iDrive only works when the engine is off
 

Hey all,

Strange issue. 2006 E60 550i all stock. It's a CCC unit here in the United States. The idrive controller until ONLY works when the key is in the ignition. The minute you turn the car on, the idrive control module stops working and the knob is very stiff to turn. Ordered a new module from ECStuning, same thing, did not fix the issue at all. Checked my battery & alternator to make sure it's getting enough volts. Soft reboot on the system without any luck.

Just wondering what this could be. And what else I should check. Just a very odd issue.

https://cimg9.ibsrv.net/gimg/5series...c571532824.jpg

How long have you had this car? Could be a coding/retrofit issue. Seen your post on FB and you're not going to get any answers on there. You need to find a coding group

I've had this car since new. And the issue started happening around November of last year but it's just really annoying so I'm tackling it now given the warmer weather. Quick google search didn't yield any results and just kinda stumped. Yeah I figured I'd give fb a try although i'm not holding my breath. For these E60's i wonder if there is a specific scanner/code reader or is that a dealer-only type service for me to figure this dilemma out.

Did you change out the controller or remove it to see if the connector needs cleaning

changed it out with a new one from ECStuning and it was the same ordeal. So I think I can eliminate it being a controller issue. As long as the key is in the ignition everything is fine but as soon as the car is turned over the knob becomes very resistant and unresponsive to everything.

I'm going to check fuses but I doubt it's that since clearly it works. Cleaned all connectors.

I also noticed mine has two buttons. It's "menu" and a voice sign under the idrive knob. These refuse to work when the car is turned over as well.

Update...I found my problem!

I'm not sure what this is but this was the culprit of all my problems. idrive works, door chimes work. Just unplugged, cleaned the connector and reclipped it in.

What is this thing?
https://cimg1.ibsrv.net/gimg/5series...732ac02f6d.jpg

That is your amplifier for the stereo. Weird that it only happens when the car is running. I had a driver seat module fail once that was doing weird stuff in the can bus and many modules were complaining about bus issues. Unplugged it and immediately the errors went away.

Hi I have an X5 e70 and have the same issue, my iDrive only works when engine is off, and my idrive controller is stuck left, where is this located so I can unplug and plug it back in please to try and fix mine.

Thank you

That appears to be the left trunk / boot trim.

I cant seem to find it?