs (I have no idea what that stands for, but I believe it is some software thing). The latest version I guess is 16.2 which has a Birds-Eye view Nav among other updates (MP3 CD reading?)? Should my dealer automatically be installing this on my car next week and is there a way to check the version via the iDrive system?

2. I've heard lots of complaints about the run-flat tires that come on the sport package. I'm leasing the car, so I was thinking just popping those tires out and replacing them with stock staggered size Pirelli PZero Nero M+S (high performance all-season because I live in snowy Long Island). Any thoughts?

3. What other things besides CIP version should I bring up with my dealer when picking up the car? I have a Treo 650, and it looks like people are successfully pairing that although BMW doesn't officially say the Treo 650 will work. I also have an iPod, but it looks like my only option is a FM transmitter which I think may be a crappy way to go... and I've read on here that the iPod kit for the 3 leaves much to be desired. So, I guess MP3 CDs are the best thing.

Any advice/tips you guys can give me so I don't leave any stone unturned during pick-up, and I'd appreciate it. I got this car instead of a redesigned S4 and my last car was a 330 coupe which I loved.

Thanks!

 

You can install an Aux Input to hook up the Ipod.

Congrats!

 

Welcome aboard, LI545sport !

 

I just picked up my 545i a week ago.

You certainly won't be dissapointed with the performance of the 545i! It's a beast without a doubt. 'Kinda scares you a bit.

The software with the perspective view was installed on mine when I got it. My car was not prepped to accept Bluetooth, so they are taking it back next week for a couple of hours to enable it. Make sure you tell them to prep your car for Bluetooth.

My run-flats are fine. Maybe they won't be after a few tens of 1000's of km, but I have read that Dunlop has fixed some issues with the tires, so maybe they'll be ok. For now they are great.

 

Welcome to your countries great forum

 

thanks all

 

Which dealer?

Make sure you get at least 16.2 and maybe the oem clear bra and/or oem lighted doorsills.

They can be found in the accessories catalog.

I like the Pirelli P zero nero M+S's also, the prices at tirerack.com are unbeatable.


Post some pics once you take delivery!