I am adding heated steering to my 2008 e60 535i. Apparently I need coding done.
So far I have identified 4 options. Not really happy with any.
1. Contacted my mechanics and they can't do it. One gave me a name of a BMW specialist but the equipment he has doesn't go back to 2008.
2. I downloaded an app called bimmercode where you can program at yourself I contacted tech support they do not support the heated steering wheel option
3. Contacted bimmer-tech.net. they offer a remote service and they can do the coding through a Bluetooth connector on the ODB connector. They want $250 plus a $50 connector so for $300 I can get it coded
4. Hard to believe but my best option is the dealer they want $279

Does anyone else have an option I can pursue

 

I've never looked into what needs to be set but I can try to help you code it. I have the heated steering wheel on my car and I imagine you would need to have the option listed in your VO and maybe in the SZL module. To clarify, you've installed all the parts but it is still not working? Have you ever used the BMW Standard Tools such as INPA before? If you have an OBD cable to hook up to a computer and you can get INPA working I could try to help you. I don't have a ton of experience but I have coded a few things on my E61 (active fan speed displayed, ventilated seats, active backrest, fogs on with high beams)

 

Thank you for the offer. I do not have it installed. Letting my mechanic install this weekend while I am traveling.
I have not done any coding of any type except to reset the oil change indicator. Ripped out the battery monitor thing that was draining batteries. Now I can change batteries without programming.
This is my second BMW. Had 1998 528i that had heated steering. Being 67, the winters are getting harder and I loved the heated wheel
I was a software guy in my pre-retirement years, so coding doesn't scare me.
So I think you are telling me I need a cable that has odbii on one end and Ethernet on the other. Is that right?
I'm going to see if the steering wheel will heat after install. But the guy I bought the clock spring from told me I will need coding
Thanks for your help and I may seek your guidance to get it going

 

You will definitely have to code the replacement clock spring and calibrate the wheel. Also you will need to add the option on the VO once you do that you should be good. The VO is questionable because it should be wired to power and the on and off switch is all you need. I'm not sure about it but it should be easy as long as you have everything installed correctly. INPA will tell you which modules you need to program to the right VIN. I've had to do my clock spring twice since I've owned it due to the szl failing.

 

Good point, I hadn't considered the clockspring.

 

I also forgot about the timing once you replace the clock spring/szl the timing will be off and the SRS, airbag light will be on along with the DSC light. You have code the VIN get the timing aligned then calibration in that order.

 

I live in Shrewsbury, PA. I just purchased ProTools by Bimmer Geeks. I can help you out. But not until after 10/2. PM here for contact info.

Lucas

 

Thank you guys for the guidance. Had to pushback installation. I'll report back.

 

When you say timing, what are you refering to? Timing to me means engine timing

 

I’m guessing he won’t be doing the install as soon as originally planned.